Restraint Policy and Procedures in Aged Care
One of the things we get asked about when assisting Families to work out the right Aged Care solutions(s) for them, is the use of restraints in Aged Care Homes.
After the Royal Commission into Aged Care these restraint policies and procedures really need to be examined and discussed, so you are aware of what is ‘acceptable practice’ before you choose a home or in an home service.
There are new rules coming into force from the Government
Strengthened regulations regarding restrictive practices
Restrictive practices must only be used as a last resort and in the least restrictive form.
On 1 March 2021, the Australian Government announced $7.3 million to change the culture around the use of physical and chemical restraint.
From 1 July 2021, approved providers have updated and specific responsibilities under the Aged Care Act 1997 and the Quality of Care Principles 2014 relating to the use of any restrictive practice in residential aged care and short-term restorative care in a residential care setting. Under the amended legislation:
The Department of Health states:
“A restrictive practice is any action that restricts the rights or freedom of movement of a care recipient. Legislation changes effective 1 July 2021 strengthen arrangements, using the term ‘restrictive practice’ instead of ‘restraint’.
There are 5 types of restrictive practices:
- chemical restraint
- environmental restraint
- mechanical restraint
- physical restraint
- seclusion.
For residential aged care, seclusion is considered an ‘extreme restraint’ and must not be used. There needs to be a lawful purpose to restrain any person or to use seclusion. … In these circumstances, restraint or seclusion must only be carried out as a last resort and occur only until the risk has passed.
We know you want the best of care for your loved ones, so let us guide and help you.
Download our eBook “Beginner’s Guide to navigating The Australian Residential Aged Care system”
and
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