HospitalInspections.org

Based on observations, policy and procedure review, and interview, the hospital failed to ensure the patient right to receive care in a safe setting. This deficient practice was evidenced by the hospital front entrance exterior doors and front lobby conference room door not locked at all times to maintain security.
Findings:

Observation upon arrival to the hospital on 12/09/2024 at 7:52 AM revealed the front entrance exterior doors were not locked. The surveyor entered through the doors and into the lobby of the hospital. There was no hospital staff in the lobby or receptionist area. The surveyor observed a closed conference room door in the lobby area and knocked on the door three separate times with no response. The conference room door was not locked and the surveyor entered the room and called out to staff again. The surveyor was then greeted by S3Registered Nurse. Further observation revealed that after entering the hospital conference room, an individual could gain access to administration, staff offices, and other areas of the hospital.

Review of the hospital policy titled Security Management Plan, effective 07/02/2012 revealed, in part:
Policy: The hospital will maintain a security program to protect employees, patients, & visitors.
Procedure: 2. Front entrance exterior doors will remain locked at all times to maintain security.

In an interview on 12/10/2024 at 8:09 AM, S1Administrator confirmed front entrance exterior doors and lobby conference room door should be locked at all times to maintain security. S1Administrator confirmed that by not locking the lobby conference room door an individual could gain access to administration, staff offices, and other areas of the hospital.