Rules, Regulations, BY-L^WS, New York State Lunatic Asylum UTICA. V \ <£?* y*. J^ .J&: UTICA, 1ST. Y. UTICA, N". t.: ELLIS H. BOBEBTS & CO., PEINTEES, 60 Genesee Street. TABLE OF CONTENTS. Introductory Remarks,...................................... 5 Board of Managers,......................................... 8 Superintendent,............................................ 9 Assistant Physicians,........................................ H Steward,................................................... 13 Matron,................................................... 16 Apothecaries,.............................................. 17 Steward's Assistant,......................................... 18 Matron's Assistant,......................................... 18 Clerks,..................................................... 19 Supervisors of Departments,................................. 19 Overseers of the Kitchens and Bakery,.......... ............ 21 Overseers of the Washing and Ironing Rooms,................ 22 Engineer,................................................ Overseers of Shops,......................................... "4 The Gardener, Farmer, and Carriage Driver,................. 25 Night Watchers,............................................ 26 Attendants and Assistants—Duty to Officers,.................. 27 Duty to Each Other and Themselves,......................... 28 Duty of Attendants to Patients,............................. 29 Duty to the Institution,..................................... 35 Hours for Rising and Meals,................................. 38 QQ Chaplain,___.............................................. ov 40 Visitors,.................................................... INTRODUCTION. This Asylum has been erected at great expense by the State, that the insane may have a safe retreat, in the care of those who have learned the best mode of managing them, and where they may have every chance of recovery. The first impulses of insanity are often met at home and amongst friends, by resistance and opposition. The apparent difference in the conduct and feel- ings of their friends, excites collision, arouses the passions, and awakens the prejudices of the vic- tims of delusion. They now feel that those whom they loved, have turned against them—that their friends purposely thwart all their plans, oppose all their desires, and resist what they conceive to be their own best efforts to promote the happiness of both. For these reasons it becomes desirable that they should be removed to the care of strangers, whose efforts to make them comfortable, they often acknowledge and appreciate more correctly. From strangers they will also submit to requirements without a murmur, which would excite the great- est hostility to friends. In the various departments, all have daily much to do with the inmates of the Asylum, and some devote their whole time to their care. It becomes all seriously to consider hotv this duty shall be 6 INTRODUCTION. performed; what discipline of feeling and what subjugation of temper there shall be that the "law of kindness" may be administered to its full ex- tent, and in its proper spirit. Every person employed in the Asylum, in any capacity whatever, must perform the duties assigned conscientiously, and to the entire satis- faction of the Managers, of the Superintendent,. and of those in immediate authority. No individual is worthy of a place in such an institution who labors for wages only. Duty, a desire to improve the condition of all within the sphere of influence, to increase the happiness and lessen the svfferings of each and all the inmatesr should he the governing motive of daily conduct. It must never be forgotten that we are dealing with fellow creatures, who, being deprived of reason, are not responsible for their conduct. The regulating power of moral action is with- held from them; hence they are capricious, pas- sionate, and often violent. They often also mis- judge, and are led astray by perverted senses or by delusions of the understanding, which carry them far from the proprieties of rational conduct. It is because they are unable to control them- selves, and because they do not readily acquiesce in the directions of their friends, that many of these individuals are placed in the Asylum. Here they are to have every comfort and every reasonable indulgence, which individually or col- lectively, will promote their best good. Here they look for sympathy and council, for assistance NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 7 in their various troubles and perplexities. We should enter into their feelings, and show our willingness to spend our time and strength to pro- mote their happiness, and recovery to health. To withhold what may reasonably be required is to do them injustice, and disregard duty. To treat them with neglect, or with unkind and hasty language, or in any way to tantalize them, or to recriminate or to return violent or abusive words, is to do them injury. Persuasion with a proper spirit, will generally be followed by a quiet acquiescence in all reason- able requirements. Much depends upon the man- ner of intercourse with the insane. We should never be cold and insensible to their wants— never hasty and impatient in our intercourse— never turn a deaf ear to their representations—■ never treat them with neglect, nor with feelings of superiority; but mingle with them in kind- ness, address them with respect, and we shall secure their confidence, which is necessary to their best care. RULES AND REGULATIONS I. BOARD OF MANAGERS. 1. The Managers shall choose one of then- Ed.^ of number President, who shall continue in office until the annual meeting next after he is chosen. 2. An auditing committee of three members commfttee. snaU be appointed, who shall hold their places until the annual meeting next following their appointment. Treasurer. Meetings, time of. 3. The Treasurer shall hold his office during the pleasure of the board. 4. The annual meeting shall be held on the second Tuesday of December in each year. Quarterly meetings shall be held on the Tuesdays next after the second Monday in each of the months of April, July and October. Special fn|sc.ial meet~ meetings may be called by the President, or by any two members. 5. The Asylum shall be visited by the whole Board.by the board at the annual meetings, and by a majority at the quarterly meetings, and by individual members at other times. Secretary, duties or. 6. One of the board shall be chosen Secretaiy, and shall hold office until the next annual meet- ing. It shall be his duty to keep an accurate record of the proceedings of the Board of Mana- gers, and to cause notices of all meetings to be delivered to the members residing in Utica, at their places of residence or business, and to send notices by mail to members residing elsewhere, at such times previous to the meetings, as the Presi- dent or the two members calling the meetings shall at the time direct. