Vascular complications in extremities of physically restrained intensive care unit patients: A prospective, observational study

Abstract

BackgroundPhysical restraint is used to prevent agitation, to continue treatments and to ensure safety in intensive care patients. Physical restraint has negative effects on physical and psychological health, and physical restraint should not be used unless necessary.AimsThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the development of vascular complications in extremities of physically restrained patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the associated factors.Study DesignA prospective, observational study. The study was conducted between September 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023 in eight ICUs of a hospital located in the inner regions of Türkiye. The development of vascular complications (discolouration, distemperature, variations in capillary refill time, fluctuations in peripheral pulse, skin ulceration and oedema in the area of physical restraint) rate in patients hospitalized in the ICUs who were physically restrained. Independent sample t test, Mann–Whitney U test and Pearson‐χ2 test were used to analyse the data.ResultsDuring the study, 2409 patients were admitted to ICUs. Physical restraint was applied to 209 of these patients. Of the 209 patients, 112 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The physical restraint site of the patients was evaluated an average of 230.12 times and physical restraint was terminated in 9.8% of the patients (n = 112) because of vascular complications that developed in the physical restraint site. The rate of vascular complications at the site of physical restraint was higher in patients with endotracheal tubes (p < .05), lower GCS scores (p < .05) and higher INR values (p < .05). Patients with skin ulceration at the restraint site received more massages and cream applications (%95CL = 1. 1.692–34.734, OR = 7.667, p = .032). It was determined that more massage was applied to patients with changes in skin temperature at the restraint site (%95Cl = 1.062–11.599, OR = 3.510, p = .032).ConclusionsVascular complications may develop at the restraint site in patients hospitalized in the ICU. This may be more common in ICU patients with endotracheal tube, lower GCS score and higher INR values.Relevance to Clinical PracticeNurses should closely monitor ICUs patients with endotracheal tube, lower GCS score and higher INR values, and implement care interventions to prevent the development of vascular complications.