The dollars and sense of restraints and seclusion

Restraints and seclusion are a common practice in many human service settings despite the increasing evidence questioning their efficacy and appropriateness. There are many detrimental effects on people subject to these practices, such as falls, injury, psychological trauma and even death. In addition to the impact on people being served, there is also a range of negative effects on organisations and the workforce. This article outlines and discusses the costs to organisations in implementing restraints and seclusion, and the economic cost-benefits to be gained in working towards the safe elimination of restraints and seclusion. A brief outline of ethical alternatives to restraints and seclusion is explored. The emerging research evidence suggests that it is possible to achieve the safe elimination of restraints and seclusion in a human service organisation.