Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.orgJoint CommissionSpeak Up: What You Should Know About Adult Depressionhttp://www.jointcommission.org//speak_up_depression/Everybody feels blue or sad sometimes. Depression is more than just feeling sad. When you are depressed you lose interest in activities, and you may feel overwhelmed, agitated or isolated.Unknown AuthorTue, 21 May 2013 06:00:00 GMTArmed Forces Day 2013 http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/armed_forces_day_2013_/This Saturday, May 18th, is Armed Forces Day, a day where we honor and pay tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces. The Joint Commission salutes the men and women who serve our country and value our partnership with our military fellows. Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Thu, 16 May 2013 11:41:00 GMTAccreditation Publicity Kit: Sample News Releaseshttp://www.jointcommission.org//accreditation/accreditation_pub_kit_sample_news_releases.aspxThe Joint Commission provides news release samples by program to help organizations promote their accreditation.Unknown AuthorWed, 15 May 2013 14:09:43 GMTWebinars and Educationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//topics/toc_webinars_and_education.aspxNew weinars and educational resources added March 2013. Unknown AuthorWed, 15 May 2013 12:02:50 GMTPublications by Provider Typehttp://www.jointcommission.org//topics/toc_publications_by_provider_type.aspxTransitions of Care Portal - Publications by Provider Type. New publications added as of March 2013.Unknown AuthorWed, 15 May 2013 12:02:28 GMTNurses Week: A View From a Nursehttp://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/nurses_week_view_from_a_nurse/National Nurses Week is a time to reflect on the health care professionals who help those in need every day.Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Tue, 07 May 2013 14:09:00 GMTSummary Lists- Divergent Componentshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=477Q:  Can the four summary list components (significant medical diagnoses and conditions, significant operative and invasive procedures, adverse and allergic drug reactions, long term medications) required at RC.02.01.07 be located in different areas of the medical record or must they be located on th [...]Unknown AuthorFri, 03 May 2013 11:41:12 GMTSummary Listshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=476Q. Are there any circumstances when staff in an outpatient area, such as physical therapy, located in a hospital or ambulatory care organization would be required to create and maintain a summary list for a patient (RC.02.01.07)? Unknown AuthorFri, 03 May 2013 11:40:59 GMTAlarm safety webinar – May 1, 2013 http://www.jointcommission.org//alarm_safety_webinar/Sentinel Event Alert Issue 50: Medical device alarm safety in hospitals, highlights important issues and approaches to improving safety surrounding alarm-equipped medical devices in hospitals. Unknown AuthorThu, 02 May 2013 16:25:00 GMTSurveyors Stop Scoring for Failure to Measure Surgical Site Infection Rates Past 30 Dayshttp://www.jointcommission.org//surveyors_stop_scoring_for_failure_to_measure_surgical_site_infection_rates_past_30_days/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorWed, 01 May 2013 10:28:00 GMTPCMH Self Assessmenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//pcmh_self_assessment/This tool is a useful document that may be helpful as you pursue PCMH certification. It assesses Elements of Performance (EPs) which are the actions, processes and structures that must be implemented to achieve the standard.Unknown AuthorTue, 23 Apr 2013 15:29:00 GMTHospital PCMH NCQA Crosswalkhttp://www.jointcommission.org//hospital_pcmh_ncqa_crosswalk/This tool, prepared by The Joint Commission, compares the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) general standard areas for its 2011 version of the Patient-Centered Medical Home to the specific Joint Commission requirements for its Primary Care Medical Home. Unknown AuthorTue, 23 Apr 2013 15:23:00 GMTStatement from The Joint Commission regarding the bombings at the Boston Marathonhttp://www.jointcommission.org//statement_from_the_joint_commission_regarding_the_bombings_at_the_boston_marathon/The Joint Commission salutes the health care workers in Boston for their tireless efforts during this time of public emergency. We stand ready to assist our accredited organizations with the increased demands they are facing following the tragic bombings at the Boston Marathon, and Joint Commission [...]Elizabeth Eaken ZhaniTue, 16 Apr 2013 14:19:00 GMTFacts about Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® Programhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_joint_commissions_top_performers_on_key_quality_measures_program/Launched in September 2011, The Joint Commission’s Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® program recognizes accredited hospitals that attain excellence on accountability measure performance. Unknown AuthorMon, 15 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMTAnnual Report - Improving America's Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//annualreport.aspxAnnual Report - Improving America's HospitalsUnknown AuthorFri, 12 Apr 2013 16:50:02 GMTQuality Improvement Toolshttp://www.jointcommission.org//topics/quality_improvement_tools.aspxTools ready for use by C-Suite leaders and organizational quality and safety teams. Unknown AuthorFri, 12 Apr 2013 14:03:43 GMTHigh Reliability Resource Centerhttp://www.jointcommission.org//highreliability.aspxListen to daily Podcasts and read News Releases from the High Reliability Organizing 2012 Conference. Unknown AuthorFri, 12 Apr 2013 09:31:16 GMTFacts about Critical Access Hospital Accreditationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_critical_access_hospital_accreditation/The Joint Commission has accredited hospitals for more than 50 years. In 2001, The Joint Commission introduced a new program to accredit critical access hospitals. CAHs are hospitals identified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services as having met, or eligible to meet, the conditions for...Unknown AuthorFri, 12 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMTNew Joint Commission alert addresses medical device alarm safety in hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//new_joint_commission_alert_addresses_medical_device_alarm_safety_in_hospitals/The constant beeping of alarms and an overabundance of information transmitted by medical devices such as ventilators, blood pressure monitors and ECG (electrocardiogram) machines is creating “alarm fatigue” that puts hospital patients at serious risk, according to a Sentinel Event Alert issued toda [...]Elizabeth Eaken ZhaniMon, 08 Apr 2013 07:59:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert Issue 50: Medical device alarm safety in hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sea_issue_50/Many medical devices have alarm systems. These alarm-equipped devices are essential to providing safe care to patients in many health care settings; clinicians depend on these devices for information they need to deliver appropriate care and to guide treatment decisions. Unknown AuthorMon, 08 Apr 2013 06:50:00 GMTJoint Commission Website E-Alertshttp://www.jointcommission.org//ealerts/E-alerts now available for Joint Commission Podcasts - update your subscription to sign up today!Unknown AuthorMon, 01 Apr 2013 08:56:00 GMTNutritional, Functional, And Pain Assessments And Screens http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=471Q: When is it required to perform a nutritional, functional, and pain assessment or screen?  Is this required in the Emergency Room, Outpatient Settings and Hospital Owned or Sponsored Physician Office Practices on ALL patients and at ALL encounters? Unknown AuthorTue, 26 Mar 2013 13:32:58 GMTThe Power of Zero: Steps Toward High Reliability Healthcarehttp://www.jointcommission.org//the_power_of_zero_steps_toward_high_reliability_healthcare/Reprinted with permission from Healthcare Executive, March/April 2013, ache.orgUnknown AuthorMon, 25 Mar 2013 17:12:00 GMTFramework for Conducting a Root Cause Analysis and Action Planhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Framework_for_Conducting_a_Root_Cause_Analysis_and_Action_Plan/A Framework for a Root Cause Analysis and Action Plan In Response to a Sentinel EventUnknown AuthorFri, 22 Mar 2013 11:05:00 GMTStandards BoosterPaks™http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_booster_paks/Learn more about Joint Commission Standards BoosterPaks™.Unknown AuthorWed, 20 Mar 2013 04:40:00 GMTLeading Practice Libraryhttp://www.jointcommission.org//leading_practice_library/The Leading Practice Library is a complimentary tool available to organizations that are currently accredited or certified by The Joint Commission.Unknown AuthorWed, 20 Mar 2013 01:11:00 GMTCore Measure Solution Exchange http://www.jointcommission.org//core_measure_solution_exchange/A database of success stories from accredited hospitals that have attained excellent performance on core measures - including accountability measures. Unknown AuthorTue, 19 Mar 2013 05:39:00 GMTCritical Access Hospital Projecthttp://www.jointcommission.org//critical_access_hospital_project/The Joint Commission is seeking volunteer critical access hospitals to pilot test draft critical access hospital (CAH) performance measures.Unknown AuthorMon, 18 Mar 2013 07:52:00 GMTSlides from Teleconference: Primary Care Medical Home (PCMH) Certification Option for Hospitals and Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs)http://www.jointcommission.org//teleconference_pcmh_certification_option_for_hospitals_critical_access_hospitals_cahs/Unknown AuthorMon, 11 Mar 2013 16:07:00 GMTAccountability Measure List for 2012 and the 2013 Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® Recognition Programhttp://www.jointcommission.org//accountability_measure_list_2013_top_performers/This Accountability Measure list includes an additional column where a check is displayed next to each individual measure for which CY 2012 data will be used for Top Performer Recognition in 2013.Unknown AuthorThu, 07 Mar 2013 09:45:00 GMTAccreditation Process Overviewhttp://www.jointcommission.org//accreditation_process_overview/The Joint Commission’s accreditation process seeks to help organizations identify and resolve problems and to inspire them to improve the safety and quality of care and services provided. Unknown AuthorThu, 07 Mar 2013 08:16:00 GMTOngoing Professional Practice Evaluation (OPPE)http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=470Q.  What is the intent of the requirement for Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation? Unknown AuthorWed, 06 Mar 2013 11:51:30 GMTEffective Date of California Law for CT Scanshttp://www.jointcommission.org//effective_date_of_california_law_for_ct_scans/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorFri, 01 Mar 2013 14:02:00 GMTTable of Changes, March 2013 CAMCAH Update 1http://www.jointcommission.org//table_of_changes_march_2013_camcah_update_1/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorFri, 01 Mar 2013 09:20:00 GMTNew Joint Commission Speak Up Video Tackles Painhttp://www.jointcommission.org//new_joint_commission_speak_up_video_tackles_pain/The Joint Commission has released “Speak Up: About Your Pain,” an engaging animated video that illustrates the reasons why it is important for patients to speak up about their pain and provides easy-to-understand examples for the general public.Bret CoonsWed, 27 Feb 2013 08:44:00 GMTSpeak Up: About Your Pain http://www.jointcommission.org//multimedia/speak_up_about_your_pain_english/ Aches and Pains aren’t fun. It’s important to speak up about your pain, so you can get the right treatment. Watch the latest Speak Up video and you’ll meet the Pains – a band of mischievous scamps who cause trouble for the main characters!   Aches and Pains aren’t fun. It’s important to speak up about your pain, so you can get the right treatment. Watch the latest Speak Up video and you’ll meet the Pains – a band of mischievous scamps who cause trouble for the main characters!
 

]]>Unknown AuthorTue, 26 Feb 2013 09:50:00 GMTSpeak Up: Sobre el dolorhttp://www.jointcommission.org//multimedia/speak-up-sobre-el-dolor/ Los dolores y los achaques no son divertidos. Es importante hablar sobre su dolor, para que pueda obtener el tratamiento adecuado. Vea el último vídeo del programa “Speak Up” y conocerás los dolores – una banda de sinvergüenzas traviesos que causan proble [...]Los dolores y los achaques no son divertidos. Es importante hablar sobre su dolor, para que pueda obtener el tratamiento adecuado. Vea el último vídeo del programa “Speak Up” y conocerás los dolores – una banda de sinvergüenzas traviesos que causan problemas para los protagonistas.
