The document emphasizes "person-centred" approaches using "trauma informed language and requires policies to be "written and reviewed collaboratively with consumers and carers." It mandates inclusion of "consumers, carers and external agencies" in response plan development and references consumer and carer involvement in training development and evaluation. However, it is unclear whether persons with lived experience of restraint where directly involved in the drafting of the extent to which lived experience shaped the documents development.
National Principles to Support the Goal of Eliminating Mechanical and Physical Restraint in Mental Health Services
Overview
This document outlines national principles to eliminate mechanical and physical restraints in mental health services. It emphasizes recovery-oriented, trauma-informed care with restraint as last resort. Key areas include prevention strategies, managing escalating behaviours, proper training, partnerships, and post-restraint support. The principles aim to respect dignity while ensuring safety.
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Key insights
Key Insights:
- Restraints should be last resort respecting individual dignity always
- Recovery and trauma-informed principles must underpin all service delivery
- Prevention strategies include early access and respectful therapeutic relationships
- Least restrictive intervention considering person's self-regulation and life skills
- Appropriately trained staff must use safest techniques for restraints
- Post-restraint support and debriefing essential for all affected parties
- Partnerships include consumers, carers, police and external agency consultation
- Standardized competency-based training emphasizes verbal and non-physical intervention strategies
Did this resource draw on transformative evidence?
This resouce was developed by the "Restrictive Practice Working Group", is endorsed by professional health committees, references multiple clinical guidelines and professional standards and emphasizes staff training and clinical competencies.
The document contains limited research and evaluation insights. It primarily references existing policy frameworks and guidelines rather than empirical studies.