Suggested restraint alternatives & least restrictive forms of restraint.
◾Beds that lower to the floor or a mattress in place next to the bed
◾Encourage family members or organise volunteers to visit at 'high risk' times
◾Consistency in staff and routines
◾Limit the number of staff attending to the person
◾Reduce noise levels
◾Review lighting to ensure it's not too bright or too dim as this may lead to misinterpretation of objects
◾Ongoing explanation of procedures
◾Use of distraction/diversional activities
◾Calm voice & soothing music
◾Assessing and treating problems causing agitation - e.g.; UTI, dehydration
◾Concave mattress
◾Water noodles as an inexpensive alternative to concave mattress and can be one side or both
◾Foam wedges to improve position & comfort
◾Bed poles/ monkey bars for bed mobility
◾Cot sides that can be released by the individual (after explanation of cot side risks)
◾Half length cot sides
◾If a seat belt is necessary, a velcro belt would be first choice rather than a clip belt
◾Non-slip mats, e.g.; by the bed
◾'Stop' signs, 'No Exit' signs, strips across in front of the exit door - to prevent absconding
◾Snoozelin therapy
◾Individual behaviour management strategies
◾Aromatherapy - must be prescribed by a qualified clinical aromatherapist
◾Validation therapy
◾Reminiscence therapy.