What is required to authorize the use of restraints in a nursing home?

The use of restraints in a nursing home setting requires a signed, dated written physician order as this ensures that the decision is medically justified, monitored, and documented appropriately. The order must specify the type of restraint to be used, the rationale for its use, and the duration for which it is to be applied. This protocol is essential to protect the rights and safety of residents, ensuring that restraints are not used indiscriminately or as a means of convenience. The physician's involvement safeguards that such measures are only employed when necessary for the resident’s safety and care, and it aligns with regulations that govern the use of restraints in healthcare settings to ensure ethical practice.