HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to inform patients being seen in the Emergency Department, of their rights resulting in the potential for patients to be uninformed regarding patient rights. Findings include:

On 5/29/12 at approximately 1400 during observational tour of the Emergency Department, failed to find a posted patient rights notification. Interview with Staff C confirms that "the poster was taken down when construction was started, a while back and never put back up". A review of brochures and pamphlets at the discharge area booth reveals two pamphlets and one booklet, which was titled "Together We Care", which informs patients of their rights, however the staff at the discharge booth indicated that the booklet is only given out upon request". Interview with Staff C regarding how patients using services in the Emergency Department are informed of their rights and responsibilities, she responded, "we need to get that poster (about rights and responsibilities) back up".

Based on observation and interview the facility failed to protect patient privacy on the 8 South Tower private rooms, resulting in the potential for breaches in confidentiality of posted patient names. Findings include:

On 5/29/12 at approximately 1130 during observational tour of the 8 South Tower found that on the Progressive NeuroScience Unit in rooms: 8331, 8333, 8349, 8355, and 8357, patient's first and last names were written on the white erasable board in the patient room and were visible from pedestrians walking in the corridor. These findings were confirmed by Staff A.

On 5/29/12 at approximately 1230 during observational tour of the 8 South Tower found that on the Oncology unit in rooms: 8487, 8471, 8535, 8433, 8427, 8419 and 8411, patient's first and last names were written on the white erasable board in the patient room and were visible from pedestrians walking in the corridor. These findings were confirmed by Staff B.