What are the types of restraints?
• Physical and mechanical restraint: A caregiver may handle or hold the patient to limit movement or to apply a restraint. This type of restraint includes wrist or ankle ties, locked chairs, and side rails on beds. • Chemical restraint: This is the use of medicines to calm a patient, limit his movement, or both. The medicines used are not part of the patient’s regular treatment. Chemical restraint may also be called rapid tranquillization. It may allow the patient to talk with caregivers, be examined, and receive treatment without harming himself or others. Chemical restraint may be used alone. It may also be used along with physical restraints. Types of chemical restraints include sedatives and anti-anxiety medicines. • Environmental restraint: This means putting a patient into a limited area, such as a locked room, for a period of time. Environmental restraint is also called seclusion. It may be used to remove a patient from a stressful situation and give him a chance to calm down.
