Physical Intervention Training

Physical intervention procedures are for use in conditions in which the safety of the acting-out individual or others is in imminent danger. Physical intervention training should stress positive de-escalation skills and strategies as the most important methods of intervention, with physical intervention used only as a last resort.

Physical interventions should not be used to compel compliance, to punish, or as the most convenient method for staff. In a circumstance in which a physical intervention is used, it should be discontinued once the acting-out person has regained control.

Only personnel properly trained in prevention strategies and safe responses should be managing disruptive, anxious, or violent behavior.

Clear policies and effective, ongoing training go a long way in helping avoid violent incidents and escalating crises.

Staff must be aware that serious physical and psychological risks are inherent in any physical intervention, and indeed the only truly safe physical restraint is the one that never occurs. To help explain these risks, CPI has published Risks of Restraints, and included this information in its training materials.