When restraints are necessary, practitioners must determine the most appropriate device, which is also the least restrictive and allows the patient to retain as much dignity as possible. Appearance of a team may convince a patient to permit application of restraints without resistance. Ideally, each team member is responsible for immobilizing 1 extremity. This team approach minimizes risk of injury to the patient and staff. Although physical restraints generally are the first method employed when restraints are necessary, pharmacological restraints may be used as an alternative or adjunct to physical restraints.
Most injuries are minor and include abrasions and bruises.
However, more serious injuries can result if restraints are inappropriately applied or the patient is not adequately monitored. For example, a restrained patient could overturn a cart. Complications of pharmacological sedation are more numerous. Uncooperative patients often provide inadequate histories, presenting increased possibility for allergic reactions. Oversedation could lead to loss of the gag reflex, compromising the patient's ability to protect the airway.