1. Patient Elopement

2. 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.

3. Definition of Terms Elopement AWOL (Absent Without Leave)
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

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

5. Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped
Staff is to make an immediate search of the department. Staff will not pursue patients beyond hospital
Notify Manager/Senior Director and House Supervisor
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

6. Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped
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
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
Notify attending physician
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

7. Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped
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.
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

8. Procedure to Follow When a Patient Eloped
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
For patients in Emergency Department, please refer to the Patient Disposition policy

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

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

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

12. Thank You