Elopement Precautions Cheat Sheet

This cheat sheet outlines the essential protocols for managing Level 1 patients requiring elopement precautions, ensuring patient safety and proper care transitions.

Core Principles

• All Level 1 patients require elopement precautions.
• Level 1 status is assigned due to lack of capacity or psychiatric involuntary commitment (PIC).
• Appropriate room placement or a plan for safe room transfer is mandatory.
• Green gowns are required for all Level 1 patients.
• Clear communication of the Level 1 reason during handoff is crucial.

Key Terms

• Level 1 Patient: A patient designated as Level 1 due to lacking capacity or being under psychiatric involuntary commitment (PIC).
• Elopement Precautions: Measures implemented to prevent a patient from leaving the facility without authorization.
• PIC (Psychiatric Involuntary Commitment): A legal status where a patient is held for psychiatric evaluation or treatment against their will.
• Sitter: A staff member assigned to continuously observe a patient.
• Rounders: Staff who make regular checks on patients, but not continuous observation.
• Environmental Assessment: Evaluation of the patient's surroundings to ensure safety and prevent elopement risks.