The ethical implications and legal aspects of patient restraint

Restraint can be applied in a physical way, via medication or by more subtle means. An attempt by an individual to restrain another is legally justifiable in limited situations, for example to prevent a person committing a crime. In other circumstances, restraint is unjustifiable. It is important, from a legal and moral perspective, to ensure that nursing practice does not involve unjustifiable restraint. This article focuses on restraint within a care setting for older people and highlights the complexity of situations in which restraint may be required and the ethics governing its use.