Standard 1: Governance for Safety and Quality in Health ... · Standard 1: Governance for Safety and Quality in Health Service Organisations The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards

Standard 1: Governance for Safety and Quality in Health Service Organisations

The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards – DRAFT EQuIPNational© Corporate Health Services (Incorporating the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards) – NOT FOR CITATION

Criterion: Governance and quality improvement system There are integrated systems of governance to actively manage patient safety and quality risks.

C/D This criterion will be achieved by: Actions required: ACHS Comments

C 1.1 Implementing a governance system that sets out the policies, procedures and/or protocols for: establishing and maintaining a clinical governance

framework identifying safety and quality risks collecting and reviewing performance data implementing prevention strategies based on data

analysis analysing reported incidents implementing performance management procedures ensuring compliance with legislative requirements

and relevant industry standards communicating with and informing the clinical and

non-clinical workforce undertaking regular clinical audits

1.1.1 An organisation-wide management system is in place for the development, implementation and regular review of policies, procedures and/or protocols

ACHS suggests this may be applicable.

C 1.1.2 The impact on patient safety and quality of care is considered in business decision making


C 1.2 The board, chief executive officer and/or other higher level of governance within a health service organisation taking responsibility for patient safety and quality of care

1.2.1 Regular reports on safety and quality indicators and other safety and quality performance data are monitored by the executive level of governance


C 1.2.2 Action is taken to improve the safety and quality of patient care


C 1.3 Assigning workforce roles, responsibilities and accountabilities to individuals for: patient safety and quality in their delivery of health

care the management of safety and quality specified in

each of these Standards

1.3.1 Workforce are aware of their delegated safety and quality roles and responsibilities


C 1.3.2 Individuals with delegated responsibilities are supported to understand and perform their roles and responsibilities, in particular to meet the requirements of these Standards


C 1.3.3 Agency or locum workforce are aware of their designated roles and responsibilities


D 1.4 Implementing training in the assigned safety and quality roles and responsibilities

1.4.1 Orientation and ongoing training programs provide the workforce with the skill and information needed to fulfil their safety and quality roles and responsibilities





D 1.4.2 Annual mandatory training programs to meet the requirements of these Standards


D 1.4.3 Locum and agency workforce have the necessary information, training and orientation to the workplace to fulfil their safety and quality roles and responsibilities


D 1.4.4 Competency-based training is provided to the clinical workforce to improve safety and quality


C 1.5 Establishing an organisation-wide risk management system that incorporates identification, assessment, rating, controls and monitoring for patient safety and quality

1.5.1 An organisation-wide risk register is used and regularly monitored


C 1.5.2 Actions are taken to minimise risks to patient safety and quality of care


C 1.6 Establishing an organisation-wide quality management system that monitors and reports on the safety and quality of patient care and informs changes in practice

1.6.1 An organisation-wide quality management system is used and regularly monitored


C 1.6.2 Actions are taken to maximise patient quality of care ACHS suggests this may be not applicable however guidelines for Action 1.6.1 would address this as a component.

Criterion: Clinical practice Care provided by the clinical workforce is guided by current best practice.


C 1.7 Developing and/or applying clinical guidelines or pathways that are supported by the best available evidence

1.7.1 Agreed and documented clinical guidelines and/or pathways are available to the clinical workforce


C 1.7.2 The use of agreed clinical guidelines by the clinical workforce is monitored

ACHS suggests this may be not applicable.

C 1.8 Adopting processes to support the early identification, early intervention and appropriate management of patients at increased risk of harm

1.8.1 Mechanisms are in place to identify patients at increased risk of harm


C 1.8.2 Early action is taken to reduce the risks for at-risk patients


1.8.3 Systems exist to escalate the level of care when there ACHS suggests this may be




is an unexpected deterioration in health status not applicable.

C 1.9 Using an integrated patient clinical record that identifies all aspects of the patient’s care

1.9.1 Accurate, integrated and readily accessible patient clinical records are available to the clinical workforce at the point of care


C 1.9.2 The design of the patient clinical record allows for systematic audit of the contents against the requirements of these Standards.


Criterion: Performance and skills management Managers and the clinical workforce have the right qualifications, skills and approach to provide safe, high quality health care.


C 1.10 Implementing a system that determines and regularly reviews the roles, responsibilities, accountabilities and scope of practice for the clinical workforce

1.10.1 A system is in place to define and regularly review the scope of practice for the clinical workforce


C 1.10.2 Mechanisms are in place to monitor that the clinical workforce are working within their agreed scope of practice


C 1.10.3 Organisational clinical service capability, planning, and scope of practice is directly linked to the clinical service roles of the organisation


C 1.10.4 The system for defining the scope of practice is used whenever a new clinical service, procedure or other technology is introduced


C 1.10.5 Supervision of the clinical workforce is provided whenever it is necessary for individuals to fulfil their designated role


C 1.11 Implementing a performance development system for the clinical workforce that supports performance improvement within their scope of practice

1.11.1 A valid and reliable performance review process is in place for the clinical workforce


1.11.2 The clinical workforce participates in regular performance reviews that support individual development and improvement


C 1.12 Ensuring that systems are in place for ongoing safety and quality education and training

1.12.1 The clinical and relevant non-clinical workforce have access to ongoing safety and quality education and training for identified professional and personal development





C 1.13 Seeking regular feedback from the workforce to assess their level of engagement with, and understanding of, the safety and quality system of the organisation

1.13.1 Analyse feedback from the workforce on their understanding and use of safety and quality systems


C 1.13.2Action is taken to increase workforce understanding and use of safety and quality systems


Criterion: Incident and complaints management Patient safety and quality incidents are recognised, reported and analysed, and this information is used to improve safety systems.


