Forced Removal of Cigarettes in Mental Health Ward - Legal?

[Kaye escott]

I work in an acute mental health admission ward. A no-smoking policy has been introduced but is poorly adhered to which has resulted in the compulsory removal of cigarettes and lighters from both involuntary detained, and voluntary patients. Is removal of a mental healthy patients property in this manner legal under Australian Law?

 

[Amanda E]

Hi Kaye,
The ward should be able to properly and fully enforce its policies, but some questions:

• Are the patients made aware of the policy on admission?
• Are the cigarettes and lighters stored safely for the patients and returned to them when they are discharged?

 

[Kaye escott]

Hi Kaye,
The ward should be able to properly and fully enforce its policies, but some questions:

• Are the patients made aware of the policy on admission?
• Are the cigarettes and lighters stored safely for the patients and returned to them when they are discharged?

Hello Amanda. Yes the patients are told on admission and properties are returned on discharge. Occasionally removal has resulted in aggression, with resulting restraint/seclusion, especially amongst those detained under the mental health act.

 

[maggi]

I work in a similar situation and have seen hospital property set alight so the no smoking police should be strictly enforced.
Nicotine replacement is always offered and when accepted usually helps

 

[Amanda E]

Then it sounds like you're doing the right thing based on your responses to my questions.
I also like @maggi's practical additions.