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MERCY MEDICAL CENTER
POSTING OF SIGNS
Tag No.: A2402
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Based on observations and interviews in the Emergency Department (ED) during the Federal EMTALA (Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act) Survey, the facility failed to post signs in all ED Entrance Areas specifying the rights of individuals to examination and treatment of emergency conditions and whether the hospital participates in the Medicaid Program.
Findings:
During a tour of the Emergency Department on 05/12/14 at 9:45AM it was observed that there was no EMTALA signage posted in the Ambulance Triage Area.
During interview with Staff #2 on 05/12/14 at 11:45AM, Staff #2 agreed that the EMTALA signage was not posted in the Ambulance Triage Area.
During a tour of the Labor and Delivery (L/D) Unit on 05/12/14 at 11:45AM, there was no signage in areas where a pregnant patient would present requesting emergency care and evaluation.
During an interview conducted on 05/12/14 at 12:00PM, Staff #3 stated that some patients, instead of going to the ED for emergent care or OB (Obstetric) issues, would go straight to the L/D Unit. Staff #3 also confirmed that there was no EMTALA signage.