Definitions:
(1) Restraints refer to any method restricting a person's freedom of movement, physical activity and/or normal access to body.
(2) Seclusion is the involuntary confinement of a patient alone in a room and is physically prevented from leaving.
JCAHO Standards for the use of restraints and seclusion do not apply in the following circumstances:
(1) Restraint used in association with medical, dental, diagnostic or surgical procedures when this is part of the usual and customary requirement for treatment and based on standard practice.
(2) Restraint used to meet the assessed needs of patients who require adaptive support (orthopedic appliance, postural support device, etc.) or medical protective devices (helmet, bedrails, etc.). This requires periodic reassessment of the patient to ensure that the intervention continues to meet the needs of the patient.
(3) Therapeutic holding or comforting of children.
(4) Time-out, when a person is physically prevented from leaving a room for 15 minutes or less, provided it is used in a manner consistent with behavioral management standards.
(5) Forensic and correction restrictions used for security purposes.
In all other situations, the standards do apply. This includes the use of restraints or seclusion related to the clinical care of an individual under forensic or correction restriction.