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 9 7. No officer shall be directly or indirectly in- terested in any contract for the supply of any KSed11 article for the use of the Asylum; nor shall he &J^con" receive any present or gratuity from any person dealing with the Asylum, or from any patient or visitor, or from the friends of a patient. II. RESIDENT OFFICERS. THE SUPERINTENDENT. 1. The Superintendent is the head of the es- tablishment. He has the general superintendence supermtend- o J ^ ent, powers of the buildings, grounds and farm, together with andduties- their furniture, fixtures and stock. To him are committed the charge of the patients, and the di- rection and control of all persons therein, subject to the regulations of the Board of Managers. It shall be his duty to determine, under the direc- tion of the said board, what attendants and assistants are necessary to be employed, and to prescribe their respective places and duties; also, to establish and enforce, in every department, systematic order and salutary discipline. 2. He shall visit the patients, or learn their condition, daily, and as much oftener as may be J™** necessary, and shall direct such medical, moral and physical treatment as may be the best adapted to their relief. 3. He shall cause to be kept, in a suitable book, a record of the name, sex, age, place of na- ^ce°s^L. tivity and residence, civil state and profession, of ment'&c- eacb patient; also, as far as can be ascertained, the dates and history of'each patient's disease, the 10 RULES AND REGULATIONS time when received, and when removed, and how, whether cured or relieved, and the medical and moral treatment; whether eloped, or dead; and if dead, the cause; together with all such other facts and circumstances in each case as are useful or usual in the statistical records of such an insti- tution. Also, a record of the names and residence of all persons employed in the institution, with the times and terms of their respective engage- ments ; also, the stipulated wages, and the nature of the services expected from each, and the times and causes of their dismission. 4. At any visit of the Managers, and at all ScordstJ times when required, he shall exhibit to them all the records of the institution, and inform them minutely of its affairs. Every quarter he shall give a brief statement of its general condition ; the names of persons removed and received during the three months last past, with such suggestions and remarks as he may deem useful. At each annual meeting of the board he shall present a tabular view of the institution for the year, with full and minute details from the records, and accompanying it with a condensed report of other interesting and useful facts and circumstances, ex- periments and opinions, illustrating its manage- ment, condition and prospects. 5. He shall, from time to time, give to all to employes, persons employed at the Asylum, or on the farm, such instructions as he shall judge best adapted to carry into full operation all its rules and regu- lations. He shall cause such rules and regula- tions to be strictly and faithfully executed; taking care that the Steward and Matron, and all Record of employes. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 11 others employed about the premises, perform sat- isfactorily and punctually all their respective duties. ASSISTANT PHYSICIANS. 1. The Assistant Physicians shall be well edu- cated physicians, and shall constantly reside at ^s°ykfmde"to the Asylum. The first or second Assistant shall have charge of the Male Division, and the other of the Female Division of the Asylum, and each £fgg£ment shall exercise a general supervision of the one assigned to him, under the direction of the Super- intendent. 2. The said first and second Assistant Physi- cians shall visit all the patients in their respective JJgrJS divisions once each day, in the morning, and, if necessary, in the afternoon or evening, or oftener; carefully observe their condition, wants, and treatment; end see that they have food, medicine, exercise, amusements, clothing and bedding suita- ble for them; exert what moral influence they can with them, and endeavor in every way to promote tbeir comfort and recovery. 3. They shall see that the attendants and assistants are faithful and kind, attentive to the SSJdakfc wants of the patients, and vigilant in the discharge of their duties; and they shall report immediately to the Superintendent all instances of misconduct, unfaithfulness, neglect of duty observed by them, or of which they may receive information; and they shall also record the particulars of all accidents and escapes. 4. For the due performance of the duties communica enjoined in the foregoing sections, they shall spend supervisors. 12 RILES AND REGULATIONS Records of cases, treat- ment, &c. much time in their respective divisions; shall be in constant communication with the supervisors, attendants and assistants, and shall cany out the plans and instructions of the Superintendent in the best manner they are able. 5. They shall report in writing to the Super- *eperintend- intendeiit, daily, in books kept for that purpose, 'o?patiente*10n the general condition of their respective divisions, and the particular state of such patients as may be sick or greatly excited, and of those requiring restraint, removal, or seclusion, or special attention. 6. They shall keep records of the cases of all the patients in their respective divisions, describ- ing the symptoms, the changes that may occur from time to time, the mode of treatment, and all the peculiar circumstances conuected therewith. They shall also see that the records of admission and discharges are accurately kept. 7. They shall attend to the warmth, cleanli- ness, ventilation, and good order of their respect- ive divisions, and direct the use of the baths. 8. They shall attend to visitors when neces- sary, and shall always be ready to perform whatever services may be required of them by the Superintendent, and, under his directions, shall assist in conducting the correspondence with the friends of patients. 9. When requested by the Superintendent e they shall visit the entire establishment, see all the patients, and learn their condition and treat- ment. Duties of 10. It shall be the duty of the third and third and " assistants. fourth Assistant Physicians, when not on duty on Ventilation, baths, &c. To attend to visitors. To visit entire house. