HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation record review and interview, the facility failed to uphold a patient's right to be free of restraint.

During a tour of the elderly "Red Unit" 9/8/25 at 1:00 pm three patients (C, G and H) were in the dayroom in fully reclined Geri chairs with staff nearby. Staff #3, Registered Nurse (RN) was asked why these patients were in the Geri chairs. She responded, "for fall protection." She added that they could walk but were unsteady so were placed in reclined Geri chairs to prevent them from independently rising and falling. She said the patients cannot get out of the chairs independently, so they did not fall when in them. She was asked how long they had been in the chairs and stayed most of the morning, about three hours.

She stated they will be getting up after lunch for "Walking group" where they are walking short distances, as able, for a few minutes. Staff RN #4 were asked the same, which elicited the same responses.

Review of physician orders for patients (C, G and H) revealed none had orders for restraints. Staff RNs #3 and #4 were asked if the chairs reclined without patients being able to rise were restraints? Both stated they were unaware they were restraints so did not consider the need for an order for restraints or monitoring of them.