Personal Alarms Policy

Personal Alarms Policy

Effective Date: [Original NPP Date]
Revised Date: [Current Date]

Goal

To alert staff when a resident at risk for falls is attempting to climb out of bed, get out of a chair, or ambulate without required assistance, and to identify when and why residents may become restless.

Policy

1. Temporary Use: Alarms and sensors should be used for a short time while other interventions are being implemented or to identify individual patterns.
2. Resident and Family Involvement: Alarm use will be discussed with both the resident and family.
3. Care Plan Update: The Care Plan is updated to include alarm use, type of alarm used, and response to the alarm.
4. Alarm Maintenance: Ensure alarm integrity is maintained, including:
   • Battery functioning
   • Intact wires
   • Alarms in ON position when in use

Procedure

1. Assessment:

   • Assess the resident for fall risk factors.
   • Determine the necessity for an alarm based on the resident's condition and risk factors.
   • Discuss the assessment and the need for an alarm with the resident and family, obtaining consent for its use.

2. Implementation:

   • Select the appropriate type of alarm (bed alarm, chair alarm, or personal sensor).
   • Ensure the alarm is properly set up and tested for functionality.
   • Document the alarm type and its setup in the resident’s Care Plan.

3. Monitoring:

   • Regularly check the alarm’s functionality, including battery status and wire integrity.
   • Confirm the alarm is in the ON position when the resident is in bed or seated.
   • Monitor the resident’s behavior and response to the alarm.

4. Interventions and Evaluation:

   • Implement other fall prevention interventions simultaneously with alarm use.
   • Evaluate the resident’s patterns and behaviors to identify underlying causes of restlessness or attempts to move without assistance.
   • Adjust the Care Plan as needed based on the evaluation.
   • Aim to reduce and eventually discontinue alarm use as other interventions take effect and the resident's condition stabilizes.

5. Documentation:

   • Document discussions with the resident and family regarding alarm use.
   • Update the Care Plan with details of the alarm type, setup, and response protocols.
   • Record regular checks and maintenance of the alarm.
   • Note any incidents or issues related to the alarm in the resident’s medical record.

References

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. State Operations Manual, Appendix PP - Guidance to Surveyors for Long-Term Care Facilities. [Link to current CMS SOM]
• CMS Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. [Link to current guidelines]