HospitalInspections.org

Remains Cited

Based on observation, interview, and review of facility work orders, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that the pulmonary function laboratory was protected in accordance with NFPA 99, in a room where there were medical gases stored that were less than 3000 cubic feet. This could affect all individuals utilizing the services of this smoke compartment.

Findings include:

Interview of staff Q on 4/7/10 at 12:50 PM revealed that the pulmonary function laboratory, in which were stored three H tanks of medical gases (oxygen, helium, and an oxygen mix consisting of 0.5 per cent neon, 21 per cent oxygen, 0.3 per cent carbon dioxide, and 78.2 percent nitrogen,) continued to have one light switch and two electrical outlets that were located less than five feet above the floor. In addition, the entry door to the room was still not on a self-closer. A work order dated 3/29/10 confirmed that the light switch was scheduled to be moved to the outside of the room and the electrical outlets were scheduled to be moved within the room to five feet or more above the floor; and the door was scheduled to be put on a self-closer. However, the work was not done at the time of the revisit survey, but was scheduled to be done by 4/12/10 when the room would not be needed for patient testing. The room was observed with staff D on 4/8/10 at 11:00 AM, and the observation confirmed that the ordered work had not yet been completed.