Which conditions justify using a prone or supine personal restraint?

• A. It is used as a transitional hold lasting no longer than one minute
• B. It is used only as a last resort when less restrictive options failed
• C. It requires an observer who is trained to identify risks of restraint asphyxia and identify risks of prone/supine holds
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Using a prone or supine restraint is guided by safety-focused conditions that limit harm while the situation is managed. The idea is to keep the restraint as brief as possible and to use it only when less restrictive options have been tried and failed, so it serves as a last resort rather than a first response. It also requires an observer who is trained to identify risks of restraint asphyxia and to monitor for signs of distress, ensuring quick response if the person’s safety is in jeopardy. When all of these elements are in place—the restraint is a short, transitional hold, it’s used only after other options have failed, and there is a trained observer watching for risk—the practice aligns with safety expectations and provides the necessary safeguards. That combination of criteria is why selecting the option that includes all of the above is the best choice.