Rapid review
Use of physical restraint for children and adolescents in mental health care
Report
|Updated
With a total absence of controlled studies, we can ascertain that the efficacy and adverse effects associated with the use of coercive measures is unknown. The relative effects of different types of methods, such as seclusion, holding therapy and mechanical remedies are not known. Results from qualitative studies, however, support the ethical problems with the use of physical restraint. Any change in law or practice should be done within the framework of a research project with randomised controlled designs.