Washington § 71.12.720 - Psychiatric hospitals — Reporting.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 71.12.720 — Psychiatric hospitals — Reporting., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 71.12.720. Psychiatric hospitals — Reporting.

(1) Every *psychiatric hospital licensed under this chapter shall report to the department every patient elopement and every death that meets the circumstances specified in subsection (2) of this section that occurs on the hospital grounds within three days of the elopement or death to the department's complaint intake system or another reporting mechanism specified by the department in rule.
(2) The patient or staff deaths that must be reported to the department under subsection (1) of this section include the following:
(a) Patient death associated with patient elopement;
(b) Patient suicide;
(c) Patient death associated with medication error;
(d) Patient death associated with a fall;
(e) Patient death associated with the use of physical restraints or bedrails; and
(f) Patient or staff member death resulting from a physical assault.
[ 2020 c 115 s 8.]

Notes

*Reviser's note: The term "psychiatric hospital" was changed to "behavioral health hospital" by 2024 c 121 s 19.
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2020 c 115: See notes following RCW 71.12.700.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 71.12.720

What does Revised Code of Washington § 71.12.720 cover?

Section 71.12.720 ("Psychiatric hospitals — Reporting.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 71.12.720?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 71.12.720" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 71.12.720 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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