What should never be done regarding the positioning of a child during restraint?

• A. Position the child with their arms behind their back
• B. Allow the child to sleep on their side
• C. Use soft restraints
• D. Make sure the child's arms are outstretched

Answer: (A)

Positioning a child during restraint is a critical aspect of ensuring their safety and well-being. Ensuring that the child’s arms are not positioned behind their back is vital because this can restrict their mobility and may lead to physical distress or injury. Such positioning can also elevate the risk of respiratory difficulties, particularly if the child struggles against the restraint.

By allowing the child to have their arms out in a more neutral position or even on their side, the risk of injury is minimized, as their movement is less restricted. Soft restraints are typically designed to prevent harm while ensuring the child can still breathe comfortably. Therefore, positioning with arms behind the back does not align with best practices in therapeutic crisis intervention, which prioritize safety and dignity for the child.