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The advanced practice nurse and changing perspectives on physical restraint
1Scripps Gerontology Center, Miami University of Chio, USA.
Clinical Nurse Specialist CNS
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Physical restraint use in hospitals is debated, with mixed messages for caregivers. Research shows restraints do not prevent injuries and have adverse effects, highlighting the need for restraint reduction strategies across care settings.
Area of Science:
- Nursing and Healthcare Policy
- Patient Safety and Clinical Practice
Background:
- Nursing home regulatory changes prompt review of physical restraint use in hospitals.
- Conflicting messages and legal ambiguities surround hospital restraint practices.
- Restraint use presents ethical dilemmas between patient autonomy and best interests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine current restraint use practices in acute care settings.
- To evaluate the effectiveness and consequences of physical restraints.
- To identify strategies for successful restraint reduction in hospitals.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent research on physical restraint efficacy and adverse effects.
- Analysis of legal implications and ethical considerations in restraint decision-making.
- Examination of successful restraint reduction strategies from nursing homes.
Main Results:
- Current evidence does not support the belief that restraints prevent patient injuries.
- Research continues to document negative effects associated with physical restraint use.
- Restraint reduction initiatives have proven effective in nursing home settings.
Conclusions:
- Strategies for restraint reduction in nursing homes can be adapted for acute care.
- Interinstitutional collaboration is essential for consistent restraint reduction across care settings.
- Advanced practice nurses play a crucial role in facilitating continuity of restraint reduction efforts.