Death or serious injury may be associated with the use of physical restraints. A number of risk factors may increase the risk of a serious outcome.
Serious adverse outcomes associated with physical restraints may include:
(1) death, often from strangulation or asphyxiation
(2) pressure ulcer
(3) vascular compression with limb ischemia
Risk factors for death or serious injury associated with physical restraints:
(1) The restraints are improvised, nonstandard or illegal (unapproved).
(2) The restraints are not properly sized for the patient (too loose or too tight).
(3) The restraints are not applied properly.
(4) The restraints are applied for a prolonged period.
(5) The person is not properly observed.
(6) The patient is agitated, confused or mobile.
(7) The restraint is capable of constraining respiration or compressing the airway.
Death can occur even if the restraint is approved and properly applied.
