BackDeputy-Ombudsman Maija Sakslin has solved several complaints related to the inhuman treatment of older people and the use of strong restrictive measures during physical pain or terminal care or after surgery. The Deputy-Ombudsman has drawn attention to the fact that the complaints mention the same serious shortcomings.
The reason for this erroneous action is often that the personnel do not know what to do in the situation. On the basis of the complaints, the Deputy-Ombudsman decided on her own initiative to investigate whether the necessary information on avoiding the use of restrictive measures in the care of older people is currently available and how it has been ensured that the information is available to social welfare and healthcare professionals.
Based on the information received, various measures have been taken, but the measures are not yet sufficient.
The National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Valvira) estimates that the housing units of older people have fairly established operating methods for using physical restrictive measures. However, the observations made during inspections ordered by the Deputy-Ombudsman show that even established practices may violate the law, human rights conventions and the principles of professional ethics.
A common observation is that the existing guidelines focus on the use of restrictive measures. On the other hand, clear and simple instructions on the prevention of restrictive situations and, as a result, competence are still mostly lacking.
The Deputy-Ombudsman asks for urgent preparation of clear national guidelines and training materials. The full text of Deputy-Ombudsman Maija Sakslin’s decision was published (in Finnish) on the Parliamentary Ombudsman’s website.
Source: Office of the Parliamentary Ombudsman, Finland
