How often must a resident with a physical restraint be checked by a staff member?

The requirement for the frequency of checks on a resident with a physical restraint is established to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual. Checking a resident every hour is vital because it allows staff to quickly assess the resident’s comfort, safety, and overall condition. This frequent observation helps to prevent complications such as circulatory problems, skin breakdown, and emotional distress that might arise from prolonged restraint use.

It is also essential for staff to ensure that the restraint is still necessary and that the resident has not developed any adverse effects from its use. More frequent checks, such as every 30 minutes, might be excessive and could lead to unnecessary disruption for the resident. On the other hand, less frequent checks, like every 2 or 4 hours, may not provide adequate monitoring and could increase the risk of harm to the resident. Overall, an hour interval strikes the right balance for safety and comfort in a healthcare setting.