Restraints

Section 340 Section 340.1580  Restraints a)         The facility shall have written policies controlling the use of physical restraints, including but not limited to leg restraints, arm restraints, hand mitts, soft ties or vests, wheelchair safety bars and lap trays, and all facility practices that meet the definition of a restraint.  Such practices shall include, but not be limited to:  tucking in a sheet so tightly that a bed-bound resident cannot move; bed rails used to keep a resident from getting out of bed; chairs that prevent rising; or placing a resident who uses a wheelchair so close to a wall that the wall prevents the resident from rising. Adaptive equipment is not considered a restraint.  Wrist bands or devices on clothing that trigger electronic alarms to warn staff that a resident is leaving a room do not, in and of themselves, restrict freedom of movement and should not be considered as physical restraints.  The policies shall be followed in the operation of the facility and shall comply with the Act and this Part.  These policies shall be developed by the medical advisory committee or the advisory physician with participation by nursing and administrative personnel. b)         No restraints with locks shall be used. c)         Physical restraints shall not be used on a resident for the purposes of discipline or convenience. d)         The use of chemical restraints is prohibited.