HospitalInspections.org

Based on interview and record review, the Hospital failed to provide education and training in the use of a chair restraint for 2 of 3 police officers (Police Officers #2 and #3). On 4/3/16, Hospital staff, which included 3 police officers employed by the Hospital, placed Patient #1 in a restraint chair. Police Officers #2 and #3 had no documented education or training in the use of chair restraints.

Findings include:

The UMass Memorial Medical Center Policy for Restraints, dated 10/15/15, indicated, "Designated hospital staff will receive focused training as appropriate to perform assigned duties under this policy prior to staff being asked to implement provisions of this policy. Staff shall be assessed for competency periodically as indicated in their training plan."

On 6/7/16 at 11:45 A.M., the Surveyor observed 2 recorded camera video-only feeds taken of interview Room #5, date/time stamped 4/3/16, from approximately 7:15 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. The Surveyor observed Hospital staff secure Patient #1 in a restraint chair, located on the Emergency Mental Health (EMH) Unit. The Surveyor observed Police Officers #2 and #3 actively restrain Patient #1's limbs and torso.

The Surveyor interviewed EMH Unit Nurse Manager #1 at 10:10 A.M. on 6/7/16. Nurse Manager #1 said it was Hospital policy for all staff who actively participate in a patient chair restraint to be formally trained in the chair restraint policy and procedure. Nurse Manager #1 said certain staff were qualified to teach other staff how to use the restraint chair and that this was done through formal in-service education. Nurse Manager #1 said Hospital Police Officers have assisted with chair restraints since the chair was placed in service approximately 4 years ago and that the officers actively participate in chair restraints on a regular basis.

The Surveyor interviewed the Director of Patient Safety and Regulatory Compliance at 10:00 A.M. on 6/7/16. The Director of Patient Safety and Regulatory Compliance said that education and in-service training for all staff was held in their personnel and training files.

Review of Officer #2's and Officer #3's personnel and training files indicated there was no documentation present to indicate either officer received education or in-service training in the policy and procedure of chair restraints.