Nurses’ Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Patient Restraint in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Bharatpur, Chitwan, Nepal

Abstract

Background
Patient restraint is a critical nursing practice in tertiary care settings, requiring adequate knowledge and appropriate attitudes to ensure patient safety and ethical care. This study assessed nurses’ knowledge and attitudes regarding patient restraint in a tertiary care hospital in Bharatpur, Chitwan, Nepal.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 239 nurses selected from various clinical departments. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Chi-square test to determine associations. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
Among 239 nurses, 64.4% were aged 20-25 years and 89.5% had PCL qualification. More than one-third (34.3%) worked in the ICU, and 77.0% had no training on patient restraint. Good knowledge was found in 46.0% (95% CI: 39.7%-52.3%), while 54.0% (95% CI: 47.7%-60.3%) had poor knowledge. Positive attitude was observed in 64.9% (95% CI: 58.9%-70.9%), whereas 35.1% (95% CI: 29.1%-41.1%) had negative attitude. Knowledge was significantly associated with age, working area, and training status. Attitude was significantly associated with age, working area, training, protocol availability, and work experience. Knowledge was also significantly associated with attitude (χ² = 7.89, p = 0.005).
Conclusions
Although most nurses demonstrated a positive attitude, a considerable proportion had inadequate knowledge regarding patient restraint. Knowledge and attitude were significantly influenced by age, working area, and training. Strengthening training programs and ensuring implementation of clinical protocols may improve nurses’ competency in patient restraint practices.