Under federal regulations, physical restraints in a nursing facility may be used only when:
Explanation
42 CFR §483.10(e) and §483.12(a)(2) prohibit physical or chemical restraints imposed for discipline or staff convenience. Restraints are permitted only to treat a documented medical symptom, with a physician's written order specifying type, location, and duration, after less restrictive interventions have failed, and with informed consent. Staff convenience combined with wandering frequency (b), family preference (c), and a staff member's own judgment that the behavior is disruptive (d) are not legal justifications. Unauthorized restraint is false imprisonment and abuse, reportable to CDPH and law enforcement, and can result in license revocation.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.10(e); 42 CFR §483.12(a)(2)This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
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