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Steps for Ensuring Emergency Preparedness in LTC

New Office of the Inspector General (OIG) audits have uncovered numerous weaknesses and gaps in emergency preparedness, life safety efforts, and infection control measures in the nation’s nursing homes. This, along with the results of other investigations, have led to speculations that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) will target preparedness regulations and oversight.

• Problems such as poor recording keeping and high staff turnover, the auditors said, put residents and staff at risk during fires, floods, infectious disease outbreaks, and other emergencies.
• Facilities can prepare for enhanced regulations and oversight with efforts such as stepped-up staff education and training, designation of an emergency manager, and involvement in state health care coalitions.
• Revisiting and retraining on emergency preparedness protocols is advised for facilities. 

Complete the form to download a free tip sheet for more suggestions on how to shore up your emergency preparedness.