Standards of Procedure for the Use of Restraint Chairs Continued

Observation of Inmates in Restraint Chairs Continued

• Every 2 hours, the medical staff will physically evaluate inmates who are in a restraint chair. As needed, medical staff will respond to confinement requests in need of review. Each inmate check will be documented in the log tracking restraint chair and fluid assessment.
• At least hourly, a confinement supervisor will evaluate the need for an inmate to continue being in the restraint chair. At these intervals, the supervisor will try to have a conversation with the inmate, make a determination, and ensure proper documentation of the restraint chair and fluid assessment log that is posted on the cell door.
• In intervals not to exceed every 15 minutes, deputies will continue direct periodic checks of the restrained inmate per the following guidelines:
  • The restraints placed on an inmate in a restraint chair shall be physically checked for tightness and to ensure that all restraints are properly in place.
  • If a lack of circulation in an inmate’s feet or hands is observed during a 15 minute check, the deputy will contact the jail medical staff. With the help of a supervisor, the deputy will adjust the restraints to improve circulation.
  • If an inmate complains of pain caused by the restraints or his or her placement in the restraint chair, a medical staff member will be contacted by the deputy to examine the prisoner.

Learn more in Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, and Part 8.

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