Padded cell

Under soft cell ( colloquially padded cell, formerly also: Tobzelle ) or crisis intervention area it is in psychiatry a closed small room where the patient during severe psychopathology -related seizures in which they themselves and others jeopardize can be kept. Soft cells have a long tradition in classical psychiatry, but since about the eighties in Europe rarely in use, because they have become largely redundant with the development of modern drugs. Outside the industrialized countries but they are routinely used. Particularly in Africa, but also in India they are found in every psychiatric hospital. German clinics often have soft cells still.

Contrary to popular belief, patients were not locked in soft cells over time. They came only during their attacks there, otherwise a very elaborate, more hour support by many nurses would have been necessary. A patient who is brought into the cell and can move freely, breaking together soon for entering exhaustion and must be taken immediately to further supply from the cell afterwards. The cells do not provide any nutrition and hygiene. Views, according to which a patient in the cell can be permanently " housed " are false.

The cell also allows you to have a seizure patients live, rather than to suppress it with medication. This is from the perspective of different, occurring psychiatric world views a preference dar.

Construction of a soft cell

A soft cell contains only a small number of articles. Are usual a day bed and a sitting area, both made of soft rubber-like material. The bottom and the walls are sometimes lined with foam and covered with a durable, highly resistant plastic film. Window, if any, are attached to the top or only a small gap are far postponed. The cell must have a common window into the door, which allows to view every corner of the cell. In the middle of the room is to simplify cleaning a drain. Since garments pose a risk, patients are placed in individual cases naked in the room. Radiators are suitable dressed. The overhead light from the outside can only be switched on and off by the personnel. Patients can get in touch with needs by calling or knocking.

• Psychiatry