California Nursing Home Administrator License Practice Exam

What should a facility's elopement policy include?

1. Notification requirements for families

2. Staff training on how to conduct searches

3. How staff will search the facility's premises immediately

4. Protocols for resident re-integration

The correct answer is: How staff will search the facility's premises immediately

The elopement policy is a vital component in ensuring the safety and security of residents in a facility. Including how staff will search the facility's premises immediately is crucial because it outlines the immediate actions that need to be taken when a resident is found missing. This ensures that staff are prepared to respond swiftly to locate the resident, minimizing the risks associated with elopement, such as exposure to dangerous situations or the possibility of the resident getting lost. Additionally, having a clear protocol for how searches will be conducted helps to standardize procedures, ensuring all staff are aware of their roles and responsibilities during such an emergency. It is important to have an efficient, organized, and rapid response to elopement incidents, which can significantly impact the wellbeing of vulnerable residents. By focusing on immediate search actions, the policy reinforces the priority of resident safety and the importance of quick intervention. Other components of an elopement policy, while important, relate to broader aspects of communication, training, and post-incident recovery. They are integral to comprehensive planning but do not address the crucial need for immediate action that can prevent potential harm or dangerous outcomes for the missing resident.