Bedsores and Restraint-Use

The improper use of restraints can lead to bedsores that develop rapidly and worsen just as quickly. When nursing home residents are improperly restrained, friction, pressure, and the inability to change positions can contribute to the development of bedsores even if the resident is generally not at risk. When coupled with nursing home neglect, restraint use can cause serious problems with circulation, as well as adequate intake of both food and fluids – which also contributes to the potential for bedsores to develop.

Because restraint use has to be authorized by a doctor and approved by either the nursing home resident, or the person responsible for making decisions on the nursing home resident’s behalf, the improper use of restraints is not only dangerous, but abusive as well. There are much safer alternatives to the use of restraints, and your loved one’s physician, along with nursing home staff, should explore all other possible treatment options first, before restraints are suggested.

If your loved one has a doctor’s recommendation to use restraints due to medical concerns, you should make sure that there is a plan in place to minimize the risk of bedsore development before you agree. You should also check on the nursing home staff often to be certain that the use of the restraints is handled safely, professionally, and with minimal risk to your loved one’s well-being.

If your loved one is being restrained without the express orders of a physician, and without the explicit consent of your loved one or the person responsible for making decisions on his or her behalf, you should speak with nursing home management immediately to have the restraints removed. Likewise, you should also consider filing a complaint with your local authorities – chances are good that if your loved one was restrained improperly, there are others in the nursing home who have been improperly restrained as well. Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations can help to reduce the chances that your loved one will develop bedsores while residing within the nursing home.