General
jack-in-the-box
What does jack-in-the-box mean?
Nursing slang for a patient who repeatedly pops up out of bed or chair despite being unable or unsafe to stand, like a jack-in-the-box.
"Falls risk and a jack-in-the-box — he won't stay put."
Origin
Nursing slang metaphor.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'jack-in-the-box' mean in nursing?
A patient who repeatedly springs up out of bed or a chair despite being unsafe to stand, like the toy that pops up.
Why is it a concern?
Such patients are often a falls risk, so the term flags someone who needs close supervision.
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