Nurses’ Views and Challenges in Physical Restraints in Nursing Homes A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to review studies critically and systematically on the nurses’ views and challenges in the use of physical restraints in the nursing homes, which will be useful to inform and guide nursing practice.

Methods: This study used the qualitative systematic literature review approach. It searched for studies on 4 electronic bibliographic databases from 2014 to 2024. The theoretical framework used was Swanson’s theory of creative healing.

Results: The 7 studies that were fully appropriate for this review evaluated several aspects of nurses’ views and challenges in the use of physical restraints in nursing homes. Most studies considered resource saving as a major reason for the use of physical restaurants. Some studies looked at it from the angle of alternative strategy and protective strategy. On the other hand, some studies revealed that lack of education and training, legislative and unclear organisational policies, and lack of resources as some of the challenges faced by nurses.

Conclusion: Although restraints are an essential safety measure, their application needs to be reduced. To provide a restrained-free atmosphere that upholds the clients' dignity and safety, nursing home management should support employing enough caregivers and providing them with the necessary training. They should also take actions that encourage non-restrictive alternatives.