HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and staff interviews (EMP) it was determined that the facility failed to maintain the hospital environment at an acceptable level of safety for patients, staff and visitors.

Findings:

UPMC Altoona's "Code Red Fire plan General Instructions for Main Campus Buildings and Surgery Center ... 6. Corridors to the fire exits must be kept free and clear of obstruction ... ."

"UPMC Department of Environment Services Safety Plan Purpose: Establish a departmental safety program directed towards enhancing environmental and employee safety ... Environment: ... A. Employees shall be responsible for maintain a clean, orderly and safe work area ... J. Do not obstruct walkways ... Equipment: A. Equipment shall be kept clean and in its proper/designated locations ... Safety for Others ... 11. Never block corridors, doorways, or stairways ... ."

1. A tour of Tower 11 was conducted on August 15, 2016, at approximately 9:30 AM, it was observed that 3 liters and a wheelchair were blocking a fire exit. The hallway corridor was restricted to 18 inches from 8 feet.

2. An interview with EMP2 confirmed the above findings.

3. Inspection of the liters in the hallway it was revealed that one of the liters had five tears in the mattress, two of the holes had plastic transparent adhesive covering the holes. EMP2 confirmed that these patches were not approved by infection control.

4. Observation of the Transport Services Liter Storage area on August 16, 2016 at approximately 1:00 PM revealed 23 liters in the storage area. Inspection of the liters revealed 11 of the 23 liters had tears of holes in the liter mattress.

5. An interview with (EMP2) confirmed the above findings and stated that the liters should be removed from service due to infection control concerns.