How often should a prisoner labeled at risk be checked when placed in a holding cell?

Checking a prisoner labeled at risk every 10 minutes while they are in a holding cell aligns with best practices for ensuring their safety and well-being. This frequency of checks strikes a balance between constant monitoring and the ability to maintain adequate staff resources.

Prisoners identified as at risk may be prone to self-harm, suicidal ideation, or other behaviors that require vigilant supervision. By conducting checks every 10 minutes, corrections staff can quickly respond if any concerning behavior is observed, leading to timely interventions that could prevent potential harm.

Additionally, this interval allows for enough time between checks to avoid overwhelming the prisoner while still providing reassurance that they are being monitored. In many institutions, such protocols are designed to comply with established standards for the care and observation of vulnerable individuals in custody, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in ensuring their security and mental health.