Restraint use that restricts movement or decreases physical activity may lead to increased
confusion, physical agitation,103 and decreased mobility which can lead to an increased risk for
a fall.104 105 There is no evidence that the use of, or removal of restraints will reduce falls;
however, more serious injuries are associated with use of restraints including negative effects
June 2013 Page 56
Safer Healthcare Now! Reducing Falls and Injuries from Falls Getting Started Kit
on psychological health. Studies have found that in first time fallers, those who were
restrained were fourteen times more likely to fall than those who were not