Safe room care

Article Translations: (Spanish) (Somali)

We understand this is a stressful time for your family. We will ensure that your child is in a safe environment at all times while at Children's. We want to partner with you in the care and safety of your child. A social worker, nurse, and doctor will meet with your child and you to plan individualized care.

What is a safe room?

You may hear the health care team talking about "safe rooms" or "suicide precautions." These are the measures being taken to ensure your child's safety. After your child's mental health assessment, the decision to stop the safe room precautions will be made together by the doctor, nurse, social worker and/or psychologist. These precautions are to ensure your child's safety and will need a doctor's order to stop them.

How will my child be kept safe?

We appreciate your cooperation with the following measures to ensure your child's safety:

• Your child will never be alone. A staff member will be with your child at all times, including trips to the bathroom. Same-gender staff can accompany your child if needed. Caregivers cannot substitute for staff.
• A light will be on at all times in the room in order for staff to be able to see your child.
• Your child will be given hospital-approved clothing that will be worn throughout the stay.
• All hazardous items, such as sharp objects, cords, and plastic bags have been removed from the room or secured.
• No personal computers, mobile phones, tablets, or other personal electronic devices will be allowed in the safe room.
• Your child's personal items must be checked by a staff member for things that might cause harm; these items will be safely locked up or sent home with a family member.
• Plastic ware will be used for meals. Soda cans, glass bottles, and plastic knives are not allowed.
• No gifts. All personal care items brought for the patient need to be checked by a staff member before they are taken into the room.
• All bags (such as backpacks or purses) are not allowed in the room, for both child and caregiver. We can provide a cabinet or locker where you can put them, or you can return them to your vehicle.
• Your child cannot leave the unit unless accompanied by a staff member for a test or procedure.
• Activities will be limited to those approved by the hospital social worker, examples of activities may include quiet play and in-room movies.

Questions?

This sheet is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to the nurse, social worker, or doctor.

Reviewed 9/2020

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