seclusion and restraint
Emergency interventions involving physical or environmental restriction of patient movement, subject to strict regulatory oversight and documentation requirements.
Full Definition
Emergency safety interventions used in behavioral health settings when a patient poses imminent risk of harm to themselves or others and less restrictive interventions have failed or are not feasible. Seclusion involves isolating a patient in a locked room, while restraints involve physical devices or manual holding that restricts movement. These interventions are heavily regulated, require physician orders, continuous monitoring, and detailed documentation. They must be discontinued as soon as the immediate risk subsides and are considered treatment failures requiring debriefing and prevention planning.
Usage
Usage note: Always use conjunction 'and' rather than abbreviating; both interventions are regulated together.
In Context
- "The seclusion and restraint policy requires face-to-face physician evaluation within one hour." — Policy and procedure manual
- "Reduction in seclusion and restraint usage is a key quality indicator for the behavioral health unit." — Quality improvement report