37.106.2144    OBSERVATION AND SECLUSION ROOMS

(1) A client may be placed in a an observation and seclusion room from which egress is prevented only as allowed in 53-20-146 , MCA and only if the following conditions are met:

(a) The placement is required because of an emergency situation requiring immediate action or for other therapeutic purposes.

(b) The client is under the direct constant visual supervision of designated staff.

(c) The door to the room may be locked. The lock must comply with the standards for locks in ARM 37.106.2163(9) .

(d) A licensed professional shall examine the client and provide written approval within the first three hours of placement unless the client has a long history of episodic violence. In these cases the examination and approval shall be obtained within the first 12 hours of placement.

(2) Placement of a client in an observation and seclusion room must be reassessed and documented in writing every hour. A client cannot be placed in an observation and seclusion room for more than 24 continuous hours.

(3) A client placed in an observation and seclusion room must be protected from hazardous conditions including, but not limited to, presence of sharp corners and objects, uncovered light fixtures, unprotected electrical outlets.

(4) A record of observation and seclusion activities must be kept.

(5) An intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled shall:

(a) designate specific rooms designed for observation/ seclusion purposes; and

(b) develop policies and procedures for the use and maintenance of the observation/seclusion rooms.

History: Sec. 50-5-103 and 50-5-238, MCA; IMP, Sec. 53-5-103, 50-5-201 and 50-5-238, MCA; NEW, 2003 MAR p. 1322, Eff. 7/1/03.