Patient restraint: choosing the proper equipment

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Safety
• Clinical Procedures

Background:

• The Ontario Hospital Association issued a position paper on the use of physical restraints.
• Hospitals face increasing pressure to minimize or eliminate the use of patient restraints.
• Traditional restraint methods raise concerns regarding patient rights and well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of a "least restraint" policy and procedure at The Toronto Hospital.
• To outline the evaluation process for restraint equipment.
• To present the rationale for the selection of specific equipment for the "least restraint" policy.

Main Methods:

• Formation of a safety task force to evaluate restraint equipment.
• Systematic review and assessment of various restraint devices.
• Selection of equipment based on safety, efficacy, and patient comfort criteria.

Main Results:

• Identification and selection of specific equipment for the "least restraint" policy.
• Detailed rationale provided for each piece of selected equipment.
• Establishment of a standardized procedure for the application of least restraint devices.

Conclusions:

• The implemented "least restraint" policy and procedure aim to enhance patient safety.
• Careful equipment selection and clear rationale are crucial for successful policy implementation.
• This approach represents a significant step towards minimizing physical restraint use in healthcare settings.