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 13 the wards, to perform such office or other duties as the Superintendent shall direct; to attend to visitors ; and, in the absence of the first or second Assistant Physicians, to perform such of their duties as may be required of them by the Super- intendent ; and also to perform such other duties out of the office, when directed or permitted to be absent therefrom, as the Superintendent may prescribe. THE STEWARD. 1. The Steward shall execute a bond, with two sufficient sureties, to be approved by the fShd {^^ Treasurer, in the penalty of one thousand dollars, conditioned that he will faithfully discharge the duties of the office of Steward, and pay over and account for all money that shall come to his hands belonging to the New York State Lunatic Asylum. Said bond shall be executed to the Treasurer of the Asylum, and be filed in his office. 2. In all cases of purchases by the Steward, he shall require duplicate bills, on one of which he J° ^te bills shall indorse an order upon the Treasurer to pay for Purchases- the amount of the bill, and on the other take a receipt for the order given by him on the Treasurer. 3. No order of the Steward shall be paid by the Treasurer, unless it is accompanied with thejmof Hems bill of items for the payment of which the order ?|nsSrin~ was given, nor unless the bill or order is counter-requn signed or indorsed "approved" by the Superin- tendent. 4. The Steward shall keep one of the dupli- to keep copy p . -. , of orders. cate accounts, with a copy ot the order on the 14 RULES AND REGULATIONS Treasurer, in every such case of purchase by him, and make the proper entries under the appropriate head of expenditure in his books. 5. The Treasurer may, from time to time, ad- Advances for vance to the Steward, on his own order, and the petty ' ' expenses. indorsement of the Superintendent, specifying that it is to pay petty current expenses, a sum not ex- ceeding one hundred dollars. The Steward shall keep an accurate account in detail, in a pass or other proper book, of all such expenses paid out of the sums so advanced to him by the Treasurer, and shall settle the same with him monthly, or whenever required. Such account shall be ex- amined and approved by the Superintendent be- fore it is settled by the Treasurer, and a copy thereof, with vouchers for all sums exceeding one dollar, shall be filed with the Treasurer. The Steward shall account for each sum of one hundred dollars which he shall thug receive before a further advance shall be made to him. 6. The Treasurer, on paying any bill or Treasurer to order of the Steward, shall take a voucher for take vouchers ' payments. sucn payment, and file the same in his office, and shall enter in his books, under the proper heads of expenditure, the sums paid by him out of the treasury. 7. The Steward, under the Superintendent's Purchases, direction, shall purchase furniture, food, medi- cine, fuel, stores and all other necessary articles; and he shall be accountable for their safe keeping, and for their economical use and expenditure. 8. He shall keep clear, methodical and exact To keep accu- accounts of all purchases, of all receipts and ex- rate accounts, •* ' x abdtracts!sh penditures of money, and of all charges on account NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 15 of any patients. He shall exhibit all his account books, and vouchers, to the Managers, when- ever required so to do; and he shall furnish a quarterly abstract of the same, both to the Treas- urer and Managers, on the last days of March, June, September and December in each year. Copies of all accounts which become due to the institution shall be furnished to the Treasurer, at his request. 9. All moneys advanced for pay patients, or otherwise collected or received by the Steward, Fajrmoneysto J ' treasurer. or by persons employed by him, shall be immediately paid over to the Treasurer of the Asylum. 10. In the name of the Superintendent, and by his directions in each case, and not otherwise, the dS^hSr»ea Steward shall hire attendants and assistants, and Ind employes. agree with them for their wages; and, by like direction, he shall dismiss them when unfaithful, negligent or incompetent; he shall keep and settle their accounts; and he shall perform such other duties, in relation to the internal management and government of the Asylum, as the Superin- tendent shall require. He shall see that the attendants and assistants rise and begin business immediately after the ringing of the morning bell, and that they retire at proper season at night. He shall observe their conduct, see that in all observe con- respects they do their duty, and report to theemployes- Superintendent, immediately, any instance of mis- conduct or negligence. 11. He shall receive visitors, give them all suitable information, and show them such parts of !S the buildings and grounds as are open for their examination. 16 RULES AND REGULATIONS 12. He shall remain, as much as possible, in the patten^. division appropriated to the male patients, so as to be much in their presence, to see that they are kindly treated; that their beds are in good order; that their clothes are taken good care of; that their food is properly served and distributed, and care of buiid-that the rooms, halls, yards, shops and out-build- mgs, &c. 7 ' J L ings, and other apartments under his care, are kept clean and in good order, and properly warmed and ventilated; and that the attendants observe his orders and directions, and in all respects do their duty; and that all articles made for the patients or the Asylum are carefully preserved. 13. In all his directions to subordinate agents, S^Lupednl in executing the details of the Superintendent's plans, and in enforcing the rules, the Steward shall be considered as carrying the authority of the Superintendent. It shall be his duty to preserve order in the house, and faithfulness among the assistants, and to see that the rules and regula- tions are fully put in practice. THE MATRON. 1. It shall be the duty of the Matron to look toapatients!ty carefully to the female patients, and spend as much time' with them as her other duties may allow: she shall see that they are kindly treated; that their nurses and attendants are well instructed and faithful; that their food is properly served and distributed; that their apartments are clean, warm and properly ventilated; and that their clothes and bedding are always clean, well aired, and in good order, and their apparel marked and preserved. