How often should a patient be repositioned when in restraints?

Patients who are in restraints require frequent monitoring and repositioning to ensure their comfort and safety, as well as to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers, circulation issues, and decreased mobility. Repositioning every 2 hours is widely accepted as a best practice in most healthcare facilities for patients who are restrained.

This frequency allows caregivers to assess the patient's condition, provide necessary care, and reduce the risks associated with immobility. It is important to balance the need for safety with the need to maintain the patient's physical well-being. Regular repositioning helps to mitigate the stress that restraints can place on the body and aids in maintaining skin integrity.

In contrast, longer intervals such as every 4 hours or relying on repositioning "only when necessary" could compromise patient safety and lead to negative health outcomes. Repositioning every hour, while more frequent, may not always be practical in all settings for every patient, leading to the consensus that every 2 hours strikes a suitable balance between care and safety for those in restraints.