What are mechanical restraints primarily used for?

Mechanical restraints are primarily used to restrict movement for safety or control purposes. This practice is often implemented in situations where individuals may pose a risk to themselves or others, such as in healthcare settings, mental health facilities, or during law enforcement interventions. The goal of employing mechanical restraints is to prevent harm while ensuring that the individual can be safely managed until they can regain control or are in a safer environment.

Understanding that the primary function of these devices is to provide a means of safety or control highlights their purpose in emergency or crisis situations. Other options such as enhancing mobility, promoting physical exercise, or facilitating transportation do not align with the fundamental intent of mechanical restraints, as those objectives would typically contradict the necessity of restricting movement for safety reasons.