Effects of a restraint minimization program on staff knowledge, attitudes, and practice: a cluster randomized trial

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Science
• Dementia Care

Background:

• Physical restraints are frequently used in dementia care settings.
• Minimizing restraint use is crucial for resident well-being and quality of care.
• Education is a potential strategy to influence staff practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a restraint minimization education program.
• To evaluate changes in staff knowledge, attitudes, and physical restraint use.
• To determine if the program affects fall incidence or psychoactive medication use.

Main Methods:

• A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted across 40 group dwelling units for people with dementia.
• Nursing staff participated in a 6-month education program.
• Staff knowledge, attitudes, and physical restraint use were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant improvements in staff knowledge and attitudes towards restraint use.
• Overall physical restraint use decreased in the intervention group compared to the control group.
• No significant differences were observed in the number of falls or the use of psychoactive medication between groups.

Conclusions:

• Staff education is an effective method to enhance knowledge and modify attitudes regarding physical restraint use.
• Implementing restraint minimization education can lead to a significant reduction in physical restraint application.
• The observed reduction in restraint use did not negatively impact resident safety concerning falls or medication use.