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/Institutions/University-of-Maryland-School-of-Dentistry/json/Clinic-Manual/Clinic-Manual-local.json

/Institutions/University-of-Maryland-School-of-Dentistry/json/Clinic-Manual/Clinic-Manual.json

Use of Restraint Devices During Dental Procedures - Procedure

Subject: III. Clinical – I. Patient Care

Reviewed and/or Revised: 09/01/2017

Purpose

Establish safe and consistent guidelines for the use of restraint devices for dental patients who exhibit behaviors that put them at risk for unintentionally interrupting their dental procedure and posing a threat to the physical safety of self and others.

Definitions

Restraint Device – used to restrict freedom of movement.

Policy and/or Procedure

Applying Restraints:

1. after assessment of the patient’s specific need for restraints by a nurse or physician
2. after attempting less restrictive interventions

Procedure for Restraint Use:

1. Obtain informed consent from parent or legal guardian
2. The passive restraint device will be applied by staff educated in the safe application of such device.
3. Nursing staff will provide continuous monitoring of the patient assessing patient’s behavior, circulation, skin and muscle condition and adjusting the restraint device as necessary.
4. Appropriate documentation will be made in the patient’s chart. Written consent is required in the treatment notes.