Module K – Restraint Elimination, Reduction, Appropriate Use

Aspiration

Breathing fluid, vomitus, or an object into the lungs

Chemical restraint

Any drug that is used for discipline or convenience and not required to treat medical symptoms

Contracture

The lack of joint mobility caused by abnormal shortening of a muscle

Empathy

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another

Enabler

A device attached to the bed, similar to a short bedrail, that limits freedom of movement but is used to prompt independence, comfort or safety

False imprisonment

unlawful restraint or restriction of resident’s freedom of movement

Fracture

a broken bone

Pelvic support

a physical restraint used between the thighs to keep a resident’s hips from slipping forward

Physical restraint

any manual method or physical or mechanical device, material, or equipment, attached to or near the resident’s body that the individual cannot remove easily which restricts freedom of movement or normal access to one’s body

Restraint

a physical or chemical way to restrict voluntary movement or behavior

Restraint alternative

measures used instead of physical or chemical restraints

Restraint-free care

an environment in which restraints are not kept or used for any reason

Seat belt

a belt placed at a 45 degree angle over thighs when sitting to prevent falling from a chair or wheelchair

Soft cloth mitten

a physical restraint using a mitt that limits mobility of hands and use of fingers, frequently used for residents who could harm themselves by pulling at tubing, removing dressings, touching incisions, or scratching a wound

Strangulation

the act of chocking to death; serious or fatal obstruction of normal breathing

Vest or jacket

a physical restraint put on the upper body to provide support in a wheelchair and limit mobility while in bed or in a chair

Wrist restraint

a physical restraint that limits arm movement