 

]]>Unknown AuthorTue, 26 Feb 2013 09:44:00 GMTPrimary Care Medical Home Certificationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/primary_care_medical_home_certification/ The Joint Commission is now offering a new Primary Care Medical Home (PCMH) certification option for accredited or soon to be accredited hospitals and critical access hospitals. This voluntary certification is based on the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s (AHRQ) definition of a medical [...]Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:00:00 GMTFocused Professional Practice Evaluation http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=467Q. What is the intent of the Focused Professional Practice Evaluation requirement? Unknown AuthorWed, 20 Feb 2013 15:25:52 GMTJoint Commission to Offer Primary Care Medical Home Certification Option for Hospitals and Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//joint_commission_to_offer_pcmh_certification_hospitals_critical_access_hospitals/The Joint Commission today announced it is now offering a new Primary Care Medical Home certification option for accredited hospitals and critical access hospitals.Elizabeth Eaken ZhaniWed, 20 Feb 2013 09:38:00 GMTFAQs about Primary Care Medical Home Certification for Hospitals and Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//faqs_about_pcmh_certification_for_hap_and_cah/Read the Frequently Asked Questions about Primary Care Medical Home (PCMH) Certification for Hospitals and Critical Access Hospitals.Unknown AuthorWed, 20 Feb 2013 09:14:00 GMT2013 National Patient Safety Goals Slide Presentationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//2013_npsgs_slides/View the 2013 National Patient Safety Goals (NPSG) in this slide presentation file. (PPT format)Unknown AuthorTue, 19 Feb 2013 12:27:00 GMTSlides from December 18, 2012 Teleconference: Performance Measurement Project & Standards: What's New for Critical Access Hospitals in 2013?http://www.jointcommission.org//slides_and_audio_121812_telecon_pm_project__std_whats_new_for_cahs_in_2013/The teleconference slides.Unknown AuthorTue, 19 Feb 2013 12:11:00 GMTSlides from the January 12, 2012 Teleconference: Standards and National Patient Safety Goals: What's New for 2012http://www.jointcommission.org//slides_and_audio_from_the_january_12_2012_teleconference_standards_and_national_patient_safety_goals_whats_new_for_2012/Slides from the January 12, 2012 Teleconference: Standards and National Patient Safety Goals: What's New for 2012. Unknown AuthorTue, 19 Feb 2013 11:56:00 GMTList of 2012 Accountability Measureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//list_of_accountability_measures/List of the 2012 Accountability Measures. Unknown AuthorTue, 19 Feb 2013 10:23:00 GMTTransitions of Care: The need for collaboration across entire care continuumhttp://www.jointcommission.org//hot_topic_toc/This paper is the second in a series of reports on development from The Joint Commission enterprise about work underway to address the challenges related to transitions of care. This paper focuses on the need for collaboration across the care continuum. Unknown AuthorTue, 19 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMTORYX Non-Core Measure Informationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//oryx_non-core_measure_information/Unknown AuthorThu, 07 Feb 2013 13:20:00 GMTSentinel Event Data Summaryhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_statistics_quarterly/Sentinel Event Statistics as of December 31, 2012Unknown AuthorThu, 07 Feb 2013 08:19:00 GMTSentinel Event Data - Event Type by Year http://www.jointcommission.org//se_data_event_type_by_year_/Sentinel Event Statistics Data - Event Type by Year (1995 - Q4 2012)Unknown AuthorThu, 07 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMTSentinel Event Data - Root Causes by Event Typehttp://www.jointcommission.org//Sentinel_Event_Statistics/Sentinel Event Statistics Data - Root Causes by Event Type (2004 - Q4 2012)Unknown AuthorThu, 07 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMTTop Performer 2012 Eligibility Criteria (For 2013 Recognition)http://www.jointcommission.org//top_performer_2012_eligibility_criteria/Joint Commission-accredited hospitals and critical access hospitals reporting data during 2012 on one or more core measure sets with accountability measures are eligible for consideration. Unknown AuthorTue, 05 Feb 2013 18:00:00 GMTThe Journey to High Reliabilityhttp://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/the_journey_to_high_reliability/As you may know, The Joint Commission began its focus on the transformation of health care into a high reliability industry in 2009. High reliability in health care means consistent excellence in quality and safety across all services, which is maintained over long periods of time. Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Thu, 31 Jan 2013 11:16:00 GMTEligibility for Primary Care Medical Home Certification for Hospitals and Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//eligibility_for_primary_care_medical_home_certification_for_hospitals_and_critical_access_hospitals/Learn about the eligibility for Primary Care Medical Home certification for hospitals and critical access hospitals that will be available soon! Unknown AuthorFri, 25 Jan 2013 16:02:00 GMTVerifying Affiliations/Privlege or Work History at other Healthcare Organizations http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=459Q. Are organizations required to verify affiliations at other health care organizations, and if yes, for how many years back must the verifications be done? Unknown AuthorTue, 22 Jan 2013 14:59:26 GMTPrimary Source Verification of Education for Licensed Independent Practitionershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=458Q.  When credentialing licensed independent practitioners, can verification of a current licensure suffice for verification of the education in lieu of performing primary source verification of the education since a defined level of education is required to receive the license, e.g., a medical licen [...]Unknown AuthorTue, 22 Jan 2013 14:58:33 GMTPermission to Administer Moderate Sedationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=457Q: Are specific privileges to administer sedation required?Unknown AuthorTue, 22 Jan 2013 14:57:48 GMTPeer References http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=456Q. Who can provide a peer reference for independent or non-independent allied health practitioners such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and psychologists, midwives, and social workers when there is no other similar practitioner on staff?   Unknown AuthorTue, 22 Jan 2013 14:56:58 GMT"Penny in a Cup"http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=455Q. My organization uses the “penny in a cup” method for monitoring refrigerator/freezer temperature.  Does this meet Joint Commission standards?   Unknown AuthorTue, 22 Jan 2013 14:55:11 GMTFacts about ORYX® for Hospitals (National Hospital Quality Measures)http://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_oryx_for_hospitals/ORYX® is The Joint Commission’s performance measurement and improvement initiative, first implemented in 1997. Unknown AuthorFri, 11 Jan 2013 10:30:00 GMTTackle your organization’s challenges using Joint Commission toolshttp://www.jointcommission.org//tackle_your_organization’s_challenges_using_joint_commission_tools/Tools ready for use by C-Suite leaders and organizational quality and safety teams.Unknown AuthorThu, 10 Jan 2013 09:54:00 GMTFacts about the Universal Protocolhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_universal_protocol/The Joint Commission Board of Commissioners originally approved the Universal Protocol for Preventing Wrong Site, Wrong Procedure and Wrong Person Surgery™ in July 2003, and it became effective July 1, 2004 for all accredited hospitals, ambulatory care and office-based surgery facilities.Unknown AuthorThu, 03 Jan 2013 13:52:00 GMTPrepublication Standards - Revised Requirement for Provision of Care, Treatment, and Services (CAH) http://www.jointcommission.org//prepub_revised_req_for_PC_cah/Revisions have been made to PC.03.05.19, EP 1 to maintain alignment with requirements from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Prepublication Standard - Effective immediatelyUnknown AuthorThu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMTRevised Requirements Maintain Alignment with CMS CoPshttp://www.jointcommission.org//revised_requirements_maintain_alignment_with_cms_cops/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorTue, 01 Jan 2013 13:30:00 GMTPrimary Care Medical Home Certification Option for Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//primary_care_medical_home_certification_option_for_hospitals/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorTue, 01 Jan 2013 13:09:00 GMTRevisions to the Review and Appeal Procedureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//revisions_to_the_review_and_appeal_procedures/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorTue, 01 Jan 2013 11:22:00 GMT2013 Accreditation and Certification Decision Ruleshttp://www.jointcommission.org//2013_accreditation_and_certification_decision_rules/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorTue, 01 Jan 2013 10:26:00 GMTHave a safe and happy holiday season and a happy new year! http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/have_a_safe_and_happy_holiday_season_and_a_happy_new_year_/Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:43:00 GMTJoint Commission R<sup>3</sup> Report Explains Revised Patient Flow Requirementshttp://www.jointcommission.org//joint_commission_report_explains_revised_patient_flow_requirements/The Joint Commission today released an “R3 Report” that provides the requirement, rationale and references for the updated Leadership standards that emphasize the importance of patient flow in hospitals, in particular the patient flow through the emergency department. Elizabeth Eaken ZhaniWed, 19 Dec 2012 08:33:00 GMTR<sup>3</sup> Report Issue 4 - Patient flow through the emergency departmenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//r3_report_issue4/Published for Joint Commission accredited organizations and interested health care professionals, R 3 Report provides the rationale and references that The Joint Commission employs in the development of new requirements. 3 Report provides the rationale and references that The Joint Commission employs in the development of new requirements. ]]>Unknown AuthorWed, 19 Dec 2012 07:30:00 GMTR3 Reporthttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/r3_report.aspxThe R3 Report provides the rationale and references that The Joint Commission employs in the development of new requirements.Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Dec 2012 11:52:47 GMT2013 Survey Activity Guidehttp://www.jointcommission.org//survey_activity_guide/Information to help health care organizations prepare for survey in 2013.Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Dec 2012 08:49:00 GMT20,000: A Major Milestone! http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/20000_major_milestone/With the recent accreditation of Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital, a hospital dedicated to the treatment of patients with stroke, brain injury and other debilitating conditions, in Oklahoma City, The Joint Commission has now reached 20,000 accredited and certified organizations!Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:47:00 GMTIt’s all about quality improvement! http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/its_all_about_quality_improvement/Joint Commission, Joint Commission Resources and Joint Commission Center for Transforming Healthcare staff are at IHI’s Annual National Forum on Quality Improvement in Health Care this week in Orlando, Florida. Dr. Chassin led a mini-course yesterday designed specifically for Chief Medical Officers [...]Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Tue, 11 Dec 2012 11:55:00 GMTHave you heard about the Targeted Solutions Tool™ (TST)? http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/have_you_heard_about_the_tst/Developed by the Joint Commission Center for Transforming Healthcare, the Targeted Solutions Tool™ (TST) is a unique online application that helps Joint Commission accredited organizations solve some of the most persistent health care quality and safety problems. The TST is easily accessible on Join [...]Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:09:00 GMTPrepublication Standards - Critical Access Hospital Deeming Requirements http://www.jointcommission.org//prepublication_standards_critical_access_hospital_deeming_requirements_/Revisions to elements of performance (EPs) in the critical access hospital manual to maintain alignment with Conditions of Participation from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) following the release of a final rule in May 2012.Unknown AuthorFri, 07 Dec 2012 09:38:00 GMTSentinel Event Policy and Procedureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//Sentinel_Event_Policy_and_Procedures/Sentinel Event Policy and ProceduresUnknown AuthorThu, 06 Dec 2012 05:57:00 GMTFacts about Joint Commission Accreditation and Certificationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_joint_commission_accreditation_and_certification/Since its founding in 1951, The Joint Commission has been acknowledged as the leader in developing the highest standards for quality and safety in the delivery of health care, and evaluating organization performance based on these standards. Today, more than 20,000 health care organizations. . .Unknown AuthorWed, 05 Dec 2012 10:07:00 GMTSentinel Event Policy Expanded Beyond Patientshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_policy_expanded_beyond_patients/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorSat, 01 Dec 2012 10:42:00 GMTSpeak Up: Five Things You Can Do To Prevent Infectionhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Speak_Up__Five_Things_You_Can_Do_To_Prevent_Infection/Avoiding contagious diseases like the common cold, strep throat, and the flu is important to everyone. Here are five easy things you can do to fight the spread of infection.Unknown AuthorFri, 30 Nov 2012 15:58:00 GMTFree Benefit to Help Organizations Help Patients http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/free_benefit_to_help_organizations_help_patients__/Free, web-based course for health care professionalsMark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Fri, 30 Nov 2012 11:58:00 GMTHappy Thanksgiving!http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/happy_thanksgiving/It’s hard to believe the holiday season is upon us. Where did 2012 go? I hope you all take some time this week to be with your families and share in a wonderful meal. That’s really what Thanksgiving is all about - being thankful for the people in your life and celebrating together. We can get so [...]Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Wed, 21 Nov 2012 11:04:00 GMTICAHN’s 2012 Annual CAH Conference http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/icahn’s_2012_annual_cah_conference__/Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Fri, 16 Nov 2012 08:42:00 GMTNineteen VA Medical Facilities Named Joint Commission Top Performers http://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/nineteen_va_med_facilities_joint_commission_top_performers/While we are in the spirit of honoring our veterans and the veteran health care facilities I thought it would be appropriate to acknowledge the nineteen VA medical facilities who were recently named Top Performer’s on Key Quality Measures by The Joint Commission. Congratulations on this outstanding [...]Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Tue, 13 Nov 2012 16:02:00 GMTIn Observance of Veterans Dayhttp://www.jointcommission.org//the_view_from_the_joint_commission/in_observance_of_veterans_day/In observance of Veterans Day The Joint Commission along with our Military Fellows salute the men and women who proudly served our country and those who currently serve. We could never thank you enough! Mark G. Pelletier, R.N., M.S.Mon, 12 Nov 2012 09:25:00 GMTFacts about federal deemed status and state recognitionhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_federal_deemed_status_and_state_recognition/In order for a health care organization to participate in and receive payment from the Medicare or Medicaid programs, it must meet the eligibility requirements for program participation, including a certification of compliance with the Conditions of Participation (CoPs).Unknown AuthorMon, 12 Nov 2012 09:01:00 GMTLaboratory and Point-of-Care Testing Personnel - Evidence of Qualificationshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=451Q. For personnel performing laboratory or point-of-care testing, what is required for evidence of their qualifications?Unknown AuthorTue, 06 Nov 2012 09:55:50 GMTPrepublication Standards—Primary Care Medical Home Certification Option for Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//prepublication_standards_pcmh_certification_cah/Effective January 1, 2013, for Critical Access HospitalsUnknown AuthorTue, 06 Nov 2012 08:43:00 GMTInfluenza vaccination for licensed independent practitioners and staffhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=446Where can I find more information about Influenza vaccination for licensed independent practitioners and staff?Unknown AuthorThu, 25 Oct 2012 11:17:51 GMTSurveillance Requirements for CAUTIhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=442My facility performs a risk assessment every year as required by IC.01.03.01. We consider a wide range of infection risks, and we rank them per IC.01.03.01 EP 5. Our risk assessment shows CAUTI is a very low patient risk; there are many other higher priorities. Must I perform surveillance for CAU [...]Unknown AuthorThu, 25 Oct 2012 10:34:48 GMTMS 01.01.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=435Unknown AuthorThu, 25 Oct 2012 09:50:44 GMTCritical Access Hospital: 2013 National Patient Safety Goalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//cah_2013_npsg/National Patient Safety Goals Effective January 1, 2013Unknown AuthorMon, 22 Oct 2012 15:21:00 GMTSpeak Up: What you need to know about your serious illness and palliative care http://www.jointcommission.org//speak_up_palliative/When you have a serious illness or health problem, you may need palliative care. Palliative care is special health care that can ease pain and other symptoms and side effects from your illness or treatment.Unknown AuthorWed, 10 Oct 2012 08:23:00 GMTNew and Revised Requirements to Align with CMS CoPshttp://www.jointcommission.org//new_and_revised_requirements_to_align_with_cms_cops/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorMon, 01 Oct 2012 13:58:00 GMTNational Summit on Overuse: Dr. Mark Chassinhttp://www.jointcommission.org//multimedia/national-summit-on-overuse-dr-chassin/ Mark R. Chassin, M.D. president, The Joint Commission, talks about the problem of overuse and why it demands physician leadership. &nbsp; Mark R. Chassin, M.D. president, The Joint Commission, talks about the problem of overuse and why it demands physician leadership.
 

]]>Unknown AuthorTue, 25 Sep 2012 15:10:00 GMTNational Summit on Overuse: Dr. Bernard Rosofhttp://www.jointcommission.org//multimedia/national-summit-on-overuse-dr-rosof/ What specialty societies think about overuse according to Bernard Rosof, M.D., AMA-Physician Consortium for Performance Improvement &nbsp; &nbsp; What specialty societies think about overuse according to Bernard Rosof, M.D., AMA-Physician Consortium for Performance Improvement
 
 

]]>Unknown AuthorTue, 25 Sep 2012 14:40:00 GMTJoint Commission Annual Report Names 620 Hospitals as ‘Top Performers on Key Quality Measures’http://www.jointcommission.org//joint_commission_annual_report_names_620_hospitals_as_‘top_performers_on_key_quality_measures’/“Improving America’s Hospitals: The Joint Commission Annual Report on Quality and Safety 2012,” includes 620 hospitals that are leading the way nationally in using evidence-based care processes closely linked to positive patient outcomes. Elizabeth Eaken ZhaniWed, 19 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMTThe Joint Commission’s Top Performer on Key Quality Measures™http://www.jointcommission.org//top_performers_on_key_quality_measures/The Joint Commission recognizes the following accredited hospitals that attained excellence in accountability measure performance during calendar year 2011.Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Sep 2012 16:00:00 GMTImproving America's Hospitals - The Joint Commission's Annual Report on Quality and Safety 2012http://www.jointcommission.org//improving_americas_hospitals_joint_commission_annual_report_quality_safety_2012/The 2012 report includes 620 hospitals, designated as Top Performers on Key Quality Measures™, that are leading the way nationally in using evidence-based care processes closely linked to positive patient outcomes.Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Sep 2012 14:01:00 GMTFacts about accountability measureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_accountability_measures/In June 2010, in order to help hospitals prepare for performance measurement in the new health care environment, The Joint Commission categorized its performance measures into accountability and non-accountability measures.Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Sep 2012 10:54:00 GMTFacts about the unannounced survey processhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_unannounced_survey_process/Find out more about The Joint Commission's unannounced survey process.Unknown AuthorMon, 17 Sep 2012 09:48:00 GMTFacts about the Early Survey Policyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_early_survey_policy/The Joint Commission’s Early Survey Policy allows health care organizations to undergo a survey prior to having the ability to demonstrate full compliance with all Joint Commission standards, and receive a preliminary accreditation decision.Unknown AuthorTue, 11 Sep 2012 09:20:00 GMTEligibility for Hospital and Critical Access Hospital Accreditationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//eligibility_hospital_cah_accreditation/In order for an organization to be accredited under our Hospital program, the following requirements determine eligibility. Unknown AuthorTue, 04 Sep 2012 14:53:00 GMTTable of Changes, September 2012 CAMCAH Update 2http://www.jointcommission.org//table_of_changes_september_2012_camcah_update_2/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorSat, 01 Sep 2012 14:31:00 GMTBenefits of Joint Commission Accreditationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//benefits_of_joint_commission_accreditation/A listing of the benefits of Joint Commission accreditation.Unknown AuthorMon, 27 Aug 2012 16:10:00 GMTFacts about Scoring and Accreditation Decisions for 2013http://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_accrediation_decisions/The scoring and decision process is based on the criticality of the standards and other requirements regarding their relationship to the quality and safety of patient care.Unknown AuthorMon, 27 Aug 2012 06:36:00 GMTLaboratory Report Requirements In The Medical Recordhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=431Q.  Our hospital information system captures data from our laboratory system and provides the results in several other hardcopy and electronic formats accessed by our physicians, such as the physician portal, flash reports, remote web access, etc.  Do all these different reports need to conform to t [...]Unknown AuthorFri, 17 Aug 2012 14:28:01 GMTSurgical Care Improvement Projecthttp://www.jointcommission.org//surgical_care_improvement_project/Unknown AuthorWed, 15 Aug 2012 13:10:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert Issue 49: Safe use of opioids in hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sea_issue_49/Although hospital patients may need the strong pain relief that only opioids can provide, The Joint Commission urges hospitals to take specific steps to prevent serious complications or even deaths from opioid use. Unknown AuthorWed, 08 Aug 2012 08:00:00 GMTFacts about Joint Commission accreditation standardshttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_joint_commission_accreditation_standards/Joint Commission standards are the basis of an objective evaluation process that can help health care organizations measure, assess and improve performance.&#8203;Unknown AuthorTue, 31 Jul 2012 12:40:00 GMTFacts about the on-site survey processhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_on-site_survey_process/The Joint Commission survey process is data-driven, patient-centered and focused on evaluating actual care processes.Unknown AuthorMon, 30 Jul 2012 11:07:00 GMTSafe Surgery Checklisthttp://www.jointcommission.org//safe_surgery_checklist/CMS's new structural measure on the use of a safe surgery checklist and its relationship to the Universal Protocol. The new measure applies to ambulatory surgery centers and hospital outpatient surgery, and is being considered for the Hospital Inpatient Quality Reporting Program. Unknown AuthorTue, 24 Jul 2012 11:10:00 GMTThe Joint Commission and JCR Present the Annual Hospital Executive Briefingshttp://www.jointcommission.org//oint_commission_jcr_present_annual_hospital_executive_briefings/The Joint Commission and Joint Commission Resources are hosting hospital leaders from across the country at the Hospital Executive Briefings, which focus on Joint Commission hospital accreditation news as well as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) compliance issues for 2013.Bret CoonsMon, 23 Jul 2012 11:16:00 GMTUse of Unlicensed Persons Acting as Scribeshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=426Unknown AuthorThu, 12 Jul 2012 14:00:51 GMTNon-licensed, Non-employee Individualshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=423What are The Joint Commission’s expectations regarding non-licensed, non-employee individuals in health care organizations, including health care industry representatives (HCIRs)?Unknown AuthorTue, 10 Jul 2012 16:34:08 GMTOngoing Professional Practice Evaluation for Medical/Cognitive Specialtieshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=414Q. Medical and Cognitive specialties (IM, FP, psychiatry, other med specialties, etc...) are very tough to identify meaningful data that can be evaluated. Is there any guidance that The Joint Commission can offer to assist organized medical staffs?Unknown AuthorMon, 09 Jul 2012 09:07:03 GMTFacts about the Official “Do Not Use” List of Abbreviationshttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_official_/In 2001, The Joint Commission issued a Sentinel Event Alert on the subject of medical abbreviations, and just one year later, its Board of Commissioners approved a National Patient Safety Goal...Unknown AuthorThu, 28 Jun 2012 11:23:00 GMTThe 2012 Fifth International High Reliability Conference Proceedings Paperhttp://www.jointcommission.org//2012_fifth_international_high_reliability_conference_proceedings_paper/Mindfulness and perfection. These two words summed up a progressive way of thinking about high reliability in health care and other industries, according to thought leaders presenting at the 2012 Fifth International High Reliability Conference, May 21 - 23, 2012.Unknown AuthorWed, 27 Jun 2012 16:49:00 GMTTransitions of Care: The need for a more effective approach to continuing patient carehttp://www.jointcommission.org//hot_topics_toc/This paper is the first of many planned communications that will report on new developments from The Joint Commission enterprise about work underway to address the problems related to transitions of care.Unknown AuthorWed, 27 Jun 2012 07:30:00 GMTFacts about the National Patient Safety Goalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_national_patient_safety_goals/In 2002, The Joint Commission established its National Patient Safety Goals (NPSGs) program; the