CMS adopted both the 2012 Life Safety and Healthcare Facilities Code with many new expectations for inspection, testing and maintenance (ITM) for the many features of fire and safety protection found in long term care facilities. With this comprehensive adoption there has been an evident tightening of the requirements by CMS through stricter implementation resulting in many more deficiencies for nursing facilities. The Life Safety Code establishes minimum criteria for the many protective features and systems for fire protection, generators, doors, building services, and maintenance activities. All of this must be accomplished under the rubric that facilities maintain an acceptable degree of safety for all who live and work in our centers. This session will examine the ITM expected and an overview of the expected documentation for survey success.
Nurse Learner Outcome: At the conclusion of the session, participants will self report on the post session evaluation a knowledge increase of the NFPA requirements for life safety for long term care facilities.
Learner Objectives:
- Discuss 2012 edition of NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and the 2012 edition of the Healthcare Facilities Code.
- Review the leading CMS Life Safety deficiencies and offer proactive and practical solutions to achieve and maintain compliance.
- Recommend policies, standards and/or guidelines for immediate review and facility implementation.