Implementing restraint standards in hospitals.

Abstract

In summary, a hospital's restraint policy or procedure should specify the following: The requirement for a physician's order for each restraint episode; The time within which such an order must be obtained if restraints are applied before the order is issued; The maximum time that restraint may be applied without obtaining a new order; A requirement for periodic observation of the patient and the maximum time between such observations; and A requirement for proper attendance to the patient's needs. The documentation of each restraint episode should contain evidence of at least the following: A physician's time-limited order. Attendance to the needs of the patient. Periodic observation of the patient. Evidence that reapplication of restraints after a trial release is a result of the same condition that led to the initial application. Without such documentation, the reapplication requires a new order.