Failure to Maintain Wander Guard Bracelets in Safe Operating Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that Wander Guard bracelets, which are used to monitor residents at risk for wandering or elopement, were maintained in safe operating condition for two of three sampled residents. Specifically, the facility did not have a process in place to check the operational status or battery life of the Wander Guard bracelets, nor did they have a regimen for cleaning and disinfecting the devices. Interviews with a licensed nurse revealed that while staff were trained to check the placement of the bracelets, they were unaware of any procedures to verify if the devices were functioning or had sufficient battery power. The Director of Nursing confirmed that there was no documentation or process to ensure the Wander Guards were operational, had adequate battery life, or were being cleaned as recommended by the manufacturer. A review of the manufacturer's manual indicated that the bracelets require weekly battery testing and periodic cleaning and disinfection, with specific instructions for how this should be done. The facility's own policy referenced the use of Wander Guards as an intervention for residents at risk of wandering or elopement but did not include procedures for maintaining the devices. As a result, the lack of maintenance and monitoring of the Wander Guard bracelets created a deficiency in ensuring the safety and security of residents identified as at risk for wandering.