Date of Conferral

9-4-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Barbara Niedz

Abstract

Summary This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) staff education project aimed to reduce the use of physical restraints in hospitalized psychiatric patients by training clinical staff in nonpharmacological strategies, specifically active listening and handholding. Despite regulatory guidelines and ethical concerns, physical restraint remains a common practice in acute care settings, often resulting in physical harm, psychological trauma, and a breakdown in the therapeutic relationship. The practice-focused question guiding the project was: How does education on nonpharmacological strategies impact a change in knowledge and attitudes to promote the reduction of restraint use among hospitalized patients exhibiting psychiatric symptoms? Thirty-one staff members participated in an in-person session. Analytical strategies included pre- and post-tests with 10 questions. Results showed significant improvements in knowledge (M = 4.55 to 4.97, p = .005) and attitudes (M =19.38 to 20.44, p = .006), supporting the effectiveness of the intervention. Education on nonpharmacological strategies improves staff readiness to manage psychiatric behaviors without restraints. Integrating the training into orientation, providing refreshers, using simulations, and fostering peer support can strengthen staff attitudes toward nonpharmacological strategies. This approach can reduce restraint-related harm, enhance regulatory compliance, and improve patient outcomes. Expanding the program to other units and facilities may further institutionalize trauma-informed care. The project promotes dignity, equity, and ethical care by reducing reliance on coercive measures and fostering therapeutic nurse-patient relationships.

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