Data on Quality Indicators (QIs) for the March 2023 quarter reveals that 19.5% of aged care residents experienced physical restraint during the period.
This sounds like a large number but it is worthwhile checking the definitions:
Physical restraint includes any act that restricts the rights or freedom of movement of a resident, including the use of a secure area and if the resident or their representative has given consent for the restraint.
And while one in five might seem like a high figure, it actually represents a decline on previous quarters.
The picture for antipsychotic drugs as a restraint is also declining – slowly. It is still an arguably high figure, around 18.5% of residents across 2,498 aged care homes.
The QI program measures aspects of residential aged care that contribute to quality of care. Since 1 July 2021, the QI program has tracked:
- Pressure injuries,
- Use of physical restraint,
- Unplanned weight loss,
- Falls and major injury, and
- Medication management.
As part of the expanded Quality Indicator program, from 1 April 2023 residential aged care providers have also had to submit data on:
- Activities of daily living,
- Continence care,
- Hospitalisations,
- Workforce,
- Consumer experience, and
- Quality of life.
QI data is collated on the GEN website.
The SOURCE: The Royal Commission recommended there should be no physical or drug-based restraints, but nearly three years on the numbers are still significant. COVID-19 is still prevalent placing pressure on isolation of residents and staffing levels are inadequate. It is also important to remember that drugs are prescribed by the attending GP. Understandable but not acceptable.