C 1.14 Implementing an incident management and investigation system that includes reporting, investigating and analysing incidents, (including near misses), which all result in corrective actions

1.14.1 Processes are in place to support the workforce recognition and reporting of incidents and near misses


C 1.14.2 Systems are in place to analyse and report on incidents


C 1.14.3 Feedback on the analysis of reported incidents is provided to the workforce


C 1.14.4 Action is taken to reduce risks to patients identified through the incident management system


1.14.5 Incidents and analysis of incidents are reviewed at the highest level of governance in the organisation


C 1.15 Implementing a complaints management system that includes partnership with patients and carers

1.15.1 Processes are in place to support the workforce to recognise and report complaints


C 1.15.2 Systems are in place to analyse and implement improvements in response to complaints


C 1.15.3 Feedback is provided to the workforce on the analysis of reported complaints


C 1.15.4 Patient feedback and complaints are reviewed at the highest level of governance in the organisation


C 1.16 Implementing an open disclosure process based on the national open disclosure standard

1.16.1 An open disclosure program is in place and is consistent with the national open disclosure standard


C 1.16.2 The clinical workforce are trained in open disclosure processes




Criterion: Patient rights and engagement Patient rights are respected and their engagement in their care is supported.


C 1.17 Implementing through organisational policies and practices a patient charter of rights that is consistent with the current national charter of healthcare rights

1.17.1 The organisation has a charter of patient rights that is consistent with the current national charter of healthcare rights


C 1.17.2 Information on patient rights is provided and explained to patients and carers


C

1.17.3 Systems are in place to support patients who are at risk of not understanding their healthcare rights


C 1.18 Implementing processes to enable partnership with patients in decision about their care, including informed consent to treatment

1.18.1 Patients and carers are partners in the planning for their treatment


1.18.2 Mechanisms are in place to monitor and improve documentation of informed consent


C 1.18.3 Mechanisms are in place to align the information provided to patients with their capacity to understand


C 1.18.4 Patients and carers are supported to document clear advance care directives and/or treatment-limiting orders


C 1.19 Implementing procedures that protect the confidentiality of patient clinical records without compromising appropriate clinical workforce access to patient clinical information

1.19.1 Patient clinical records are available at the point of care


C 1.19.2 Systems are in place to restrict inappropriate access to and dissemination of patient clinical information


C

1.20 Implementing well designed, valid and reliable patient experience feedback mechanisms and using these to evaluate the health service performance

1.20.1 Data collected from patient feedback systems are used to measure and improve health services in the organisation


Standard 2: Partnering with Consumers


Criterion: Consumer partnership in service planning Governance structures are in place to form partnerships with consumers and/or carers.


D 2.1 Establishing governance structures to facilitate partnership with consumers and/or carers

2.1.1 Consumers and/or carers are involved in the governance of the health service organisation


D 2.1.2 Governance partnerships are reflective of the diverse range of backgrounds in the population served by the health service organisation, including those people that do not usually provide feedback


C 2.2 Implementing policies, procedures and/or protocols for partnering with patients, carers and consumers in: strategic and operational/services planning decision making about safety and quality initiatives quality improvement activities

2.2.1 The health service organisation establishes mechanisms for engaging consumers and/or carers in the strategic and/or operational planning for the organisation


C 2.2.2 Consumers and/or carers are actively involved in decision making about safety and quality


D 2.3 Facilitating access to relevant orientation and training for consumers and/or carers partnering with the organisation

2.3.1 Health service organisations provide orientation and ongoing training for consumers and/or carers to enable them to fulfil their partnership role


C 2.4 Consulting consumers on patient information distributed by the organisation

2.4.1 Consumers and/or carers provide feedback on patient information publications prepared by the health service organisation (for distribution to patients)


C 2.4.2 Action is taken to incorporate consumer and/or carers’ feedback into publications prepared by the health service organisation for distribution to patients


Criterion: Consumer partnership in designing care Consumers and/or carers are supported by the health service organisation to actively participate in the improvement of the patient experience and patient health outcomes.

C/D This criteria will be achieved by: Actions required: ACHS Comments

D 2.5 Partnering with consumers and/or carers to design the way care is delivered to better meet patient needs and preferences

2.5.1 Consumers and/or carers participate in the design and redesign of health services


Standard 2: Partnering with Consumers



C 2.6 Implementing training for clinical leaders, senior management and the workforce on the value of and ways to facilitate consumer engagement and how to create and sustain partnerships

2.6.1 Clinical leaders, senior managers and the workforce access training on patient-centred care and the engagement of individuals in their care


D 2.6.2 Consumers and/or carers are involved in training the clinical workforce


Criterion: Consumer partnership in service measurement and evaluation Consumers and/or carers receive information on the health service organisation’s performance and contribute to the ongoing monitoring, measurement and evaluation of performance for continuous quality improvement.

