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The Ethical Tightrope of Physical and Environmental Restraint in ICU: A Balancing Act

delete2026-05-14
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PRE
AI
L
Leona Bannon *
M
Meehan, Aisling
M
McEvoy, Natalie
DOI:10.1111/nicc.70519delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Physical and environmental restraints are synonymous with intensive care unit (ICU) practices in many countries around the world. The ICU environment is highly complex, and it is essential to maintain patient safety, but this can often be to the detriment of patients' autonomy. This article examines the ethical challenges that arise from the use of physical and environmental restraints in the intensive care unit (ICU). The article provides insights from both the patient and clinician perspectives using a real-life-informed fictional case and aims to shed light on the intricate ethical landscape surrounding these practices. It highlights the need to carefully balance patient autonomy, safety and clinical priorities when navigating these complex ethical dilemmas.
Keywords:
INTENSIVE-CARE UNITS
ADULT PATIENTS
SURVIVORS
ILLNESS

Journal

N
Nursing in Critical Care
IF:
2.6
Papers:
389
Citations:
0

Organization

R
royal college of surgeons in ireland - rcsi
Scholars:
803
Papers: 299
Citations: 0
D
Dublin City University
Scholars:
5.5K
Papers: 4.9K
Citations: 5.2K
U
university college dublin
Scholars:
2.5W
Papers: 2.2W
Citations: 22
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