First Inspection

[sls73]

I am getting ready for my first inspection as the DON. I was a previous RNAC, but it is a little more over whelming this time. Any pointers or suggestions on trying to keep my sanity? I recognize I can't change the past but can only go forward. What items do you do in preparation? I have been reviewing the QM/QI's and doing rounds on the unit. I am also getting ready to start chart audits. We just entered our survey window.

Thanks for your responses in advance.

[Nascar nurse, ASN, RN]

I would start by reviewing last years survey. Then I would start with audits in those areas of concerns. Example, if you had tags based on holes in your MAR/TARs, I would start with daily audits to ensure the same problems were reoccurring.

Do you have a system in place to always review documentation. The nursing management team reviews all significant change charts every morning to ensure Dr/family notifications are completed timely, careplan update done, etc.

We review all physician orders from the day before during am stand up meeting...this is often a good cue as to where "all hell is breaking loose" at.

Good luck

[CapeCodMermaid, RN]

Do you have a 'Survey Book' ready? You know they want the same info year after year- any residents under the age of 55, anyone on dialysis, the activity calendar for the last 3 months, the menu for the last 3 months; any CLIA wavers you have, a list of the med pass times, a list of the last 10 people hired, the Census and Condition Report and the Roster/Matrix. If everything is ready when they walk in, it makes the whole process smoother.