DHS-MENTAL HEALTH-RESTRAINT

Amends the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code. Provides that restraint may be used only as an emergency measure of last resort (instead of only as a therapeutic measure) to prevent a recipient of mental health services from causing physical harm to himself or physical abuse to others. Provides that a patient shall be placed in a position that allows airway access and does not compromise respiration. Provides that a face-down or prone position shall not be used on children and adolescents. Provides that a face-down or prone position shall not be used on adults unless: (1) there is a documented specified patient preference and no psychological or medical contraindications to its use; or (2) there is an overriding psychological or medical justification for its use, which shall be documented. Effective immediately.