Anyone been through a state survey (hospice) lately

doodlemom · Feb 13, 2006

The Hospice company I work for will be going through a certification state survey within the next couple of weeks. I was told that the surveyor would be going out with me to do the field visit survey. I have been an RN 20 + years. However, all of my experience is hospital experience...critical care units and ER. And I have been through numerous joint commission and state surveys in hospitals over the years, but never in home health or hospice. Can anyone that has had this experience please tell me what to expect? Also any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.

Unfortunately each surveyor has their own agenda and every time the state comes, they tend to focus on a different thing - similar to when they came into the hospital. Everytime I've ever goneout on a visit with them, I've emptied out my trunk because it's always a mess and not in compliance. The last time I went, the surveyor noticed that the patients O2 tanks were not stored properly. Of course I made sure that my assesssment was very thorough - it didn't even seem that she paid attention to that. Our agency has always told us that if they ask us any questions about policies and procedures that we are not sure about to tell them you can't remember but that you know where to get the info and to point them in the right direction. Good luck. I know it can be stressful.

Home Health Columnist / Guide · Feb 13, 2006

Just survived JCAHO.....

INFECTION CONTROL a biggie.

Look at your P+P for handwashing: if it says was hands for 15 seconds and wipe on clean paper towel, makes sure you sing to yourself happy birthday song 2x and take clean paper towels with you. Alcohol gel use: friciton used when rubing, do not dry hands with paper towel---let air dry. If changing multiple dresings, one set gloves per area.....these are things that tried up our staff.

Know 2006 patient safety goals for Hospice. Two identifiers if doing labs.

MED TEACHING---patients need to be able to give 1-2 side effects meds. What is your policy re narcotic administration? How are meds stored in home and is med count needed per your policy? What to do with meds after patient expired? Do you have a bowel program to prevent narcotic induced constipation?

Supplies: Do you have a supply closet for donated items? Don't mention it unless you have policy regarding it and infection control cleaning items etc.

Volunteers: what training do they have, tasks permitted, etc.

Evidence of interdisciplinary communication BIG. Are your care plans up to date?

These are biggest areas for field staff.

ATLRN · Feb 14, 2006

Thanks bunches NRSKarenRN and doodlemom. I had actually reorganized my trunk this afternoon when I got home. I try to do my assessments and visits as if I were in front of a surveryor anyway. If it becomes a habit, then there is less chance of slipping up. But I know we all slide at times too. Keep the info coming everyone, I sincerely appreciate your input. :thankya: Deb

jerseyRN · Feb 19, 2006

The surveyors are adept at making you feel they are your friends, and getting you to talk more than you need to. My advice is just answer what you are asked and don't volunteer more information. Be cordial, but not chatty. We just had a survey and they actually timed the nurse washing her hands. They also zoomed in on oxygen safety and storage. I was glad they didn't pick me to go out with this year.