If a patient continues to pull at their IV line, what is the most appropriate recommendation regarding restraints?

Using soft mitts as a recommendation for dealing with a patient who is pulling at their IV line is appropriate for several reasons. First, soft mitts can effectively limit the patient’s ability to grasp or manipulate the IV line while providing comfort and minimizing the risk of injury to the patient. Unlike leather restraints, which can be overly restrictive and uncomfortable, soft mitts offer a gentler approach to managing the situation.

Additionally, soft mitts still allow for some level of movement and do not completely immobilize the patient, which is important for their comfort and dignity. They serve as a compromise that balances the need to protect the IV line and the patient's safety.

In cases where a patient is at risk of disrupting their IV access, it is crucial to implement measures that are least restrictive while still ensuring patient safety. Thus, soft mitts are a suitable choice because they address the immediate concern of the IV line being pulled, while also respecting the patient's autonomy and comfort.

Other options such as increasing verbal reminders or skipping restraints altogether may not adequately address the immediate risk posed by the patient pulling at the IV line, leading to potential complications such as dislodgement or infection.