HospitalInspections.org

Based on review of the facility floor plan, direct observation, and an interview, it was determined the facility failed to provide an all-weather enclosure from the Critical Access Hospital (CAH) to the temporary building located outside the main entrance of the CAH that is providing Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for inpatient and outpatient testing. This failure poses the potential risk that patients may be exposed to the elements during transport which could affect their health and safety.

Findings include:

Review of the facility floor plan and direct observation confirmed the CT scanner is located in an unattached temporary building outside the main entrance to the CAH. The path from the CAH to the temporary building is covered by an "awning" and the sides are open to the elements.

The Chief Executive Officer confirmed during an interview conducted on 10/24/17 and 10/25/17, that the CT scanner has been utilized for"years" in this temporary building. In addition, a second temporary trailer is utilized every "couple of weeks" to perform MRI testing. The second trailer is parked next to the CT scan trailer when on the hospital campus. The CEO confirmed the need for the path/walkway to be enclosed, but that the work has not been completed due to "financial reasons".