California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

True or False: Residents have the right to be free from restraints.

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on the diagnosis

4. Only if under certain conditions

The correct answer is: True

Residents indeed have the right to be free from restraints, which aligns with the principles of residents' rights and patient dignity in healthcare settings. The use of restraints can lead to physical and psychological harm, so it is critical to use them only when absolutely necessary, and even then, less restrictive alternatives should always be attempted first. Regulations such as those set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) emphasize that restraints should not be used for the convenience of staff or as a form of punishment. Instead, they should be considered only when a resident poses a significant risk to themselves or others, and there are no suitable alternatives available. Otherwise, residents should be allowed the freedom to move about as they wish. Thus, the affirmation of the right to be free from restraints supports both the ethical and legal frameworks guiding resident care. This commitment to autonomy and safety is foundational to promoting a respectful and therapeutic environment within healthcare facilities.