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 17 2. She shall also superintend the kitchen and laundry, and see that the cooking, washing and ^naTSens, ironing are properly done; frequently inspectlaundlT'&c* every department, and have an eye to the neat appearance of the whole house. It is expected that she will devote her whole time to the institu- tion, and spare no efforts to promote the comfort and recovery of its inmates. She shall also super- intend the sewing rooms, and see that all new articles made for patients are correctly marked, properly disposed of and preserved. 3. It shall be her special duty to see to those that are sick, that they have constant and kind^*^^*0 nurses, and proper care in all respects. She shallspecialduty< constantly notice the conduct of attendants and assistants, see that in all respects they do their duty, and report to the Superintendent, immedi- ately, any instance of misconduct or negligence. APOTHECARIES. 1. The Apothecaries shall be Physicians, stu- dents of medicine or competent druggists, and £*£*£ecaries, shall constantly reside at the Asylum. Under the direction of the Superintendent and Assistant Physicians, they shall prepare and put up the Jo put^p ^ medicines prescribed, and keep such records askeep records- tbe Superintendent may require. They shall also keep the apothecary shop in order; wait on To^eep^ visitors if directed, and perforin such other ser-shop ia order- vices as may be required of them by the Superin- tendent or Assistant Physicians. 2. They shall not absent themselves from the to be absent apothecary shop, without permission, unless mission. 18 RULES AND REGULATIONS necessarily employed elsewhere. As their inter- course with the patients will be considerable, they must exert what moral influence they can to promote their comfort and welfare. STEWARDS ASSISTANT. To supply articles needed in kitchens, bakery and wash room. To execute orders of the steward and report inefficiency and miscon- duct. 1. It shall be his duty every morning to visit each kitchen, the bakery and wash-room, learn their condition and wants, and report to the Steward immediately after breakfast. He shall also see that the various departments are supplied with such articles as have been directed by the Superintendent or Steward, taking care to charge in a book kept for that purpose, each article thus delivered. 2. He shall, at all times, be ready to execute all orders given him by the Superintendent or Steward. It shall be his special duty to see that faithfulness and good order prevail in all the de- partments of labor, and to report immediately to the Superintendent, all instances of inefficiency, unfaithfulness or misconduct. MATRON S ASSISTANT. Duty of matron's assistant. It shall be her duty to remain in the Matron's office, to attend to the reception and discharge of female patients; when requested to do so, to wait upon friends that come to visit them, and to render the Matron all the assistance she is able in the kitchens and other departments of labor and supervision. NliW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. ' 19 CLE: IKS. 1. There shall be a Clerk, or extra attendant in the division for men, and another in that for To mark and ' keep accurate women, whose duty it shall be to receive the iYothSf*. clothing of patients, and see that eacb article is entered upon the clothes' book; that it is plainly marked with the name of the owner, and properly disposed of and preserved. In case a patient has jewelry, money or other articles not needed for use on the ward, they shall deliver the same to the Steward for safe keeping. 2. They shall also attend to the clothing of patients when discharged, and see that all articles cioffifwhca belonging to them are carefully put up and SischSSeST brought into the hall of the center building. When not necessarily engaged elsewhere, they shall remain in wards number one of their respective divisions, and be ready at all times to attend to orders from the Officers. When not otherwise engaged, they shall assist in the ordinary duties of attendants, and both shall do all they can to promote the eomfoi'fc and wel- fare of patients, and to maintain good order and fidelity throughout the establishment. SUPERVISORS OF DEPARTMENTS. 1. There are three departments for each sex. The first includes the wards numbered 1, 2, 3,™S?nof 4, 5; the second, those numbered 6, 7, 8, 9; the third, those numbered 10, 11, 12. 2. Eacb of these departments shall have a Supervisor, or first attendant, whose duty it supervisor. 20 - RULES AND REGULATIONS shall be, in addition to the other duties of an at- tendant, to have a general charge of the whole de- partment, to see to the administration of medicine and to communicate with the Physicians, Steward and Matron respecting the wants and condition of the patients in their respective departments, and to report to the Steward all damages done by patients. 3. They shall attend specially to the sick, see to attend the that they are treated with creat care and kind- sick and m- J o attendant!, ness; receive the orders of the Physicians, and see that they are faithfully executed. It shall be their duty to instruct new attendants in their duties, and see that they are efficient, industrious and kind. They shall assist in the arrangements for the burial of the dead, and be ready at all times to attend to any extraordinary services that may be required of them by the Superin- tendent. 4. They shall pay particular attention to new SwipaSSl,t8(;Pa^eil*s> see that tney are properly introduced S§ai and6 sm~ and informed about the establishment, their fears quieted by kind attention|and friendly assurances, and that the violent and suicidal are carefully watched. 5. They shall also see that the wards are prop- are Supplied!8 erty supplied with furniture^and articles for use, physicians1 of and shall often communicate with the Physicians respecting the patients, and inform them of changes in their condition that require atten- tion, and of those likely to be benefited or in- jured by exercise, labor, amusements or religious services. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 21 C. They shall in all things endeavor to carry into successful operation the plans of the Super- J^SJj™*38' mtendent, and shall constantly study to promote Sf|sndfpa' the comfort, contentedness and welfare of the tSem.out with patients, and for these purposes they shall visit every part of their respective departments several times each day. They shall also see to the changes of patients from one ward to another, and walk out with patients that are feeble or timid, or with others when they have time. OVERSEERS OF THE KITCHENS AND BAKERY. 