Matteawan State Hospital Special Watch Logs

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Overview of the Records

Repository
New York State Archives
222 Madison Avenue
Albany, NY 12230
Summary
This series consists of volumes reporting guard's observation on inmates at Matteawan who have suicidal tendencies. Observations are recorded usually at half hour intervals, twenty four hours a day. Entries typically provide the patient's name and number, the officer assigned the special watch, relieving officer, and actions made by the inmate or taken by the officer.
Title
Matteawan State Hospital special watch logs
Quantity
0.2 cubic feet; (11 volumes)
Inclusive Dates
Series Number
A1518
Creator
Arrangement

Chronological.

Scope and Content Note

This series consists of nine bound and two unbound volumes reporting guards' observations of inmates at Matteawan who had suicidal tendencies. Ten of the logs record guards' observations on an inmate for as long as the inmate was placed on special watch. Observations are recorded usually at half hour intervals, twenty four hours a day. The entry will provide the patient's name and number, the officer assigned the special watch, relieving officer, and actions made by the inmate or taken by the officer.

Volume two records names of officers assigned to special watch, and the names, wards, and numbers of inmates they are to watch; names of visitors to the ward (if from outside Matteawan, the reason for the visit); and a census figure of the ward for the shift recorded.

Access Restrictions

Restricted in accordance with Section 33.13, Mental Hygiene Law, relating to confidentiality of clinical records. Access permitted under certain conditions upon application to and approval by the Office of Mental Health.

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