What are the nursing care measures and precautions for agitated patients?

Nursing care and precautions for agitated patients include creating a quiet environment, strengthening emotional support, maintaining structured daily routines, avoiding triggering factors, and closely monitoring the patient's condition. Scientific nursing care can alleviate discomfort and reduce the occurrence of adverse events. If agitation is accompanied by aggressive behavior, self-harm ideation, or severe physical symptoms, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Create a quiet environment: Keep the ward or living space clean and tidy, with soft lighting. Minimize noise and foot traffic, and avoid stimuli such as bright lights or strong odors. Provide a comfortable and safe resting environment to help stabilize the patient’s emotions.

2. Strengthen emotional support: Listen patiently to the patient’s concerns and communicate in a gentle tone. Avoid confrontation or criticism, and encourage the patient to express their feelings. Use empathy and reassurance to reduce anxiety, and incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing when necessary.

3. Maintain structured daily routines: Establish regular sleep-wake cycles and ensure adequate rest; avoid staying up late or overexertion. Maintain a light, easily digestible diet, reduce intake of spicy or stimulating foods, and avoid stimulants such as coffee and strong tea.

4. Avoid triggering factors: Refrain from discussing topics or events that may provoke agitation. Prevent exposure to conflict situations. If agitation results from illness or medication, follow medical advice to adjust treatment plans—do not discontinue or change medications without guidance.

5. Closely monitor the patient’s condition: Pay attention to changes in mood and behavior. Record the frequency, duration, and triggers of agitation episodes. If signs of impulsivity, aggression, or self-harm emerge, promptly implement protective measures and contact healthcare professionals.

During care, maintain patience and empathy, and avoid arguments with the patient. Help the patient develop hobbies to divert attention, and encourage mild activities such as walking. Strictly adhere to nursing protocols to ensure the patient’s safety and comfort.