C/D This criterion will be achieved by: This item requires: ACHS Comments

C 2.7 Informing consumers and/or carers about the organisation’s safety and quality performance in a format that can be understood and interpreted independently

2.7.1 The community and consumers are provided with information that is meaningful and relevant on the organisation’s safety and quality performance


D 2.8 Consumers and/or carers participating in the analysis of safety and quality performance information and data, and the development and implementation of action plans

2.8.1 Consumers and/or carers participate in the analysis of organisational safety and quality performance


D 2.8.2 Consumers and/or carers participate in the planning and implementation of quality improvements


D 2.9 Consumers and/or carers participating in the evaluation of patient feedback data and development of action plans

2.9.1 Consumers and/or carers participate in the evaluation of patient feedback data


D 2.9.2 Consumers and/or carers participate in the implementation of quality activities relating to patient feedback data


Standard 3: Preventing and Controlling Healthcare Associated Infections


Criterion: Governance and systems for infection prevention, control and surveillance Effective governance and management systems for healthcare associated infections are implemented and maintained.


C 3.1 Developing and implementing governance systems for effective infection prevention and control to minimise the risk to patients of healthcare associated infections

3.1.1 A risk management approach is taken when implementing policies, procedures and/or protocols for: standard infection control precautions transmission-based precautions aseptic non-touch technique safe handling and disposal of sharps prevention and management of occupational exposure

to blood and body substances environmental cleaning and disinfection antimicrobial prescribing outbreaks or unusual clusters of communicable

infection processing of reusable medical devices single-use devices surveillance and reporting of data where relevant reporting of communicable and notifiable diseases provision of risk assessment guidelines to workforce exposure-prone procedures


C 3.1.2 The use of policies, procedures and/or protocols is regularly monitored

ACHS suggests this may be not applicable however guidelines for Action 3.1.1 would address this as a component.

C 3.1.3 The effectiveness of the infection prevention and control systems is regularly reviewed at the highest level of governance in the organisation


C 3.1.4 Action is taken to improve the effectiveness of infection prevention and control policies, procedures and/or protocols





C 3.2 Undertaking surveillance of healthcare associated infections

3.2.1 Surveillance systems for healthcare associated infections are in place


C 3.2.2 Healthcare associated infections surveillance data are regularly monitored by the delegated workforce and/or committees


C 3.3 Developing and implementing systems and processes for reporting, investigating and analysing health care associated infections, and aligning these systems to the organisation’s risk management strategy

3.3.1 Mechanisms to regularly assess the healthcare associated infection risks are in place


C 3.3.2 Action is taken to reduce the risks of healthcare associated infection


C 3.4 Undertaking quality improvement activities to reduce healthcare associated infections through changes to practice

3.4.1 Quality improvement activities are implemented to reduce and prevent healthcare associated infections


C 3.4.2 Compliance with changes in practice are monitored ACHS suggests this may be not applicable however guidelines for Action 3.1.3 would address this as a component.

D 3.4.3 The effectiveness of changes to practice are evaluated ACHS suggests this may be not applicable however guidelines for Action 3.1.3 would address this as a component.



Criterion: Infection prevention and control strategies Strategies for the prevention and control of healthcare associated infections are developed and implemented.

C/D This criterion will be achieved by: Actions required ACHS Comments

C 3.5 Developing, implementing and auditing a hand hygiene program consistent with the current national hand hygiene initiative

3.5.1 Workforce compliance with current national hand hygiene guidelines is regularly audited


C 3.5.2 Compliance rates from hand hygiene audits are regularly reported to the highest level of governance in the organisation


C 3.5.3 Action is taken to address non-compliance, or the inability to comply, with the requirements of the current national hand hygiene guidelines


C 3.6 Developing, implementing and monitoring a risk-based workforce immunisation program in accordance with the current National Health and Medical Research Council Australian immunisation guidelines

3.6.1 A workforce immunisation program that complies with current national guidelines is in use


C 3.7 Promoting collaboration with occupational health and safety programs to decrease the risk of infection or injury to healthcare workers

3.7.1 Infection prevention and control consultation related to occupational health and safety policies, procedures and/or protocols are being implemented to address: communicable disease status occupational management and prophylaxis work restrictions personal protective equipment assessment of risk to healthcare workers for

occupational allergy evaluation of new products and procedures


C 3.8 Developing and implementing a system for use and management of invasive devices based on the current national guidelines for preventing and controlling infections in health care

3.8.1 Compliance with the system for the use and management of invasive devices is monitored





C 3.9 Implementing protocols for invasive device procedures regularly performed within the organisation

3.9.1 Education and competency-based training in invasive devices protocols and use is provided for the workforce who perform procedures with invasive devices


C 3.10 Developing and implementing protocols for aseptic technique

3.10.1 The clinical workforce is trained in aseptic technique ACHS suggests this may be not applicable.

C 3.10.2 Compliance with aseptic technique is regularly audited


C 3.10.3 Action is taken to increase compliance with aseptic technique protocols


Criterion: Managing patients with infections or colonisations Patients presenting with, or acquiring an infection or colonisation during their care are identified promptly and receive the necessary management and treatment.


C 3.11 Implementing systems for using standard precautions and transmission- based precautions

3.11.1 Standard precautions and transmission-based precautions consistent with the current national guidelines are in use


C 3.11.2 Compliance with standard precautions is monitored ACHS suggests this may be not applicable.

