HospitalInspections.org

Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to provide 1 of 1 patient (Patient #1) a safe setting in that he was able to elope from the facility. The patient used a picnic table that was next to a fence to jump over the fence and elope while he was on elopement precautions.

Findings included:

1) Patient #1's physician orders dated 05/19/11 reflected he was on close observation precautions and elopement precautions. The elopement precautions were based on the patient's history of running away.

2) The facility entitled "Safety Precautions" reflected that patients on close observation and elopement precautions were to be accompanied outside by two staff members.

3) In an interview at 09:30 AM on 06/09/11 the Charge Nurse (Employee #2) was asked if the patient was outside with two staff members when he eloped. She confirmed that she had returned to the building leaving only one staff member outside with the patient. She confirmed that the patient eloped without adequate supervision.

Facility Policy, "Safety Precautions"
"...Procedures...III. Close Observations ...2. Two staff are required to escort patients on CO's outside for fresh air ...
IV. Elopement Precautions (EP's) 1. Elopement Precaution (EP's) occurs when the patient is at risk for eloping from the unit and/or has a history of running away...
2. Two staff are required to escort patients on EP's outside for fresh air ..."

Facility Patient Rights Policy
"Basic Rights for all patients ...3. You have the right to a clean and humane environment in which you are protected from harm ..."