Which of the following best describes a limited search for safety during an arrest?

A limited search for safety during an arrest is best described as a protective sweep. This type of search is specifically conducted to ensure the safety of law enforcement officers and others in the vicinity during or immediately following an arrest. It allows officers to check for the presence of individuals who might pose a threat, particularly in areas that are within the immediate control of the arrested individual, such as rooms or spaces where someone could hide.

The protective sweep is justified by the need to maintain officer safety and is typically limited in scope to areas that could realistically harbor threats. It does not require a warrant or probable cause, but must be based on reasonable suspicion of danger.

Other options represent different concepts. An administrative search generally refers to inspections conducted for regulatory purposes rather than for law enforcement, a plain view search involves seizing evidence that is clearly visible without conducting any search, and a consent search occurs when an individual voluntarily agrees to allow a search of their person or property. These concepts do not align with the intent and scope of a protective sweep aimed at ensuring safety during an arrest.