C 3.11.3 Action is taken to improve compliance with standard precautions


C 3.11.4 Compliance with transmission-based precautions is monitored


C 3.11. 5 Action is taken to improve compliance with transmission-based precautions


D 3.12 Assessing the need for patient placement based on the risk of infection transmission

3.12.1 A risk analysis is undertaken to consider the need for transmission-based precautions including:

accommodation based on the mode of transmission

environmental controls through air flow

transportation within and outside the facility

cleaning procedures

equipment requirements





C 3.13 Developing and implementing protocols relating to the admission, receipt and transfer of patients with an infection

3.13.1 Mechanisms are in use to check for pre-existing healthcare associated infection or communicable disease on presentation for care


C 3.13.2 A process for communicating a patient’s infectious status is in place whenever responsibility for care is transferred between service providers or facilities


Criterion: Antimicrobial stewardship Safe and appropriate antimicrobial prescribing is a strategic goal of the clinical governance system.


C 3.14 Developing, implementing and regularly reviewing the effectiveness of the antimicrobial stewardship system

3.14.1 An antimicrobial stewardship program is in place ACHS suggests this may be applicable.

C 3.14.2 The clinical workforce prescribing antimicrobials have access to current endorsed therapeutic guidelines on antibiotic usage


C 3.14.3 Monitoring of antimicrobial usage and resistance is undertaken


C 3.14.4 Action is taken to improve the effectiveness of antimicrobial stewardship




Criterion: Cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation Healthcare facilities and the associated environment are clean and hygienic. Reprocessing of equipment and instrumentation meets current best practice guidelines.


C 3.15 Using risk management principles to implement systems that maintain a clean and hygienic environment for patients and healthcare workers

3.15.1 Policies, procedures and/or protocols for environmental cleaning that address the principles of infection prevention and control are implemented, including: maintenance of building facilities cleaning resources and services risk assessment for cleaning and disinfection based on

transmission- based precautions and the infectious agent involved

waste management within the clinical environment laundry and linen transportation, cleaning and storage appropriate use of personal protective equipment


C 3.15.2 Policies, procedures and/or protocols for environmental cleaning are regularly reviewed


C 3.15.3 An established environmental cleaning schedule is in place and environmental cleaning audits are undertaken regularly


C 3.16 Reprocessing reusable medical equipment, instruments and devices in accordance with relevant national or international standards and manufacturers’ instructions

3.16.1 Compliance with relevant national or international standards and manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation of reusable instruments and devices is regularly monitored


C 3.17 Implementing systems to enable the identification of patients on whom the reusable medical devices have been used

3.17.1 A traceability system that identifies patients who have a procedure using sterile reusable medical instruments and devices is in place


C 3.18 Ensuring workforce who decontaminate reusable medical devices undertake competency-based training in these practices

3.18.1 Action is taken to maximise coverage of the relevant workforce trained in a competency-based program to decontaminate reusable medical devices




Criterion: Communicating with patients and carers Information on healthcare associated infection is provided to patients, carers, consumers and service providers.


C 3.19 Ensuring access to consumer-specific information on the management and reduction of healthcare associated infections is available at the point of care

3.19.1 Information on the organisation’s corporate and clinical infection risks and initiatives implemented to minimise patient infection risks is provided to patients and/or carers


D 3.19.2 Patient infection prevention and control information is evaluated to determine if it meets the needs of the target audience


Standard 4: Medication Safety


Criterion: Governance and systems for medication safety Health service organisations have mechanisms for the safe prescribing, dispensing, supplying, administering, storing, manufacturing, compounding and monitoring of the effects of medicines.


C 4.1 Developing and implementing governance arrangements and organisational policies, procedures and/or protocols for medication safety, which are consistent with national and jurisdictional legislative requirements, policies and guidelines

4.1.1 Governance arrangements are in place to support the development, implementation and maintenance of organisation- wide medication safety systems


C 4.1.2 Policies, procedures and/or protocols are in place that are consistent with legislative requirements, national, jurisdictional and professional guidelines


C 4.2 Undertaking a regular, comprehensive assessment of medication use systems to identify risks to patient safety and implementing system changes to address the identified risks

4.2.1 The medication management system is regularly assessed


C 4.2.2 Action is taken to reduce the risks identified in the medication management system


C 4.3 Authorising the relevant clinical workforce to prescribe, dispense and administer medications

4.3.1 A system is in place to verify that the clinical workforce have medication authorities appropriate to their scope of practice


C 4.3.2 The use of the medication authorisation system is regularly monitored


C 4.3.3 Action is taken to increase the effectiveness of the medication authority system





C 4.4 Using a robust organisation-wide system of reporting, investigating and managing change to respond to medication incidents

4.4.1 Medication incidents are regularly monitored, reported and investigated


C 4.4.2 Action is taken to reduce the risk of adverse medication incidents


C 4.5 Undertaking quality improvement activities to improve the safety of medicines use

4.5.1 The performance of the medication management system is regularly assessed


C 4.5.2 Quality improvement activities are undertaken to reduce the risk of patient harm and increase the quality and effectiveness of medicines use


Criterion: Documentation of patient information The clinical workforce accurately records a patient’s medication history and this history is available throughout the episode of care.


C 4.6 The clinical workforce taking an accurate medication history when a patient presents to a health service organisation, or as early as possible in the episode of care, which is then available at the point of care

4.6.1 A best possible medication history is documented for each patient


C 4.6.2 The medication history and current clinical information is available at the point of care


C 4.7 The clinical workforce documenting the patient’s previously known adverse drug reactions on initial presentation and updating this if an adverse reaction to a medicine occurs during the episode of care

4.7.1 Known medication allergies and adverse drug reactions are documented in the patient clinical record


C 4.7.2 Action is taken to reduce the risk of adverse reactions ACHS suggests this may be not applicable.

