SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - The Illinois Department of Public Health has fined Eldercare of Alton $5,000 (Statement of Violation), for improperly restraining a resident. The 181-bed skilled and intermediate care facility is located at 3523 Wickenhauser Ave. in Alton.

Responding to complaints, Department surveyors learned an employee tied a resident to a toilet with her hospital gown. The employee told surveyors that the resident was following her and she needed to respond to resident call lights. The resident was found nearly an hour later by another staff member. The employee received a verbal and written warning for the incident.

The Department-ordered plan of correction required the facility to ensure that restraints are not used for the purpose of discipline or convenience.

Eldercare of Alton has requested a hearing on the Department's action. No hearing date has been scheduled.