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Use of Restraints — NCLEX Cheat Sheet

Last resort, MD order needed

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👤 By the CinnaRN Clinical Content Team 🕐 Updated 2026-07-11 🏷️ Safety & Infection Control 🔖 Free to read, print, and share

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Use this quick-reference guide to spot, treat, and prevent Use of Restraints on the NCLEX. Keep it handy during review and on exam day!

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Rules

Key facts

Least restrictive, try alternatives first
MD order required, time-limited
No PRN restraint orders

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Do

Nursing actions

Quick-release knot to frame
Tie to bed frame, NOT rail
2 fingers fit under restraint

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Assess

What to look for

Check circ/skin q15–30 min
Release q2h: ROM, toilet, food

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Report

Notify / act now

Renew order per policy

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Quick Tip

Restraints require a time-limited provider order specifying type, reason, and duration; behavioral/violent restraint orders are limited and require frequent renewal.

📖 Related Topics

Group B Streptococcus Lead Poisoning Child Abuse Recognition Car Seat Safety

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