C 4.7.3 Adverse drug reactions are reported within the organisation and to the Therapeutic Goods Administration





C 4.8 The clinical workforce reviewing the patient’s current medication orders against their medication history and prescriber’s plan, and reconciling any discrepancies

4.8.1 Current medicines are documented and reconciled at admission and transfer of care between healthcare settings


Criterion: Medication management processes The clinical workforce is supported for the prescribing, dispensing, administering, storing, manufacturing, compounding and monitoring of medicines.


C 4.9 Ensuring that current and accurate medicines information and decision support tools are readily available to the clinical workforce when making clinical decisions related to medicines use

4.9.1 Information and decision support tools for medicines are available to the clinical workforce at the point of care


4.9.2 The use of the information and decision support tools are regularly reviewed


4.9.3 Action is taken to improve the availability and effectiveness of information and decision support tools


C 4.10 Ensuring that medicines are distributed and stored securely, safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions, legislation, jurisdictional orders and operational directives

4.10.1 Risks associated with secure storage and safe distribution of medicines are regularly reviewed


4.10.2 Action is taken to reduce the risks associated with storage and distribution of medicines


4.10.3 The storage of temperature-sensitive medicines is monitored


4.10.4 A system that is consistent with legislative and jurisdictional requirements for the disposal of unused, unwanted or expired medications is in place


4.10.5 The system for disposal of unused, unwanted or expired medications is routinely monitored


4.10.6 Action is taken to increase compliance with the system for storage, distribution and disposal of medications


C 4.11 Identifying high-risk medicines in the organisation and ensuring they are stored, prescribed, dispensed and administered safely

4.11.1 The risks for storing, prescribing, dispensing and administration of high-risk medicines are regularly reviewed


C 4.11.2 Action is taken to reduce the risks of storing, prescribing, dispensing and administering high-risk medicines




Criterion: Continuity of medication management The clinician provides a complete list of a patient’s medicines to the receiving clinician and patient when handing over care or changing medicines.


C 4.12 Ensuring a current comprehensive list of medicines, and the reason(s) for any change, is provided to the receiving clinician and the patient during any clinical handovers

4.12.1 A system is in use that generates and distributes a current and comprehensive list of medicines and explanation of changes in medicines


C 4.12.2 A current and comprehensive list of medicines is provided to the patient and/or carer when concluding an episode of care


C 4.12.3 A current comprehensive list of medicines is provided to the receiving clinician during clinical handover


C 4.12.4 Action is taken to increase the proportion of patients and receiving clinicians that are provided with a current comprehensive list of medicines during clinical handover


Criterion: Communicating with patients and carers The clinical workforce informs patients about their options, risks and responsibilities for an agreed medication management plan.


C 4.13 The clinical workforce informing patients and carers about medication treatment options, benefits and associated risks

4.13.1 The clinical workforce provides patients with patient-specific medicine information, including medical treatment options, benefits and associated risks


C 4.13.2 Information that is designed for distribution to patients is readily available to the clinical workforce


C 4.14 Developing a medication management plan in partnership with patients and carers

4.14.1 An agreed medication management plan is documented and available in the patient’s clinical record


D 4.15 Providing current medicines information to patients in a format that meets their needs whenever new medicines are prescribed or dispensed

4.15.1 Information on medicines is provided to patients and carers in a format that is understood and meaningful


D 4.15.2 Action is taken in response to patient feedback to improve medicines information distributed by the health service organisation to patients


Standard 7: Blood and Blood Products


Criterion: Identification of individual patients At least three approved patient identifiers are used when providing care, therapy or services.


C 5.1 Developing, implementing and regularly reviewing the effectiveness of a patient identification system including the associated policies, procedures and/or protocols that: define approved patient identifiers require at least three approved patient identifiers on

registration or admission require at least three approved patient identifiers when

care, therapy or other services are provided require at least three approved patient identifiers

whenever clinical handover, patient transfer or discharge documentation is generated

5.1.1 Use of an organisation-wide patient identification system is regularly monitored


C 5.1.2 Action is taken to improve compliance with the patient identification matching system


C 5.2 Implementing a robust organisation-wide system of reporting, investigation and change management to respond to any patient care mismatching events

5.2.1 The system for reporting, investigating and analysis of patient care mismatching events is regularly monitored


C 5.2.2 Action is taken to reduce mismatching events ACHS suggests this may be not applicable however guidelines for Action 5.2.1 would address this as a component.

C 5.3 Ensuring that when a patient identification band is used, it meets the national specifications for patient identification bands

5.3.1 Inpatient bands are used that meet the national specifications for patient identification bands


Criterion: Processes to transfer care A patient’s identity is confirmed using three approved patient identifiers when transferring responsibility for care.


C 5.4 Developing, implementing and regularly reviewing the effectiveness of the patient identification and matching system at patient handover, transfer and discharge

5.4.1 A patient identification and matching system is implemented and regularly reviewed as part of structured clinical handover, transfer and discharge processes




Criterion: Processes to match patients and their care Health service organisations have explicit processes to correctly match patients with their intended care.