1. The Kitchens and Bakery shall each have an Overseer, whose duty it shall be to see to the safe Duties of overseers of keeping and economical use of all the supplies ££*^8and furnished to those departments. They shall see that the food is well cooked and properly distrib- uted, and that nothing is wasted—that no extra or unusual articles are cooked for those in the To see that the . food is well kitchens, nor sent into the wards, unless the j£jjf;j*\*nd persons calling for such present a written orderdlstriDuted- of one of the Physicians—that there is no unnecessary or improper conversation carried on with those in the wards—that there is no rude or improper behavior in the kitchens or bakery—no bad language or quarreling, but that all work faithfully. They shall see that these departments, including store-rooms, &c, are kept neat and in good order, and that no peddlers or idle company be suffered to visit the ^0™iOTS kitchens or bakery—nor the attendants and as- sistants in other departments, without special business or by permission of one of the officers. 0 0 RULES AND PECULATIONS All violations of these rules, or instances of bad conduct on the part of those employed in their departments, are to be reported by the overseer to the Superintendent immediately. 2. In such an establishment, wheve there are Enforced. ^arge quantities of provisions and many hands employed, constant vigilance will be necessary to guard against the feeling on the part of any, that it is of no consequence if some things are lost or squandered; that they belong to the State, and that there are enough left. Any remark of this kind, or conduct indicating such feelings, shall be made known at once to the Superintendent. In short, the overseers are expected to know, from their own observation, that tlie articles and articiesandhat food intrusted to them, are safely kept and economi- keptanda y cally used, and that good order and cleanliness economically -i • n i i t -i • used. prevail in all the departments under their care. It shall be their duty to see that those employed rise early, and are attentive and faithful through- out the day and hours of labor. 3. It shall be no excuse for the overseers that Sewardfor their departments are not in good order for want help, f urni- n /y> • i i i c • i ture, &c ot sufficient help, furniture or proper arrange- ments, as their application to the Steward must be repeated until they are well furnished in these respects. OVERSEERS OF THE WASHING AND IRONING ROOMS. 1. The Overseer of the washing department SKSJlyt0 be sua^ c0^ect tne clothing and other articles to be dSiylredto1 wasted, as directed by the Steward and Matron, ironing' room. , , , , , ,. 1n and see that they are properly and carefully NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 23 washed, dried, and carried to the ironing rooms. Especial care must be taken that none are lost. For this purpose he must see that he receives all the articles on the lists given him, and that they are marked, and that he furnishes the same, with the lists, to the ironing rooms. 2. The overseer of the ironing rooms shall see that the clothes and other articles delivered pr0pbe\"ft0 be from the washing rooms are properly ironed, Slbuted. and correctly distributed, according to the lists furnished, as directed by the Steward and Matron. 3. The overseers of the washing and ironing rooms shall not permit attendants or assistants, ^?0^£ora or any company, or visitor into their depart- ments, except by the direction of one of the officers of the Asylum. Violations of this rule shall be reported to the Superintendent immediately. ENGINEER. 1. The Engineer shall have charge of the engine and boiler house, and general charge and °uj£feerf oversight of all the shops, and of the boilers, and engines; of all machinery in the shops, wash-house, ironing rooms, and in all other places about the in- stitution; and of the apparatus for extinguishing fires, for warming and ventilation; of the pipe fit- ting, sewers, water and gas supply and distribution, of the steam cooking apparatus, dumb-waiters, etc., and of all the fixtures and appliances connected therewith. He shall have direction of the plumber, fireman, and of any other assistants under him in 24 RULES AND REGULATIONS this department. He shall see to the economical use of fuel used in the steam boilers, and in the kitchens, &c, and guard against the waste of steam for cooking, washing, etc. 2. The firemen, and any person in charge of fireman0*the the engines and machinery, during the absence of the engineer from the engine house, shall be dili- gent and vigilant in keeping the fires under the boilers in proper condition, and the boilers sup- plied with water, and never leave their post of duty until relieved therefrom. 3. The doors of the attics shall always be ?iw°a|s°tobeic kept locked, and no persons except the officers, kept locked. engineer) carpenter and plumber shall enter them without permission of the Superintendent, or of one of the resident officers. OVERSEERS OF SHOPS. 1. The carpenter, painter, plumber, tailor, D^reler! of and all who have special charge of shops, shops. or particular branches of business, shall see that proper use is made of all materials and tools furnished them, that none are lost, or taken from the shops without the direction of an officer, and that good order and faithfulness are main- tained by all employed in the various branches of business, and that no articles are made, and no new business undertaken, but by the order of the Superintendent. 2. When patients assist, they shall be care- and3 attests8 ^ty attended to, and not suffered to go away, or to carry from the shop any tools, or articles not NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 25 belonging to them ; and at all times, and under all circumstances, they shall be treated with respect and kindness, and particular pains be taken to promote their comfort, cheerfulness and recovery. 3. Every overseer of a shop shall interdict the visits of attendants and assistants, and all other S?0™aOTS company to the shop under his charge, unless ac- companied by an officer, or by permission of an officer. Any violation of these rules, shall be immediately reported to the Superintendent. THE GARDENER, FARMER AND CARRIAGE DRFVER. 1. To the gardener is assigned the special care of the gardens, green-house and garden tools; J^f^*^ to the farmer, the farm and stock, including cows, a£vearnase hogs and poultry, and the" farm teams and imple- ments; to the carriage driver, the horses not used on the farm, and the carriages. 2. It shall be the duty of each to have every thing committed to their charge, attended to ing*™ofarH- the best manner. They shall see that the tools, wagons, implements, carriages, harnesses, abroad, make use of distilled spirits, or intoxicat- ing liquor of any kind, and it is desirable that NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 20 they should not use tobacco, but discourage the use of it by patients. DUTY OF ATTENDANTS TO PATIENTS. 