Virginia Law

A. A behavior management program shall be implemented. Behavior management shall mean those principles and methods employed to help a resident achieve positive behavior and to address and correct a resident's inappropriate behavior in a constructive and safe manner in accordance with written procedures governing program expectations and the residents' and employees' safety and security.

B. Written procedures governing this program shall provide the following:

1. A listing of the rules of conduct and behavioral expectations for the resident;

2. Orientation of residents as required by 6VAC35-101-800 (admission and orientation);

3. The definition and listing of a system of privileges and sanctions that is used and available for use. Sanctions (i) shall be listed in the order of their relative degree of restrictiveness; (ii) may include a "cooling off" period where a resident is placed in a room for no more than 60 minutes; and (iii) shall contain alternatives to room confinement;

4. The specification of the staff members who may authorize the use of each privilege and sanction;

5. Documentation requirements when privileges are applied and sanctions are imposed;

6. The specification of the processes for implementing such procedures; and

7. Means of documenting and monitoring of the program's implementation including, but not limited to, an on-going administrative review of the implementation to ensure conformity with the procedures.

C. When substantive revisions are made to the behavior management program, written information concerning the revisions shall be provided to the residents, and direct care staff shall be oriented on the changes prior to implementation.

D. The facility administrator shall review the detention center's behavior intervention techniques and procedures at least annually to determine appropriateness for the population served.