When caring for a client with soft-limb wrist restraints applied, what is the highest priority for the LPN/VN?

In a scenario involving a client with soft-limb wrist restraints, the highest priority is to ensure the client’s basic needs are met, which includes providing nutrition and hydration. While restraints may be necessary for safety, they can also pose risks such as reduced mobility and potential neglect of essential needs. Hunger and dehydration can significantly impact a person’s physical and psychological well-being, particularly if they are restrained for an extended period.

Meeting the client’s nutritional and hydration needs helps maintain their health and prevents complications, making it a crucial aspect of care. Additionally, ensuring that the client is fed and hydrated also addresses their dignity and comfort, which is especially important in situations where a client may feel vulnerable due to physical restraints.

Other options, while valuable, come after ensuring the client’s immediate physical needs are addressed. For example, documenting neurovascular assessments is indeed important for monitoring the effect of restraints, but it is secondary to addressing the client’s survival needs within the context of the restraint application.