1. The Attendants are to treat the inmates with respect and attention; greet them cheerfully ?£%°t*t~ with "good morning," or "good evening," andpatients- show them such other marks of good will and kindness as evince interest and sympathy. Under all circumstances, be kind and considerate; speak in a mild, persuasive tone of voice; never address a patient rudely, by a nickname, a chris- tian name, or a surname, but always politely, as Mr., Mrs. or Miss. 2. A patient is ever to be soothed and calmed when irritated; encouraged and cheered when Tl!.:ltlHc'nt:of ' " patients. melancholy or depressed. They must never be pushed, collared, nor rudely handled. To induce them to move, gentle, persuasive measures will prevail in most cases; when these fail, report to the Superintendent, or one of the Assistant Physicians. 3. If the attendant receives insult and abusive language, he must keep cool, forbear to recrimin-^^ce or- ate, to scold, threaten, or dictate in the language jjSJetob£ of authority. Violent hands are never to be laid™ on a patient, under any provocation. A blow is never to be returned, nor any oilier insult. Sufficient force to prevent the patient's injuring himself, or others, is always to be applied gently; and all struggling with a patient should, if possible, be avoided, by calling additional assistance, when a 30 RULES AND REGULATIONS patient is highly excited, or disposed to violence, before entering his room or attempting to dress or control him. 4. The attendants shall never apply any re- Seempfoyed straining apparatus, unless by order of a medical icai direction, officer, nor seclude a patient without giving im- mediate notice to one of the Physicians. Attention to dress of patients. Cleanliness and care of wards. 5. On rising in the morning, it is the duty of the attendants to see that each patient, confided to his or her care is thoroughly washed, hair combed, clothes brushed and cleaned, if necessary, collars, wristbands and suspenders buttoned, and all parts of the dress properly adjusted and se- cured, boots and shoes cleaned and tied; and in fact that the whole dress be neat and in good re- pair. All this should be relooked to throughout the day, and especially before going to meals, or religious services, or going to ride or walk. The patients' beds are then to be made, and the wards, day-rooms, bathing-rooms, passages and stairs to be swept, and the whole premises put in complete order as soon as it can be done; so that an inspection may be had of the house by the Physicians, commencing at 9 o'clock. Previous to this time, no patients are to leave the house to walk, labor, or ride, without direc- tions, special or general, of the medical officer. By 10 o'clock, the morning work should be com- pleted, and the house in order in every part. 6. One attendant must always be in each b^aiwly^on0 ward with the patients, and must not leave under any circumstances, until relieved. The attend- ants must not retire to their rooms while the the wards. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 31 patients are in the wards. This rule .must be observed in all the wards. 7. At meals the attendants must always be present to carve, distribute food to those who are g££ at meal incompetent to do it for themselves, and to see that every one has a proper supply. One of theni must be designated to see that no patient carry away a knife, fork or any other article from the table. 8. An attendant must never place in the hands of a patient, or leave where a patient can SrousVrti1-" get, any razor, "pen-knife, rope, cord, medicine, razors,mves' , -. medicine, &cm matches or any dangerous weapon or article. A constant watch of patients is to be kept in these respects; their beds frequently searched for such articles, and the knives and forks counted after each meal. An attendant must never deliver any be°cil[ivenrld0 letter or writing from or to a patient, without per- keptPwithoutr r, . i 'a , t . ... permission. mission of the superintendent; nor ever retain m his or her possession, without such permission, any writing of a patient. 9. The attendants in each ward are responsi- ble for the safe keeping of the patients therein, aiwayfto be and must not leave them, except in the care of some some respond- . , . . ble person. responsible person. There is an obvious impro- priety in attendants sitting in their rooms, en- gaged in reading or writing during hours of duty; Hours of duty. i. e., from the time the patients get up in the morning, until they retire at night. During this time, they should be in their rooms only long enough to adjust their own dress. All these hours, with this sole exception, should be devoted to the patients; endeavoring to keep them tidy and com- 32 RULES AND REGULATIONS Care against suicide and elopement. Care of clothing Duty of attendants when riding or walking out with patients. fort-able, to prevent improper conduct, bad pos- tures, (such as lying on the floor or ground, Arc.,) and to instruct, interest and amuse them by talking with them, reading to them, and the like. 10. Suicides and elopements are most frequent about meal times, at dusk, and at the hour of religious services; therefore, the strictest watch is to be kept at these times. Attendants must always be stationed where they can see patients during meals or religious services, and see that no one passes out of the house, and that each one returns to his or her apartment. Attendants are to look not merely to those under* their immediate charge, but with constant watchfulness, over all the patients, they must endeavor to prevent any from eloping or wandering. The clothes of sui- cidal patients, and every dangerous article should be removed from their rooms at night, and the windows secured. Each attendant should always know where every one is of those committed to their charge. 11. When patients ride out, it is the duty of the attendant to see that they do not leave the carriage, nor communicate with persons casually met, nor deliver letters, packages, or messages, nor procure weapons, tobacco or other articles. He is not to stop to do errands for himself or others, without permission of the Superintendent. When patients walk out with attendants, they shall keep them together, and observe the same prohibi- tions as in driving out; they shall also particularly avoid going near dangerous places, as railroads, canals, precipices, rivers, wells, machinery, A:c, or into woods or other places favorable for elopement. