HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, interview and policy review the facility did not ensure 1 of 3 defibrillators in the adult Emergency Department (ED) were checked daily and expired supplies were removed from patient care areas.

Findings include:

Review on 07/20/18 of Emergency Policies 7.1 Defibrillator Maintenance, last approved 01/11/17 revealed defibrillators are to be checked and documented daily on the appropriate checklist.

Review on 07/20/18 of Acute 3 unit defibrillator check list revealed no documentation of the daily check on 6 of 20 days in July 2018 (July 3, 9, 10, 14, 17 and 18).

Interview with Staff (N), ED RN on 07/20/18 at 09:25 AM verified the lack of defibrillator check documentation.

Observation on 07/20/18 at 09:05 AM in the comprehensive psychiatric emergency program (CPEP) revealed 96 out of 100 expired red topped blood vials dated 05/2018.

Observation on 07/20/18 at 11:00 AM in the pediatric ED revealed 28 out of 160 expired red topped blood vials dated 12/31/17.

Interview with Staff (B), Nursing Administration on 07/20/18 at 01:30 PM revealed "hospital stores" is responsible for stocking the units and throwing out of expired supplies. The nurses on the unit are also responsible for disposing expired supplies.