| (a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish
the agency's role in managing a pregnant youth committed to Texas
Youth Commission (TYC). New commitment, recommitment, or revocation
of a female in her seventh month of pregnancy is not encouraged by
TYC. Committing counties are encouraged to make arrangements for the
youth's care until delivery of the child.
(b) In recognition of the high-risk nature of adolescent
pregnancy and the importance of immediate prenatal care, all female
youth receive a pregnancy test on admission to TYC.
(c) The agency shall provide regular prenatal and post-natal
care to pregnant youth. This care includes medical examinations, appropriate
activity levels, safety precautions, and nutrition. If a pregnant
youth is determined to be chemically dependent through the assessment
process at the time of admission, the youth will receive appropriate
care for the high-risk pregnancy in order to manage any medical complications
of the youth or her child associated with the addiction.
(d) A youth who is committed, recommitted or had parole
revoked during pregnancy will be placed appropriate to risk and need
as determined by TYC centralized placement. Youth will be provided
counseling and assistance in planning for the care of their unborn
child after delivery. Youth are not allowed to house their children
in TYC operated facilities.
(e) Therapeutic measures may be required in instances
of imminent or inevitable abortion, incomplete abortion, or missed
abortion. Surgical procedures may be required to terminate the pregnancy
to preserve life of the mother. Termination will be allowed as a therapeutic
measure when necessary; however, a written documentation of need must
be provided by two physicians. Written documentation may be provided
by the facility physician and an obstetrician or family practitioner.
(f) TYC will neither provide funds for nor allow contract
medical providers to perform an induced abortion, solely for the purpose
of terminating a normal pregnancy, on any female committed to the
TYC.
(g) Upon request, TYC personnel may direct a youth
requesting abortion services to available resources. The youth or
youth's parent/guardian will be responsible for arranging appointments
and paying for all services related to the abortion.
|
| Source Note: The provisions of this §380.9195 adopted to be effective December 31, 1996, 21 TexReg 12185; amended to be effective February 20, 1998, 23 TexReg 1115; amended to be effective June 21, 1999, 24 TexReg 4466; transferred effective June 4, 2012, as published in the Texas Register June 22, 2012, 37 TexReg 4639 |
