12VAC35-46-890: Searches

A. Strip searches and body cavity searches are prohibited.

B. A provider that conducts pat downs shall develop and implement written policies and procedures governing the use of pat downs providing that:

1. Pat downs shall be limited to instances where necessary to prohibit contraband;

2. Pat downs shall be conducted by personnel of the same gender as the resident being searched;

3. Pat downs shall be conducted only by personnel who are specifically trained and authorized to conduct searches by the written policies and procedures; and

4. Pat downs shall be conducted in such a way as to protect the resident's dignity in accordance with 12VAC35-115 and in the presence of one or more witnesses.