Among the jail standards that have been set out by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, there is a section on the use of restraints. When looking at these standards, it is clear that medical care is an integral part of the use of restraints. For instance, the medical condition of an inmate must be evaluated before placing him or her in a restraint system.

When a person is being held in a restraint, they must be checked on every 15 minutes. Blood circulation to the extremities must be checked as well as the security of the restraints.

Every two hours, an inmate being held in a restraint must be given medical care. During that time, the inmate should have an opportunity to drink liquids, use the toilet facilities, exercise their arms and legs, change positions, and eat something. Vital signs should be checked at this time as well as whether or not there is a need for medication.

In addition to these requirements, there are strict guidelines with regard to pregnant inmates being placed in restraints. It is apparent throughout the minimum jail standards regarding restraints that medical care is essential.

With this in mind, it is concerning when a jail fails to meet minimum jail standards with regard to the use of restraints. See the next segment in this series to learn about Texas jail violations regarding the use of restraints.

The posts on this site are provided for informational purposes. It is never intended at any time to make an implication that a person or institution has engaged in misconduct of any sort.

–Guest Contributor