Search

Presents information on the death of 11-year-old Andrew McClain while being restrained at a psychiatric hospital in Portland, Connecticut, which prompted the State Department of Children and Families to look at whether the hold applied to Andrew should be banned. Cause of Andrew's death; Why Andrew was restrained; Task force being set up to look at whether Connecticut should establish a higher standard on physical restraints; Detailed information on the issue.

Editorial. Discusses the apathy on the part of the officials of the Manhattan Psychiatric Center, for allowing a schizophrenic with homicidal tendencies, Reuben Harris, to roam around. Results of the move; Call for changes.

Reports on negligence by the officials of the Manhattan Psychiatric Center in letting a violent patient, Reuben Harris, roam and then let him escape five times from the Center. Details of the mental condition of Harris and his homicidal tendencies.

Says that because of the deaths of 18 patients in restraint or seclusion in New York State psychiatric hospitals between 1988 and 1992, and also because of pressure from former patients, state mental health officials will end the use of straitjackets and will cut back on the use of other physical restraints and seclusion. Alternatives, such as rewards and new medications.

Refers to an article on page B4 (Proposal urges an end to straitjacket use) saying that New York State's Office of Mental Health proposed ending the use of straitjackets in its mental hospitals under new guidelines that seek to minimize the use of physical restraints in treating patients.

Reports the release of a bill by the New Jersey State Senate Human Services Committee, consisting of safeguards for local communities before the commencement of the liberation of mentally ill patients. Details of the bill; Comments of Human Services Commissioner William Waldman on the proposed release of psychiatric patients.