HospitalInspections.org

Based on review of 1 of 5 closed medical records in a total sample of 9 and interview with staff, the hospital failed to ensure a properly executed informed consent was obtained for patient #1 as evidenced by the physician not signing the consent prior to performing an invasive procedure. Findings:

Review of the closed medical record revealed patient #1 was admitted through the emergency department on 4/30/10 with complaints of chest pain. Patient #1 was admitted, monitored, and scheduled for a femoral heart catheterization on 5/3/10.

Review of the invasive procedure report dated 5/03/10 revealed the heart catheterization procedure began at 2:26 pm and ended at 2:51 pm on 5/03/10.

Review of the informed consent for the heart catheterization revealed patient #1 and a witness signed the consent 5/03/10 at 10:00 am. Further review of the informed consent revealed the physician signed the consent on 5/03/10 at 3:30 pm.

Interview on 9/08/10 at 8:35 am with MD S13 who performed the heart catheterization confirmed the time of his consent did indicate that he did not sign the informed consent until after the invasive procedure was performed on patient #1.