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In my last building we had many residents who constantly tried to elope. Many of them could get the Wanderguard bracelets off by cutting them or chewing through them. I called several companies to try to find a different kind of strap. One company was developing a Kevlar one...it's the same material used in bullet proof vests...but the material was damaging to skin. We finally ended up sewing the wander guard into the lining of a coat the resident always (yes always) wore.
In my last building we had many residents who constantly tried to elope. Many of them could get the Wanderguard bracelets off by cutting them or chewing through them. I called several companies to try to find a different kind of strap. One company was developing a Kevlar one...it's the same material used in bullet proof vests...but the material was damaging to skin. We finally ended up sewing the wander guard into the lining of a coat the resident always (yes always) wore.
that is an interesting idea, for the residents who do wear the same item always. Too bad there wasn't a way to attach them to shoes!
that is an interesting idea, for the residents who do wear the same item always. Too bad there wasn't a way to attach them to shoes!
You can attach a wanderguard to a shoe through the laces. We have also hidden them in the lining of a handbag and decorated them with a clock face so the resident thinks they are wearing a watch. You have to get creative and discover what works for your particular resident.
Instead of banding have you considered branding?Note this is humor and I do not condone the wonton use of branding irons.
Not a fan of branding-that won't prevent an elopement,it only ensures they are returned. I am liking the idea of a tranquilizer dart.Or maybe a soft rocker with big stuffed arms that each time the resident attempts to stand the arms wrap around them and administer a firm hug.Maybe with a little recorder in the head rest that we can customize "Mama,please sit and stay with me"
We just put it around their ankles If they are confused enough, 99.9% of the time they won't know it is even there. the other .01% of the time, they are unable to reach it because they are 1) in restraints. 2) unable to move.
but that is in a hospital where it kinda works and they only have temporary ones, made from that crazy paper that NEVER rips no matter how hard you pull, yet a 70 lb, 90 year old tiny little old lady rips it with just one pull....that kind of paper :)
Heatherxo
3 Posts
Currently our facility uses 1/2 inch copper chains which are clipped to each side of the gray plastic wandergaard device, but the chains are being discontinued. Plus they discolor and make the patients skin discolor too.
We are looking for something only staff can remove with appropriate tools.
What do you use when you need a heavy duty unremoveable bracelet for your wanting-to-leave patients?
thank you!