Impact of a multimodal intervention strategy on the use of mechanical restraint in a psychiatric inpatient unit
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60108/11fyx139Keywords:
Restraint, Physical, Coercion, Psychiatric Nursing, Mental health, Psychiatric department, HospitalAbstract
Introduction: mechanical restraint is a coercive measure used in mental healthcare that, in addition to being associated with adverse physical and emotional consequences, entails a violation of individuals’ rights. In recent years, the need to reduce its use has been highlighted, and the implementation of multimodal strategies has emerged as a potentially effective approach. In this context, nursing professionals play a key role in the prevention, early detection, and management of crisis situations, as well as in the development of care alternatives.
Objective: to evaluate the impact of implementing a multimodal intervention strategy on the frequency and duration of mechanical restraint episodes in a psychiatric hospitalisation unit.
Material and methods: a quasi-experimental longitudinal study was conducted, based on the analysis of a time series of mechanical restraint episodes recorded in a psychiatric inpatient unit over a 24-month period.
Results: a total of 168 mechanical restraint episodes were recorded in 39 individuals. Over time, a downward trend was observed in both the number of episodes and their duration after following the implementation of a strategy integrating organizational, environmental, and clinical interventions.
Conclusion: the implementation of a multimodal intervention strategy in a psychiatric unit is associated with a decrease in the frequency and duration of mechanical restraint episodes, something that contributes to a safer, more respectful, and more dignified care.
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