Physical Restraints
Research and standards of practice show that the belief that restraints ensure safety is often unfounded. Caregivers often feel they will be liable for not protecting a resident from serious injury or necessary treatment if a physical restraint is removed or reduced; however, research indicates restraints increase the risk for serious injury (Evans & Strumpf, 1990). Since Q2 2004, Kansas providers have reduced their use of physical restraints (PR) by over 50%.
Kansas SAR data for Q3 2007 reported that more than 150 providers in the state had a PR score of zero. The data also points out that there are homes in the state with PR rates greater than 25%. In 2007, Physical Restraints were cited 22 times during Kansas surveys. Adoption of a resident-centered, zero-restraint philosophy by long-term care mangers is key in eliminating the use of restraints. Nursing homes with high PR rates often lack staff resources, such as education regarding alternatives to restraints, and basic quality improvement methods.
Measure
Percent of long-stay residents who were physically restrained.