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 North Carolina Administrative Code (Last Updated: November 13, 2014)
 TITLE 10A. HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
 CHAPTER 27. MENTAL HEALTH, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
 SUBCHAPTER G. RULES FOR MENTAL HEALTH, DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE FACILITIES AND SERVICES

  10A NCAC 27G .5602. STAFF  

Latest version.

  • (a)  Staff‑client ratios above the minimum numbers specified in Paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of this Rule shall be determined by the facility to enable staff to respond to individualized client needs.

    (b)  A minimum of one staff member shall be present at all times when any adult client is on the premises, except when the client's treatment or habilitation plan documents that the client is capable of remaining in the home or community without supervision.  The plan shall be reviewed as needed but not less than annually to ensure the client continues to be capable of remaining in the home or community without supervision for specified periods of time.

    (c)  Staff shall be present in a facility in the following client‑staff ratios when more than one child or adolescent client is present:

    (1)           children or adolescents with substance abuse disorders shall be served with a minimum of one staff present for every five or fewer minor clients  present.  However, only one staff need be present during sleeping hours if specified by the emergency back-up procedures determined by the governing body; or

    (2)           children or adolescents with developmental disabilities shall be served with one staff present for  every one to three clients present and two staff present for every four or more clients present.  However, only one staff need be present during sleeping hours if specified by the emergency back‑up procedures determined by the governing body.

    (d)  In facilities which serve clients whose primary diagnosis is substance abuse dependency:

    (1)           at least one staff member who is on duty shall be trained in alcohol and other drug withdrawal symptoms and symptoms of secondary complications to alcohol and other drug  addiction; and

    (2)           the services of a certified substance abuse counselor shall be available on an as‑needed basis for each client.

     

History Note:        Authority G.S. 143B‑147;

Eff. May 1, 1996;

Amended Eff. July 1, 1998;

Temporary Amendment Eff. January 1, 2002;

Amended Eff. April 1, 2003.