HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, record review and interview, the hospital failed to ensure equipment inspection prior to patient use for three (Patients #23-25) of 25 patients reviewed.

On 03/25/25 from 9:26 AM to 9:58 AM, during a hospital tour, x-ray equipment was observed with a past due inspection sticker. Specifically:

1. A (name omitted) portable X-ray machine, model number 5140761-2 with a sticker that read in part, "ELECTRICAL SAFETY INSPECTION Month Due: Sept, Year Due: 2024."

Review of a radiology policy titled "Department Safety" read in part, "Preventative maintenance is performed on x-ray equipment on a regular basis by qualified service personnel and documented."

Review of X-ray reports showed receipt of X-ray from Carrus Lakeside Hospital for the following:

1. Patient #23 "RIGHT FOOT: 3 views Exam Date: 22-Jan-2025 9:10 AM"
2. Patient #24 "TWO VIEW CHEST Exam Date: 22-Jan-2025 9:22 AM"
3. Patient #25 "CXR 2V Exam Date: 21-Jan-2025 8:54 PM"

On 03/25/25 from 9:26 AM to 9:33 AM, Staff A observed the past due electrical inspection sticker and stated:
1. The X-ray machine was a loaner they received from a rental company on 01/21/25.
2. The X-ray rental company was supposed to inspect the machine before delivering it.
3. They have used the loaner on patients.
4. A missed inspection posed the risk of patients receiving too much radiation exposure or an electrical issue.

On 03/25/25 at 10:40 AM, Staff C stated the facility was responsible to ensure equipment received preventive maintenance.

On 03/25/25 at 12:21 PM, Staff A stated:
1. They were checking with the X-ray rental company and the inspection appeared to have been missed.
2. They should have looked for a current inspection sticker when the machine was delivered.
3. The facility was placed on divert for X-ray equipment on 03/25/25 at 10:54 AM and would remain on divert until the X-ray rental company performed the inspection or provided documentation of a current inspection.