C This criterion will be achieved by: Action required ACHS Comments

C 5.5 Developing and implementing a documented process to match patients to their intended procedure, treatment or investigation and implementing the consistent national guidelines for patient procedure matching protocol or other relevant protocols

5.5.1 A documented process to match patients and their intended treatment is in use


C 5.5.2 The process to match patients to any intended procedure, treatment or investigation is regularly monitored


C 5.5.3 Action is taken to improve the effectiveness of the process for matching patients to their intended procedure, treatment or investigation




Criterion: Governance and leadership for effective clinical handover Health service organisations implement effective clinical handover systems.

C/D This criterion will be: Actions required: ACHS Comments

C

6.1 Developing and implementing an organisational system for structured clinical handover that is relevant to the healthcare setting and specialities, including: documented policy, procedures and/or protocols

agreed tools and guides

6.1.1 Clinical handover policies, procedures and/or protocols are used by the workforce and regularly monitored


C 6.1.2 Action is taken to maximise the effectiveness of clinical handover policies, procedures and/or protocols


C 6.1.3 Tools and guides are periodically reviewed ACHS suggests this may be not applicable however guidelines for Action 6.1.1 would address this as a component.

Criterion: Clinical handover processes Health service organisations have documented and structured clinical handover processes in place. C/D This criterion will be: Actions required: ACHS Comments

C

6.2 Establishing and maintaining structured and documented processes for clinical handover

6.2.1 The workforce has access to documented structured processes for clinical handover that include:

preparing for handover, including setting the location and

time whilst maintaining continuity of patient care

organising relevant workforce members to participate

being aware of the clinical context and patient needs

participating in effective handover resulting in transfer of

responsibility and accountability for care


C 6.3 Monitoring and evaluating the agreed structured clinical handover processes, including: regularly reviewing local processes based on current

best practice in collaboration with clinicians, patients

6.3.1 Regular evaluation and monitoring processes for clinical handover are in place




C/D This criterion will be: Actions required: ACHS Comments

C and carers

undertaking quality improvement activities and acting

on issues identified from clinical handover reviews

reporting the results of clinical handover reviews at

executive level of governance

6.3.2 Local processes for clinical handover are reviewed in collaboration with clinicians, patients and carers


C 6.3.3 Action is taken to increase the effectiveness of clinical handover


C 6.3.4 The actions taken and the outcomes of local clinical handover reviews are reported to the executive level of governance


C 6.4 Implementing a robust organisation-wide system of reporting, investigation and change management to respond to any clinical handover incidents

6.4.1 Regular reporting, investigating and monitoring of clinical handover incidents is in place


C 6.4.2 Action is taken to reduce the risk of adverse clinical handover incidents


Criterion: Patient and carer involvement in clinical handover Health service organisations establish mechanisms to include patients and carers in clinical handover processes.


D 6.5 Developing and implementing mechanisms to include patients and carers in the clinical handover process that are relevant to the healthcare setting

6.5.1 Mechanisms to involve a patient and, where relevant, their carer in clinical handover are in use




Criterion: Governance and systems for blood and blood product prescribing and clinical use Health service organisations have systems in place for the safe and appropriate prescribing and clinical use of blood and blood products.


C 7.1 Developing governance systems for safe and appropriate prescription, administration and management of blood and blood products

7.1.1 Blood and blood product policies, procedures and/or protocols are consistent with national evidence-based guidelines for pre-transfusion practices, prescribing and clinical use of blood and blood products




C 7.1.3 Action is taken to increase the safety and appropriateness of prescribing and clinically using blood and blood products


C 7.2 Undertaking a regular, comprehensive assessment of blood and blood product systems to identify risks to patient safety and take action to reduce risks

7.2.1 The risks associated with transfusion practices and clinical use of blood and blood products are regularly assessed


C 7.2.2 Action is taken to reduce the risks associated with transfusion practices and clinical use of blood and blood products


C 7.3 Ensuring blood and blood product adverse events are included in the incidents management and investigation system

7.3.1 Reporting on blood and blood product incidents is included in regular incident reports


C 7.3.2 Adverse blood and blood product incidents are reported to and reviewed by the highest level of governance in the health service organisation





C 7.3.3 Health service organisations participate in relevant haemovigilance activities conducted by the organisation or at state or national level


C 7.4 Undertaking quality improvement activities to improve the safe management of blood and blood products

7.4.1 Quality improvement activities are undertaken to reduce the risks of patient harm from transfusion practices and the clinical use of blood and blood products


Criterion: Documenting patient information The clinical workforce accurately records a patient’s blood and blood product transfusion history and indications for use of blood and blood products.


C 7.5 As part of the patient treatment plan, the clinical workforce accurately documenting:

relevant medical conditions

indications for transfusion

any special product or transfusion requirements

known patient transfusion history

type and volume of product transfusion

patient response to transfusion

7.5.1 A best possible history of blood product usage and relevant clinical and product information is documented in the patient clinical record


7.5.2 The patient clinical records of transfused patients are periodically reviewed to assess the proportion of records completed


7.5.3 Action is taken to increase the proportion of patient clinical records of transfused patients with a complete patient clinical record


C 7.6 The clinical workforce documenting any adverse reactions to blood or blood products

7.6.1 Adverse reactions to blood or blood products are documented in the patient clinical record


C 7.6.2 Action is taken to reduce the risk of adverse events from administering blood or blood products


C 7.6.3 Adverse events are reported internally to the appropriate governance level and externally to the pathology service provider, blood service or product manufacturer whenever appropriate




Criterion: Managing blood and blood product safety Health services organisations have systems to receive, store, transport and monitor wastage of blood and blood products safely and efficiently. C/D This criterion will be achieved by: Actions required: ACHS Comments

C 7.7 Ensuring the receipt, storage, collection and transport of blood and blood products within the organisation are consistent with best practice and/or guidelines

7.7.1 Regular review of the risks associated with receipt, storage, collection and transport of blood and blood products is undertaken


C 7.7.2 Action is taken to reduce the risk of incidents arising from the use of blood or blood product control systems


C 7.8 Minimising unnecessary wastage of blood and blood products

7.8.1 Blood and blood product wastage is regularly monitored ACHS suggests this may be not applicable however guidelines for Action 7.1.1 would address this as a component.

