While many nursing homes use bed restraints to keep patients in their beds, many studies have found that physical restraints may be ineffective in reducing falls in nursing homes. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, bed restraints can actually lead to complications like functional loss, immobility, delirium, pressure sores, and falls and other injuries.
Bed restraints may be used by a nursing facility if they cannot constantly monitor an individual who frequently attempts to get out of bed. However, they should be used cautiously.