HospitalInspections.org

Based on clinical record reviews and interviews with facility personnel for one of ten sampled patients (Patient #51), the facility failed to ensure that medical staff was accountable for the quality of care provided to the patient.

The findings include:

1. Patient #51 was admitted to the hospital on 3/12/11 for a hernia repair and lysis of adhesions. Review of the informed consent dated 3/12/11 identified that the surgeon and patient consented for a hernia repair and lysis of adhesions, however after the surgical procedure was completed, the patient was upset that the lap band was not removed by the surgeon. Review of the clinical record and interview with MD #20 identified that the patient had seen Physician Assistant #4 pre-operatively and requested that the lap band be removed, however there was miscommunication between the surgeon and the PA prior to the procedure. MD #20 identified that he had not seen the patient until the day of surgery and had the consent signed. MD #20 indicated that currently, he is evaluating all patients in the office prior to all surgical procedures. Subsequently, Patient #51 underwent a second surgical procedure on 3/13/11 for removal of the lap band. Interview with the Chief of Surgery on 3/22/11 identified that the hospital had required the surgeon to modify his practice.