HospitalInspections.org

Based on document review and interview, the facility failed to have documentation of nurse training for continuous fetal heart monitoring for 2 of 2 Emergency Department (ED) nursing personnel files reviewed. [N1 (Registered Nurse-RN) and N2 (RN)]

Findings included:
1. The facility policy, "Fetal Heart Monitoring on Non-OB Units", PolicyStat ID: 12422958, last revised 5/2022, Indicated under A. In a situation where patients are being cared for in non-OB units and require continuous fetal monitoring, an L&D RN will remain at the bedside to manage fetal monitor and respond to tracing as needed.

2. MR review on 09/28/2025 at 1010 hours indicated N3 (Obstetric Nurse) was at P8 bedside placing on patient provider ordered fetal heart tone (FHT) monitor. N3 indicated he/she advised ED nurse to call with any concerns or issues since he/she was instructed to return to the OB (obstetrics) department.

3. N1 and N2 were assigned to care for P8 in the ED on 09/28/2024, patient required a FHT monitor placed.

4. Review of personnel files indicated of N1 (Register Nurse, Emergency Department) and N2 (Registered Nurse, Emergency Department), lacked training/education/competency in fetal heart tone monitor and/or placement.

5. In interview with A10 (Registered Nurse, Emergency Department) on 2/19/2025 at approximately 1000 hours, he/she indicated when a patient requires a fetal heart tone (FHT) monitor, this would not be within the ED nurse scope of practice.