Physical restraints include vest and wrist restraints used to tie a resident to a chair or bed. Wrist restraints are used to prevent movement of the arm often to prevent removal of an IV or feeding tube. Mitts are used to prevent scratching or picking up items. Chairs with tray tables or bed roll bars are forms of physical restraints. Full side bed rails used to keep a resident in bed are also considered a physical restraint.
Chemical restraints are mind-altering drugs used to control a resident s behavioral symptoms.
Psychoactive drugs are not chemical restraints when used to treat severe mental illness. No restraint should be utilized for the convenience of the staff, and each restraint must have an order from the physician detailing its use. Only a Judge in a court of law has the authority to appoint a guardian, and by doing so declares the individual in question incompetent. The Judge makes this decision only after hearing evidence from the individual s doctor about the mental status of the individual. If a resident needs legal assistance to set up a guardianship, the Ombudsman may be contacted for referral to an appropriate agency.