What are the laws regarding the use of restraints in mental health facilities?

In Virginia, the law regarding the use of restraints in mental health facilities is very specific. According to Virginia Law Code, Section 37.2-808, any use of physical or chemical restraints must be done in accordance with an authorized physician’s order, mental health treatment plan, and legal and administrative requirements. The use of physical or chemical restraints must be in the least restrictive manner possible and used only when necessary to protect the patient and others from physical harm. In addition, the use of restraints must not interfere with the patient’s access to necessary food, water, and medical attention. Under Virginia law, the facility must inform the patient, the patient’s family, the patient’s guardian or another relevant person of the use of restraints and the reason for them. The patient must also be monitored regularly while the restraints are in place. The patient must also be released from the restraints as soon as it is safe to do so. Additionally, the facility must have written policies outlining the types of restraints that may be used and the staff training regarding their use. It also must have policies detailing the requirements for the documentation and reporting of the use of restraints. In cases where a patient is involuntarily committed to a mental health facility, the facility must make all reasonable efforts to limit the use of restraints. In addition, the facility must notify the court at least seven days in advance if it plans to use chemical or physical restraints on a patient that has been committed involuntarily. In summary, Virginia has very specific laws regarding the use of restraints in mental health facilities. These laws are in place to ensure that restraints are used only when necessary and that the patient’s rights are respected and protected.

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What are the laws regarding the use of restraints in mental health facilities?

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