Promoting Safety: Alternatives to Restraints

The Patient Restraints Minimization Act asks healthcare settings to consider alternative approaches to restraints and only use them as a last resort when a person is at risk of harm.

What is NOT a restraint? (Select all that apply)

What is an example of a restraint used to limit a person's movement?

What can help reduce the risk of needing to use restraints? (Select all that apply)

Using a medication to manage a person's behavior is not considered a restraint.

What may put a person at risk of requiring a restraint? (Select all that apply)

A written order from a doctor is needed before a restraint can be used.

A restraint should be used for the shortest possible time and removed as soon as it is safe.

The least restrictive form of restraint should be used when necessary.

Who can answer questions about preventing or avoiding the use of restraints? (Select all that apply)

Promoting Safety: Alternative Approaches to Restraints

Restraints should be a last resort, used only when a person is at risk of harming themselves or others.
Restraints restrict a person's movement physically (e.g., mitts, lap belts) or by limiting their movement to a confined area (e.g., locked room). They can also involve medication.
Healthcare providers should explore alternative solutions before using restraints.
Encourage enjoyable activities like watching TV or listening to music to help prevent restraints.
Help the person to the bathroom regularly and create a safe environment by lowering the bed or ensuring good lighting.
Routine and familiar surroundings are important.
Consider having friends or family visit to help manage restlessness or confusion.
Use alarms to prompt staff when the person moves from a bed or chair.

Considerations Before Restraint Use

Open communication with the patient/family and healthcare team is essential to explore options before restraints.
Restraints should be avoided due to potential negative side effects, like increased agitation; heightened risk of falls; skin breakdown; and even death.
A written order from a doctor is needed if restraints are necessary.
Consent must be obtained from the patient or their decision-maker.
Shortest restraint period, followed by prompt removal, is crucial.
The least restrictive restraint method should be employed.
The healthcare team should closely monitor the individual and remove the restraints at the earliest safe opportunity.

Who to Ask

Healthcare team members such as nurses and doctors can answer questions about preventing or avoiding the use of restraints.

This quiz explores various approaches to promoting safety without the use of restraints in healthcare settings. It emphasizes the importance of open communication and alternative solutions to prevent the need for physical restriction of movement. Learn strategies to create a safe environment and support patient well-being.