Restrictive practices

A guardian can be appointed for an adult who may show challenging behaviours that cause harm to themselves or others.

To manage this behaviour, an appointed guardian will need to consider the use of a Positive Behaviour Support Plan which could include a range of ‘restrictive practices’.

The following are examples of restrictive practices:

• containment and seclusion
• chemical (medication), physical or mechanical restraint
• restrictive access.

What does an appointed guardian for restrictive practices need to know?

The role of a guardian appointed by the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) is different from the role of an informal decision-maker. It is a legally appointed position and all actions and decisions concerning the person for whom they are appointed must be reported back to QCAT.

There are a number of matters an appointed guardian needs to consider to be able to make decisions for a person who is unable to make their own decisions. These include the General Principles and/or the Health Care Principle which are detailed in the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000.

There are also a number of factors that restrictive practice guardians must consider, but these vary with each individual.

Some of these factors include:

• Positive Behaviour Support Plans
• appropriate assessments
• seeking specialist medical advice
• compliance with legislation.