LAUSR

PURPOSE This study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practice of psychiatric nurses towards the use of physical restraint in Saudi Arabia. DESIGN AND METHODS Descriptive explanatory cross-sectional design, 101 participants were invited to complete a set of questionnaires to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice towards the use of physical restraint. FINDINGS Participants had a moderate knowledge and attitude as well as practice in using physical restraint. Less than half reported that they recognized alternative approaches to physical restraint and most of them did not understand the reasons for the restraint. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS This study highlights some important misunderstandings of nurses about using physical restraint. The findings serve as a supporting reason for recognizing the importance of educating nurses about its use.