Descriptive analysis of physical restraint (protective holding) among community living adults with intellectual disability.

We analyzed incidence and implementation patterns of physical restraint (PR) among 448 adults with intellectual disability within community-based day habilitation programs and group homes. PR was implemented exclusively as a consequence for self-harming, aggressive, and environmentally disruptive behaviors. Less than 10% of adults received PR and more than 90% of documented restraints occurred as a planned intervention procedure. Several adults accounted for the majority of PR. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.