When restraint and seclusion are used, it is important that patients are debriefed as soon as possible following the incident. Other service users also need to be supported. Some staff work in environments without seclusion rooms. Time out' was considered a preferable option. If seclusion is to be used, access to a single room is necessary and the patient's well-being requires continuous monitoring.
Temporary staff require training before becoming involved in seclusion.
Physical restraint should be used only a last resort and always undertaken by permanent staff as the presence of unfamiliar staff can be unhelpful. If used inappropriately, physical restraint can exacerbate a violent situation. All relevant clinical staff require 'control and restraint' training. In particular, this includes accident and emergency staff, porters, catering staff and agency staff. Training in these techniques should be mandatory and consist of a rolling programme with regular refresher courses.