Final answer:
In positioning restraints, it's important to balance security and patient comfort. Older guidelines recommended 5 fingers side-to-side and 7-8 deep, but newer guidelines suggest 8 side-to-side and 15 deep. Regular monitoring and adjustments are crucial for patient safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
When positioning restraints on a patient, it's crucial to ensure a proper balance between securing the patient and maintaining their comfort and circulation. The space between restraints and skin should allow for some movement without causing friction or pressure, which might lead to injury or impaired circulation.
The older rule of thumb for spacing restraints recommended leaving enough space to fit 5 fingers side-to-side (horizontal direction) and 7 to 8 fingers deep (vertical direction down the arm or leg). However, more recent guidelines suggest that optimal spacing could be as much as 8 finger widths side-to-side and 15 finger widths deep. This increased space aims to further reduce the risk of complications such as restricted blood flow, nerve damage, and skin breakdown.
It's important to regularly monitor the patient for any signs of discomfort, skin irritation, or loss of circulation and to adjust the restraints accordingly. Safety and patient well-being should be paramount when using restraints in any healthcare setting.