Missing Patient Policy

Introduction

The Surrey Safeguarding Adult Board (SSAB) has signed up to the Surrey wide “Multi-Agency Response Agreement In Relation To Missing Adults Who Are Receiving Care Services” that has been developed by Surrey Police. This policy has been written to clarify expectations and roles in the Trust when a patient goes missing.

The Trust has a duty of care for the safety of its patients. At the same time, patients retain a legal right to leave the hospital unless they are detained under the Mental Health Act 1983, the Mental Capacity Act 2005 or by a court order. This document advises staff of action to be taken, and by whom, in the event of a patient being identified as missing.

The Trust needs to be vigilant in its care of all patients particularly those deemed as vulnerable which includes, but is not exclusive to, those who:

• have mental health problems and are felt to be potentially at risk of harm to themselves or other people
• are confused and may not have the ability to keep themselves safe outside hospital
• lack capacity to make decisions in relation to their care and treatment
• are under the age of 18
• have a physical injury or illness that may affect their capacity to make decisions and keep themselves safe

Policy Details

See also:

• Safeguarding Policy
• Clinical Holding and Restraint Policy
• Mental Capacity Act Policy
• Care of Patients Requiring Close Observation Policy
• Tranquilisation Policy
• Management of Violence and Aggression