Having worked for several years as an RN in labor and delivery, it is appalling to me that restraints would even be considered. Thus, I commend the Board of Corrections and the McDonnell and McAuliffe administrations for supporting these regulations.  I also thank the Board for implementing a compassionate and commonsense policy. Once the regulations are in effect, I urge personnel at local and regional jails not to undermine their intent by considering every inmate a “flight risk” just because they are an inmate.  Local and regional jail officials also should ensure that every “individualized determination” that a particular pregnant inmate is a “risk” is based solely on the specific facts relating to the individual under consideration and that these facilities annually report any use of restraints on pregnant women.

It is especially important that jail officials make very careful individualized determinations regarding the risk of each pregnant inmate -- the facts must be very specific. Also important is the requirement for reporting the use of restraints -- more frequently than annually is in order. Why not within 48 hours of any use?