Restraining hospitalized children for procedures: practices of nursing professionals in Brazil

Abstract

Objective: To describe the restraint practices used by Brazilian nursing professionals when performing healthcare procedures on hospitalized children. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 897 professionals working in the care of hospitalized children in the country. Data were collected between May 2024 and January 2025, using a questionnaire with sociodemographic information and another about restraint practices, which underwent content validation and pre-testing. The bank was analyzed in software R. Results: Restraint was characterized as a common method; however, professionals reported that they did not receive training during their education and/or professional practice to perform it. The most commonly used techniques were physical, with support, and psychological, in procedures such as venipuncture, medication administration, and catheterization. The decision to use it was related to the child’s behavior, ensuring their safety, and their refusal to cooperate. Conclusion: The restraint practices used by Brazilian nursing staff for pediatric care were described based on techniques, reasons, consent, family participation, control of potential harm, and documentation in medical records.