Inappropriate Use of Restraints in Hospitalized Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Report

Abstract

There has been an increase in the use of patient restraints in hospitals since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients living with dementia are at a greater risk of being restrained when hospitalized. This case report presents a gentleman, known as Mr. S, a 73-year-old with dementia admitted to the hospital during the pandemic and his exposure to restraints. His lived experience will be discussed and will consider the complexity of restraint use, the potential to cause harm and the need to return to least restrictive measures. The inappropriate, increased, and sustained use of restraints will be explored and the need to maintain patient-centered care and minimize the use of restraints in hospital settings. This case report aims to increase the understanding of the inappropriate use of restraints in hospital settings and change practice to benefit older adults with dementia.