Use of restraints; changes in nurses' attitudes

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Patient Safety
• Behavioral Health

Background:

• Physical restraints are sometimes used in patient care to prevent self-harm or injury to others.
• The application of physical restraints can paradoxically lead to increased patient agitation and distress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential for increased patient agitation following the application of physical restraints.
• To identify and evaluate non-restraint alternatives for managing patient agitation and ensuring safety.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical practices regarding the use of physical restraints.
• Identification and categorization of alternative interventions such as diversions, family presence, and environmental modifications.

Main Results:

• Patient agitation can be a consequence of physical restraint use.
• Several effective alternatives to physical restraints exist, including diversions, family presence, recliner chairs, day rooms, and sitters.

Conclusions:

• Minimizing the use of physical restraints is crucial for patient well-being.
• Implementing non-pharmacological alternatives can effectively manage patient agitation and reduce the need for physical restraints.