Resident took a washcloth from a staff table and ripped it up, then tried to tie it around her neck. Staff responded immediately and took the washcloth from her. Nurse reported that resident was sitting in the floor smiling and refused to process. Once the material was taken, resident became assaultive to staff.
There was no loss of airway and no injury or bruising to area. Resident’s breathing was not affected as staff intervened before she could get it tightly around her neck. Corrective Action: Patient placed on Suicide precautions. Units are no longer allowed to use washcloths or towels to clean up spills.