HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, interview, and document review, the critical access hospital (CAH) failed to ensure signage pertaining to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) was posted in all areas likely to be noticed by patients entering the Emergency Department (ED). This had the potential to affect all patients presenting to the ED seeking care and treatment via the ambulance/helipad patient entrance.
Findings include:
On 3/18/24, at 2:05 p.m., a tour of the emergency department (ED) was conducted with registered nurse house supervisor (RN)-A and a quality partner (QP)-A. During the tour, RN-A identified an entrance where most patients who arrived via ambulance, or helicopter, entered the facility. This area lacked posted EMTALA signage RN-A and QP-A acknowledged there was no signage posted in this area.
On 3/20/24, at 5:42 p.m., a tour of the main ambulance/helipad patient entrance was conducted with the ED director of nursing (DON)-A. During the tour it was identified the area lacked EMTALA signage. She stated this entrance was utilized by patients who arrived via ambulance and/or helicopter. She acknowledged there was no signage posted in this area and she explained EMTALA signage was expected to be in any location patients entered the facility.
An Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act policy, dated 2/14/23, identified its purpose was to ensure compliance with the provisions of EMTALA. The policy directed EMTALA signage was to be posted in locations likely to be noticed by all individuals entering the ED and other areas where individuals may present with emergency medical condition(s).