Intermediate
Technical
IVT
therapeutic holding
Manual restraint technique using minimal force to prevent patient injury during acute agitation or self-harm attempts.
Full Definition
Therapeutic holding is a hands-on intervention technique used by trained healthcare staff to safely contain a patient who is at immediate risk of harming themselves or others. Unlike mechanical restraints, therapeutic holding involves human contact and is intended to be calming and reassuring while maintaining safety. This technique requires specific training in proper positioning, de-escalation communication, and recognition of when to release or transition to other interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'physical restraint' which implies force rather than therapeutic intent.
In Context
- "Staff utilized therapeutic holding to prevent the patient from self-injury until medication could take effect." — Nursing intervention note
Also known as
manual restraint
therapeutic containment
Contrasted with
mechanical restraints
chemical restraint
Don't confuse with
physical restraint
takedown technique