Protocol for Physical Restraints of Patients in Nursing Homes

Lim, Mi Hye; Ko, Il Sun

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to develop a protocol that would help prevent accidents, apply physical restraints properly, and reduce the use of physical restraints in nursing homes. METHOD: A review of the literature and analysis of existing statutes and regulations were used to develop the preliminary protocol. To test the validity of this preliminary protocol, ten experts were selected from academia and clinical practice to review the protocol. The initial protocol was finalized after it had been reviewed by experts and tested for clinical validity in five different nursing homes. RESULT: The protocol consists of objectives, definitions and accident probability assessment, principle of using physical restraints, monitoring and documentation of physical restraints.
CONCLUSION
The findings of this study can be used as guidelines to focus on preventing accidents arising out of use of physical restraints, assessing the probability of accidents, and reducing the use of physical restraints through preventive interventions. This will be helpful to prevent ethical, physical, or psychological problems arising from use of physical restraints and to protect the rights of elderly people in nursing homes.