RANDOLPH COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

6.1.1 Purpose

To establish standardized procedures for the intake screening, assessment, and supervision of detainees to identify medical and mental health needs, prevent harm, reduce liability, and ensure the safety, security, and well-being of detainees and staff.

6.1.2 Policy

All detainees shall receive a timely medical and mental health screening upon admission prior to placement in general population.

Detainees identified as presenting elevated medical, mental health, or situational risk shall be placed under appropriate monitoring, including Suicide Watch or Enhanced Observation, as defined by this policy.

6.1.3 INTAKE SCREENING REQUIREMENTS

A medical and mental health screening shall be conducted immediately upon intake by trained personnel and shall include:

• Observation of physical condition and behavior

• Inquiry into current medical conditions and medications

• Assessment for intoxication or withdrawal

• Screening for communicable diseases

• Identification of injuries or urgent medical needs

• Mental health evaluation, including suicide risk indicators

Any detainee requiring immediate care shall be referred to medical personnel or emergency services without delay.

6.1.4 SUICIDE RISK ASSESSMENT

All detainees shall be evaluated for suicide risk during intake. Indicators include:

• Statements of self-harm or suicidal ideation

• Prior suicide attempts

• Signs of depression, anxiety, or distress

• Intoxication or withdrawal

• Recent significant life events

Detainees identified as at-risk shall be placed on Suicide Watch and managed in accordance with established procedures.

6.1.5 ENHANCED OBSERVATION (SERIOUS CHARGES)

A. Criteria

Detainees charged with Murder, Manslaughter, or other serious violent offenses shall be automatically placed on Enhanced Observation, unless a higher level of supervision is required.

B. Purpose

These detainees are considered high-risk due to potential emotional and psychological instability associated with serious charges.

C. Requirements

• Placement shall occur immediately upon booking or charge identification

• Supervisor and/or classification staff shall be notified

• Status remains in effect until cleared by medical or supervisory authority

D. Observation Protocol

• In-person visual checks at least every 30 minutes

• Observations must confirm physical condition and responsiveness

E. Supervisory Authority

Supervisors may increase observation levels at any time, including placement on Suicide Watch if warranted.

6.1.6 MEDICAL REFERRALS

When medical or mental health concerns are identified:

• The detainee shall be referred to qualified medical personnel

• All actions shall be documented

• Follow-up care shall be arranged as needed

• Emergencies shall result in immediate transport to an appropriate facility

6.1.7 MEDICATION MANAGEMENT

During intake:

• All medications shall be documented and secured

• No medication shall be administered without proper authorization

• Prescriptions shall be verified under dual control everytime

6.1.8 CONFIDENTIALITY

All medical and mental health information shall be treated as confidential and shared only with authorized personnel on a need-to-know basis in accordance with applicable laws and policy.

6.1.9 DOCUMENTATION

All screenings, observations, and actions shall be fully documented, including:

• Screening results and detainee statements

• Observations and condition checks

• Identified risks

• Referrals and actions taken

Documentation shall be maintained in accordance with records retention requirements.

6.1.10 TRAINING

Personnel assigned to intake and supervision duties shall be trained in:

• Recognition of medical emergencies

• Signs of intoxication and withdrawal

• Suicide prevention and mental health awareness

• Observation and documentation procedures

6.1.11 COMPLIANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Compliance with this policy is mandatory.

Failure to properly conduct screenings, observations, or documentation may result in disciplinary action. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring adherence and taking corrective action when necessary.