Restraint care in the pediatric intensive care unit: a qualitative investigation of nurses’ perspectives and experiences
-
By
-
Xiaowen Dai
-
Qingqing Liu
-
Shuyi Ma
-
Li Wei
-
May 29, 2026
-
Clinical Scorecard: Exploring Nurses' Insights and Experiences with Restraint Practices in Pediatric Intensive Care Units: A Qualitative Study
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Restraint practices in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) |
| Key Mechanisms | Balancing patient safety with ethical considerations and practical challenges |
| Target Population | PICU nurses in a tertiary children's hospital in Jiangsu, China |
| Care Setting | Pediatric Intensive Care Units |
Key Highlights
- Nurses face ethical tensions in balancing safety and autonomy.
- Practical difficulties arise from ill-fitting restraint tools.
- Communication breakdowns occur due to emotional resistance.
- Cumulative psychological strain affects nurses' professional identity.
- Institutional needs include clear protocols and targeted training.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Inconsistent emergency assessments and incomplete family consent should be addressed.
Management
- Standardized pediatric guidelines and non-restraint alternatives are recommended.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Improved site-monitoring compliance is necessary.
Risks
- Inappropriate restraint can lead to skin injuries, limb dysfunction, and psychological trauma.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Children in PICUs requiring invasive procedures
Restraint is used to prevent unplanned extubation and other adverse events.
Clinical Best Practices
- Implement communication-focused training for nurses.
- Enhance institutional support for restraint practices.
- Develop context-specific research to inform guidelines.
Related Resources & Content
