Some patients in our care may be confused, agitated or distressed as a result of illness, pain, infection, dementia, delirium, medication, a change of environment, communication needs or other personal factors.
Whilst in our care, your loved one may become distressed or act differently than usual. This can sometimes lead to behaviour that feels challenging. For these patients, ward staff will have assessed the person as someone requiring Enhanced Therapeutic Observations and Care (ETOC) – this is a set of interventions to reduce the risk of harm happening.
Enhanced Therapeutic Observations and Care (ETOC) is additional care and support for patients who may need closer observation while they are in hospital. It aims to keep the patient safe, promote recovery and protect their dignity. ETOC is not just about watching someone. Our staff use this time to build trust, offer reassurance, notice changes early and support moments of calm, comfort and meaningful engagement.
Some patients may become confused, agitated, distressed or more unsettled when they are in hospital. This can be due to illness, pain, infection, dementia, delirium, medication, a change of environment, communication needs or other personal factors. During their recovery, your loved one may behave differently than usual. Sometimes this can lead to behaviours that may place them or others at risk, meaning they need additional support for a period of time.
Observation levels are decided and reviewed by the ward team, with support from the wider multi-disciplinary team where needed. The decision to use ETOC is based on a risk assessment, clinical judgement and, wherever possible, information from the patient, family or carer.
Through ETOC, we aim to provide the least restrictive level of support needed, for the shortest time needed. Your loved one will be reviewed regularly and ETOC will be reduced or stopped when it is no longer required.
Please bring in any glasses, dentures, hearing or mobility aids that your loved one needs. Please label these items where possible so they are less likely to be lost.
You can also bring in familiar items that may offer comfort, such as clothes, photos, memory books, blankets or toiletries. Please check with ward staff first so we can make sure these items are safe and suitable.
We are committed to keeping your loved one safe, comfortable and well cared for during their stay.
If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to the Nurse in Charge or Ward Manager. We are here to help.
You know your loved one best. Please tell us what matters to them and what helps them feel safe, calm and reassured. This could include:
- What they like to be called
- Important people in their life
- Music, photos, TV, hobbies or routines they enjoy
- Things that may upset or frighten them
- What usually helps when they are distressed
- Any communication needs, sensory needs or personal preferences.
Small details can make a big difference to how we support your loved one.