Physical Restraint during Procedures: Issues and Implications for Practice

Abstract

Physical restraint or holding down a child or young person with cancer is generally accepted to ensure success in carrying out the various procedures involved throughout the disease trajectory. Over the past several years, health care staff have become more aware of the issues surrounding physical restraint. However, the research around the effects of being involved in physical restraint is extremely limited. Nurses continue to have little education in the pertinent issues, restraint techniques, and alternative strategies. This article aims to highlight areas that nurses caring for children and young people with cancer need to consider. Strategies for improving practice are also discussed with the thought that nurses will be stimulated to re-evaluate the use of physical restraint in this group of children and young people.