Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Assessment of Dependence in Activities of Daily Living Among Older Patients in an Acute Care Unit
Published on: September 30, 2020
Chemical restraint in nursing older people
1King's College, London. rhidian.hughes@kcl.ac.uk
Abstract:
The inappropriate and over-prescribing of medication is an area of nursing fraught with legal and ethical considerations. It can lead to people being chemically restrained and must only be used in exceptional situations. Therapeutic alternatives should take precedent. This article reviews studies on chemical restraint that show high levels of neuroleptic drug prescribing, including pro re nata or 'when required' medication, in care settings for older people. Studies also demonstrate that chemical restraint tends to be used in busy and under-resourced settings. Reviews and audits of neuroleptic medication should be undertaken regularly to alert nurses to local trends and patterns.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Excretion
Current Trends in Nursing I
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution
Ethical Issues
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare: