Section 1130. Mechanical restraints

A. Written procedure shall govern the use of mechanical restraints. Such procedures shall be approved by the department and shall specify:

1. The conditions under which handcuffs, waist chains, leg irons, disposable plastic cuffs, leather restraints, and a mobile restraint chair may be used;

2. That the facility administrator or designee shall be notified immediately upon using restraints in an emergency situation;

3. That restraints shall never be applied as punishment or a sanction;

4. That residents shall not be restrained to a fixed object or restrained in an unnatural position;

5. That each use of mechanical restraints, except when used to transport a resident or during video court hearing proceedings, shall be recorded in the resident's case file or in a central log book; and

6. That a written record of routine and emergency distribution of restraint equipment be maintained.

B. Written procedure shall provide that (i) all staff who are authorized to use restraints shall receive training in such use, including how to check the resident's circulation and how to check for injuries and (ii) only trained staff shall use restraints.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 29, Issue 25, eff. January 1, 2014.

Statutory Authority

§§ 16.1-309.9, 16.1-322.7, and 66-10 of the Code of Virginia.