Discussion Questions
Questions you might ask a group to consider to help your organization decide what behavior requirements and expectations should apply when physical restraint is considered or used.
- Under what circumstances—if any—should physical restraint be used by staff or volunteers?
- Who is authorized to use restraint, and what training must they receive?
- What counts as a “restraint” in our context (e.g., holding an arm, blocking movement, guiding a person)?
- How do we distinguish between safety intervention and overreaction or control?
- Should there be a difference in approach for different age groups or individuals with disabilities?
- How do we ensure restraint is not used as punishment, compliance enforcement, or emotional reaction?
- What steps should be followed after any incident involving restraint (e.g., documentation, family communication, supervisor review)?
- How should we handle situations where participants are in emotional or behavioral crisis and restraint feels imminent?
- Are staff trained in de-escalation techniques as a first response before considering physical intervention?
- How do we communicate our approach to restraint with families, caregivers, and external partners?
Behavior Requirements & Expectations
Options to potentially help your organization describe transparent, accountable, and protective guidance around the use of physical restraint.
- Physical restraint may only be used as a last resort to prevent immediate harm to the participant or others. It must never be used for punishment, compliance, or convenience.
- We recognize that crisis moments may arise in certain settings. In those cases, the adult’s first responsibility is to de-escalate, not to control.
- Only staff who are trained and certified in approved crisis intervention methods may apply physical restraint. All others must call for assistance or follow emergency protocols.
- Any use of physical restraint must be immediately reported, documented in writing, and reviewed by a supervisor. The report must include the reason for restraint, the duration, the method used, and the outcome.
- We believe the safest programs are those that prevent the need for restraint. Staff must be equipped with verbal de-escalation, redirection, and calming techniques before any physical contact occurs.
- No restraint may involve pressure on the neck, back, joints, or any position that restricts breathing or movement. These actions are medically dangerous and are strictly prohibited.
- We understand that participants may have individualized behavior or support plans. Any variation in physical intervention must be pre-approved, documented in a care plan, and reviewed regularly.
- Adults must remain calm, composed, and supportive throughout any restraint. Aggression, yelling, or punitive language during a restraint is a violation of organizational expectations.
- Following any incident, staff must support the emotional recovery of the participant and themselves. Debriefing, trauma-informed follow-up, and family communication are required.
- When in doubt, step back, seek support, and protect space. Physical intervention is not a personal failure, but it must never be the first or only tool used.