What must be included in the MD order for restraint use?

The requirement that must be included in the medical doctor's (MD) order for restraint use is the behavior that justifies the restraint. This is crucial because restraints are utilized as a last resort to manage a patient's behavior when they pose a risk of harm to themselves or others. Documenting this behavior ensures that the decision to use restraint is based on a clear and specific rationale, rather than arbitrary reasons. It also helps to maintain the ethical and legal standards of patient care, as restraints should only be imposed when necessary to protect a patient or others from harm.

Including the behavior that justifies the restraint in the MD order provides transparency and accountability in clinical decision-making and aligns with the principles of patient safety and care quality outlined by the Joint Commission. Such documentation can also facilitate reviews of the restraint's use in order to evaluate its appropriateness and effectiveness.

As for the other aspects, while they are important considerations in the overall process of using restraints, they are not mandated inclusions in the MD order itself. For instance, while it may be beneficial to specify the name of the restraint or the expected duration, these details are often secondary to establishing the clinical justification for the action. Likewise, obtaining patient consent can be ethical and preferable, but it is not a strict