Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) Practice Test

What is required in a facility if exiting may pose a hazard to residents with dementia?

1. Staff member at each exit

2. Auditory device to monitor exits

3. Regular safety drills

4. Locked facility doors

The correct answer is: Auditory device to monitor exits

In a facility where exiting may pose a hazard to residents with dementia, having an auditory device to monitor exits is essential for ensuring the safety of those residents. Such devices can alert staff members if a resident attempts to leave the facility, thus allowing for immediate intervention. This method enhances supervision without overly restricting residents’ freedom to move around safely within their environment. While having a staff member at each exit would certainly improve monitoring, it may not be practical due to staffing limitations and the need for staff to be available elsewhere in the facility. Regular safety drills are important for preparedness but do not provide real-time monitoring of exits. Locked facility doors can help prevent residents from wandering outside, but they can also create a sense of confinement, which may lead to distress among residents. The use of auditory monitoring balances the need for safety with the dignity and autonomy of residents, making it a more favorable approach.