therapeutic hold
Brief physical intervention to prevent immediate harm during behavioral crisis, distinct from mechanical restraint and requiring immediate documentation.
Full Definition
A brief, hands-on intervention used by trained staff to safely manage a patient who is engaging in behavior that poses immediate risk of harm to themselves or others. Unlike mechanical restraints, therapeutic holds are temporary physical interventions designed to de-escalate situations and transition to less restrictive interventions. They require specific training, immediate documentation, and must be discontinued as soon as the immediate safety risk passes. Therapeutic holds are considered part of crisis intervention techniques and should not be confused with prolonged physical restraint procedures.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from mechanical restraints in documentation; emphasize brief duration and de-escalation purpose.
In Context
- "The therapeutic hold lasted thirty seconds before the patient regained behavioral control." — Incident report
- "All staff must complete therapeutic hold training before working on the acute care unit." — Training requirements document