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Based on observation, policy review, and interview, staff did not consistently check the Pediatric Crash Cart, supply carts and equipment in the Emergency Department in accordance with facility policy. The hospital failed to ensure the availability and reliability of needed supplies for emergency situations.

Findings Include:

Observation on 04/05/23 at 12:40 PM the checklist for the pediatric crash cart, located in the hallway of the emergency department, revealed the last date the cart was checked was 01/06/23. The checklist for the supply cart that stored medications and equipment located in patient room #1 was last checked on 11/14/22. A Glide Scope (flexible airway visualization tool used for airway management in difficult intubations) located on a tray cart had expired on 3/05/23.

Review of policy "Crash Cart, Checking of," last revised 06/01/17 indicates that the crash cart will be maintained in a state of perpetual readiness. The locked crash cart will be opened the first day of every month by an assigned nursing staff member. A checklist is provided on a clipboard on the crash cart. Each item is to be checked, outdated or missing items must be replaced immediately.

Review of policy "Expiration Dates on Patient Care Products," last revised 07/01/16 indicates an item is expired on the first day of the month listed on the product or packaging, unless otherwise specified. The clinical staff will check for expiration dates before using it on a patient.

Interview on 04/05/23 at 12:45 PM with Staff (E), RN, Patient Services Manager, verified these findings.