HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, policy review, and staff interview the facility failed to ensure medical record recycle bins were in a secure room where only authorized personnel had access to the recycle bins.

The findings include:

During a tour of the facility on 3/25/14 at 1:00 p.m. it was observed that the recycle bin was stored in the dirty linen room. This recycle bin is in a large locked plastic container that has wheels. The dirty linen room has an outer access door that is used by staff to exit the building. The observation camera can see all individuals entering the room from the patient care area. There is no camera surveillance to see who exits the building from the outer door.

Review of facility policy titled "Use of Secure Collection Bins" states, in part "The organization recognizes the extreme need to maintain patient and other information in a confidential manner. As such, patient information will not be shared in an unauthorized manner..." "Each building will have one or more collection bins strategically located at each floor level."

Interview with staff #2 and #3 verified that there is potential for the secure storage bin of patient data to be rolled out of the building and into the parking lot without anyone seeing the activity occur as the container is located in a room that does not have video surveillance of both exit doors.