Which statement best characterizes restraint use outcomes?

• A. It can lead to distress, immobility, and death.
• B. It universally ensures safety.
• C. It has no impact on agitation.
• D. It is the preferred method to prevent wandering.

Answer: (A)

Restraints often cause harm even though they’re intended to protect. They can provoke distress and fear, limit mobility, and lead to deconditioning, pressure injuries, pneumonia, delirium, and even death. Because of these risks, they do not reliably ensure safety and can worsen agitation rather than calm it. They aren’t the preferred method to prevent wandering; safer, least-restrictive approaches—such as environmental modifications, closer supervision, effective pain management, regular orientation, and addressing underlying delirium or triggers—should be tried first and used only when truly necessary with ongoing reassessment.