What is required to use physical restraints on adult patients?

• A. A verbal order
• B. A written consent
• C. A physician's order
• D. A nurse's assignment

Answer: (C)

Using physical restraints on adult patients necessitates a physician's order to ensure that the use of restraints is appropriate, justified, and complies with hospital policies and legal regulations. A physician's order helps to assess the patient's condition and determine the need for restraints based on clinical judgment. This order also establishes accountability, as it involves a licensed medical professional evaluating the patient's symptoms or behaviors that warranted restraint.

In addition to the physician's order, other considerations for using restraints include monitoring the patient’s physical and emotional well-being, ensuring that the least restrictive means are used first, and having protocols in place to regularly review the necessity of the restraints. This helps ensure patient safety, dignity, and adherence to ethical standards in patient care.