Medical restraint

Medical restraint is a method used in medical and psychiatric settings to help ensure patient and staff safety. Restraints can take many forms, including physical, chemical, and environmental.

Types of Restraints

Physical Restraints

Physical restraints are devices used to restrict a patient's movement. They can include straps, handcuffs, and straightjackets.

Chemical Restraints

Chemical restraints are medications used to control a patient's behavior or restrict their freedom of movement. They are often used in psychiatric settings.

Environmental Restraints

Environmental restraints involve modifying the patient's environment to restrict their movement. This can include locked doors or seclusion rooms.

Uses of Restraints

Restraints are used in various medical and psychiatric settings. They are often used to prevent harm to the patient or others, especially when the patient is agitated, violent, or at risk of self-harm.

Risks and Controversies

The use of restraints is controversial and carries risks. These include physical injury, psychological trauma, and violation of a patient's rights.

Regulations

In many countries, the use of restraints is regulated by law. These laws often require that restraints be used only as a last resort and for the shortest possible time.

See Also

• Patient safety
• Psychiatry
• Medical ethics

Medical restraint Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.