NEED help/advice about ECO pt's in VA

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I really need help and can't figure this thing out. Without giving all the sordid details of the stupid and "un-Flo" like things I'm being forced to do at my hospital, I wonder can anyone clue me in to the LAW regarding ECO's in the ED? One officer took a patient to jail that refused lab work ect... which I was fine with because something had to be done with her. But if I patient is refusing care under an ECO am I required by law to continue to force specimen collections on a patient? I live in VA and I've been trying to deciper the law codes all morning and I just can't find the correct law. (one that says they HAVE to submit or still have rights). PLEASE HELP ME!

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

I totally feel you, especially when the ECOs in question are confused and in their 80s. I always try to get them to agree to anything I'm doing.

Virginia 37.2-1103 - Emergency custody orders for adult persons who are incapable of making an informed decision as a result of physical injury or illness. - 2010 Virginia Code - Virginia Law - Virginia Statutes :: Justia -- US Laws, Codes, Statutes Cases -- Justia

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Thanks for the link! However, I still don't see where it gives anyone permission to hold someone down and force IV's and foley's on them. They need to write the law a little more clear. I appreciate your help.

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

I think it's this line: "a magistrate may issue, for good cause shown, an emergency custody order for the adult person to be taken into custody and transported to a hospital emergency room for testing, observation, or treatment." Obtaining specimens is part of the testing under an ECO. I don't like it, either. I really don't. It is right up there with the least favorite things I do.

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