Straitjacket

A straitjacket is a restrictive garment, typically made of canvas or a similar material, designed to restrain a person's arms and prevent them from moving freely. It's primarily used to control individuals who may be a danger to themselves or others, often in psychiatric or medical settings. The device confines the arms to the body, either across the chest or behind the back, limiting mobility. The purpose is to prevent self-harm, prevent attacks, or prevent the removal of medical devices. Its use is often associated with institutionalization, and a lack of autonomy. Historically, straitjackets were seen as a standard form of restraint, however their use has decreased due to more humane approaches to patient care. Their connotations are complex due to associations with negative stereotypes surrounding mental illness.

Straitjacket meaning with examples

• The agitated patient was becoming increasingly violent, so the nurses carefully applied a straitjacket to ensure their safety and prevent harm to the medical staff. They followed the hospital's strict protocol for applying the garment and monitored the patient continuously. The doctor explained the necessity of the restraint to the patient, reassuring them of their safety and comfort.
• During the filming of the asylum scenes, the actor portraying the disturbed patient struggled against the confines of the straitjacket, which was crafted authentically to convey the claustrophobia and desperation associated with the condition. The director wanted to evoke the intense and harrowing experiences of those confined to the asylum to show the true reality.
• The historical document revealed that the insane asylum routinely employed straitjackets on patients who exhibited disruptive behaviors. This included using them to maintain order, prevent escape, and control any unpredictable outbursts. The document details the specific conditions under which the use of restraints were authorized, illustrating the ethical concerns of the time.
• After the patient threatened self-harm, the medical staff decided to place the patient in a straitjacket. The staff was concerned about the person's immediate safety. The staff will monitor the patient, and then the patient was given medication to help calm them down and regain their senses.