Respiratory assessment in child and adolescent residential treatment settings: reducing restraint-associated risks.

TOPIC Crisis situations of youth in treatment settings may require restraints. Restraints should only be used in situations where there is imminent danger to the child and when there is no alternative. They are meant to maintain the child's safety, but there is risk for respiratory compromise. PURPOSE Nursing care of children in restraints must include respiratory assessment and, when indicated, immediate intervention to prevent disastrous outcomes. SOURCES Review using PubMed and established texts confirms that clinical skills and knowledge is essential to child and adolescent psychiatric nursing. CONCLUSIONS Clinical assessment and awareness of risks in physical restraints is essential for the safety and well-being of the child.