This letter outlines the regulations and guidelines for the use of chemical restraints in nursing homes and other healthcare facilities. It emphasizes that chemical restraints should not be used for discipline or convenience, and should only be used to treat medical symptoms. It also defines chemical restraints, convenience, discipline, and medical symptom, and provides guidance on how to determine whether a medication is being used to treat a medical symptom. In addition, it outlines the risks and psychosocial impacts of using chemical restraints, such as loss of autonomy, confusion, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of falls. Nursing homes and other healthcare facilities must ensure that any medication used is for a valid medical indication, is used at the correct dose and duration, and is monitored for effectiveness and adverse consequences. They must also consider non-pharmacological approaches to address behavior, and must discontinue the use of PRN medications when the resident no longer needs them for medical treatment.

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