A recent investigation conducted by New Brunswick’s ombud revealed disturbing instances of mistreatment faced by psychiatric patients at the Restigouche Hospital Centre in Campbellton. Patients reported being subjected to forced urination and defecation on the floor, as well as sexual and physical assaults while improperly restrained by staff.
Ombud Marie-France Pelletier expressed deep concern over the patient testimonies, highlighting the neglect and abuse experienced within the facility. She emphasized that seclusion and restraints should only be used as a last resort after attempts to de-escalate a situation have been made, with regular checks on restrained individuals being a necessary protocol, which was not consistently followed.
Patients under restraint or seclusion shared grievances about their basic needs being neglected, including access to bathroom facilities, showers, and proper meal accommodations. Shockingly, incidents of physical harm and even sexual assault at the hands of staff members were reported, with one case being verified through video evidence.
The investigation also uncovered the absence of a proper system for patients to call for help while in seclusion rooms or restrained. Patients resorted to desperate measures like waving at cameras, using written messages, or pouring water on their mattresses to signal distress, often without receiving timely assistance.
Pelletier disclosed that patients endured prolonged periods of seclusion and restraint, leading to unsanitary conditions and difficulties in accessing essential services like showers and meals. She criticized the misuse of restraints, noting discrepancies in the orders given by medical professionals and the actual application by staff.
The lack of monitoring systems to track restraint use across healthcare facilities was highlighted as a significant concern, prompting the implementation of a live dashboard at the Restigouche Hospital Centre post-investigation. Recommendations were issued to improve policies, documentation, and reporting procedures related to restraint use in psychiatric settings.
While the health networks involved acknowledged the report’s findings and expressed commitment to implementing necessary changes, the ombud called for legislative updates to ensure minimal use of restrictive measures and enhanced oversight mechanisms. The government also pledged to support the recommended reforms to enhance patient safety and care standards.
