SECTION 448.704. Program Rules

(a) The facility shall establish therapeutically sound written program rules addressing client behavior designed to protect their health, safety, and welfare.

(b) The consequences for violating program rules shall be defined in writing and shall include clear identification of violations that may result in discharge. The consequences shall be reasonable, take into account the client's diagnosis and progress in treatment, and shall not include:

(1) physical discipline or measures involving the denial of food, water, sleep, or bathroom privileges; or

(2) discipline that is authorized, supervised, or carried out by clients.

(c) At the time of admission, every client shall be informed verbally, and in writing, of the program rules and consequences for violating the rules.

(d) The facility shall enforce the rules fairly and objectively and shall not implement consequences for the convenience of staff.

Source Note: The provisions of this §448.704 adopted to be effective September 1, 2004, 29 TexReg 2020; transferred effective September 1, 2004, as published in the Texas Register September 10, 2004, 29 TexReg 8842