Abstract: A patient restraining device having an adjustable length bar configured to attach to the side rails of a bed and be located beneath the bed. Pivoted levers attached to the bar are connectable to straps passing around each side of the bed and connected to a restraining vest worn by the patient. The pivotable levers are in turn connected to a switch box attached to the bar so that tension in either one or both of the restraining straps causes the switch mechanism of the switch box to be activated, which in turn activates an internal or external alarm. The pivotable levers are arranged with compressible bushings so that tension in the straps must exceed a predetermined level for the levers to pivot far enough to activate the alarm.

Abstract: Disclosed is an open-back restraining vest having posterior wings which overlap in back to close the vest. Attached to the end of each posterior wing is a tie-strap, one of which is disposed through a loop on the exterior of the other posterior wing, the other tie-strap being disposed through a slot in the first posterior wing, whereby the application of tension to the tie-straps serves to draw the vest closed. The tie-straps are anchored to the rails of a bed, the amount of slack determining the limits of the patient's range of movement. Additional monitor straps attached to the vest may be connected to an alarm to indicate when the patient is approaching the limit of his permissible range of movement.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus which includes a moveable, switch-actuating member secured to the strap or belt of a conventional harness restraining a bed patient. The apparatus accommodates the conventional nurse-call push-button switch and the switch is actuated by the moveable member whenever patient movement of abnormal amplitude exerts a sufficient tensional force on the harness. A compression spring is adjustable to determine the force necessary to actuate the switch.