Which policy governs the use of restraints in healthcare facilities?

• A. The least-restrictive policy, requiring physician order, reassessment, and continuous monitoring.
• B. Restraints may be used at staff discretion without monitoring.
• C. Restraints can be used without assessment in emergencies.
• D. Restraints must be replaced every hour regardless of patient condition.

Answer: (A)

Restraint use is governed by a least-restrictive, safety-first approach: it should only occur with a physician’s order, be subject to regular reassessment, and require continuous monitoring. This framework protects patient safety while prioritizing dignity and autonomy, ensuring restraints are truly used only as a last resort and that their ongoing necessity is evaluated frequently. Continuous monitoring helps catch complications early, such as changes in circulation, skin integrity, or comfort, and reassessment ensures the restraint is still needed.

Choices that suggest using restraints at staff discretion without monitoring, bypassing assessment even in emergencies, or replacing restraints on an hourly schedule regardless of patient condition do not meet safety, ethical, or legal standards. They fail to ensure patient rights are upheld and patient safety is actively managed.