Lithgow Ambulance service has joined counterparts across NSW in acquiring new mechanical restraint devices which will be fitted into all ambulances after a successful state-wide trial.

Health Minister Reba Meagher said the equipment allowed paramedics to safely treat patients who were distressed or aggressive as a result of alcohol, drugs, mental illness or injury.

“This device gives paramedics another resource in managing situations where a disturbed patient is in urgent need if medical help,” Mrs Meagher said.

“It allows challenging situations to be managed without compromising the safety and treatment of the patient of medical staff.”

During the state-wide trial the mechanical restraint devices were used 22 times, including seven mental health cases, nine cases of drug and alcohol use and three instances of medical injuries.

Ms Meagher said the use of the mechanical restraint devices didn’t always remove the need for an additional form of restraint, with 14 of 22 cases requiring a combination of chemical and mechanical restraint.

“It is important to note that in six cases where patients had been handcuffed by police, ambulance paramedics were able to remove the police handcuffs once the mechanical restraint devices were applied.

“This means patients can be treated in health context rather than in law and order context,” Ms Meagher said.

“Police will still be involved in high risk situations, and will accompany some patients in an ambulance or in a police vehicle where necessary.

“The device provides paramedics with an additional option for managing situations where a behaviourally disturbed patient is in need of medical intervention and in many cases will increase the level of safety and dignity for the patient.”

Mechanical restraint devices are being rolled out for use in all ambulances across NSW in conjunction with a specific training program for paramedics.

“So far, more than 400 paramedics have been trained in the use of the devices and are authorised to use them,” Ms Meagher said.

“We will be training an extra 500 paramedics each year, with all paramedics to be trained in the use of the devices by June 2011.”