HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, document review, interview and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended guidelines, the facility failed to post signage with instructions prior to entering the facility and the screening procedure was not followed at the main hospital entrance on 06/12/2020.

Findings include:

On 06/12/2020 at 4:50 PM as surveyor entered the main hospital entrance, signage was not posted regarding instructions for screening of respiratory illness/COVID-19 signs and symptoms. There was a small table stand with a thermometer up against the right side of the wall. No employee was present at entrance. The lobby had no patients and 2 staff members worked behind the glass screen. I asked for the hospital administrator, was walked down the hallway but not screened. The employee said the entrance is open until 5:30 PM and was usually staffed by an emergency medical technician starting at 11:00 AM. The main entrance is opened between 7:00 AM and 5:30 PM.

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) screening tool, dated April 22, 2020, indicated individuals with any symptoms or qualifiers were sent to the outside screening area and called a listed phone number Monday to Friday 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

The Chief Executive Officer explained, in an interview on 06/12/2020 at 5:30 PM, the hospital had 3 entrances, the main one and 2 ED entrances. The CEO confirmed the signage was missing from 1 of 3 entrances for unknown reason. The CEO reported the signage would be replaced immediately. The hospital's process was to screen individuals at all three entrances.

The ED clerk reported the use of a Coronavirus screening questionnaire for all patients and placement of tool in the medical record.

CDC recommended guidelines for COVID-19 indicated facilities should screen everyone entering the facility for COVID-19 symptoms at limited points of entry.