Reducing Rates of Restraints in Nursing Homes
A physical restraint is any device, material, or equipment that prevents a resident from moving about freely.
According to the Code of Federal Regulations, 42 Section 483.13 (a), “the resident has the right to be free from any physical or chemical restraints imposed for the purpose of discipline or convenience, and not required to treat the resident’s medical symptoms.” Therefore, a physical restraint may only be used to treat a medical symptom after a comprehensive assessment identifies interventions that allow the resident to reach the highest level of functioning.
Research has found that residents who are not restrained tend to be less agitated, less fatigued, and more social. They exhibit greater independence with toileting, mobility, feeding, dressing, and strength. The resident’s autonomy and dignity improves without the confinement of physical restraints.
Our goal is to help nursing homes contribute to a 40% national reduction in healthcare-acquired conditions (HACs) due to pressure ulcers and restraints.
Restraints Collaborative LS1 PPTs and Handouts
- Restraint Collaborative Change Package – PDF File
- Falls Management & Restraint Reduction – PDF File
- Restraints – Next Steps – PDF File
- Restraint Collaborative Overview – PDF File
- Restraint Data Tracking Tool – Excel File (This tool is OPTIONAL)