C 7.8.2 Action is taken to minimise wastage of blood and blood products


Criterion: Communicating with patients and carers Patients and carers are informed about the risks and benefits of using blood and blood products, and about available alternatives when a plan for treatment is developed.


C 7.9 The clinical workforce informing patients and carers about blood and blood product treatment options, and the associated risks and benefits

7.9.1 Patient information relating to blood and blood products, including risks, benefits and alternatives, is available for distribution by the clinical workforce


C 7.9.2 Plans for care that include the use of blood and blood products are developed in partnership with patients and carers


C 7.10 Providing information to patients about blood and blood product use and possible alternatives in a format that can be understood by patients and carers

7.10.1 Information on blood and blood products is provided to patients and carers in a format that is understood and meaningful





C 7.11 Implementing an informed consent process for all blood and blood product use

7.11.1 Informed consent is undertaken and documented for all transfusions of blood or blood products in accordance with the informed consent policy of the health service organisation


Standard 8: Preventing and Managing Pressure Injuries


Criterion: Governance and systems for the prevention and management of pressure injuries Health service organisations have governance structures and systems in place for the prevention and management of pressure injuries.


C 8.1 Developing and implementing policies, procedures and/or protocols that are based on current best practice guidelines

8.1.1 Policies, procedures and/or protocols are in use that are consistent with best practice guidelines and incorporate screening and assessment tools


C 8.1.2 The use of policies, procedures and/or protocols are regularly monitored


C 8.2 Using a risk assessment framework and reporting systems to identify, investigate and take action to reduce the frequency and severity of pressure injuries

8.2.1 An organisation-wide system for reporting pressure injuries is in use


8.2.2 Administrative and clinical data are used to regularly monitor and investigate the frequency and severity of pressure injuries


C 8.2.3 Information on pressure injuries is regularly reported to the highest level of governance in the health service organisation


C 8.2.4 Action is taken to reduce the frequency and severity of pressure injuries


C 8.3 Undertaking quality improvement activities to address safety risks and monitor the systems that prevent and manage pressure injuries

8.3.1 Quality improvement activities are undertaken to prevent pressure injuries and/or improve the management of pressure injuries





C 8.4 Providing or facilitating access to equipment and devices to implement effective prevention strategies and best practice management plans

8.4.1 Equipment and devices are available to effectively implement prevention strategies for patients at risk and plans for the management of patients with pressure injuries


Criterion: Preventing pressure injuries Patients are screened on presentation and pressure injury prevention strategies are implemented when clinically indicated.


C 8.5 Identifying risk factors for pressure injuries using an agreed screening tool for all presenting patients within timeframes set by best practice guideline

8.5.1 An agreed tool to screen for pressure injury risk is used by the clinical workforce to identify patients at risk of a pressure injury


C 8.5.2 The use of the screening tool is monitored to identify the proportion of at-risk patients that are screened for pressure injuries on presentation


C 8.5.3 Action is taken to maximise the proportion of patients who are screened for pressure injury on presentation


C 8.6 Conducting a comprehensive skin inspection in timeframes set by best practice guidelines on patients with a high risk of developing pressure injuries at presentation, regularly as clinically indicated during a patient’s admission, and before discharge

8.6.1 Comprehensive skin inspections are undertaken using an agreed assessment tool and documented in the patient clinical record for patients at risk of pressure injuries


C

8.6.2 Patient clinical records, transfer and discharge documentation are periodically audited to identify at-risk patients with documented skin assessments


C 8.6.3 Action is taken to increase the proportion of skin assessments documented on patients at risk of pressure injuries


C 8.7 Implementing and monitoring pressure injury prevention plans and reviewing when clinically indicated

8.7.1 Prevention plans for all patients at risk of a pressure injury are consistent with best practice guidelines and are documented in the patient clinical record


C

8.7.2 The effectiveness and appropriateness of pressure injury prevention plans are regularly reviewed


D 8.7.3 Patient clinical records are monitored to determine the proportion of at-risk patients that have an implemented pressure injury prevention plan





D 8.7.4 Action is taken to increase the proportion of patients at risk of pressure injuries who have an implemented prevention plan


Criterion: Managing pressure injuries Patients who have pressure injuries are managed according to best practice guidelines.


C 8.8 Implementing best practice management and ongoing monitoring as clinically indicated

8.8.1 An evidence-based wound management system is in place within the health service organisation


8.8.2 Management plans for patients with pressure injuries are consistent with best practice and documented in the patient clinical record


C 8.8.3 Patient clinical records are monitored to determine compliance with evidence-based pressure injury management plans


8.8.4 Action is taken to increase compliance with evidence-based pressure injury management plans


Criterion: Communicating with patients and carers Patients and carers are informed of the risks, prevention strategies and management of pressure injuries.


