Which of the following is a requirement before applying restraints to a patient?

Having a signed order from a physician is crucial before applying restraints to a patient. This requirement is in place to ensure that restraints are used only when absolutely necessary, following a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition and the context in which restraints are deemed appropriate. A physician's order serves as a formal directive that reinforces the healthcare facility's protocols and the ethical principles governing patient care.

In practice, restraints can significantly affect a patient's well-being and autonomy; therefore, a healthcare provider must obtain a physician's order to ensure that the decision is justified medically. This requirement protects both the patient and the caregiver by ensuring that the use of restraints is thoroughly considered and evaluated, rather than being applied arbitrarily or without sufficient cause.

While notifying emergency contacts, obtaining consent from the patient, or merely documenting on the chart are all important aspects of patient care and legal standards, they do not have the same level of requirement as a physician’s order in the specific context of applying restraints.