Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

How is elopement defined in the context of healthcare?

1. Running away from group activities

2. Leaving a healthcare facility without permission

3. Moving from one room to another

4. Running off leaving a safe area or premises, done by a person with a mental disorder or cognitive impairment

The correct answer is: Running off leaving a safe area or premises, done by a person with a mental disorder or cognitive impairment

In the context of healthcare, elopement specifically refers to an individual with a mental disorder or cognitive impairment exiting a safe area or facility without permission. This definition encompasses the potential risk and concern for the patient's safety due to their decreased awareness or understanding of their surroundings. When discussing elopement, particularly in healthcare settings, it is crucial to understand the vulnerabilities of individuals who may not be fully aware of the dangers posed by leaving a secure environment. This act can pose significant risks, not only to their own safety but also to the safety of others. The fact that it is particularly associated with those who have mental or cognitive challenges emphasizes the need for proper supervision and intervention strategies to help prevent such occurrences. The other options do not accurately capture the seriousness or context in which elopement is discussed within healthcare. For example, simply running away from group activities or moving from one room to another do not encompass the concerns associated with the severity of leaving a facility unsupervised. Similarly, while the context of individuals with cognitive impairments is important, only the definition emphasizing their risk while eloping accurately defines the term in healthcare.