Seclusion and Restraint
Seclusion and restraint are controversial topics in the Education field. Both seclusion and restraint are extreme and should only be used in emergency situations to protect students from injury. There are not any classroom management situations, other than protection, that seclusion and/or restraint are appropriate. Each state has its own policies including rules and restrictions. The guidelines for seclusion and restraint have been stated by the Michigan Department of Education.
Seclusion
Michigan Definition:
"Seclusion is a last resort emergency safety intervention that provides an opportunity for the student to regain self-control. Seclusion is the confinement of a student in a room or other space from which the student is physically prevented from leaving and which provides for continuous adult observation."
"Seclusion is a last resort emergency safety intervention that provides an opportunity for the student to regain self-control. Seclusion is the confinement of a student in a room or other space from which the student is physically prevented from leaving and which provides for continuous adult observation."
Restraint
Types:
Physical
Physical
- Direct physical contact that restricts a student's movement
- Used in situations like: breaking up a fight, taking away a weapon, necessary escort to somewhere, protecting student safety, etc.
- Administration of medication (not a prescription)
- Use of a device, garment, article, or material that is attached to the student and restricts normal freedom of movement
Guidelines for Use of Seclusion and Restraint
Seclusion and restraint should NOT be used:
Procedures for Emergency Seclusion and Restraint:
1. Seclusion/restraint should not be used instead of alternatives to the situation that are less restrictive. Only should be used as a last resort option.
2. When performed, needs to be: safe, appropriate and sensitive to student needs.
3. At the beginning of an emergency, staff should immediately call for help.
4. Seclusion/restraint should never be used for more than is necessary for student to regain control of his/her behaviors.
5. Staff should be appropriately trained. During an emergency seclusion/restraint situation, staff should be constantly observing and making notes on observations.
6. Emergency seclusion/restraint situation should be properly documented and reported to administration and parents within 24 hours of incident.
7. After incident, staff will debrief with parents and student to determine future actions.
8. If pattern of behavior continues, student will need a functional behavioral assessment and behavior plan.
9. If a pattern of behavior that requires emergency seclusion/restraint continues, an emergency intervention plan will be developed.
10. School needs to collect data on use of seclusion/restaint.
- For convenience
- As a substitute for a program
- As discipline/punishment
- Instead of less restrictive options
- Instead of more staffing
Procedures for Emergency Seclusion and Restraint:
1. Seclusion/restraint should not be used instead of alternatives to the situation that are less restrictive. Only should be used as a last resort option.
2. When performed, needs to be: safe, appropriate and sensitive to student needs.
3. At the beginning of an emergency, staff should immediately call for help.
4. Seclusion/restraint should never be used for more than is necessary for student to regain control of his/her behaviors.
5. Staff should be appropriately trained. During an emergency seclusion/restraint situation, staff should be constantly observing and making notes on observations.
6. Emergency seclusion/restraint situation should be properly documented and reported to administration and parents within 24 hours of incident.
7. After incident, staff will debrief with parents and student to determine future actions.
8. If pattern of behavior continues, student will need a functional behavioral assessment and behavior plan.
9. If a pattern of behavior that requires emergency seclusion/restraint continues, an emergency intervention plan will be developed.
10. School needs to collect data on use of seclusion/restaint.
Resources
http://www.thenationalcouncil.org/cs/public_policy/restraints_seclusion_rules_chart
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/abuse.index.htm
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/abuse.index.htm
Emergency Tip Sheet for Seclusion and Restraint.doc | |
File Size: | 40 kb |
File Type: | doc |
Standards for Seclusion and Restraint.pdf | |
File Size: | 1045 kb |
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