NCJ Number
80344
Date Published
1980
Length
73 pages
Annotation
These guidelines offer explanations of California's 1980 minimum standards for local detention facilities governing medical services, food, inmate clothing and personal hygiene, and sanitation along with suggestions for implementation.
Abstract
An introduction recommends that sheriffs or local jail administrators check with the medical society or health organization in their jurisdictions and emphasizes the importance of written plans and procedures. Compliance with these standards will not make a facility automatically eligible for American Medical Association certification since California has no specific standards for medical orientation or medical grievances. The text of each standard and references to its statutory authority are followed by a discussion of its objectives and options that administrators might consider in an implementation plan. Standards on medical services cover administrative responsibility, staff qualifications, medical records, procedures regarding communicable diseases and pregnancy, and prescreening inmates. Also addressed are transfers to treatment facilities, sick call, vermin control, detoxification, informed consent, dental care, medications, and prisoner deaths. The criteria on food define the minimum diet, menu planning procedures, food handling rules, and sanitation standards in kitchen facilities. A special disciplinary isolation diet is described. Standards on inmate clothing, personal hygiene, and bedding are explained. Finally, the guidelines consider facility sanitation, safety, and maintenance, along with the required first aid kits and self-contained breathing apparatus. A bibliography of 26 references is provided. The appendixes contain a grievance form, a list of health practitioners and facilities found in California, information on lice detection and disinfectant chemicals, and medical record forms.