Mechanical Restraint in Nursing Homes in Brazil: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: to estimate the mechanical restraint prevalence in Nursing Homes in Brazil and the factors associated with its performance. Methods: this cross-sectional study was carried out in 14 institutions, with a final sample of 443 elderly people. Mechanical restraint was considered as a dependent variable. Results: there was a 7.45% prevalence of mechanical restraint considering bed rails and 3.84% without considering bed rails. Main justification for restraint use was risk of falls (66.7%), and restraint duration was 24 hours (84.8%). The factors associated with the dependent variable were: wandering (p=0.000); MMSE, with cognitive loss (p=0.000); Katz Index, with dependence for Activities of Daily Living (p=0.000); and Alzheimer’s comorbidity (p=0.001) Conclusion: prevalence was lower than international studies, but there was an association with worsening of wandering, dependence, cognitive worsening, and Alzheimer’s Disease, showing the need for alternative interventions to mechanical restraint.

Keywords

• Homes for the Aged
• Restraint, Physical
• Aged
• Geriatric Nursing
• Health of the Elderly