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Physical Restraints

Indications
1. Dangerous and uncontrolled Violent Behavior
General
1. Never use for convenience
2. Never restrain in prone position (case reports of asphyxia)
3. Never place weight on patient's back while prone
4. Run like a Resuscitation code
5. Command cooperation
  1. Explain to the patient the need for restraints
6. Document justification and frequent vital signs
Technique
1. Remove jewelry, ties, weapons
2. Apply by at least 5 assistants
  1. One assistant per limb
  2. One assistant to secure patient's head
3. Restraint materials
  1. Leather restraints are usually necessary
  2. Soft restraints may be adequate for elderly
4. Patient stays in seclusion room while restrained

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This page was written by Scott Moses, MD. This page was last revised before 5/10/08, prior to consistent tracking of revision date. This page was last published on 6/1/2008. Please send comments and questions to the editor. Contact information may be found on the page About the Family Practice Notebook. These pages are best viewed with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0.