[DYSPHAGIA] Liability

[mrichardson@fms.k12.nm.us (Maggie Richardson)]

Hi!

Your note came at a time when I have just exactly the same situation in an
inpatient rehab center in which I work.  A very impulsive eater - cannot
be left alone, and has to dine in his room to reduce environmental
distractions.  Your note helps to give me a boost to continue what I am
doing, which is restricting his diet textures, until either his impulsive
behavior improves, or the CNA staffing situation improves.  I feel that
even if I did training, training, training, that "somebody" could not
resist the impulse to leave him on his own in order to save time.  I fear
exactly the same result as happend with your unfortunate patient.  I know,
I know, they "should" provide appropriate staffing, but having worked
there for many years, I have learned what the reality is.  The nurse that
was bugging me to upgrade diet texture ("Don't you think he wants
hamburgers and french fries?") admitted that they just did not have enough
staffing during their busy time, which is usually breakfast.  I've asked
nursing to so
lve this problem for this patient, and am still awaiting ideas from them. 
I cannot be at all of his meals, and neither can his family.  I have
trained family members in how to give some favorite foods, but am not
ready to unleash him to a full regular diet until I know he's cued and
supervised 100% of the time at this time.

I have carried extra liability insurance for a long time.  I do know that
if employers, no matter how much they "love" you, will try to turn the
liability away from themselves if they can.  I've seen it happen to
another professional, not an SLP, but someone in the rehab field. 
Surprising how quickly the employer "dedication" to their employees
disappears when lawsuits are threatened.  

I use Healthcare Providers Service Organization (HSPO).  Their toll-free
number is 1-800-982-9491.  I used to use the ASHA sponsored insurer,
Albert H. Wohlers, but I found that for just a little more premium, I got
much higher coverage with HSPO.  I pay about $89.00 per year for $5
million aggregate, and $1 million per occurrence.  I have never had to use
it, thank goodness, but it does me some good to know it's there if I ever
need it.  I don't know much about the company itself.  I bet you could get
some good information by doing a web search on professional liability
insurance. 

Good luck - good thinking!  Maggie 

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