Spotlight on Prevention: Best Practices for Body Checks
www.justicecenter.ny.gov
SPOTLIGHT OVERVIEW BACKGROUND
THE ISSUE People receiving services may not be able to report pain, injury, or illness, or may not recognize abuse or neglect. Body checks are an important tool to assess a person for these issues. The timing and manner of conducting body checks are key to their effectiveness in safeguarding people receiving services. Body checks can be used to determine if an injury has occurred, the extent of an injury, if there has been a change in a person’s condition from the time of admission, or to obtain a baseline of information. Body checks should be conducted routinely according to plans of care for people receiving services and after events such as falls, elopement, or restraints. Staff require training to understand the importance of completing body checks, documenting the findings, and seeking medical assistance when required. Preserving the privacy and dignity of people receiving services is also a critical component of the body check process. Sensitivity training is recommended for all staff who provide direct care as well as others involved in the body check process.
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