first set of NPSGs was effective January 1, 2003. The NPSGs were established to help accredited organizations address specific areas of concern in regards to patient safety.Unknown AuthorFri, 22 Jun 2012 10:19:00 GMTR<sup>3</sup> Report Issue 3 - Influenza Vaccinationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//r3_issue3/Published for Joint Commission accredited organizations and interested health care professionals, R3 Report provides the rationale and references that The Joint Commission employs in the development of new requirements.Unknown AuthorWed, 30 May 2012 08:15:00 GMTAdvancing Effective Communication, Cultural Competence, and Patient-and Family-Centered Carehttp://www.jointcommission.org//Advancing_Effective_Communication/This Joint Commission initiative addresses effective communication, cultural competence, and patient- and family-centered care. Resources include the patient-centered communication standards, the Roadmap for Hospitals, and reports from a cross-sectional qualitative study. Unknown AuthorWed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMTReal World Lessons Presented at Second Day of the 2012 International High Reliability Organizing Conference http://www.jointcommission.org//real_world_lessons_presented_at_second_day_of_the_2012_international_high_reliability_organizing_conference_/Day two of the Fifth International High Reliability Organizing Conference opened with a morning plenary address from Kathleen Sutcliffe, Ph.D, professor of Management and Organization, University of Michigan Stephen Ross School of Business, on the topic of “Safety-Efficiency Tradeoffs: Lessons from [...]Elizabeth Eaken ZhaniWed, 23 May 2012 14:01:00 GMTFirst Day of the 2012 International High Reliability Organizing Conference Off to an Exciting Starthttp://www.jointcommission.org//first_day_of_the_2012_HRO_conference_off_to_an_exciting_start/Day one of the Fifth International High Reliability Organizing Conference opened with a keynote address from Mark R. Chassin, M.D. FACP, M.P.P., M.P.H., president, The Joint Commission, on the topic of “High Reliability Healthcare: What’s Holding Us Back?” The conference, organized by Strategic Reli [...]Elizabeth Eaken ZhaniTue, 22 May 2012 10:51:00 GMTPreventing Central Line-Associated Infectionshttp://www.jointcommission.org//preventing_clabsi/The Joint Commission, in collaboration with Joint Commission Resources and Joint Commission International, has produced a new monograph containing the most current information, evidence-based guidance, and resources to assist healthcare organization in reducing CLABSI.Unknown AuthorWed, 16 May 2012 07:45:00 GMTStrategies for Improving Health Care Personnel Influenza Vaccination Rateshttp://www.jointcommission.org//strategies_for_improving_health_care_personnel_influenza_vaccination_rates/This document provides evidence-based strategies recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for improving health care personnel influenza vaccination rates, along with supporting documentation that can be found in The Joint Commission's influenza monograph.Unknown AuthorMon, 09 Apr 2012 11:45:00 GMTLaboratory Services in a Joint Commission–Accredited Primary Programhttp://www.jointcommission.org//laboratory_services_accredited_primary_program/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorSun, 01 Apr 2012 10:29:00 GMTTable of Changes, March 2012 CAMCAH Update 1http://www.jointcommission.org//table_of_changes_march_2012_camcah_update_1/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorThu, 01 Mar 2012 14:28:00 GMTReinstated Decision Rule for Accreditation with Follow-up Survey in 2012http://www.jointcommission.org//reinstated_decision_rule/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorWed, 01 Feb 2012 10:11:00 GMTRevisions to 2012 Decision Rules for Contingent Accreditationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//revisions_to_2012_decision_rules_for_contingent_accreditation/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorSun, 01 Jan 2012 14:30:00 GMTLeadership Standard Clarified to Address Behaviors That Undermine a Safety Culturehttp://www.jointcommission.org//leadership_standard_clarified/Unknown AuthorSun, 01 Jan 2012 10:23:00 GMTStandards Changes in Response to California Law for Organizations Performing CT Scanshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_changes_ca_ctscans/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorSun, 01 Jan 2012 10:18:00 GMTFinal Revisions to Telemedicine Standardshttp://www.jointcommission.org//final_revisions_to_telemedicine_standards/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorSun, 01 Jan 2012 10:17:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert Issue 48: Health care worker fatigue and patient safetyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sea_issue_48/The link between health care worker fatigue and adverse events is well documented, with a substantial number of studies indicating that the practice of extended work hours contributes to high levels of worker fatigue and reduced productivity.Unknown AuthorWed, 14 Dec 2011 08:42:00 GMTInfluenza and Influenza Vaccine Myths and Realityhttp://www.jointcommission.org//influenza_and_influenza_vaccine_myths_and_reality/There are many myths and misunderstandings about influenza and the influenza vaccination. These myths are held by both the public and health care personnel.&#8203;Unknown AuthorFri, 02 Dec 2011 13:21:00 GMTStandard IC.02.04.01 Influenza Vaccination for Licensed Independent Practitioners and Staff (HAP, CAH, LTC) http://www.jointcommission.org//ic020401_CAH_HAP_LTC/Voice recorded slide presentation that focuses on revised Standard IC.02.04.01 Influenza Vaccination for Licensed Independent Practitioners and Staff, for Critical Access Hospitals, Hospitals and Long Term Care accreditation programs. This revised standard will go into effect on July 1, 2012. Unknown AuthorFri, 02 Dec 2011 12:00:00 GMTTexting Ordershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=401Is it acceptable for physicians and licensed independent practitioners (and other practitioners allowed to write orders) to text orders for patients to the hospital or other healthcare setting?Unknown AuthorThu, 10 Nov 2011 13:53:52 GMTCritical Tests, Results, and Values - NPSG - Goal 2 - 02.03.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=394Unknown AuthorTue, 08 Nov 2011 14:02:42 GMTAdvancing Effective Communication, Cultural Competence, and Patient- and Family-Centered Care for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Community http://www.jointcommission.org//lgbt/This field guide from the Joint Commission urges US hospitals to create a more welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment that contributes to improved health care quality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) patients and their families. Unknown AuthorTue, 08 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMTPneumonia Measureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//pneumonia/In May 2001, the Joint Commission announced four initial core measurement areas for hospitals, which included pneumonia (PN). Unknown AuthorWed, 02 Nov 2011 13:15:00 GMTEmergency Managementhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=392Q. What kinds of situations should be included in an organization's emergency management plans? Unknown AuthorFri, 28 Oct 2011 11:14:58 GMTHand Hygiene - NPSG - Goal 7 - 07.01.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=391  Unknown AuthorFri, 28 Oct 2011 10:48:53 GMTLaryngoscope Bladeshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=386How should we process and store laryngoscope blades?Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Oct 2011 10:16:51 GMTSurgical Site Infections (SSI) - NPSG - Goal 7 - 07.05.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=384Q. Must we perform surveillance on all surgical procedures, or is targeted surveillance okay?    Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Oct 2011 13:15:46 GMTMultiple Drug-resistant Organism (MDRO) - NPSG - Goal 7 - 07.03.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=383Q. Must we perform surveillance on all MDROs, or is targeted surveillance okay?  Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Oct 2011 13:15:18 GMTCentral Line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) - NPSG - Goal 7- 07.04.01 http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=381 Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Oct 2011 13:14:23 GMTMonitoring of Hand Hygiene - NPSG - Goal 7 - 07.01.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=380Unknown AuthorTue, 18 Oct 2011 11:14:39 GMTFrom Survey Report to Accreditation Decisionhttp://www.jointcommission.org//What_Happens_After_Your_Joint_Commission_Survey/Your on-site survey is an important part of the accreditation decision-making process. During the on-site survey, your survey team uses the tracer methodology and other survey techniques to identify and document areas of noncompliance with Joint Commission standards.Unknown AuthorThu, 06 Oct 2011 08:56:00 GMTWebinar: NPSG 7 Healthcare-Associated Infectionshttp://www.jointcommission.org//npsg_7_healthcare-associated_infections_webinar/View this FREE webinar on NPSG 7 Healthcare-Associated Infections. - Updated June 2011Unknown AuthorFri, 30 Sep 2011 15:45:00 GMTR<sup>3</sup> Report Issue 2 - CAUTIhttp://www.jointcommission.org//r3_issue2/Published for Joint Commission accredited organizations and interested health care professionals, R3 Report provides the rationale and references that The Joint Commission employs in the development of new requirements. Unknown AuthorWed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMTImproving America’s Hospitals - The Joint Commission’s Annual Report on Quality and Safety 2011http://www.jointcommission.org//2011_annual_report/For the first time, The Joint Commission’s annual report on quality and safety, Improving America’s Hospitals, lists hospitals and critical access hospitals that are top performers in using evidence-based care processes closely linked to positive patient outcomes.Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Sep 2011 11:30:00 GMTCore measure changes that impact Accountability Measureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//core_measure_changes_that_impact_accountability_measures/Core measure changes that impact Accountability Measures - Effective with inpatient discharges starting with January 1, 2012Unknown AuthorFri, 02 Sep 2011 10:30:00 GMTTable of Changes, CAMCAH Update 2, September 2011http://www.jointcommission.org//table_of_changes_camcah_update_2_september_2011/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorThu, 01 Sep 2011 14:26:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 47: Radiation risks of diagnostic imaginghttp://www.jointcommission.org//sea_issue_47/Diagnostic radiation is an effective tool that can save lives. The higher the dose of radiation delivered at any one time, however, the greater the risk for long-term damage. If a patient receives repeated doses, harm can also occur as the cumulative effect of those multiple doses over time.Unknown AuthorThu, 01 Sep 2011 10:00:00 GMTCompendium of Strategies to Prevent Healthcare-Associated Infections in Acute Care Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//hai_compendium/SHEA and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) jointly published these science-based and practical recommendations for acute care hospitals for the prevention of common HAIs. The document represents practical recommendations by the leading champions in infection prevention and health [...]Unknown AuthorThu, 18 Aug 2011 14:28:00 GMT2011-2012 National Patient Safety Goal Presentationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//2011-2012_national_patient_safety_goal_presentation/A comprehensive presentation of the 2011 - 2012 National Patient Safety Goals.Unknown AuthorFri, 05 Aug 2011 10:11:00 GMTScreening patients for MRSA with Active Surveillance Cultureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=365Is MRSA screening required for all patients? If not, are there certain high-risk patients that must be screened?Unknown AuthorWed, 20 Jul 2011 09:33:05 GMTHuman Resource Standards Applicability to Contracted and Volunteer Personnelhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=344Do the standards in the human resource chapter apply to contracted and volunteer personnel? If yes, how is compliance with the standards surveyed?Unknown AuthorTue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 GMTHow to use the Standards FAQshttp://www.jointcommission.org//joint_commission_webmasters_blog/how_to_use_the_standards_faqs/Learn more about how to use the Standards FAQs section of the website.Frank BarancykThu, 05 May 2011 15:30:00 GMTFacts about the Strategic Surveillance System™ for Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_strategic_surveillance_system/The Joint Commission launched the Strategic Surveillance System™ (S3) for accredited hospitals in mid-2007. In April 2011, S3 became available to Joint Commission accredited critical access hospitals.Unknown AuthorMon, 02 May 2011 16:35:00 GMTHealth Affairs - Still Crossing the Quality Chasmhttp://www.jointcommission.org//healthaffairs/The April issue of Health Affairs features an article, written by Drs. Mark Chassin and Jerod Loeb, titled “The Ongoing Quality Improvement Journey: Next Stop, High Reliability.” The article highlights high reliability, which can be defined as consistent excellence over long periods of time.Health Affairs features an article, written by Drs. Mark Chassin and Jerod Loeb, titled “The Ongoing Quality Improvement Journey: Next Stop, High Reliability.” The article highlights high reliability, which can be defined as consistent excellence over long periods of time.]]>Unknown AuthorThu, 14 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTLife Safety Code Information & Resourceshttp://www.jointcommission.org//life_safety_code_information__resources/ Life Safety Code® is a registered trademark of the National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA.Unknown AuthorTue, 29 Mar 2011 14:25:00 GMTTissue - Standards Applicabilityhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=335What tissue products are surveyed under the standards in the Transplant Safety chapter?Unknown AuthorWed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMTLaboratory Director Of Recordhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=338Please explain the title of “Laboratory Director”.Unknown AuthorWed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMTSpeak Up: Dialysis - Five ways to be active in your care at the hospitalhttp://www.jointcommission.org//speak_up_dialysis/As a dialysis patient, you have a routine. You go to a dialysis center for dialysis or perform your own dialysis at home. You are actively involved in the daily care of your condition.Unknown AuthorWed, 09 Mar 2011 09:57:00 GMTSpeak Up: Prevent errors in your care http://www.jointcommission.org//multimedia/speak-up-prevent-errors-in-your-care-/ See the first in a series of new animated Speak Up&trade; videos that encourage patients to speak up and be active participants in their health care. Like the other Speak Up materials, the videos are free and can be used by accredited organizations and other interested stakeholders that want to pro [...]See the first in a series of new animated Speak Up™ videos that encourage patients to speak up and be active participants in their health care. Like the other Speak Up materials, the videos are free and can be used by accredited organizations and other interested stakeholders that want to promote the Speak Up message.

