People who move into nursing homes count on the staff members to treat them with respect and provide them with help for their daily needs. This can include a variety of things, depending on the person’s level of care.
There may be times when a nursing home resident might be difficult to manage, but that must be handled in an appropriate manner. One thing that nursing home staff members shouldn’t automatically turn to is the use of chemical restraints.
What are chemical restraints?
Chemical restraints are medications that are used to control a resident’s mood, mental state or behavior, but not in a way that’s medically necessary. These often include anti-anxiety drugs, antipsychotics or sedatives. They’re typically used when a resident shows signs of restlessness, confusion or aggression.
The problem with chemical restraints is that they’re often used without the informed consent of the resident or their proxy. They can carry serious issues, particularly in the elderly population. Residents may fall, become confused or even die when chemical restraints are used.
The use of chemical restraints is regulated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services when the individual receiving them is in any long-term care facility. Federal laws forbid the use of restraints, including physical or chemical, as disciplinary measures or for the staff’s convenience.
The use of chemical restraints in nursing home residents is something that must be taken seriously. Residents of their loved ones should speak up when they find out that this has occurred. In some cases, it may be necessary to take legal action. Because these cases can be complex, it might be beneficial to work with someone who is familiar with laws governing care in long-term care facilities.