Currently, dangerous patients can only be restrained in psychiatric hospitals. The new law allows this to be done also in ambulances, emergency medical services, or nursing care.
There are three options for restraint. The first is physical restraint, where the patient is held down. The second is mechanical restraint, where straps or other means are used. The third is chemical restraint.
Doctor Andres Lehtmets says this legal amendment is necessary. Some patients need a different type of treatment, not psychiatry. For example, those who are aggressive or self-harming.
The decision to restrain is made by a doctor. However, if a doctor is not present, a nurse can make the initial decision. But chemical restraint can only be administered by a doctor.
Restraint should be a last resort. When used, everything must be documented. For example, who made the decision, how long it lasted, and how the patient behaved.
Staff must be trained to know how to complete the documentation. The patient must be regularly monitored, depending on their condition.
The legal amendment may come into force on July 1st.