At what interval must the interdisciplinary team review the use of restraints after the first month?

The interdisciplinary team is required to review the use of restraints on a quarterly basis after the initial month of use. This continuous oversight is critical to ensure that restraints are being applied appropriately, to assess the necessity and effectiveness of their use, and to consider alternatives where possible. Regular evaluations help safeguard the rights and well-being of individuals subject to restraints by ensuring that they are not used longer than necessary, thus promoting both safety and dignity.

Intervals shorter than quarterly may not allow for adequate assessment of the situations in which restraints are used, while longer intervals such as biannually or every two years may risk overlooking immediate concerns regarding the patient’s ongoing need for restraint. Therefore, quarterly reviews strike a balance between diligent monitoring and operational efficiency.