What is the primary purpose of clinical restraints?

The primary purpose of clinical restraints is to keep the inmate from injuring themselves. Clinical restraints are utilized in correctional facilities primarily to ensure the safety of the individual who may be a risk of self-harm due to mental health issues, substance withdrawal, or acute distress. The focus is on maintaining the well-being of the inmate, allowing for necessary care and management of their health without the risk of injury that can occur when they are in a agitated or unstable state.

While facilitating medical examinations can be a secondary effect of restraints, the main objective is to safeguard the inmate’s physical integrity. Moreover, punishing inmates or preventing escapes are not the goals of clinical restraints; such applications would violate ethical standards and proper protocol. The use of restraints demands careful consideration, training, and adherence to regulations to ensure their use is appropriate and aimed at care rather than control or punishment.