Tess is a 5-year-old client who must receive an IV infusion of antibiotics. She is anxious, resistant, and wiggly. To keep her safe during the time the IV is in place, the nurse would choose which method to restrain her?

Choice A reason: Caregiver holding may comfort but is unreliable for keeping a wiggly 5-year-old still, risking IV dislodgement. A clove-hitch restraint ensures arm stability while allowing some movement, making this less safe and incorrect for maintaining IV security during antibiotic infusion in a resistant child. Choice B reason: Mummy restraints are excessive for an IV, restricting the whole body and potentially distressing a 5-year-old. A clove-hitch restraint targets the arm, balancing safety and comfort, making this overly restrictive and incorrect for the specific need to secure the IV site in this scenario. Choice C reason: A clove-hitch restraint secures the arm, preventing IV dislodgement in a resistant 5-year-old while allowing some movement. Loosening every 2 hours ensures circulation, aligning with pediatric nursing safety standards for IV therapy, making it the correct method for ensuring safety during infusion. Choice D reason: A papoose board is used for short procedures, not prolonged IV infusions, and releasing immediately negates its purpose. A clove-hitch restraint maintains IV security over time, making this impractical and incorrect for ensuring safety during the antibiotic infusion period for the child.