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 33 12. Supervisors will go to the medicine cup- board for medicines after each meal, and see that Kbsirvld0 they are given at the time directed, and that all mS. are taken. Each cup must be marked with the patient's name. Extreme care must be used to avoid mistakes, and to prevent patients helping themselves to medicine; therefore all cups, vials, boxes, Ace, containing medicine, must be immedi- ately returned, or if directed to be kept on the ward, shall be locked up. Within an hour from the time of taking them the cups shall be cleaned and returned to the medicine cupboard. In going for the cups, and returning them, the Supervisor must not delay in the passage, nor hold any other conversation than to report to the Medical Officers, changes in the condition of the pa- tients, which they are always to do immediately. 13. All damages by patients, and all their wants as to clothes and other articles necessary to Damagesand « ' wants to be put these rules in practice are to be reported by J^ce!?6*1 at the Supervisors, to the Steward or Matron. It will be no excuse for attendants that their rooms, beds and patients are not in ample order, to say they lave not what is necessary • for their application for such articles should be unceasing until they get them. Attendants must be partic- ularly careful not to break their keys, and when any door locks or unlocks with difficulty, imme- diate notice should be given at the Medical Office. 14. The attendants must never ridicule the patients, nor mock or imitate them, nor do any Jf^^^ thing to wound their feelings. If a patient en- sportedS . * , i others than o*aoes in any controversy, or other improper or the officers. exciting topic of discourse, the attendant must, in 34 RULES AND REGULATIONS the gentlest manner possible, interfere and check it; should such means fail, one of the medical officers should be informed immediately. The history, conduct and conversation of 'patients must never be spoken of to visitors, nor reported by attendants when abroad. 15. Attendants must look particularly to the patienteanter corn fort of patients in their special charge, both charge.30131 day and night, and see them early in the morning, on rising. In speaking to patients of the officers, attendants should inculcate respect and confi- dence in their management, and carry into opera- tion all directions and prescriptions, in the most ready and faithful manner. 16. Every patient must be in the charge of awefor^fe*" some responsible individual at all times, unless patients.0 permitted to be at large by the Superintendent. The person who takes a patient from one of the wards shall be accountable for his or her safe keeping until returned to the same, or intrusted by a resident officer to the care of another person. 17. No patient shall be permitted to go out of amoved from the ward in which his or her room is situated, order. without the consent of a resident medical officer ; and no new patient without an order of the Super- intendent or Assistant Physician in charge. 18. Food is not to be carried to the rooms of Food^not^to be patients; nor is anyone to be absent from the rooms. regular meals, excepting in cases of sickness or high excitement, without permission of one of the physicians. to notice and 19, Attendants will notice the habits and report _ SttenS"of conduct of patients, and inform the Physician NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 35 at his daily visit of all circumstances requiring attention, such as loss of appetite, or any indispo- sition, costiveness, tendency to suicide, &c. 20. No conversation must ever be held with patients through the windows, either by officers, SonTSniSid assistants or visitors; nor must anything be wSw's. thrown out through a window. DUTY TO THE INSTITUTION. 1. The attendants and assistants must never leave the Asylum without permission from the ^iStfflon Superintendent or an Assistant Physician. Appli- pSssion. catiou for leave of absence should be made several hours before leaving. Attendants, when thus leaving, must deposit the keys of their ward in the office, as directed, until their return. 2. The attendants must never give up a key, nor let any person into the wards without per- Attendants mission of a medical officer. No man attendant,theirkejs- without such permission, shall enter the division for women. 3. All persons who engage in employment at the Asylum, shall be considered as engaged for gmJgj,°nye9 one year, unless a special contract is made for a longer or shorter term. It is expected that all persons will fulfill their engagements scrupulously, as to time of service and duty to be performed, agreeably to their respective contracts; and no one shall discontinue service at the Asylum, or on the farm, without giving at least thirty days' notice, in writing, to the Superintendent or Steward. agreement. 36 RULES AND REGULATIONS 4. Every person employed as an attendant, or in any capacity, shall sign the following: AGREEMENT. In consideration of being employed by the Superintendent Agreement, of the New York State Lunatic Asylum, for the said Asy- lum, I do hereby agree to work for the said State Lunatic Asylum for one year from date, at any work or service assigned me by the said Superintendent, or other officer, on the terms specified payable after the first month, so that one month's wages will remain unpaid until the end of the year; and I agree to observe and obey the Rules and Regulations of the Asylum, and the direc- tions of the Superintendent or other officer, from time to time; and in case I leave my employment before the expira- tion of one year from date, without the permission of the Superintendent, or am discharged for the violation of the rules or neglect of duty, I am to forfeit one month's wages ; and if I continue in' the employment of the Asylum after the termination*»ff this contract, I agree to its full continu- ance, with a\l the conditions above specified. Dated this day of , 18 Name. | Residence. 5. No company shall be admitted into the ad°nutted°toe rooms or wards occupied by the patients at any byrpermfs!mn time, except by the express permission of the tendentnn" Superintendent; but all other parts of the Asy- lum and its grounds may be exhibited by the Steward, Assistant Physician or Matron. All persons employed by the institution are expected to show marked respect and attention to strangers and visitors. 