After a physical restraint, which of the following should be documented?

• A. Feelings of the staff involved
• B. Witness statements
• C. What the weather was like
• D. The child’s previous behavioral history

Answer: (B)

Documenting witness statements after a physical restraint is crucial because it provides an objective account of the incident that can be referenced later. This documentation can serve as an important part of the incident report and ensures that there is a comprehensive record of what transpired from multiple perspectives. Witness statements can help clarify the context and the actions taken during the restraint, which is essential for understanding the dynamics of the situation as well as for accountability and future training purposes.

In contrast, while documenting feelings of the staff involved might provide insight into emotional reactions, it does not contribute as directly to the factual record needed for reviewing the incident. The weather is generally irrelevant to the incident itself, and although a child's previous behavioral history can be valuable for understanding triggers and planning future interventions, it does not pertain to the specific event of the restraint itself. Hence, witness statements stand out as the most critical documentation following a physical restraint.