Should individuals in wheelchairs always use
seat belts?
The need for restraints is guided by a treatment plan
created by the health care team which has been
discussed with the client or the client's substitute
decision maker. Baycrest's physical restraint policy,
guided by provincial legislation, is
a least restraint
approach
which includes restraint alternatives.
A seat belt is considered a restraint if a person is unable
to undo it by himself/herself. The use of restraints can
contribute to a range of serious consequences, even
death. Informed consent must be obtained from the
person (if capable of providing consent) prior to the use
of any type of restraint except in emergency situations.
A substitute decision maker may not insist on restraint
use. This must be a conversation with the health care
team, the substitute decision maker and the client,
where possible.
Safe Movement
