Resident Restrained with Gait Belt for Staff Convenience
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with multiple diagnoses, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, muscle weakness, impaired mobility, and a history of falls, was physically restrained in a wheelchair using a gait belt. The care plan for the resident included interventions such as a high back wheelchair for comfort and positioning, keeping the call light within reach, and ensuring the resident was within sight of staff when up in the wheelchair. However, during an incident, a CNA used a gait belt to restrain the resident in the wheelchair for approximately 15 minutes to prevent the resident from falling while staff were occupied with another resident. The CNA stated the restraint was applied for the resident's safety and was not aware it constituted abuse. The use of the gait belt as a restraint was reported by staff during shift change, and the nurse on duty, as well as the DON, were notified. The gait belt was found still attached to the wheelchair in a restraining position. The facility's abuse prevention policy defines unreasonable confinement as abuse, and the CNA involved had previously received education on abuse and restraints. The incident was documented and discussed among staff, and the resident did not exhibit any immediate effects from the restraint.