CMS memo defines ligature risk and clarifies expectations
Hospital Safety Insider, December 14, 2017
Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to Hospital Safety Insider!
The new memo creates a definition of a ligature risk, a time frame for correcting them, interim guidance for surveyors, plus requirements for requesting a time extension for a plan of correction taking longer than 60 days. CMS says that while not all ligature risks can be eliminated, hospitals are expected to show how they identify patients at risk and the steps they are taking to minimize those risks.
According to the S&C Letter 18-06, a ligature risk (or point) is “anything which could be used to attach a cord, rope, or other material for the purpose of hanging or strangulation.” That includes handles, coat hooks, pipes, shower rails, radiators, bedsteads, window and door frames, ceiling fittings, hinges, and closures.
CMS is still collaborating with healthcare organizations and patient safety groups on a more comprehensive guidance on ligature risks. The agency says it expects to have the update done in six months.
Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to Hospital Safety Insider!
Related Products
Most Popular
- Articles
-
- Don't forget the three checks in medication administration
- CDC alert: Screen for international travel as Ebola cases increase
- Complications from immobility by body system
- Note similarities and differences between HCPCS, CPT® codes
- Q&A: Primary, principal, and secondary diagnoses
- The consequences of an incomplete medical record
- Practice the six rights of medication administration
- Nursing responsibilities for managing pain
- Differentiate between types of wound debridement
- Coding, billing, and documentation tips for teaching physicians, interns, residents, and students
- E-mailed
-
- CDC alert: Screen for international travel as Ebola cases increase
- Capturing start and stop times for infusions
- Differentiate between types of wound debridement
- Q&A: Utilization Review Committee Membership
- Performing a SWOT analysis
- Life Safety Code Q&A: Ambulatory care soiled utility room
- Leadership training for charge nurses
- Helping Charge Nurses understand their leadership role (Part 2 of 3)
- Five ways to safeguard your patients' valuables
- Developing a Fall-Prevention Program
- Searched