Physical Restraints

How AHCA classifies it

Florida classifies each deficiency under section 429.19, Florida Statutes: Class I (imminent danger), Class II (direct threat), Class III (indirect or potential threat) and Class IV (minor, paperwork-level). Class III is by far the most common.

Where it is cited

What the requirement says

AHCA’s requirement text as it appears on the inspection report, verbatim.

(8) PHYSICAL RESTRAINTS. Residents for whom a physician has prescribed a physical restraint must have a written care plan for the use of the physical restraint. The care plan must be developed within 14 days of the device being prescribed, and prior to use on the resident. (a) The care plan must specify: 1. The device prescribed for use; 2. The maximum amount of time the resident is to have the restraint applied each day; and, 3. In what manner and frequency staff will monitor, observe, and report to the physician any injuries, increase in agitation, signs and symptoms of depression, or decline in mobility or function related to the use of the prescribed restraint. (b) Facility staff must ensure that the device is applied appropriately and safely. (c) The resident's physician must review the appropriateness of the continued use of the physical restraint annually, and documentation of this review must be maintained in the resident's record. If the resident's ability to independently remove or avoid the device fluctuates, the device must be considered a physical restraint and all requirements of this subsection apply.