What is Entrapment in Nursing?
Entrapment in the context of
nursing refers to situations where a patient unintentionally becomes caught, trapped, or entangled in the side rails, bed frame, or other parts of a healthcare bed. Entrapment can lead to serious
patient safety concerns, including injury or even death.
Causes of Entrapment
Several factors can contribute to entrapment, including: Types of Entrapment
Entrapment can occur in various locations around the bed, commonly categorized into seven
entrapment zones:
Zone 1: Within the rail
Zone 2: Under the rail, between the rail supports or next to a single rail support
Zone 3: Between the rail and the mattress
Zone 4: Between the rail, at the ends of the rail
Zone 5: Between split bed rails
Zone 6: Between the end of the rail and the side edge of the headboard or footboard
Zone 7: Between the headboard or footboard and the mattress end
Preventive Measures
Preventing entrapment involves multiple strategies: Immediately assess the
patient's condition for any injuries
Free the patient from the entrapment while ensuring minimal movement to avoid further injury
Document the incident thoroughly, including the location and circumstances of the entrapment
Report the incident to the appropriate
healthcare authorities for further investigation
Review and revise care plans as necessary to prevent future occurrences
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Entrapment incidents can have significant
legal implications and ethical considerations. Nurses have a duty to ensure patient safety and prevent harm. Failure to do so can result in legal action and damage to the healthcare facility's reputation. It is essential to follow established guidelines and protocols to mitigate these risks.
