What is the correct practice when restraints are used on both limbs?

• A. Release one at a time
• B. Release both at once
• C. Remove after 2 hours
• D. Never release until physician orders

Answer: (A)

When both arms are restrained, the safest and most effective practice is to release one restraint at a time. This lets you keep the other limb secured for safety while you perform important checks on the freed limb. You can assess circulation and neurovascular status—color, warmth, capillary refill, sensation, and movement—and look for any signs of pressure or skin breakdown. Releasing one side also gives you a chance to adjust padding, check the restraint fit, and provide range-of-motion or repositioning as needed. After assessing and addressing any issues on the first limb, you re-secure it and monitor, then plan to release the other limb at the scheduled interval. Releasing both at once can remove essential safety control and may allow abrupt movement, increasing risk to the patient and staff. Waiting for physician orders to release isn't appropriate for ongoing safety and comfort, since nurses are responsible for regular assessment and timely release per protocol.