Factors related to the use of physical restraints and hand restraints among older adults receiving home care services.

Objectives: Physical restraints and hand restraints are used in medical settings to provide protection and control. However, few studies have investigated their use among community-dwelling older adults. The study explored variables associated with the use of physical restraints and hand restraints among older adults receiving home care services and the reasons behind their use.

Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 128 older adults receiving home care services and with catheters. Data were collected regarding demographic characteristics; activities of daily living (ADLs); muscle strength; family function; the use of nasogastric tubes, urinary catheters, and tracheal tubes; and the type and duration of restraint use and the reasons behind such use.

Results: Among the participants, 76% experienced the use of physical restraints, and 34% experienced the use of hand restraints. The variables related to physical restraints were ADLs (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.95, p = .02) and the presence of a paid caregiver (AOR = 3.33, p = .02). The variables related to hand restraints were ADLs (AOR = 0.93, p = .03), use of a nasogastric tube (AOR = 13.46, p = .03) and the presence of a paid caregiver (AOR = 6.38, p = .02). The primary reasons behind restraint use were to prevent fall and extubation events.

Conclusions: The use of physical restraints among older adults with catheters may be affected by their functioning in ADLs and the presence of paid caregivers to ensure their safety. Thus, implementing interventions that target functional capabilities and caregiving skills may help reduce the use of restraints.