For example, a chronically agitated patient may become more agitated with a restraint. Restraints should not be used unless necessary or when in the patient's best interests. Patients can be injured if they are not adequately monitored over long periods while they are restrained. In fact, if restraints are being used to avoid monitoring patients, then they are being misused. If a restraint is used for too long, and the patient is unable to move, various health problems can occur, including decubitus ulcers, nerve damage, and incontinence.
Sensory deprivation can cause psychological problems.
Overall mental and physical decline can also occur. Patients in physical restraints need extra monitoring, not less. Selecting the wrong type of restraint for a particular patient's needs or putting a restraint on backwards or upside down, or using the wrong size, also increases the chances for injury or death. Find alternatives to using restraints whenever possible. Use with patient or family consent.