How wide should padded ankle and wrist restraints be when tied?

Padded ankle and wrist restraints should be 3 inches wide when tied to ensure both the safety and comfort of the patient. The width is designed to distribute pressure evenly across the skin and joints, reducing the risk of injury, nerve damage, or skin breakdown. A narrower width may not provide adequate support and can lead to discomfort or potential harm, while a wider restraint could restrict movement excessively and result in unnecessary stress or fear in the patient. Using 3-inch wide restraints strikes a balance between restraint effectiveness and patient care, making it the standard for proper application in situations requiring immobilization.