Untying the elderly. 1989 to 1993 update.

Research and public policy pertaining to the use of physical restraints has advanced since Evans' and Strumpfs' 1989 review. Research better delineates the harms caused by restraints, although not finding benefits. Federal law sharply restricts the use of restraints. Legal liability weighs against the use of restraints in most instances. Nursing homes have published substantial experience with programs to reduce and eliminate the use of physical restraints.