Knowledge, attitude and practice of nursing home staff towards physical restraints in Hong Kong nursing homes

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to determine the knowledge level, attitudes and practice of nursing staff toward restraint use in nursing homes In Hong Kong. A convenience sample of 253 nursing staff from five nursing homes was included. Many misconceptions exist among staff, for example, most nurses believe either that good alternatives to restraints do not exist, or else they underestimate the physical and psychological effects of restraints applied to clients. However desirable practice was reported, with nurses in a more senior position and staff with longer years of experience tending to have a better knowledge level, more appropriate attitudes and better practice in relation to restraint use. The results of this study provide insights to consider when planning an inservice program on restraint use so that a higher standard of care can be achieved.