Request Downloadable File

]]>Unknown AuthorMon, 07 Mar 2011 12:17:00 GMTTable of Changes, CAMCAH Update 1, March 2011http://www.jointcommission.org//table_of_changes_camcah_update_1_march_2011/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorTue, 01 Mar 2011 14:24:00 GMTVariability of Surveillance Practices for Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections and Its Implications for Health Care Reformhttp://www.jointcommission.org//variability_of_surveillance/Data Corner - from the The Joint Commission Benchmark - March/April 2011 Issue. Unknown AuthorTue, 01 Mar 2011 09:13:00 GMTR<sup>3</sup> Report Issue 1 - Patient-centered communication http://www.jointcommission.org//R3_issue1/Published for Joint Commission accredited organizations and interested health care professionals, R 3 Report provides the rationale and references that The Joint Commission employs in the development of new requirements. 3 Report provides the rationale and references that The Joint Commission employs in the development of new requirements. ]]>Unknown AuthorWed, 09 Feb 2011 09:21:00 GMTTdap Vaccination Strategies for Adolescents and Adults, Including Health Care Personnelhttp://www.jointcommission.org//tdap/The Joint Commission's Division of Healthcare Quality Evaluation is releasing "Tdap Vaccination Strategies for Adolescents and Adults, Including Health Care Personnel: Strategies from Research and Practice" to help health care organizations of all types.Unknown AuthorTue, 01 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMTWhat is Joint Commission Connect?http://www.jointcommission.org//joint_commission_webmasters_blog/what_is_joint_commission_connect/The Joint Commission Connect is a secure extranet website intended only for Joint Commission accredited or certified organizations.Frank BarancykMon, 10 Jan 2011 11:51:00 GMTFacts about Joint Commission Connecthttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_joint_commission_connect/Joint Commission Connect is a secure Web site intended only for Joint Commission accredited or certified organizations.Unknown AuthorMon, 10 Jan 2011 11:15:00 GMTLook-alike/sound-alike drug listhttp://www.jointcommission.org//LASA/Patient Safety - Look-alike/sound-alike drug listUnknown AuthorWed, 05 Jan 2011 05:56:00 GMTSlides and Audio from December 16, 2010 Webinar: New Complimentary Tools Available for Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//slides_and_audio_from_december_16_2010_webinar_new_complimentary_tools_available_for_critical_access_hospitals/Unknown AuthorFri, 17 Dec 2010 13:20:00 GMTFollow-up Survey on Universal Protocolhttp://www.jointcommission.org//follow-up_survey_universal_protocol/Survey reveals widespread supportUnknown AuthorTue, 14 Dec 2010 08:54:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 46: A follow-up report on preventing suicide: Focus on medical/surgical units and the emergency departmenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_46_a_follow-up_report_on_preventing_suicide_focus_on_medicalsurgical_units_and_the_emergency_department/In 1998, The Joint Commission issued a Sentinel Event Alert on preventing inpatient suicides; this Alert updates the prevention strategies presented in that Alert with a focus on general hospitals and prevention of suicide in medical/surgical units and the emergency department.Unknown AuthorWed, 17 Nov 2010 15:58:00 GMTNational Quality Forum (NQF) Endorsed Nursing-Sensitive Care Performance Measureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//national_quality_forum_nqf_endorsed_nursing-sensitive_care_performance_measures/Unknown AuthorSun, 03 Oct 2010 13:40:00 GMTTissue Source Facilities - Verification of Licensing & Registrationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=303Q:  What is The Joint Commission looking for in regards to verification of registration and licensing of tissue suppliers? Unknown AuthorFri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMTTraceability of Recordshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=304Q:  How do we determine if our record keeping permits traceability of implanted tissue? Unknown AuthorFri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMTAdverse Tissue Reaction Policieshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=5Q:  What is The Joint Commission looking for in adverse tissue reaction policies? Unknown AuthorFri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMTFacts about the Tracer Methodologyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_tracer_methodology/The Joint Commission’s on-site survey process includes tracer methodology.Unknown AuthorWed, 01 Sep 2010 18:45:00 GMTFacts about the Priority Focus Processhttp://www.jointcommission.org//facts_about_the_priority_focus_process/The Priority Focus Process is a data-driven tool that helps focus survey activity on issues most relevant to patient safety and quality of care at the specific health care organization being surveyed.Unknown AuthorWed, 01 Sep 2010 18:19:00 GMTTable of Changes, CAMCAH Update 2, September 2010http://www.jointcommission.org//table_of_changes_camcah_update_2_september_2010/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorWed, 01 Sep 2010 14:16:00 GMTMulti-dose Vialshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=143Q. What types of vials are considered to be “multi-dose?'Unknown AuthorTue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTThe Joint Commission Conflict of Interest Policyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Conflict_of_Interest_Policy/It is the mission of The Joint Commission to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation/certification and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations.Unknown AuthorMon, 12 Jul 2010 17:56:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 45: Preventing violence in the health care setting http://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_45_preventing_violence_in_the_health_care_setting_/Once considered safe havens, health care institutions today are confronting steadily increasing rates of crime, including violent crimes such as assault, rape and homicide. Unknown AuthorThu, 03 Jun 2010 13:15:00 GMTTable of Changes, CAMCAH Update 1, June 2010http://www.jointcommission.org//table_of_changes_camcah_update_1_june_2010/Joint Commission RequirementUnknown AuthorTue, 01 Jun 2010 14:14:00 GMTMeasuring Hand Hygiene Adherence: Overcoming the Challengeshttp://www.jointcommission.org//Measuring_Hand_Hygiene_Adherence_Overcoming_the_Challenges_/The Joint Commission is releasing “Measuring Hand Hygiene Adherence: Overcoming the Challenges,” to help health care organizations target their efforts in measuring hand hygiene performance.Unknown AuthorTue, 04 May 2010 17:56:00 GMTAcronyms Frequently Used by The Joint Commission http://www.jointcommission.org//Acronyms_Frequently_Used_by_The_Joint_Commission_/Acronyms Frequently Used by The Joint CommissionUnknown AuthorWed, 21 Apr 2010 17:56:00 GMTLaboratory and Point-of-Care Testing Personnel - Primary Source Verificationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=114Q. What is primary source verification and is it required for laboratory and point-of-care testing personnel?Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTContracted Serviceshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=37Q: Do the standards for contracted services apply if the contracted organization is Joint Commission accredited or certified?Unknown AuthorThu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTUsing Data from Outside Organizations to Accomplish the Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation/Low Volume Practitionershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=311Q. Can organizations use data from outside organizations in lieu of collecting their own data to accomplish the Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation (OPPE)?  Can outside data be used for low volume practitioners?Unknown AuthorTue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTQuerying the National Practitoner DatabankUsing the "Proactive Disclosure Service" (PDS)?http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=250Q. Can organizations use the National Practitioner Data Bank's (NPDB) "Proactive Disclosure Service" (PDS)for reprivileging?Unknown AuthorTue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTIt’s All on the Surfacehttp://www.jointcommission.org//surface/Environment of Care® News, March 2010, Volume 13, Issue 3 Unknown AuthorMon, 01 Mar 2010 09:22:00 GMTContact precautions: Do gowns need to be worn whenever entering the room?http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=34Q. Do Joint Commission surveyors expect healthcare workers to wear a gown whenever entering the room of a patient on contact precautions? Unknown AuthorThu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT5 Sure-Fire Methods - Identifying Risks for Infections http://www.jointcommission.org//5_surefire_methods_infections/The Joint Commission: The Source, February, Volume 8, Issue 2 Unknown AuthorMon, 01 Feb 2010 08:25:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 44: Preventing Maternal Deathhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_44_preventing_maternal_death/The goal of all labor and delivery units is a safe birth for both newborn and mother. A previous Alert reviewed the causes of death and injury among newborns with normal birth weight and suggested Unknown AuthorTue, 26 Jan 2010 13:11:00 GMTNew Elements of Performance for Rehabilitation and Psychiatric Distinct Part Units in Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//new_elements_of_performance_for_rehabilitation_and_psychiatric_distinct_part_units_in_critical_access_hospitals/Effective January 1, 2010Unknown AuthorMon, 25 Jan 2010 16:40:00 GMTDeleted Elements of Performance for Rehabilitation and Psychiatric Distinct Part Units in Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//deleted_elements_of_performance_for_rehabilitation_and_psychiatric_distinct_part_units_in_critical_access_hospitals/Effective January 1, 2010Unknown AuthorMon, 25 Jan 2010 16:34:00 GMTRevised Elements of Performance for Rehabilitation and Psychiatric Distinct Part Units in Critical Access Hospitalshttp://www.jointcommission.org//revised_elements_of_performance_for_rehabilitation__and_psychiatric_distinct_part_units_in_critical_access_hospitals/Unknown AuthorMon, 25 Jan 2010 16:25:00 GMTReport on HAI Tracking from HHS Deputy Secretary for Health Care Qualityhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Report_on_HAI_Tracking_from_HHS_Deputy_Secretary_for_Health_Care_Quality/Report on Hospital Acquired Infections Tracking from HHS Deputy Secretary for Health Care QualityUnknown AuthorWed, 20 Jan 2010 17:57:00 GMTJoint Commission Resources 2010 Seminar & Conference Calendarhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Joint_Commission_Resources_2010_Seminar__Conference_Calendar/Joint Commission Resources 2010 Seminar & Conference CalendarUnknown AuthorTue, 05 Jan 2010 17:56:00 GMTWebsite Permissions/Reprints Request Formhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Website_PermissionsReprints_Request_Form/Use this form to request Website Permissions/Reprints Unknown AuthorMon, 04 Jan 2010 17:56:00 GMTAntibiotic Stewardship Program Protects Patientshttp://www.jointcommission.org//antibiotic_stewardship_program/The Joint Commission Perspectives on Patient Safety, January 2010, Volume 10, Issue 1 Unknown AuthorFri, 01 Jan 2010 09:26:00 GMTRestraint and Seclusion for Organizations that Do Not Use Joint Commission Accreditation for Deemed Status http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=329Q. There seems to be some confusion regarding where the Acute Medical and Surgical (Nonpsychiatric) Care restraint standards, and the Behavioral Health Care Restraint and Seclusion Standards apply in a hospital. What determines which set of standards would apply? Unknown AuthorThu, 24 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMTCapacity of Soiled Linen and Trash Receptacleshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=23Q. Is it acceptable to have containers that are designed with a capacity greater than 32 gallons in a healthcare or ambulatory occupancy? Unknown AuthorWed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMTExternally Funded Research Projectshttp://www.jointcommission.org//Externally_Funded_Research_Projects/List of Externally Funded Research Projects involving The Joint Commission's Division of Quality Measurement and ResearchUnknown AuthorFri, 16 Oct 2009 17:58:00 GMTH1N1 & Seasonal Influenza: Improving Your Vaccination Programhttp://www.jointcommission.org//H1N1__Seasonal_Influenza_Improving_Your_Vaccination_Program/Slide presentation that accompanied a podcast on H1N1 and Seasonal InfluenzaUnknown AuthorThu, 15 Oct 2009 17:58:00 GMTOffice of Minority Health Advisory Committee on Minority Health submitted report to Secretary Sebelius, July 2009http://www.jointcommission.org//Office_of_Minority_Health_Advisory_Committee_on_Minority_Health_submitted_report_to_Secretary_Sebelius_July_2009/Office of Minority Health Advisory Committee on Minority Health submitted report to Secretary Sebelius, July 2009 - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health, ...Unknown AuthorFri, 25 Sep 2009 17:56:00 GMTMaterial Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) Requirementshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=127Q. When does an item need to be included on the hazard inventory?   