Failure to Respect Resident Dignity in Use of Wandering Security Bracelet
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide care and services in a manner respectful of a resident's dignity, as required by regulation. A review of facility policy indicated that wandering security bracelets are to be used for residents at risk of elopement or unsafe wandering. Clinical record review for a resident admitted with pyogenic arthritis and spinal stenosis showed that the resident was not cognitively impaired, required supervision for ambulation and transfers, and did not exhibit wandering behavior. Elopement evaluations initially indicated no risk, and although a later evaluation noted the resident expressed a desire to go home and was labeled as wandering, there was no supporting evidence in the clinical record of actual wandering or elopement attempts. Observation revealed the resident wearing a wandering security bracelet, and during an interview, the resident expressed feeling insulted by the bracelet and stated they were only at the facility for antibiotics and physical therapy, wishing only to go outside when weather permitted. There was no documentation that the use of the bracelet was discussed with the resident or that the resident consented to its use. The facility administrator confirmed that the resident should not have had the wandering security bracelet.