DQA Publication P-01760
Security Issues in Psychiatric Treatment Facilities (Hospitals)
DQA Publication P-01760 reminds hospitals of their responsibilities to provide sufficient staffing levels and adequate staff training in psychiatric treatment areas to respond safely and effectively to disruptive and aggressive patient behavior.
All patients have the right to be free from physical or mental abuse, and corporal punishment, and also free from restraint or seclusion, of any form, imposed as a means of coercion, discipline, convenience, or retaliation by staff. Restraint or seclusion may only be imposed to ensure the immediate physical safety of the patient, a staff member, or others and must be discontinued at the earliest possible time. The use of weapons in the application of restraint is not a safe and appropriate health care intervention.
All hospitals must have adequate policies and procedures to meet applicable state and federal regulations to ensure a safe environment for the specialized needs of patients, as well as, staff. A cooperative working relationship with local law enforcement is one of the many tasks hospitals must undertake to assure the welfare and safety of patients being treated for mental illness or substance abuse.
Questions about this information may be directed to the Division of Quality Assurance, Bureau of Health Services, Acute Care Compliance Section (ACCS) at 414-227-4976 or 608-266-0269.
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