OMHSAS Announces Restraint, Seclusion, and Exclusion Bulletin

The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) has released the OMHSAS-24-01 Restraint Seclusion and Exclusion Bulletin, updating policies on restraint, seclusion, and exclusion in state mental hospitals to reduce these practices. This bulletin supersedes OMHSAS-09-06, necessitating adjustments in local hospital policies. Changes include shifting from “manual hold” to “physical restraint” terminology and clarifications in definitions. It strictly prohibits mechanical and chemical restraints, allowing physical restraint only as a last-resort emergency measure with detailed guidelines on application, documentation, and debriefing protocols. The emphasis is on individualized care, de-escalation techniques, and personnel training to ensure the humane and judicious use of physical restraint.

If you have any questions, please contact RCPA COO and Policy Director Jim Sharp.