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Based on observation, interview and document review, the facility failed to ensue the defibrillator was checked to ensure proper functioning for 3 of 4 defibrillator units located in the acute care hospital. This had the potential to affect all patients coming to the hospital for treatment.

Findings include:

During a tour of the Granite Falls Municipal Hospital on 8/20/18, at 11:00 a.m. with the Vice President of Patient Care Services (VPPCS) both a crash cart (Adult) and Broselow (pediatric crash cart) both storing a defibrillator and resuscitative equipment were located in the monitored bed area located behind the nursing station.

Review of the Crash Cart Daily Checklist on both units indicated required checks for function had not been completed for 5 of 20 days in August 2018. In addition, the crash cart located in the Emergency Services Main Trauma room had a log for daily checks and this also indicated 5 of 20 days in August 2018 in which the required daily checks were not documented. Any of the three carts with a defibrillator would/could be utilized in the event of a cardiac arrest (heart stopping). The failure of one of these units had the potential to delay life saving medical interventions being provided to a patient.

During interview with the VPPCS on 8/20/18, at 11:30 a.m., it was verified checking of the crash carts was included on the daily assignment sheet for nursing staff and her expectation was for the 3 units to be checked on a daily basis. It was further indicated she was not certain why this had been missed on 5 of the 20 days of August, but she would be looking into the issue more thoroughly.

Review of the facility policy: Granite Falls Hospital Emergency Crash Cart/Airway Cart Checks with most recent review date of 11/2017 indicated: The security of the emergency supplies, equipment and medications on the crash cart will be checked daily. Hospital nursing will check the crash cart, in the Monitored Unit and ER (emergency room). The defibrillator should be checked for an appropriate charge and discharge daily. A strip confirming the discharge should be run off. When completed, record a check mark in the appropriate column on the Crash Cart Check form.