From Lisa Chedekel, Connecticut Health I-Team:
But the data show Bridgeport Hospital, Masonicare and three other Connecticut hospitals–Danbury, Waterbury, Hartford–restrain patients at more than triple the national rate.
Bridgeport’s Dr. Ryan O’Connell, vice president for performance and risk management, said the hospital’s geriatric psychiatric unit serves many patients with dementia and behavioral problems who cannot be managed in other facilities.About 18 months ago, he said, the hospital put in place an “action plan” to reduce restraints, including using “comfort” rooms. Also, in January, a new policy was implemented requiring that the nurse manager be called before any patient is restrained.
Full story here.
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