Unknown AuthorFri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 43: Leadership committed to safetyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_43_leadership_committed_to_safety/Leadership is a critical function in promoting high quality, safe health care. In health care organizations, leadership is provided by the governing body, the chief executive and...Unknown AuthorThu, 27 Aug 2009 13:08:00 GMTDon't Just Talk the Talk: The Joint Commission tackles its own processes with Lean and Six Sigma, Quality Progress, July 2009 http://www.jointcommission.org//dont_just_talk_the_talk/This article covers The Joint Commission's use of Lean and Six Sigma in their new Robust Process Improvement approach to quality improvement.Unknown AuthorFri, 07 Aug 2009 17:56:00 GMTInstallation of Call Buttonshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=107Q. What are the requirements for an emergency call button in a public accessible restroom?  Is the requirement different if used by patients only? Is the requirement different in occupancy compared to business occupancy?   Unknown AuthorFri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMTSpecial Instructions for Accessing The Joint Commission Connect for Non-Internet Explorer Browser Users (For Windows Users)http://www.jointcommission.org//Special_Instructions_for_Accessing_The_Joint_Commission_Connect_for_Non-Internet_Explorer_Browser_Users_For_Windows_Users/Special Instructions for Accessing The Joint Commission Connect for Non-Internet Explorer Browser Users (For Windows Users)Unknown AuthorWed, 22 Jul 2009 17:56:00 GMTUndersink Storagehttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=305Q: Do the Joint Commission standards prohibit use of under sink cabinets for storage?   Unknown AuthorMon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMTProviding a Safer Environment for Health Care Personnel and Patients through Influenza Vaccinationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Providing_a_Safer_Environment/“Providing a Safer Environment for Health Care Personnel and Patients through Influenza Vaccination: Strategies from Research and Practice,” a free monograph, to help health care organizations of all types improve seasonal influenza vaccination rates in health care personnel.Unknown AuthorThu, 25 Jun 2009 17:56:00 GMTDefibrillators - Life Support or Non-life Support Equipmenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=52Q. Are defibrillators considered life support equipment? Unknown AuthorMon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMTComputers on wheelshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=33Q. How long can computers on wheels be in corridors? Are they allowed to charge in the corridors? Unknown AuthorTue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMTAffirmation Statementhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Affirmation_Statement/Completed by accredited organizations, ONLY when an Alternative 4 review in response to a sentinel event is chosen. Unknown AuthorWed, 01 Apr 2009 17:57:00 GMTReport a Complaint about Medical Information Mishandled by The Joint Commission Staff- Privacy Incident Report Form http://www.jointcommission.org//Report_a_Complaint_about_Medical_Information_Mishandled_by_The_Joint_Commission_Staff-_Privacy_Incident_Report_Form___/Form to Report a Complaint about Medical Information Mishandled by The Joint Commission Staff- Privacy Incident Report Unknown AuthorWed, 01 Apr 2009 17:57:00 GMTMounting Sharps Boxes/Containershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=141Q. Is there a requirement that sharps/needle boxes or containers be mounted on the wall in patient rooms? If so, what is the required height?   Unknown AuthorMon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMTThe 96-hour Requirementhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=301Q. Are organizations required to have 96 hour capability on hand for the six critical areas regarding emergency response?   Unknown AuthorMon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMTDictated H&P for Surgery http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=58Q: Does a dictated history and physical examination that has not yet been transcribed and attached to the medical record, meet the intent of the standards? &#8203;Unknown AuthorMon, 09 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMTSOC PFI extension requesthttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=287Q. When is a Plan for Improvement (PFI) Change Request necessary?   Unknown AuthorTue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTInfant or Pediatric Abduction Drillshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=103Q. Does the current standard for Infant/Child Abduction drills still require a minimum of 2 drills per year?   Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTMaintaining Medical Waste Manifestshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=123Q. How long should medical waste manifests be retained by an organization?   Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTMaterial Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) alternativeshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=142Q. We have access to a computer program that is maintained by the EPA and it is more accurate than an MSDS. Is it acceptable to use this program to obtain the information we normally would get from an MSDS (this program is used by many fire departments and hazmat units)?Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTPosting of no smoking signshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=236Q. Is it necessary to post no smoking signs on doors where oxygen is being administered?   Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTPreprocedure Verificationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=237Q. Patients involved in large surgeries such as open heart surgery are typically taken from their room directly into the operative room for preparation and line insertion which require a significant amount of time. The surgeon would leave after the verification and then return when the patient is pr [...]Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTSmoking Distance Requirementshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=286Q. Does The Joint Commission have a acceptable distance for smokers on facility grounds?   Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTWhen The Community Will Not Participate With Emergency Planninghttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=322Q. What can an organization do when the community will not or is hesitant to participate with emergency planning?   Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTDesignating Controlled and/or Sensitive Areashttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=56Q. Does the Joint Commission recommend what areas are to be classified as sensitive?   Unknown AuthorTue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTSOC: PFI or work order?http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=288Q. What is the time frame that the Joint Commission permits before a deficiency to a life safety feature must be entered in Part 4 of the SOC? In other words, does The Joint Commission allow the organization to manage the resolution to a life safety deficiency through a work order system if it can b [...]Unknown AuthorTue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 42: Safely implementing health information and converging technologieshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_42_safely_implementing_health_information_and_converging_technologies/As health information technology (HIT) and “converging technologies”—the interrelationship between medical devices and HIT—are increasingly adopted by health care organizations.Unknown AuthorThu, 11 Dec 2008 13:03:00 GMTTwo Patient Identifiers - NPSG - Goal 1 - 01.01.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=145Unknown AuthorTue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMTTransfusion Administration Safety - NPSG - Goal 1 - 01.03.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=160  Unknown AuthorTue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMTAnticoagulation Therapy - NPSG - Goal 3 - 03.05.01http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=183Unknown AuthorTue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMTInfection Control Applicability to Offsite Interpretive Reading Providershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=104Q. How do the IC standards apply to interpretive reading providers? We have no contact with patients or specimens-what do we need to do? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTAuthentication of the H&P in 24 Hourshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=11Q: Does a dictated and transcribed history and physical need to be authenticated within 24 hours in order to be considered complete? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTLabeling Oxygen and other Compressed Gas Cylindershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=112Q. If a cylinder of oxygen is in use in a patient area or in transportation does that cylinder have to be marked as to the level of product in the cylinder? I have found in the NFPA 99 that all. Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTLicensed Independent Practitioner Health Screening http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=119Q: Are non-employed physicians and other licensed independent practitioners included in the health requirements specified in IC.02.03.01 EPs 1, 2 and 3? Do we need to screen them for TB infection as well as immunity to other diseases? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTLocking of Electrical Panelshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=120Q. Are electrical panels in patient areas required to be locked?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTLocking Soiled Utility Roomshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=121Q. Do Soiled Utility Rooms have to be locked?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTLPNs Performing Assessmenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=122Q: Can an LPN perform assessments? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTManagement Plans in Business Occupancieshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=126 Q. Are we expected to have as detailed a management plan for each area in the environment of care for our business occupancies as we do for our hospital?   &#8203;Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTMedical Record Security After Hourshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=134Q: We contract with an after hours cleaning service. Our medical records are stored in an unlocked area or on open shelves with in a secure area. The after hours cleaning crew members sign confidentiality statements. Is this acceptable or should we store the records under lock and key? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTMedical Students Doing H&Phttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=135Q. What patient care activities, such as the History and Physical, can a medical student perform and document in the medical record?  Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTMedication Refrigeration Temperature Logshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=136 Q:  Are we required to maintain temperature logs for medication storage refrigerators and freezers?    Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTMinimum Patient Information - Medicationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=137Q. Does the minimum required patient information for medication management need to be documented in a single form? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTBreathalyzers, Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems, Pulse Oximeters & Transcutaneous Bilirubinometershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=16Q: Are the following devices considered laboratory tests - breathalyzers, continuous glucose monitoring systems, pulse oximeters, and transcutaneous bilirubinometers?   &#8203;Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTOne LIP Signing for Anotherhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=210Q:  Is it acceptable for one LIP to authenticate on behalf of another LIP?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTOne-Time Extension Based on Unforeseen Conditionshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=211Q. When the Joint Commission grants an organization an extension for one or more PFI items, does the organization receive a new six-month window beyond the newly approved completion date?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTOrgan Donationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=217Q:  Are hospitals required to ask patients about their wishes concerning organ donation?