# Novel Approaches Needed: An Experimental Study with an Alternative to Mechanical Restraint

## TL;DR

This study explores a new method using 30 kg bags as a less humiliating alternative to mechanical restraint for patients, based on feedback from nurses and patients.

## Contribution

The study introduces and evaluates a novel alternative to mechanical restraint using weighted bags under supervision.

## Key findings

- Participants, including nurses and patients, found the method to be a milder and less humiliating alternative to mechanical restraint.
- Nurses expressed concerns about fall risks and potential misuse of the bags.
- Patients with a history of abuse were especially positive about the method.

## Abstract

Despite many calls to reduce or eliminate the use of mechanical restraint, it is still widely used in many countries. Studies using patient interviews have a very clear message: Patients experience mechanical restraint as the most humiliating intervention. There seems to be a lack of alternatives for violent patients if all other approaches to prevent the use of coercion have failed. We developed a method using 30 kg bags, originally designed for fitness purposes, to be attached to a patient’s wrist or ankle under 1:1 supervision. The method was tested with 10 experienced nurses and de-escalation trainers. A video was made and presented to six outpatients who had previously experienced mechanical restraint. All participants were interviewed. Transcribed interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. All participants approved of the method as a milder and less humiliating alternative to mechanical restraint. The nurses’ main concerns were the risk of falls and the use of the bags as weapons. The latter could be controlled by using an additional bag. Patients were generally positive, especially if there was a history of abuse. The method should be further developed to replace at least some mechanical restraints. As with all ‘milder means’, care should be taken to really replace restraint and not to introduce additional coercion.