The nurse is inserting a nasogastric tube on a toddler. Which of the following restraints would be the most appropriate for the nurse to use with this child during this procedure?
a. Mummy restraint
b. Clove hitch restraint
c. Elbow restraint
d. Jacket restraint
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is a. Mummy restraint.
Explanation:
In pediatric nursing, especially when dealing with toddlers, restraint use must be approached carefully and with consideration of the child’s safety and comfort. During procedures like inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube, the toddler may not be able to cooperate fully due to fear or discomfort, making it necessary to employ appropriate restraints to ensure the procedure can be done safely.
Mummy restraint is the most appropriate for toddlers during procedures such as an NG tube insertion. This restraint involves wrapping the child in a soft blanket or sheet, leaving the head and neck exposed while securing the limbs to prevent movement. The mummy restraint mimics a swaddling technique that provides a sense of security and comfort while restricting movement. It is particularly useful for infants and toddlers who may feel overwhelmed during medical procedures but still need to be safely restrained to allow for successful intervention. The child’s ability to move the arms and legs is limited, but they still maintain a certain level of comfort and a sense of being contained without feeling overpowered.
Other restraint options, such as the clove hitch restraint, elbow restraint, and jacket restraint, are less appropriate for this age group in this situation.
- Clove hitch restraint is often used for adults or older children and can be quite restrictive, which may cause additional distress for a toddler.
- Elbow restraint limits elbow movement, usually to prevent a child from bending their arms, and is generally used for preventing the removal of IV lines or other similar procedures, but it’s not suitable for securing the child in a situation where full body restraint is needed.
- Jacket restraint is more restrictive and is often used in more severe situations, such as during the stabilization of an acutely ill child. It is not designed for non-invasive procedures like NG tube insertion.
Thus, mummy restraint is the preferred option as it ensures both safety and comfort for the toddler during the procedure.