Characteristics of Patients with Constant Observers

The use of constant observers ( “sitters”) has been common practice in many medical centers to maintain patient safety. A retrospective chart review of patients who required sitters from October 1, 2007 to September 31, 2013 at a large, private hospital serving a multiethnic community showed that the top reasons for sitters in clude suicide risk, agitation, fall risk, interfering with medical devices, and confusion/disorientation. Sitters were used for a mean of 3.4 days ranging from 1 to 287 days, with a mean hospital length of stay of 18.9 days.
Source: Psychosomatics - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Source Type: research