§ 31-8-117 — Suspension of certain rights where exercise poses danger to self or other residents; notice of suspension; duration

Only the rights enumerated in paragraph (6) of subsection (b) of Code Section 31-8-108 and subsections (b), (c), and (d) of Code Section 31-8-112 may be suspended as a result of medical contraindication, as determined by the resident's physician, and then only under the following conditions: (1) The physician has personally examined the resident and the physician documents that the exercise of such right or rights pose a danger to other residents or an immediate and substantial danger to the resident himself. If the threatened danger is only to the resident, the resident's rights shall not be suspended pursuant to this Code section, provided the resident or guardian understands the danger and insists on the exercise of the right; (2) Prior to or at the time of a suspension of a right or rights due to a medical contraindication, the resident and his guardian or representative shall be notified of such suspension, its duration, and the resident's legal right to meet with legal counsel, the ombudsman provided for in Article 3 of this chapter, members of his family, his guardian, or others of his choice; and (3) Suspension of a right or rights shall be for a reasonable time period, which period shall not exceed 35 days for skilled nursing residents and not to exceed 65 days for intermediate care residents. Every additional period, which periods shall also not exceed the same maximum time periods, shall be considered a new suspension, subject to the conditions of paragraphs (1) and (2) of this Code section.