Final answer:
The use of restraints in healthcare has shifted from being a preventative strategy for falls to being seen as potentially harmful.
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of restraints in healthcare has evolved over time. Originally, restraints were employed with the intention to prevent falls and protect patients from harm; however, current perspectives and studies suggest that they may not only be ineffective but can potentially contribute to further injuries and complications. It is important for healthcare providers to stay informed and adhere to modern healthcare guidelines, which often emphasize the use of alternative measures to avoid the use of restraints.
This careful consideration in patient care parallels the scrutiny in other health matters, such as the examination of claims regarding the effects of cigarette smoking. Just as the assertion that smoking causes certain illnesses requires valid experimental or clinical evidence, the application of restraints in a medical setting also necessitates evidence-based practices to ensure patient safety and well-being.