A safe environment of care for nursing home residents starts with strong safety regulations. Codes, procedures, and standards are designed to ensure that residents receive high-quality care. However, sometimes the safety measures that are in place do not consider all circumstances. For example, nursing home facilities use sophisticated medical equipment and appliances with elaborate technology. With the advanced equipment comes additional regimens of inspection and maintenance. The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services as well as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have taken measures to enforce the safety of patient care-related equipment by requiring specific testing and monitoring (PCREE).
This additional testing (PCREE) depends on the equipment that needs more frequent inspection. However, since most adult population facilities have a wide range of appliances from electronic beds to medical monitoring, it is suggested that nursing home facilities develop their own individual safety inspection procedures. The policies must align with the requirements of K-921 section 10.3 of the Health Care Facilities Code. In creating a plan, providers must also develop and maintain documentation for all PCREE inspections as they are performed. In addition, all other equipment testing and maintenance will be documented for proof of compliance.
These safety measures are necessary to ensure that nursing home residents are truly safe. Medical equipment and other appliances come with hazards and these inspection protocols are in place to keep residents safe and confident in their living spaces.
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Source: Szpytek, Stan. “Patient Care-Related Electrical Equipment Inspection and Maintenance Requirements.” McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, 27 Aug. 2023, www.mcknights.com/blogs/guest-columns/patient-care-related-electrical-equipment-inspection-and-maintenance-requirements/.
