Section 2380.159. Chemical restraints

(a) A chemical restraint is a drug used to control acute, episodic behavior that restricts the movement or function of an individual.

(b) Administration of a chemical restraint is prohibited except for the administration of drugs ordered by a licensed physician on an emergency basis.

(c) If a chemical restraint is administered as specified in subsection (b), the following apply:

(1) Prior to each incidence of administering a drug on an emergency basis, a licensed physician shall examine the individual and give a written order to administer the drug.

(2) Prior to each readministration of a drug on an emergency basis, a licensed physician shall examine the individual and order readministration of the drug.

(3) The individual’s vital signs shall be monitored at least once each hour.

(4) Physical needs of the individual shall be met promptly.

(d) A Pro Re Nata (PRN) order for controlling acute, episodic behavior is prohibited.

(e) A drug ordered by a licensed physician as part of an ongoing program of medication is not a chemical restraint.

(f) A drug ordered by a licensed physician for a specific, time-limited stressful event or situation to assist the individual to control behavior, is not a chemical restraint.

(g) A drug ordered by a licensed physician as pretreatment prior to a medical or dental examination or treatment is not a chemical restraint.

(h) A drug self-administered by an individual is not a chemical restraint.

(i) If a drug is administered in accordance with subsection (b), (f), (g) or (h) to treat a behavior that occurs at the facility, there shall be training for the individual aimed at eliminating or reducing the need for the drug in the future.

(j) Documentation of compliance with subsections (b)—(i) shall be kept.

The provisions of this § 2380.159 adopted January 15, 1993, effective January 16, 1993, 23 Pa.B. 343.