Restraint as a Last Resort

You must obtain a written order from an authorized prescriber:

• Immediately following use of a restraint in an emergency situation
• Prior to use of a non-emergency restraint (physical, pharmacological, environmental)

The restraint order should be specific to the type of restraint to be used. A separate order must be written for each type of restraint that is required.

Pharmacological restraints cannot be initiated without an authorized prescriber’s order. 

A pro-re-nata (PRN) pharmacological restraint may be used when:

• It is part of the patient’s individualized care plan
• Informed consent has been obtained