Critical care nurses' decisions regarding physical restraints in two Canadian ICUs: A prospective observational study.

Background: Legislation, guidelines and accreditation standards cal for the minimization of physical restraints, yet their use remains common in intensive care units (ICUs) both in Canada and internationally. In Canada, physical restraints are prescribed by physicians. However, assessment of their need, application, and removal are primarily the responsibility of ICU nurses.

Predictors of physical restraint use in Canadian intensive care units.

Introduction: Physical restraint (PR) use in the intensive care unit (ICU) has been associated with higher rates of self-extubation and prolonged ICU length of stay. Our objectives were to describe patterns and predictors of PR use.

Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of a prospective observational study of analgosedation, antipsychotic, neuromuscular blocker, and PR practices in 51 Canadian ICUs.

Critical care nurses' pain assessment and management practices: a survey in Canada.

Background: Regular pain assessment can lead to decreased incidence of pain and shorter durations of mechanical ventilation and stays in the intensive care unit.

Objectives: To document knowledge and perceptions of pain assessment and management practices among Canadian intensive care unit nurses.

Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to 3753 intensive care unit nurses identified through the 12 Canadian provincial/territorial nursing associations responsible for professional regulation.

Conducting a large survey of critical care nurses in Canada: lessons learnt.

Introduction: Survey research provides information regarding clinician opinion, adherence to evidence-based recommendations and practice variation. Yet, the conduct of large surveys can present numerous challenges. Practical challenges such as establishing a sampling strategy consistent with a population's distribution may be anticipated.