A long-term care facility is implementing a restraint-free policy. An HCA observes a resident, who is prone to wandering, repeatedly attempting to climb over the bed rails, causing a risk of falls. What initial action should the HCA take in line with a restraint-free approach?

Question: A long-term care facility is implementing a restraint-free policy. An HCA observes a resident, who is prone to wandering, repeatedly attempting to climb over the bed rails, causing a risk of falls. What initial action should the HCA take in line with a restraint-free approach?

Answer options:

• Apply soft wrist restraints temporarily until the nurse can assess the situation.
• Request that the nurse prescribe a sedative to manage the resident's agitation. ✅ Lower the bed and use floor mats, and engage the resident in a safe activity or redirect their wandering.
• Call the resident's family to inform them of the behaviour and ask for solutions.

Correct answer: Lower the bed and use floor mats, and engage the resident in a safe activity or redirect their wandering.

Explanation: A restraint-free approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of behaviours and implementing least restrictive alternatives. Lowering the bed, using floor mats, and redirection are appropriate HCA interventions to ensure safety without using restraints.