Key Points When Restraining Patients

3.           Discontinuing Restraint Prior to Expiration of the Order:

a.           Restraints may be discontinued as soon as the patient meets the criteria for discontinuation, or a less restrictive measure may be effective, or the patient is no longer at risk of injuring himself.

b.           The RN will assess and document the continued need of restraint. The discontinuation of restraints may be based on:

c.            Improved mental status

d.           Patient's agreement and compliance with instructions for safety

e.           Improved ability to transfer or ambulate without risk or injury

f.                Alternative/ least restrictive measures are effective

g.           Patient's lines are discontinued or no longer required for medical treatment

h.            The RN must notate on current order the time of discontinuation of restraint

4.           If the restraint is discontinued prior to the expiration of the order, and the patient's actions again require restraints, a new order must be obtained.