Purpose & Scope

• This guideline focuses on three areas:

i. Assessment, Prevention and Alternative Approaches;

ii. De-escalation Interventions and Crisis Management; and

iii. Restraint Use Focused on Client Safety.

To view a model depicting the three areas click here. 

• The movement towards the use of alternative practices for restraint-free care cannot apply to all organizational setting (e.g. Policing and Corrections), as these settings are beyond the scope of this guideline.
• Nurses working in any health care setting must be aware of the legislation that pertains to their geographic location, health care sector type and client population as they move towards the implementation of best practices to support restraint-free environments.