e most common type of restraint used; the second most popular device, though, is the straps (Robbins et al., 1987, p. 294).
The overriding goal in the administration of restraint is to prevent patients from causing harm to themselves, other patients, visitors, or hospital staff. Restraints are also good for preventing property damage. However, these techniques are a measure of last resort; they should be applied only in high-risk situations and only after other interventions have failed. Although the use of restraints generally implies that other treatments have failed, in the non violent patient the methods can sometimes be used to facilitate therapies. Restraints are often applied to prevent the disruption of medical treatment. In fact, in certain applications, the devices can actually serve as a component of the treatment. The research suggests, for example, that mechanical restraints can be used to control the self injurious behavior associated with autistic, schizophrenic, and retarded pati
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