HospitalInspections.org

Based on a review of the clinical record and facility policy, the facility failed to protect the patient's right to refuse treatment, as informed consent was not obtained prior to the administration of a psychoactive medication.

Findings were:

Review of the medication administration record and the psychoactive medication consents revealed that patient #1 received Clonidine (given for mood and impulsivity) prior to consent being obtained on 8-8-22. The patient received doses of Clonidine on 8-4-22 at 8:00 pm, 8-5-22 at 8:00 pm and on 8-8-22 at 8:00 pm. Consent was obtained on 8-8-22 at 8:30 pm.

Facility policy titled "Informed Consent, Medications" states, in part:
"Policy
All patients who have psychotropic medication ordered and legal representatives of patients who have psychotropic medication ordered will be informed of the benefits and risks involved in taking prescribed medication.

Except in emergency situations, informed consent will be obtained prior to administering psychotropic medication."

The above was confirmed in an interview with the COO on 10-12-22.