6. An indispensable duty of the attendants cleanliness of ancj assistants, is to secure the perfect and sys- house, x J furniture, &e. ^emat;ic cleanliness and neatness of the Asvlum NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 37 and its inmates. No part of the house is to be considered clean, when it can be made cleaner. The floors, windows, tables, beds and bedding, cellars, closets and butteries are to be scrupulously attended to every day, so as to preserve a pure atmosphere. Chamber vessels are always to be removed and thoroughly cleaned immediately after use, and spittoons every day. All soiled clothing and bedding shall be immediately taken to the wash-house. All dust shafts and recepta- cles shall be emptied daily, and all dressings or cloths saturated with oil shall, immediately after use, be taken to the boiler house and there burned. 7. The attendants must look well to all doors and windows connected with the patients' roomsDoo^te and wards; and at bed time see that no attempts agl?nsttl0ns are made to get out, and that the patients' doors CM-dpt- are all safely locked, unless otherwise directed by the Superintendent, and the doors communicating with the center building. In locking doors, be careful always to hear the bolt slip ; this precau- tion will often prevent escapes. Visiting from ward to ward, and especially to the kitchen, bakery, laundry or shops, without special business, is a violation of duty. 8. The whole time of the attendants and as- sistants belongs to the Asylum. This rule applies IKSaSS6 °f equally to the clerks, supervisors, overseers, and aS-ium.t0 all persons in the employ of the Asylum. This does not prohibit each one from attending to his or her own clothing; but to no other service can they devote their time, nor can they receive any compensation, besides their regular wages, for any 38 RULES AND REGULATIONS service or labor, excepting only by express per- mission of the Superintendent in each case. 9. An attendant or assistant receiving a or°Iratuity to Present or gratuity from any patient in the Asylum, or the friend of a patient; or from a visitor; or selling to, or buying anything from a patient; or receiving any perquisite, of any kind whatever, shall be instantly dismissed. be received. Smoking forbidden. 10. No smoking shall be permitted in the wards, or about any of the out-building, kitchens, basements, or on the grounds. 11. On the occurrence of fire at any time in ^uper'visora the buildings, the supervisor of each department ants1ncca1eof will see that every patient is brought from the rooms iuto the wards, and all the room doors locked; the doors of the stairways leading out will be immediately unlocked, and an attendant placed on guard at each. No supervisor or attendant will leave their wards, unless under the direction of the Superintendent. HOURS FOR RISING, MEALS AND RETIRING. Hours for rising. Hours for meals. 1. The morning bell shall be rung for two or three minutes, at five o'clock, during the months of May, June, July and August; at five and one- half during April, September, October and No- vember; and at six during December, January, February and March. 2. Breakfast is to be placed upon the table, in the summer, at half-past six o'clock, in the spring and fall at seven, and at half-past seven in NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 39 the winter. Dinner will be served uniformly at half-past twelve m., and tea at six p. m., the year round. 3. The Asylum is to be closed at half-past nine o'clock every night; at which time the ggJEJof attendants and assistants must all retire to their apartments. 4. Sunday is to be a Sabbath, or day of rest and quiet, at the Asylum. The buildings and ofrlatyandday grounds are* not to be exhibited to visitors on pronUtte3^ this day; nor shall any visitor be admitted into the wards or rooms of patients or attendants, ex- cept in cases of serious illness, and by special permission of the Superintendent. 5. It is expected that all persons employed in the Asylum who are well, and can be snared from Employes to J ' ■!• attend chapel the duties of the house and wards, will, unless on Sunda-vs- leave of absence be granted in each case, attend public worship in the chapel, on the Sabbath. In the chapel, the attendants and assistants will take special care to guard against any disturbance of the service by the patients, and see that none leave the chapel, unless accompanied by an officer or attendant. CHAPLAIN. if chaplain. 1. It shall be the duty of the Chaplain to con duct the religious exercises of the Asylum on Sun- Duty01 days, unless another clergyman has been invited by the Superintendent, and on every other occasion when his services may be needed; and to have such intercourse with the patients and other inmates, 40 RULES AND REGULATIONS as the Superintendent may deem desirable for their benefit. 2. He may, at suitable times, procure the ser- vices of other clergymen at the religious exercises of the institution, with the consent and approba- tion of the Superintendent. VISITORS. The Managers of the Asylum are fully aware of the interest generally felt in its prosperity, and are desirous of affording suitable opportunities for visiting it and inspecting its internal arrange- ments; but they are convinced that the welfare of the patients, and the proper performance of the duties of the officers and attendants, require that such visitations should be subject to proper regulations. In order to secure to patients the quiet and se- clusion necessary to treatment, and to shield them from the improper observation of strangers, the Board of Managers have adopted the following rules for the admission of visitors.: 1. The Asylum will be open to visitors from 2 to 5 o'clock, p. m., except on Sundays, Saturday afternoons and holidays. 2. All visitors, except persons having business at the Asylum will be required to provide them- selves with tickets of admission from the Mana- gers, either of whom will grant the same, unless their knowledge of circumstances makes it, in their judgment, necessary to refuse. Rules and regulations for visitors. Tickets of admission. NEW YORK STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM. 41 3. No visitors will be permitted to enter the wards or the grounds in the rear of the buildings, ™mpan?ede unless accompanied by a Manager, or one of the Resident officers, or some one delegated by the Superintendent. 4. Persons wishing to see patients or learn their condition, will inquire for the Superintend- information ent or for one of the Assistant Physicians, and no Foreia&fi?" • X" x* • ■•. .ti . friends, &c. information concerning patients will be given except to relatives or family friends, and to public officers; and such information will be given only by the medical officers. 5. The person or persons directed to accom- pany visitors through the wards will not be per- pSaSties mitted to point out or mention the names or notptotibets peculiarities or conduct of patients. mentioned.