How to Apply Wrist Restraints

Nurses apply wrist restraints, under the order of a doctor, to protect a patient.

Patients in nursing homes and hospitals must sometimes be restrained to reduce the risk of falls or keep them from harming themselves or others. To do this, special wrist restraints are used that restrict the arm movement of the patient. Because this takes away a person's ability to move freely, wrist restraints are only used when absolutely necessary to protect the health of the patient or others around him. Wrist restraints are applied only when a doctor orders them.

Instructions

1. Obtain an order from a physician before applying wrist restraints.

2. Explain to the patient's family why the patient needs wrist restraints. Answer any questions or concerns that the family has. If the patient is coherent, explain to him what you'll be doing and why he needs wrist restraints.

3. Wash the patient's wrists and hands using mild soap and warm water. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before applying wrist restraints.

4. Wrap the padded portion of the wrist restraint around the wrist of the patient. Pass the strap through the slot at the other end of the restraint, and attach it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Verify that you can slip three fingers between the patient's wrist and the restraint to maintain adequate circulation. Repeat with the other wrist.

5. Tie each restraint to a portion of the bed that moves when the bed is adjusted up or down.

6. Record what time you applied the wrist restraints and why they were needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Assess a patient wearing wrist restraints at least every hour, or more often if ordered by the doctor. Check the circulation to the patient's hands, and evaluate her mental state. Document your findings in the patient's chart, and report any signs of discomfort to the doctor.

• Know how to remove wrist restraints quickly in the event of an emergency.

• Don't apply wrist restraints to an arm with an intravenous line or where the skin is not healthy.

References

• "Nursing"; Applying Wrist Restraints; Ediwnaa McConnell; January 1996.
• Nursing Assistant Education: Restraints and Restraint Use