Neglect is one of the few categories of incidents that has shown a sharp increase over the last two years.  Statewide, the number of reported incidences of possible neglect has risen from 1109 in 2004 to 1140 in 2005 and to 1256 in 2006.  This represents a 22% increase in just two years (Information received from DPWUSERY 10/29/2007).

 

Ways to Avoid Leaving Someone Unsupervised

 

* Using the drive-thru at the bank or fast food restaurant, instead of leaving people alone in a vehicle

* Utilize markets that deliver groceries, rather than leave the home unstaffed or take the individuals and then leaving them in the van

* Develop systems of required “check-ins” by staff working overnight and also make unannounced visits a regular part of your management plan

* Be aware of support staff who have family responsibilities and/or second jobs and who can “put in a bind” if their relief is delayed (or non-existent), BUT ALSO make sure that all employees understand that their first obligation is to the individuals in their care and that, if they cannot honor that obligation is, they should not accept a position with you

* Develop flexibility to assure coverage when there is an unanticipated absence, including the assignment of managerial/supervisory staff to “fill in” when necessary to assure that the needs of the individuals are met

* Adopt a “Zero Tolerance” policy regarding staff placing their own needs ahead of the individuals they support.  Many, if not most of the incidents where individuals are left in a vehicle appear to occur because the staff person is doing something he or she needs to do for him/herself, not something for the individual in their care

* Assure that staff understands explicitly (and that supervisory/program staff define explicitly) what “one-to-one” or other forms of enhanced supervision means with regard to the person they are supporting

* DON’T ASK SUPPORT STAFF TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE!!!  Don’t assign someone to one-to-one responsibility with one individual and additional responsibility for other individuals

* Don’t place staff in a position where they almost certainly will fail to meet the expectations placed upon them and then blame them when it happens

* Responsibility must be shared to assure that we have in place what is needed to keep each individual safe and healthy

                                                                             

                                                                             

DPWUSERY 10/29/2007