A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about the use of physical restraints. Which of the following directions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A reason: While a provider must renew restraint orders, the timeframe is shorter than 24 hours for adults. Typically, restraint orders must be rewritten every 4 hours for adults, every 2 hours for children ages 9–17, and every hour for children under 9. Therefore, stating 24 hours is inaccurate and does not reflect proper standards of care. Choice B reason: Restraints cannot be prescribed or applied on a PRN basis. Their use must be justified by immediate risk of harm to self or others, and they require strict documentation and monitoring. PRN orders violate client rights and regulatory standards. Choice C reason: Restraints should only be used after less restrictive interventions have failed. This reflects ethical and legal standards in psychiatric care. Alternatives such as verbal de-escalation, environmental modifications, or one-on-one observation must be attempted first. Restraints are considered a last resort due to their potential physical and psychological harm. This makes this option the correct teaching point. Choice D reason: A nurse cannot apply restraints simply because a client refuses medication. Refusal of treatment is a client’s right, and restraints are not justified unless the client poses an imminent risk of harm. Applying restraints without proper indication and prescription would violate ethical and legal standards