Medicare
regulations for various certified providers/suppliers require adherence to
generally recognized infection control standards. Surveyors evaluate the implementation of
these requirements during facility surveys.When a State Agency (SA) or accrediting organization (AO) confirms that evidence of one or more of the breaches described below has been identified, in addition to taking appropriate enforcement action to ensure correction of the deficient practice, the SA or AO should also make the responsible State public health authority aware of the identified breach.
·
Breaches to Be Referred
§
Using
the same needle for more than one individual;
§
Using
the same (pre-filled/manufactured/insulin or any other) syringe, pen or
injection device for more than one individual;
§
Re-using
a needle or syringe which has already been used to administer medication to an
individual to subsequently enter a medication container (e.g., vial, bag), and
then using contents from that medication container for another individual;
§
Using
the same lancing/fingerstick device for more than one individual, even if the
lancet is changed.
SAs
may refer infection additional control breaches if recommended by their State
public health authorities. AOs also have discretion to refer additional
breaches they believe require public health assessment and management. The
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) works with States on HAI
prevention activities; many States have designated HAI Prevention Coordinators.
For
a copy of the CMS Survey and Certification letter click here. For more information, contact any member of
the Krieg DeVault Health Care Practice Group.
If
you would like more information, please contact Lori McLaughlin. Thank you.