Correctional institutions
therapeutic care. Reports in previous years already highlighted that the
material conditions at Göllersdorf correctional institution cannot be improved
to the extent that the quality standards of a therapeutic centre can be achieved.
In this respect, the request for a new building or extension remains (see NPM
Report 2017, pp. 104 et seq.).
XX
The lawful detention of mentally ill offenders is not possible without modern
infrastructure.
XX
Persons who were previously in a facility for persons with disabilities tend to be at a
particular disadvantage in detention for mentally ill offenders. Without specialised
follow-up care facilities, there is a considerable risk that they will be detained for
excessively long periods of time.
2.5.11.2 Fixation straps attached to patient beds
Pavilion 23/2 at Otto
Wagner Hospital
On the visit to Pavilion 23/2 of Otto Wagner Hospital, the NPM criticised that
fixation straps are permanently attached to the patient beds and only covered
with a sheet. The patients are thus forced to lie and sleep on top of the wide
straps with buckles.
The medical staff justified this situation by saying that the straps have to be
close at hand in acute cases; they are thus permanently attached to the beds.
Practice changed
XX
The NPM is aware of the need to have the fixation straps immediately
available. Nevertheless, the straps shall be attached to the patient bed in a
such a way that they are not uncomfortable or do not cause pressure when
lying on the bed. Fortunately, there is feedback that since the NPM visit the
fixation straps are removed directly after the restraint is ended.
Fixation straps should be removed from the bed directly after the restraint is ended.
2.5.11.3 Documentation of restraints
Mostviertel AmstettenMauer Regional Clinic
147
The meticulous documentation of restraints is of particular importance from
a preventive point of view, as experience has shown that this results in a
decrease in the deprivation of freedom. A large number of restraint logs were
only partially filled out on a visit to the forensic department of Mostviertel
Amstetten-Mauer Regional Clinic. They often contained only diagnoses and
referred to the danger to the person themselves and to third parties without
detailing the specific situation.
Select target paragraph3
Connect to a paragraph
Connect to an entity
Disable highlights
Add to table of contents