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTPatient Owned Equipmenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=222Q. Patients often bring in things like hairdryers, electric razors.  If the organization does an electrical safety check is there an expectation of some sort of ongoing record keeping that is required or can the items merely be checked and if safe, put into use?  Would a label need to be applied to [...]Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTPatient Rights and Informed Consent When Videotaping or Filming http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=223Q: Can staff of a health care organization film or videotape patient care activities in the Emergency Department?     Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTPlacement of Alcohol Based Hand Rub (ABHR) Dispensershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=234Q. What is the requirement regarding placement of alcohol based hand rub dispensers in hallways and in some waiting areas. Although the criteria on horizontal spacing are so specific (4 feet apart), the installation over or directly adjacent to ignition sources is not so clear. Can you provide some [...]Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTPodiatrists and Dentists Performing the Entire History and Physical for Inpatient and Outpatient Care http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=235Q: Can Podiatrists and Dentists perform the entire history and physical for a patient admitted for inpatient and outpatient care?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTPre-Induction Assessment For Sedation And Anesthesiahttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=238Q: When must the pre-induction assessment be performed? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTPrimary Source Verificationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=241Q. What is Primary Source Verification? Who does it apply to?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTReappointment/Reprivileging Dates http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=254Q.  Is the reappointment/reprivileging date due on the same date or same month of the previous appointment/reappointment or privileging?     &#8203;Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTRequirements for Criminal Background Checkshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=258Q:  What is the Joint Commission requirement for criminal background checks and for which type of individual must it be performed?    Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTResidents or House Staff Writing Orders and/or Evaluating a Patient for Restraint or Seclusion for Behavioral Health Reasons http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=259Q: Can residents or house staff write orders and/or evaluate a patient for restraint or seclusion for behavioral health reasons?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTSample Medicationshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=277Q. What issues must our organization consider relating to sample medications?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTSecurity of Syringes and Needleshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=283Q:  Do hypodermic needles and syringes need to be stored under lock and key?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTSedation and Anesthesia http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=284Q. Is the availability of an on demand "cardio-respiratory code team" acceptable in lieu of the person who is permitted to administer moderate or deep sedation being able to perform the rescues required by the sedation and anesthesia standards? . Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTSmoke-free Campushttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=285Q. There is some concern about having a smoke free campus and putting that policy in writing.  What are your requirements regarding this?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTSpecial Interventions (Behavioral Health Restraints & Seclusion) http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=289Q. Is the use of a telemedicine link allowed for use by the LIP who conducts the in-person evaluations of an individual in restraint or seclusion?   &#8203;Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTSpiritual Assessment http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=290Q: Does the Joint Commission specify what needs to be included in a spiritual assessment?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTStaff Only Refrigeratorshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=291Q. Is there a Joint Commission standard which requires us to maintain temperature logs for staff only refrigerators?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTStandpipe Fire Hose Testinghttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=293Q. Do fire hoses for standpipes or fire hose cabinets have to be tested with any particular frequency?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTTabletop Drillshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=299Q: Is a tabletop exercise acceptable as an implementation of the Emergency Management / Emergency Operations Plan?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTTemporary Construction Barriershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=300Q. Do plastic sheets constitute acceptable temporary barriers in and around construction areas?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTTime Periods for Completing the Credentialing Processhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=302Q: Must a specific timeframe be established for each step of the process for appointment, reappointment and initial, renewal, or revised clinical privileges?   &#8203;Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTUse of Fanshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=308Q. Are fans allowed in patient care areas, laboratories, or other support areas in an organization?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTUse of Paper Patient During Emergency Exercises http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=310Q. Can paper patients be used in lieu of mock patients during an external disaster exercise?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTUtility System and Acquired Illness http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=313 Q. In reviewing the utility management standards, I see that one goal for these standards is to "reduce the potential for organizational acquired illness", but there is no prescriptive standards given as to how this is to be done. What references should I be using?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTContent of the History and Physical http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=35Q.  What specific data must be included in the history and physical?Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTCore/Bundled Privileges http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=42Q: Does the Joint Commission endorse or recommend the use of the core/bundle privileging format. Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTCredentialing Non-Medical Staff Member Licensed Independent Practitioners Who Order tests and Treatments from a Joint Commission Accredited Organization http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=49Q. What level of credentialing, if any, must occur for non-medical staff member licensed independent practitioner who order laboratory tests or radiology procedures? What level of credentialing, if any, must occur for non-medical staff member licensed independent practitioners who write orders a [...]Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTDelegation of the History and Physical Examinationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=54Q: Can the responsibility for performing the admission history and physical examination be delegated to a practitioner such as an advanced practice nurse, physician's assistant, or registered nurse who are not licensed independent practitioners?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTDocumenting CME'shttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=62Q. Are copies of the certificates of attendance at continuing education programs (CME) required to be obtained and placed in the credentialing file as proof of attendance? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTEnvironment of Care Management Plans in Several Settingshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=71Q. If a health care organization has several types of care (for example, hospital, long term care and behavioral health care) does each EC management plan have to specifically address each of these areas?Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTExit Mapshttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=72Q. Are evacuation maps required to be posted in health care organizations? If so, where and how many are needed? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTEyewashes - Frequency of Flushinghttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=74Q: How often do eyewashes need to be inspected or flushed?   Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTFilming And Recording http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=75Q: Standard RI.01.03.03, EP 7 states "Before engaging in the production of recordings, films, or other images of patients, anyone who is not already bound by the hospital's confidentiality policy signs a confidentiality statement to protect the patient's identity and confidential information. "  Doe [...]Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTAuthentication of Documentationhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=8Q. Do the standards specify the time frame for authentication of documentation?     Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTFood And Drinks In Patient Care Areas http://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=87Q:  Are food and drinks for staff members allowed in patient care areas? Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTH&P from non-credentialed practitionershttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=89Q.  Can the organization utilize a history and physical that has been performed by someone who is not authorized/privileged by the organization?  Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTHazardous Materialhttp://www.jointcommission.org//standards_information/jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFAQId=91Q. Health care organizations are responsible for adhering to local, state and federal regulations for proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials and wastes. How is it possible for the Joint Commission surveyors to determine whether an organization is complying with all of these codes, stand [...]Unknown AuthorMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 41: Preventing errors relating to commonly used anticoagulantshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_41_preventing_errors_relating_to_commonly_used_anticoagulants/Reports of accidental deaths and overdosing due to the improper use of anticoagulant drugs have received significant public attention. Unknown AuthorWed, 24 Sep 2008 12:55:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 40: Behaviors that undermine a culture of safetyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_40_behaviors_that_undermine_a_culture_of_safety/Intimidating and disruptive behaviors can foster medical errors, contribute to poor patient satisfaction and to preventable adverse outcomes, increase the cost of care, and...Unknown AuthorWed, 09 Jul 2008 12:08:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 39: Preventing pediatric medication errorshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_39_preventing_pediatric_medication_errors/Errors associated with medications are believed to be the most common type of medical error and are a significant cause of preventable adverse events. Unknown AuthorFri, 11 Apr 2008 12:06:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 38: Preventing accidents and injuries in the MRI suitehttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_38_preventing_accidents_and_injuries_in_the_mri_suite/Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was applied to health care in the late 1970s to provide never-before-seen two- and three-dimensional views of body tissue and structure.Unknown AuthorThu, 14 Feb 2008 12:05:00 GMTEffects of Health Care Provider Work Hours and Sleep Deprivation on Safety and Performancehttp://www.jointcommission.org//JQPS_11_07/The Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety, November 2007 Volume 33 Number 11Unknown AuthorFri, 30 Nov 2007 12:34:00 GMTRadiation Overdose FAQshttp://www.jointcommission.org//Radiation_Overdose_FAQs/Radiation Overdose as a Reviewable Sentinel Event - The Joint Commission recently added two new items to its list of events that are reviewable under its Sentinel Event Policy.Unknown AuthorWed, 07 Nov 2007 17:57:00 GMTAssessing the Quality of Care in Critical Access Hospitals Brochure http://www.jointcommission.org//Assessing_the_Quality_of_Care_in_Critical_Access_Hospitals_Brochure_/The Joint Commission: Assessing the Quality of Care in Critical Access Hospitals - What does Joint Commission accreditation of my critical access hospital mean to me?Unknown AuthorFri, 19 Oct 2007 17:56:00 GMTStatement of Conditions Compliance Documenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//Statement_of_Conditions/The Statement of Conditions (SOC) is a proactive document that helps an organization assess its current level of compliance and describe how to resolve any Life Safety Code (LSC) deficiencies.Unknown AuthorWed, 17 Oct 2007 16:05:00 GMTRetained Foreign Object After Surgery FAQshttp://www.jointcommission.org//Retained_Foreign_Object_After_Surgery_FAQs/Retained Foreign Object After Surgery FAQsUnknown AuthorTue, 11 Sep 2007 17:57:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 37: Preventing adverse events caused by emergency electrical power system failureshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_37_preventing_adverse_events_caused_by_emergency_electrical_power_system_failures/Health care facilities are highly dependent on reliable sources of electrical power. Unknown AuthorWed, 06 Sep 2006 12:03:00 GMTMagnetic Resonance Safe Practice Guidelines of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Centerhttp://www.jointcommission.org//magnetic_resonance_safe_practice_guidelines_of_the_university_of_pittsburgh_medical_center/Magnetic Resonance Safe Practice Guidelines of the University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterUnknown AuthorMon, 31 Jul 2006 17:58:00 GMTThe Sorry Works! Coalition: Making the Case for Full Disclosurehttp://www.jointcommission.org//The_Sorry_Works_Coalition_Making_the_Case_for_Full_Disclosure/The Sorry Works! Coalition, an organization of doctors, lawyers, insurers, and patient advocates, is dedicated to promoting full disclosure and apologies for medical errors.Unknown AuthorFri, 26 May 2006 17:57:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 36: Tubing misconnections—a persistent and potentially deadly occurrencehttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_36_tubing_misconnections—a_persistent_and_potentially_deadly_occurrence/Tubing and catheter misconnection errors are an important and under-reported problem in health care organizations. Unknown AuthorMon, 03 Apr 2006 12:01:00 GMTOrganization Update Formhttp://www.jointcommission.org//Organization_Update_Form/Organization Update FormUnknown AuthorFri, 24 Mar 2006 17:56:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 35: Using medication reconciliation to prevent errorshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_35_using_medication_reconciliation_to_prevent_errors/Medication reconciliation is the process of comparing a patient's medication orders to all of the medications that the patient has been taking. Unknown AuthorWed, 25 Jan 2006 11:59:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 34: Preventing vincristine administration errorshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_34_preventing_vincristine_administration_errors/Despite repeated warnings over the years and extensive labeling requirements and standards, tragic errors related to the inadvertent administration of vincristine intrathecally...Unknown AuthorThu, 14 Jul 2005 11:48:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 33: Patient controlled analgesia by proxyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_33_patient_controlled_analgesia_by_proxy/Patient controlled analgesia (PCA) is an effective and efficient method of controlling pain, and when it is used as prescribed and intended, the risk of oversedation is significantly reduced.Unknown AuthorMon, 20 Dec 2004 11:46:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 32: Preventing, and managing the impact of, anesthesia awarenesshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_32_preventing_and_managing_the_impact_of_anesthesia_awareness/Anesthesia awareness, also called unintended intraoperative awareness, occurs under general anesthesia when a patient becomes cognizant of some or all events during surgery or a procedure, and...Unknown AuthorWed, 06 Oct 2004 11:44:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 31: Revised guidance to help prevent kernicterushttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_31_revised_guidance_to_help_prevent_kernicterus/Issue 18, published in April 2001, of Sentinel Event Alert discussed the risk factors, root causes, risk reduction strategies and follow up recommendations to guide health care organizations...Unknown AuthorTue, 31 Aug 2004 11:42:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert: Issue 30 Preventing infant death and injury during delivery (Additional Resources)http://www.jointcommission.org//Sentinel_Event_Alert__Issue_30_Preventing_infant_death_and_injury_during_delivery_Additional_Resources/Sentinel Event Alert: Issue 30 Preventing infant death and injury during delivery (Additional Resources)Unknown AuthorWed, 21 Jul 2004 17:58:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 29: Preventing surgical fireshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_29_preventing_surgical_fires/In the fire triangle—heat, fuel and oxygen—each element must be present for a fire to start. And, though the incidents are significantly under-reported, too often all three elements come together...Unknown AuthorTue, 24 Jun 2003 11:37:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 28: Infection control related sentinel eventshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_28_infection_control_related_sentinel_events/Despite the small number of infection-related sentinel event cases reported to the Joint Commission, the number of patients acquiring infections in the health care setting, as well as the number...Unknown AuthorWed, 22 Jan 2003 11:35:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 27: Bed rail-related entrapment deathshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_27_bed_rail-related_entrapment_deaths/Since 1995, the Joint Commission has received reports of seven deaths or injuries related to bed rails; three of these reports were from hospitals, two were from long term care facilities, one was...Unknown AuthorFri, 06 Sep 2002 11:33:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 26: Delays in treatmenthttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_26_delays_in_treatment/While hospital Emergency Departments (EDs) are the source of just over one-half of all reported sentinel event cases of patient death or permanent injury due to delays in treatment...Unknown AuthorMon, 17 Jun 2002 11:30:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 25: Preventing ventilator-related deaths and injurieshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_25_preventing_ventilator-related_deaths_and_injuries/As of January 2002, the Joint Commission has reviewed 23 reports of deaths or injuries related to long term ventilation--19 events resulted in death and four in coma. Unknown AuthorTue, 26 Feb 2002 11:28:00 GMTFailure Mode, Effect, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) Worksheethttp://www.jointcommission.org//Failure_Mode_Effect_and_Criticality_Analysis_FMECA_Worksheet/Patient Safety - Failure Mode, Effect, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) Worksheet - Adapted, with permission, from model used by Good Samaritan Hospital, Dayton, OhioUnknown AuthorMon, 25 Feb 2002 17:56:00 GMTSample Failure Mode, Effect, and Criticality Analysis for Hypothetical Medication Use Process in O.R. http://www.jointcommission.org//Sample_Failure_Mode_Effect_and_Criticality_Analysis_for_Hypothetical_Medication_Use_Process_in_OR_/Patient Safety - Sample Failure Mode, Effect, and Criticality Analysis for Hypothetical Medication Use Process in O.R. Unknown AuthorFri, 01 Feb 2002 17:56:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 24: A follow-up review of wrong site surgeryhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_24_a_follow-up_review_of_wrong_site_surgery/In August 1998, the Joint Commission issued a Sentinel Event Alert examining the problem of wrong site surgery, including a review of 15 cases that had been reported to JCAHO.Unknown AuthorWed, 05 Dec 2001 11:23:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 23: Medication errors related to potentially dangerous abbreviationshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_23_medication_errors_related_to_potentially_dangerous_abbreviations/One of the major causes of medication errors is the ongoing use of potentially dangerous abbreviations and dose expressions. Unknown AuthorSat, 01 Sep 2001 11:21:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 22: Preventing needlestick and sharps injurieshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_22_preventing_needlestick_and_sharps_injuries/Health care workers are exposed to a wide range of hazards in the workplace, especially hazards associated with medical equipment. Unknown AuthorWed, 01 Aug 2001 11:10:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 21: Medical gas mix-upshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_21_medical_gas_mix-ups/The Joint Commission received two reports of medical gas mix-ups in 2000 that resulted in the death of four patients and injury to five patients. Unknown AuthorSun, 01 Jul 2001 11:07:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 20: Exposure to Creutzfeldt-Jakob Diseasehttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_20_exposure_to_creutzfeldt-jakob_disease/Within the last year, the Joint Commission has received reports of two separate incidents at accredited hospitals where patients--a total of 14--may have been exposed to Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease...Unknown AuthorFri, 01 Jun 2001 11:05:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 19: Look-alike, sound-alike drug nameshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_19_look-alike_sound-alike_drug_names/Since the initial publication of the Joint Commission's Sentinel Event Alert in 1998, several issues have been devoted to the topic of medication errors and the identification, prevention, and...Unknown AuthorTue, 01 May 2001 11:03:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 18: Kernicterus threatens healthy newbornshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_18_kernicterus_threatens_healthy_newborns/Kernicterus is a condition of newborns that leads to severely disabling brain damage or death. It results from hyperbilirubinemia that can be caused by a number of factors. Unknown AuthorSun, 01 Apr 2001 10:59:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 16: Mix-up Leads to a Medication Errorhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_16_mix-up_leads_to_a_medication_error/Recently, the Joint Commission's Board of Commissioners approved new and revised standards directly focused on patient safety and medical/health care error reduction in hospitals. Unknown AuthorTue, 27 Feb 2001 10:55:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 15: Infusion Pumps: Preventing Future Adverse Eventshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_15_infusion_pumps_preventing_future_adverse_events/Mishaps involving the use of infusion pumps have led to deaths and near-fatal drug overdoses in health care organizations nationwide. Unknown AuthorThu, 30 Nov 2000 10:53:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 14: Fatal Falls: Lessons for the Futurehttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_14_fatal_falls_lessons_for_the_future/Health care organizations that have experienced sentinel events due to falls have identified the root causes and risk reduction strategies included in this issue. Unknown AuthorWed, 12 Jul 2000 10:51:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 12: Operative and Post-Operative Complications: Lessons for the Futurehttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_12_operative_and_post-operative_complications_lessons_for_the_future/Since the Joint Commission began tracking sentinel events nearly four years ago, the Accreditation Committee has reviewed 64 cases related to operative and post-operative complications.Unknown AuthorFri, 04 Feb 2000 10:38:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 11: High-Alert Medications and Patient Safetyhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_11_high-alert_medications_and_patient_safety/Since the Joint Commission began tracking sentinel events in 1995, the Accreditation Committee of the Joint Commission's Board of Commissioners has reviewed 89 cases related to medication errors.Unknown AuthorFri, 19 Nov 1999 10:36:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 10: Blood Transfusion Errors: Preventing Future Occurrenceshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_10_blood_transfusion_errors_preventing_future_occurrences/Since the Joint Commission began tracking sentinel events more than three years ago, the Accreditation Committee has reviewed 12 cases related to transfusion errors. Unknown AuthorMon, 30 Aug 1999 10:32:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 9: Infant Abductions: Preventing Future Occurrenceshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_9_infant_abductions_preventing_future_occurrences/Since the Joint Commission began tracking sentinel events three years ago, the Accreditation Committee has reviewed eight cases related to infant abductions. Unknown AuthorFri, 09 Apr 1999 10:28:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 8: Preventing Restraint Deathshttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_8_preventing_restraint_deaths/Since the Joint Commission began tracking sentinel events two years ago, the Accreditation Committee has reviewed 20 cases related to deaths of patients who were being physically restrained. Unknown AuthorWed, 18 Nov 1998 10:20:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 7: Inpatient Suicides: Recommendations for Preventionhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_7_inpatient_suicides_recommendations_for_prevention/Since the Joint Commission enacted its Sentinel Event Policy two years ago, the Accreditation Committee has reviewed 65 cases related to inpatient suicides.&#8203;Unknown AuthorFri, 06 Nov 1998 10:11:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 6: Lessons Learned: Wrong Site Surgeryhttp://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_6_lessons_learned_wrong_site_surgery/Since the Joint Commission's Sentinel Event Policy was first introduced two years ago, the Accreditation Committee has reviewed 15 cases related to surgery at the wrong site.Unknown AuthorFri, 28 Aug 1998 10:04:00 GMTSentinel Event Alert, Issue 1: New Publication http://www.jointcommission.org//sentinel_event_alert_issue_1_new_publication_/The first issue of Sentinel Event Alert, a periodic publication dedicated to providing important information relating to the occurrence and management of sentinel events.Unknown AuthorSat, 28 Feb 1998 07:02:00 GMT