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Description of Features
SIDE RAILS / RESTRAINTS / PATIENT MONITORING
WARNING:
Evaluate patients for entrapment risk according to facility protocol, and monitor patients
appropriately.
WARNING:
Make sure that all side rails are fully latched when in the raised position. Failure to do either of
these could result in serious injury or death.
NOTES:
Side Rails are intended to be a reminder to the patient of the stretcher’s edge, not a patient-restraining device. When
appropriate, Amico recommends that medical personnel determine the proper methods necessary to make sure a
patient remains safely in the stretcher.
Side rails may serve several beneficial uses including providing an edge reminder and stretcher exit assist, as well as
access to the patient controls. The use of side rails may also provide a sense of security. The use of side rails in any
position should be determined according to patient need after assessing any risk factors according to the facility
protocols for safe positioning.
When raising the side rails, a click indicates that the side rails are completely raised and locked in place. Once the click
is heard, gently pull on the side rails to make sure it is latched correctly in position.
For restraining devices, consult the restraint manufacturer to verify the correct application of each restraining device.
WARNING:
Patient restraints are not intended as substitutes for good nursing practices. Physical
restraints, even properly installed, can result in entanglement, physical injury or death, particularly with
agitated and disoriented patients. Monitor patients when using physical restraints in accordance with
legal requirements and facility protocol.
1. Develop guidelines for all patients that indicate:
• Which patients may need to be restrained and the appropriate restraint to utilize.
• The proper method to monitor a patient, whether restrained or not, including time interval, visual heck of
restraint, etc.
2. Develop training programs for all caregivers concerning the proper use and application of restraints.
3. Maintain the stretcher at its lowest position whenever a caregiver is not in the room.
4. Clarify the need for restraint devices to families or guardians.