Patient Elopement Introduction It is the policy of

Patient Elopement

Introduction • It is the policy of CHSB to provide a reasonable search, pursuit, communication and documentation in the event a patient has left the premises on elopement.

Definition of Terms • Elopement – Also known as AWOL • AWOL (Absent Without Leave) – Patient has left unit and/or facility without discharge and without notification of hospital staff, or has not returned from a designated pass at the ordered time

It is the responsibility of ALL clinical staff to follow the established guidelines in the event a patient has eloped

Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped 1. Staff is to make an immediate search of the department. Staff will not pursue patients beyond hospital 2. Notify Manager/Senior Director and House Supervisor 3. Notify Security Officer and give description of patient § PSO will search hospital § PSO will check the outside grounds and report back to the nursing staff

Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped 5. After all efforts have been exhausted and patient is not located, the patient’s representative will be contacted and asked to return the call if the patient arrives home 6. Notify the local police department if patient condition indicates § Prepare to give a physical description § Medical information pertinent to the immediate safety of the patient should be provided 6. Notify attending physician 7. Document patient’s behavior prior to AWOL, calls placed to physician, family and information regarding the patient’s whereabouts and police report number if police is notified

Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped 8. If patient is found, notify department manager, House Supervisor, physician, Security Officer, family and police if they were called and not instrumental in finding the patient first. 9. If the patient returns voluntarily, do the following: § Assess the patient § Consider toxicology if there is a reason to believe that patient used mind-altering substances. Obtain orders as indicated for toxicology to screen for substances § Conduct a search for contraband articles § Notify attending physician of patient's return § Document patient’s return and condition

Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped 10. If the patient does not return after two (2) hours, contact the patient’s attending physician and request an order for discharge against medical advice and follow discharge procedure 11. For patients in Emergency Department, please refer to the Patient Disposition policy

Dial extension 1000 if your patient eloped CODE GREEN is called when a patient eloped

Dial extension 1000 if your patient is combative CODE GRAY is called when a patient is combative

If in doubt or have questions regarding patient who eloped, contact your house supervisor for assistance

Thank You