Q: When setting up electrical equipment in the patient's home, must the organization perform volt and ampere checks on outlets and ensure that the outlet is grounded?
A: The organization must ensure that equipment with specific electrical needs is appropriately set up in the patients home. It would be up to the organization to determine how this will be done. The Joint Commission does not require organizations to perform voltage or amperage checks. That would be the organization's decision. If the organization determines that the utility system in the home is inadequate or cannot be adapted such as adding a grounded 3 prong adapter, then the organization should determine if an alternate method such as oxygen cylinders in place of a concentrator can be utilized. If the equipment cannot be safely set up in the patients home the organization should consult with the physician about further orders.