§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health, what is her policy with regard to the use of electronic tagging for hospital patients. [21425]
§ Mr. MaloneSelection of electronic tagging or other security equipment for national health service units is a matter for local managers to determine in the light of local needs, priorities and resources. Tagging is used to increase the safety of patients, but is in itself unlikely to offer a complete solution to security or safety needs. It should be used as part of a wider local strategy which places an emphasis on staff and patient awareness.
§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance she has issued regarding the electronic tagging of hospital patients. [21426]
§ Mr. MaloneNo specific guidance has yet been issued on the use of electronic tagging. Guidance will be contained in a supplement to the national health service security manual and a report on a recent survey of security in maternity units, both of which will be published in July.
Mr. HinchcliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will identify which(a) NHS hospitals, (b) private or voluntary hospitals or (c) care or nursing homes currently use electronic tagging; and if she will specify the category of patient involved. [21427]
§ Mr. MaloneDecisions on security measures in individual units are the responsibility of local management in consultation, where necessary and appropriate, with clinicians, patients and their relatives.