55 Pa. Code § 13.2 – Definition of restraints.

(a) Restraints include devices and techniques designed and used to control acute or episodic aggressive behavior or involuntary movement of patients/residents. Restraints do not include general protective security measures adopted in various institutions, including locked wards; special security measures adopted in Youth Development Centers and Youth Forestry Camps, maximum security State hospital or forensic units in State mental hospitals; or specific security measures ordered by a court. Restraints can be classified according to the method used to control behavior as:
1. (1) Mechanical restraints.
2. (2) Chemical restraints.
3. (3) Seclusion.
4. (4) Exclusion.
5. (5) Psychological restraints.
(b) Restraints may also be classified based on whether they are designed to control one of the following:
1. (1) Involuntary movement or lack of muscular control due to organic causes or conditions.
2. (2) Acute or episodic aggressive behavior.
(c) The intent with which restraints are used distinguishes the categories in subsection (b)(1) and (2). Procedures for employing restraints, as defined in § § 13.4 and 13.5 (relating to use of restraints to control involuntary movement due to organic causes or conditions and use of restraints to control acute or episodic aggressive behavior) depend upon whether acute or episodic aggressive behavior or involuntary action is controlled.