Provider Emergency Procedures
Date:
January 12, 2003
From:
Chris Newman, Director, Bureau of Quality Improvement Services
To:
DDARS Providers and Case Managers
Subject:
BQIS Bulletin 6 - Provider emergency procedures
BQIS has identified a systemic concern with the steps taken by direct care staff when an emergency medical situation occurs. Direct care staff often contact a supervisor and/or nurse first during an emergency situation, instead of calling "911" or the appropriate local emergency number. There have been instances where a supervisor or nurse did not return a call for over 15 minutes, resulting in 911 not being contacted for almost 20 minutes after the beginning of the emergency, which is unacceptable.
This concern has been identified during the Mortality Review Committee case reviews, in Provider and Case Management surveys, and in reviews of incident reports. Therefore, every provider must review its emergency policies, procedures, and training modules to assure that direct care staff are aware of the appropriate responses when a medical emergency occurs.
If you have any questions please contact Chris Newman at 317-234-1147 or by email at mnewman@fssa.state.in.us.
