I work part-time at a local nursing home that implemented a restraint-free policy a few days ago. Management removed all of the side rails from the beds and, within four days, more than 20 residents have fallen.
Even though the fall-risk residents have low beds, they are still sustaining serious injuries. There are not enough fall mats to go around. Staffing is being reduced because this particular company is very much profit-driven. Families are frustrated and want the side rails back, but they're being told that the restraint-free policy arises from new federal regulations.
The increased incidence of falls disturbs me to the point where I am now fearful of coming to work because I'll probably have to deal with broken bones, bloodied noses, hematomas, and even worse.
