Should Psychiatrists Assist in the Restraint of Children and Adolescents in Psychiatric Facilities?

Psychiatrists in psychiatric hospitals or residential facilities can find themselves involved in patient crises that precipitate a restraint or seclusion. The decision to become directly involved must be made quickly, with little time for administrative or legal consultation. The psychiatrist’s decision to participate in physically restraining or secluding a patient, particularly a child or adolescent, may have long-lasting consequences. This Open Forum is offered to promote a discussion on this topic.