Ambulance. No examined by doctor on staff of hospital police assistance necessary

Agreement is made that the person can be conveyed to hospital in an ambulance or other NIAS vehicle. The ASW should advise and consult with NIAS personnel involved in relation to any resistance and agree how best to proceed. The ASW or other person (where the ASW is satisfied that this will not create or increase the risk of harm to the person or others) may accompany the person in the ambulance to hospital.

However the ASW will only be able to accompany the person to hospital if all other matters in relation to any vulnerable adults or children are addressed or arrangements for the protection of the person's property have been made. If not travelling with the patient the ASW should ensure that he arrives at the hospital at the same time as the person or as soon as possible afterwards. As the person is deemed to be in the custody of the applicant or person delegated by the applicant to convey the person to hospital the statutory forms, the medical recommendation and application should be given to NIAS personnel who are conveying the person to hospital.

The Code of Practice 2.49 advises that a nurse, doctor or ambulance person who is sufficiently skilled in resuscitation techniques and the observation of drowsy or comatose patients should always accompany the person if he have been sedated or there are concerns regarding his medical needs.