[Physical restraints and older adults]

Physical restraints are used to restrain-clients whose physical or mental state could endanger their safety or that of others. Divergent opinions can be found in the literature on this subject. On the one hand, restraints are necessary to ensure the client's protection. On the other, they are perceived to be a form of physical and psychological abuse. Restraints can also have psychological consequences on clients and their families. They may also cause injuries that can be life-threatening. This paradox concerns both nurses and their clients' families. The goal of this article is to make nurses aware of the physiological and psychosocial factors involved in the use of restraints. The authors use Callista Roy's conceptual model to illustrate their point. In their conclusion, they emphasize the implications of restraints for nursing practice, education and research.