Historical information

A Posey vest is a type of medical restraint used to restrain a patient to a bed or chair. Its name comes from the J.T. Posey Company, its inventor, though the term "Posey" is used generically to describe all such devices. The vest is placed on the patient, and meshy straps extending from each corner are tied either individually to each side of the bed or together to the back of a chair. Poseys are most often used to prevent patients from injuring themselves by falling or climbing out of the bed or chair. They allow patients the freedom to move around their arms and legs if no limb restraints have been applied.

Significance

This item was used as a physical restraint to keep restless patients safe, prevent falls from bed or chair if the patient was restless or unstable. Nurses used this for patient safety - a controversial issue with advances in care.

Physical description

off white mesh synthetic fabric for main vest body, green biased binding trim, machine stitched to edge with zig zag stitch. strapping sewed across the back chest of vest with adjustable buckles for tightening of harness. strapping threaded through base of vest to allow tightening

Inscriptions & markings

marked with black ink on strapping 176-87, see photograph of label for details