Human Rights Commission Cites Prolonged Isolation and Restraint of Patients at Ulsan Hospital

A damning report by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has exposed deeply concerning practices at Ulsan Bangu-dae Hospital, highlighting instances of prolonged and excessive isolation and restraint of patients with severe intellectual disabilities. The commission's investigation revealed that one patient, identified as 'A', was confined to a 6.79 square meter isolation room for an astonishing 2,282 hours and 55 minutes – approximately 96 days – with physical restraints applied around eight times during this period.

This level of isolation far exceeds the average patient confinement time, with 'A's isolation being roughly 160 times longer than the national average. Disturbingly, the patient, who has limited communication abilities, was reportedly subjected to repeated cycles of isolation, even after being sent for external medical examinations due to high fever. The NHRC's decision document also includes findings from five other death-related investigations over the past five years, underscoring a pattern of serious issues within the institution.

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The degree of distress and pain from prolonged isolation appears to have been considerable. Nevertheless, medical staff repeatedly isolated the patient after 24 hours, or after observing symptoms, without alternative efforts such as conversation or walks to distract them, leaving the patient alone in a space of about 2 pyeong (approximately 6.6 square meters) for about 96 days, and restraining them whenever they complained of pain.

The NHRC's findings point to a stark contradiction: while patient 'A' was deemed a risk to self and others, necessitating prolonged isolation, records indicate participation in 51 work and recreational therapy sessions during the isolation period. The commission questions the validity of this participation, suggesting it is inconsistent with the patient's condition and the rationale for confinement. In contrast, the NHRC cited Shinsegae Hyo Hospital as an example of best practice, where isolation is limited to 12 hours and alternative, less restrictive measures are employed for patient management. The NHRC has recommended that Ulsan Bangu-dae Hospital develop measures to minimize isolation and restraint, and has called upon the Ministry of Health and Welfare to revise its guidelines and establish effective supervision mechanisms.

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Given the observation content in the nursing records, the degree of distress and pain from prolonged isolation appears to have been considerable.