HospitalInspections.org

Based on CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) certification review, policy and procedure review, job description review and interview it was determined the Facility failed to ensure two (#1 and #2) of ten (#1-#10) Registered Nurses (RN) had current CPR certification. Failure to ensure all staff maintained CPR certification did not ensure the availability of competent staff in the event of life saving measures or a cardiac emergency. The failed practice had the likelihood to affect all patients whose care was provided by RN #1 and #2. The findings follow:

A. Review of the CPR certification of RN #1 revealed the certification expired June 2017.

B. Review of the CPR certification of RN #2 revealed the certification expired July 2016.

C. Review of the policy "Licensure, Certification, Verification and Registration" on 08/03/17 revealed "POLICY: It is the policy of Saline Memorial Hospital (SMH) to employ only those individuals who have proper licensure, certification or registration by the appropriate agency in those jobs requiring such status. Furthermore, SMH must obtain proof of licensure and/or registration of employees prior to employment. It is also the policy of SMH to obtain proof of renewals of licensures and/or registration of employees during their course of employment."

D. Review of the Job Description for RN Staff revealed "Certificates, Licenses, Registrations - Licensed RN and currently registered to practice nursing in the state of Arkansas. Must be currently certified in CPR."

E. The findings of A, B, C and D were confirmed in an interview with the Chief Quality Officer on 08/03/17 at 2:55 PM.