Editing Infection Control and Safety – LPN Practice Questions (section)

==Question 9==
A client with soft wrist restraints in place says, "My fingers feel numb and tingly." Which action should the nurse take '''first'''?
# Reassure the client that this is a normal sensation with restraints.
# Check circulation, sensation, and movement in both hands and loosen or remove the restraint as needed.
# Document the complaint and recheck in two hours.
# Notify the registered nurse and wait for direction before touching the restraint.

'''Answer:''' 2. Check circulation, sensation, and movement in both hands and loosen or remove the restraint as needed.

''Rationale:'' Numbness and tingling suggest impaired circulation or nerve compression and require immediate assessment and correction; a restraint should allow two fingers to slide underneath. The nurse acts to relieve the harm first and then notifies the registered nurse and documents. Numbness is never a normal expected finding, and waiting two hours risks permanent injury. A restraint may be discontinued at any time without a new order.