(a)  Patients shall not be subject to mental and physical abuse, and shall be free from chemical and (except in emergencies) physical restraints except as authorized in writing by a physician for a specified and limited period of time for the protection of the patient.

lawyer at desk

Ask a business law question, get an answer ASAP!
Thousands of highly rated, verified business lawyers.
Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.

Terms Used In Rhode Island General Laws 23-17.5-9

  • Guardian: A person legally empowered and charged with the duty of taking care of and managing the property of another person who because of age, intellect, or health, is incapable of managing his (her) own affairs.
  • in writing: include printing, engraving, lithographing, and photo-lithographing, and all other representations of words in letters of the usual form. See Rhode Island General Laws 43-3-16

(b)  Restraining devices are generally prohibited. A controlling device to be used for the protection of the patient may be utilized only as prescribed in writing and signed by a physician. The length of time, the purpose, and the kind of restraint shall be specified in the physician’s order.

(c)  A training program in the use of restraints shall be required for all personnel providing direct patient care, and completion of the program shall be documented in the employee’s personnel record.

(d)  If physical restraining devices are authorized by a physician in accordance with subsection (b), the patient’s next of kin or legal guardian shall be informed in writing of the purpose and duration of restraint. A copy of the communication shall be retained in the medical record for one year.

History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 235, § 1.