The HEALiX™ Intubated Patient (IP) Pilot Study

Assessment of an Alternative to Physical Wrist Restraints in Adult Intubated Patients in the Intensive Care Unit: The HEALiX™ Intubated Patient (IP) Pilot Study

The current standard of care for limiting the movement of mechanically ventilated critical care patients is the use of physical wrist restraints, which are both ineffective in preventing removal of invasive and adjunct respiratory support devices and have a multitude of negative physical and psychological consequences for the patient. The objective of the proposed research is to test an innovative device designed to allow more freedom of movement of mechanically ventilated patients without bending of the arms, thereby preventing removal of adjunct mechanical ventilation devices and invasive monitoring equipment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• speak English
• legally authorized representative must speak English
• admitted by one of the services presiding over the selected intensive care units
• mechanically ventilated receiving analgesic-sedating medications
• have soft wrist restraints applied as part of their care plan documented in the medical record to reduce the risk of unplanned removal of medical devices

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant women
• prisoners
• patients who are in a medically induced coma or in a comatose state (Glasgow Coma Scale <8) for any reason