Healthcare Restraints and Seclusions - Thought Leadership - Insights

Outlining Standards for the Use of Restraints and Involuntary Seclusion

When managing an agitated and potentially unruly psychiatric patient, healthcare providers must follow established standards of practice regarding the use of involuntary seclusion, physical or chemical restraints, and physical holds. Preserving patient dignity and autonomy involves using the least restrictive interventions necessary to deescalate the situation. This piece aims to outline these standards and why they are essential to help reduce risks and promote the best possible patient outcomes.