If a youth is restrained for more than 2 hours, who is responsible for evaluating them in person?

The correct answer, which involves both a qualified mental health professional and a licensed health care professional, highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in evaluating a youth who has been restrained for an extended period. Restraint can have significant psychological and physical implications for a young person, making it crucial that they are evaluated comprehensively.

Qualified mental health professionals bring a specialized understanding of the emotional and psychological needs of youth, particularly those who may be vulnerable or experiencing trauma. Their training equips them to assess the mental state of the youth, looking for signs of distress, anxiety, or other psychological effects resulting from the restraint.

Meanwhile, the involvement of a licensed health care professional ensures that any physical health concerns—such as injuries or medical conditions exacerbated by the restraint—are also evaluated. This dual oversight helps to ensure that the youth's safety is prioritized, addressing both mental and physical well-being.

The requirement for both professionals to conduct the evaluation ensures a thorough assessment and promotes the best possible outcomes for the youth’s health and safety. This is particularly critical in environments where restraints may be a part of behavior management, as it emphasizes accountability and proper care.

In contrast, options that suggest only a single type of professional or a less regulated position, such as a shift supervisor