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Based on clinical record review and interview, it was determined the Facility failed to fully disclose the risks and benefits of transfer specific to the condition of the transferred patients. Failure to fully disclose the risks and benefits did not allow six of six (#1, #3, #4, #9, #13, and #15) transferred patients to make an informed decision regarding the need for the transfer along with associated risks and benefits particular to the patient's medical condition. The failed practice was likely to affect Patients #1, #3, #4, #9, #13, and #15. Findings follow.

A. Review of clinical records showed the following:
1) Patient #1 presented on 09/13/17 with UTI (urinary tract infection) and weakness. Review of the transfer form showed benefits of transfer as "unable to admit." No risks of transfer were listed.
2) Patient #3 presented on 08/19/17 with a diabetic foot ulcer and cellulitis. Review of the transfer form showed benefits of transfer as "Physician specialties needed are not available," and risks of transfer were listed as "Discomfort during transport; Possible worsening of condition during transport; No further treatment/improvement possible; and Potential for accident during transport."
3) Patient #4 presented on 08/20/17 for a UTI x 1 month. Review of the transfer form showed the benefits of transfer as "Physician specialties needed are not available," and risks of transfer were listed as "Discomfort during transport; Possible worsening of condition during transport; No further treatment/improvement possible; and Potential for accident during transport."
4) Patient #9 presented on 09/11/17 with a ruptured appendix. Review of the transfer form showed benefits of transfer as "physician specialties needed are not available," and risks of transfer were listed as "Discomfort during transport; Possible worsening of condition during transport; No further treatment/improvement possible; and Potential for accident during transport."
5) Patient #13 presented on 09/20/17 with fractures of the scapula and ankle. Review of the transfer form showed benefits of transfer as "Diagnostic test/procedures/treatments indicated are not available at current facility and Physician specialties needed are not available," and risks of transfer were listed as "Discomfort during transport and No further treatment/improvement possible."
6) Patient #15 presented on 10/09/17 following a possible stroke. Review of the transfer form showed benefits of transfer as "physician specialties needed are not available," and risks of transfer were listed as "Discomfort during transport; Possible worsening of condition during transport; No further treatment/improvement possible; and Potential for accident during transport."
B. During an interview on 10/11/17 at 1:58 PM, the Market Director of Nursing confirmed the risks and benefits were not specific to the condition/diagnosis of the patient.