Outline:
Section 1: Introduction A. About This Course B. Learning Objectives Section 2: Appropriate and Inappropriate Use A. Why Use Them? B. Restraints C. Scenario D. Hidden Dangers E. Review F. Summary Section 3: First Things First A. Assessment B. Alternatives C. Alarms D. Other Interventions E. Review F. Summary Section 4: Siderail Reduction Program A. Requires Ongoing Education B. Scenario C. Review D. Summary Section 5: Conclusion A. Summary B. Course Contributor C. References D. Congratulations!

Karen C. Schnaufer, BSN, RN, Content Writer, Relias Learning, has held positions as staff nurse, charge nurse, research nurse clinician, and clinical instructor with over 25 years of clinical practice in a broad range of specialties: med/surg, pediatrics, long term care, mental health, research, and IDD. Prior to becoming a Registered Nurse, Ms. Schnaufer successfully challenged the Practical Nursing Boards in NY. After working with the Breast Oncology Research group at Duke, Ms. Schnaufer switched her focus to the area of IDD and worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health issues, who live in group homes. Among her various responsibilities in this area was to train direct support staff and clinicians in medical issues/medication administration, participate in state surveys, providing and implementing plans of correction, as well as, serving on various committees, such as Human Rights, to help improve the lives of the individuals supported. To this day, she continues to volunteer in this realm. A veteran of the U.S.A.F., Ms. Schnaufer is committed to creating relevant and intelligent continuing education courses for healthcare professionals throughout the continuum of care. Disclosure: Karen C. Schnaufer, BSN, RN has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.

Elizabeth Kellerman, MSN, RN worked as a critical care nurse in an Intensive Care Unit of a community hospital and that experience provided significant training in caring for older adults. Her experience and knowledge led her to nursing education where she taught at a community college as she received her Master's in Nurse Education at Western Carolina University. As a nursing instructor, she spent time in many types of care settings including medical-surgical inpatient and community living centers. Her passion for education and training has most recently led her to a position as Subject Matter Expert and Content Writer for Relias. She is currently developing her medical writing skills through the University of California San Diego's medical writing program. Disclosure: Elizabeth Kellerman, MSN, RN has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.