Which of the following statements concerning forcible restraint of patients is true?

• A. Forcible restraint should only be used when less restrictive interventions have failed and there is an immediate risk of harm to the patient or others.
• B. Forcible restraint can be used as a first-line intervention for any uncooperative patient.
• C. Forcible restraint does not require documentation or monitoring once applied.
• D. Forcible restraint is recommended for all patients who refuse medication.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the ethical and legal principles guiding the use of forcible restraint in clinical psychology and psychiatry. Restraint is a serious intervention that restricts a patient's freedom and must be justified carefully.
2. Step 2: Recognize that forcible restraint is considered a last resort, used only when less restrictive measures (like verbal de-escalation or medication) have failed to prevent harm.
3. Step 3: Identify that forcible restraint requires continuous monitoring and thorough documentation to ensure patient safety and legal compliance.
4. Step 4: Note that forcible restraint is not appropriate simply because a patient is uncooperative or refuses medication; it must be linked to an immediate risk of harm to the patient or others.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the true statement is the one emphasizing restraint as a last resort after less restrictive interventions have failed and when there is an immediate risk of harm.