In what circumstance should handcuffs or wrist restraints not be used on a pregnant arrestee?

• A. While she is in custody but not in labor.
• B. When she is in labor.
• C. If she requests them.
• D. During transport only.

Answer: (B)

During labor, restraints should not be used because childbirth requires freedom of movement and immediate access for medical staff. Handcuffs or wrist restraints can hinder monitoring of both mother and baby, complicate emergency responses, and increase the risk of injury to the mother or fetus during contractions. The safety and well‑being of both during delivery take priority, and policies typically require removing restraints in labor and delivery unless there is a clear and overriding safety threat. In other circumstances—that she is in custody but not in labor, if she requests them, or only during transport—restraining may be appropriate depending on safety considerations and departmental policy, but those conditions do not describe the situation where restraints should be avoided.