(a) Mechanical supports used to achieve body position and balance must be designed and applied under the supervision of a qualified professional and in accordance with principles of:

1. (1) Good body alignment;
2. (2) Concern for circulation; and
3. (3) Allowance for change of position.

(b) The facilities’ written policy and procedures governing the use of mechanical supports shall specify which staff members may authorize the use of supports and must clearly specify the following:

1. (1) Orders shall indicate the specific reasons for the use of the supports;
2. (2) Use of supports must be temporary and the resident will not be supported for an indefinite or unspecified amount of time;

3. (3) Application of supports shall not be allowed for longer than twelve (12) hours unless:

   1. (A) The resident's condition warrants; and
   2. (B) Specified medical authorization is maintained in the resident's medical record;

4. (4)

   1. (A) A resident placed in supports shall be checked at least every thirty (30) minutes by appropriately trained staff.
   2. (B) A written record of this activity shall be maintained in the resident’s medical record.
   3. (C) The opportunity for motion and exercise shall be provided for a period of not less than ten (10) minutes during each two (2) hours in which supports are employed, except at night;
5. (5) Recorder, extensions, or reimposition of supports shall occur only upon review of the resident's condition by the physician, and is documented in the physician's progress notes;

6. (6) The use of supports shall not be employed:

   1. (A) As punishment;
   2. (B) For the convenience of the staff; or
   3. (C) As a substitute for supervision; and

7. (7) Mechanical supports must be employed in such manner as to:

   1. (A) Avoid physical injury to the resident; and
   2. (B) Provide a minimum of discomfort.