What is a common strategy to prevent wandering among patients?

Using locked doors with security codes is a common strategy to prevent wandering among patients, particularly in secure settings such as long-term care facilities or units specializing in memory care. This method is effective because it restricts access to certain areas, thereby reducing the risk of patients who have cognitive impairments from leaving the premises unaccompanied. Implementing security measures like coded locks helps ensure that staff can monitor and maintain the safety of the residents, providing peace of mind for both caregivers and family members.

While engaging residents in group activities can be beneficial for stimulating cognitive function and promoting social interaction, it does not directly prevent wandering. Providing unrestricted access to all areas would likely increase the risk of wandering rather than mitigate it. Certification of personal identifiers serves a different purpose, focusing more on identification and tracking rather than actively preventing wandering. Thus, the use of locked doors with security codes represents a proactive and practical approach to enhance patient safety.