What is the main purpose of restraints in a healthcare setting?

The main purpose of restraints in a healthcare setting is to limit or restrict movement. Restraints are typically used to ensure the safety of patients who may pose a risk to themselves or others due to their inability to control their movements or behavior. For example, patients who are disoriented or agitated may attempt to remove medical devices or may fall, leading to potential injuries. By utilizing restraints, healthcare providers aim to prevent harm and facilitate necessary medical interventions while still monitoring the patient's overall comfort and dignity.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the primary function of restraints. Controlling patient behavior can be a secondary outcome of using restraints, but it is not the primary intent. Providing comfort is generally not associated with restraints, as they can often lead to discomfort or distress for patients. Similarly, restraints do not assist with mobility; rather, they are designed to limit movement to protect the patient. Therefore, the correct understanding of the purpose of restraints aligns with the goal of limiting or restricting movement for safety reasons.