August 25, 2022

Tip of the Week

SBAR | to communicate problems or concerns

  • Situation – The immediate problem
  • Background – The facts
  • Assessment – Your take
  • Recommendation – Your suggestion


Repeat - & Read-Backs | Three-way communication

  • Sender initiates communication.
  • Receiver acknowledges receipt, repeating back. Sender confirms or corrects.


Structured Handoffs

  • Provide complete information.
  • Allow time.
  • Discuss questions and the greatest risks.

Number and Letter Clarifications | Avoid mistakes

with sound-alike words or numbers

  • ‘C’ as in ‘Charlie’
  • ‘15, that’s one-five’
  • NATO phonetic alphabet
Download the Accurately Communicate Hand Out

TJC Top 10 Least Compliant

Week of August 25, 2022

Every Tracer we complete, we can calculate a Top 10 Least Complaint list based on the questions. This helps our organization to keep in compliance and have targeted efforts in our daily work for patient and unit safety. Here is the list of common examples that The Joint Commission will review closely.


1. Is the unit free from expired supplies/medications?

2. Are all exits marked, fully illuminated, and free from blockage?

3. Is the pantry neat and clean? Drawers and cabinets are in order, with no spillage or overstocking of items (check expiration dates).

4.Is the unit free from uncleanable surfaces? (exposed wood, cork, etc.).

5.Are staff wearing badges above their waist?

6.Are all items on one side of the hallway?

7.Are Med. Gas tanks appropriately separated in holders? (In Use vs. Empty).

8.Are all carts locked? Pull open drawers to check.

9.Are code cart logs completed? Code cart check: pads attached, O2 tank full, plugged into a red outlet, sharps bin no more than 3/4 full, nothing extra on the cart. 2 locks present.

10. Does all equipment have a Bio-Med sticker and date (PM'ed)?

The Joint Commission Survey Readiness Guide
E-Prep Booklet
Please ensure you are using the latest version.

The booklet has been prepared to assist you in preparing for our upcoming Joint Commission Survey. It contains key points, reminders and expectations.   

 

The booklet provides an overview of the survey process, National Patient Safety Goals, and general survey management process. Please take time to review the entire guide with the focus on your role in providing quality and safe patient care.

 

RWJUH strives to do our best to have a culture of continual readiness and to live our mission to improve the health and well-being of the patients and community we serve.

Click to View the Updated E-Booklet PDF
View The Joint Commission Resources on The Bridge
Scan the QR code to view the E-Booklet PDF on your mobile devices!

Talking to a Surveyor

  1. Stay calm, they want you to do well!
  2. Only answer the question that you are asked.
  3. Be honest. If you don't know, tell them where/how you would find the information.
  4. Give examples of excellence from your unit

Joint Commission Resources

View The Joint Commission resources on the Bridge including information on how to log in, view standards, and tracer information.


Survey Checklist Tools



2022 National Patient Safety Goals Hand Out

Take a moment to print and share the 2022 National Patient Safety Goals for Hospitals and review them with team members!

View The Joint Commission Resources on The Bridge
Questions?
Reach out to the Regulatory Department: