Conclusion
Our study provides new insights into the contentious issues
of restraint and seclusion by affording an in-depth exploration
of the contextual influences underpinning resistance
to reducing or eliminating these practices in the underresearched
area of short-stay old age psychiatry inpatient
settings. Such influences need to be addressed if there is to
be meaningful and sustainable reduction in, or elimination
of, such practices in these environments. The findings also
highlight that policies advocating minimal use or elimination
of these measures cannot take place in a vacuum;
instead, they need to be accompanied by appropriate education
and support, including consideration of ethical and
workplace cultural issues concerning these practices and
introduction of comprehensive initiatives to address
aggression. Finally, more research is needed to investigate
alternatives to restraint and seclusion.