D 8.9 Informing patients with a high risk of pressure injury, and their carers, about the risks, prevention strategies and management of pressure injuries

8.9.1 Patient information on prevention and management of pressure injuries is provided to patients and carers in a format that is understood and is meaningful


D 8.10 Developing a plan of management in partnership with patients and carers

8.10.1 Pressure injury management plans are developed in partnership with patients and carers


Standard 9: Recognising and Responding to Clinical Deterioration in Acute Health Care


Criterion: Establishing recognition and response systems Organisation-wide systems consistent with the National Consensus Statement are used to support and promote recognition of, and response to, patients whose condition deteriorates in an acute health care facility.


C 9.1 Developing, implementing and regularly reviewing the effectiveness of governance arrangements and the policies, procedures and/or protocols that are consistent with the requirements of the National Consensus Statement

9.1.1 Governance arrangements are in place to support the development, implementation and maintenance of organisation-wide recognition and response systems


C 9.1.2 Policies, procedures and/or protocols for the organisation are implemented in areas such as: measurement and documentation of observations escalation of care establishment of a rapid response system communication about clinical deterioration


C 9.2 Collecting information about the recognition and response systems, providing feedback to the clinical workforce, and tracking outcomes and changes in performance over time

9.2.1 Feedback is actively sought from the clinical workforce on the responsiveness of the recognition and response systems


C 9.2.2 Deaths or cardiac arrests for a patient without an agreed treatment-limiting order (such as not for resuscitation or do not resuscitate) are reviewed to identify the use of the recognition and response systems, and any failures in these systems


C 9.2.3 Data collected about recognition and response systems are provided to the clinical workforce as soon as practicable


C 9.2.4 Action is taken to improve the responsiveness and effectiveness of the recognition and response systems


Criterion: Recognising clinical deterioration and escalating care Patients whose condition is deteriorating are recognised and appropriate action is taken to escalate care.


D 9.3 Implementing mechanism(s) for recording physiological observations that incorporates triggers to escalate care when deterioration occurs

9.3.1 When using a general observation chart, ensure that it: is designed according to human factors principles includes the capacity to record information about

respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, heart rate, blood pressure, temperature and level of consciousness graphically over time





includes thresholds for each physiological parameter or combination of parameters that indicate abnormality

specifies the physiological abnormalities and other factors that trigger the escalation of care

includes actions required when care is escalated

C 9.3.2 Mechanisms for recording physiological observations are regularly audited to determine the proportion of patients that have complete sets of observations recorded in agreement with their monitoring plan


C 9.3.3 Action is taken to increase the proportion of patients with complete sets of recorded observations, as specified in the patient’s monitoring plan


C 9.4 Developing and implementing mechanisms to escalate care and call for emergency assistance where there are concerns that a patient’s condition is deteriorating

9.4.1 Mechanisms are in place to escalate care and call for emergency assistance


C 9.4.2 Use of escalation processes, including failure to act on triggers for seeking emergency assistance, are regularly audited


C 9.4.3 Action is taken to maximise the appropriate use of escalation processes


Criterion: Responding to clinical deterioration Appropriate and timely care is provided to patients whose condition is deteriorating.


C 9.5 Using the system in place to ensure that specialised and timely care is available to patients whose condition is deteriorating

9.5.1 Criteria for triggering a call for emergency assistance are included in the escalation policies, procedures and/or protocols


C 9.5.2 The circumstances and outcome of calls for emergency assistance are regularly reviewed


C 9.6 Having a clinical workforce that is able to respond appropriately when a patient’s condition is deteriorating

9.6.1 The clinical workforce is trained and proficient in basic life support


C 9.6.2 A system is in place for ensuring access at all times to at least one clinician, either on-site or in close proximity, who can practise advanced life support




Criterion: Communicating with patients and carers Patients, families and carers are informed of recognition and response systems and can contribute to the processes of escalating care.


D 9.7 Ensuring patients, families and carers are informed about, and are supported so that they can participate in, recognition and response systems and processes

9.7.1 Information is provided to patients, families and carers in a format that is understood and meaningful. The information should include:

the importance of communicating concerns and signs/symptoms of deterioration, which are relevant to the patient’s condition, to the clinical workforce

local systems for responding to clinical deterioration, including how they can raise concerns about potential deterioration


D 9.8 Ensuring that information about advance care plans and treatment-limiting orders is in the patient clinical record, where appropriate

9.8.1 A system is in place for preparing and/or receiving advance care plans in partnership with patients, families and carers


D 9.8.2 Advance care plans and other treatment-limiting orders are documented in the patient clinical record


D 9.9 Enabling patients, families and carers to initiate an escalation of care response

9.9.1 Mechanisms are in place for a patient, family member or carer to initiate an escalation of care response


D 9.9.2 Information about the system for family escalation of care is provided to patients, families and carers


D 9.9.3 The performance and effectiveness of the system for family escalation of care is periodically reviewed


D 9.9.4 Action is taken to improve the system performance for family escalation of care


Standard 10: Preventing Falls and Harm from Falls


Criterion: Governance and systems for preventing falls Health service organisations have governance structures and systems in place to reduce falls and minimise harm from falls.

C/D This criterion will be achieved by: Action required: ACHS Comments

C 10.1 Developing, implementing and reviewing policies, procedures and/or protocols, including the associated tools, that are based on the current national guidelines for preventing falls and harm from falls

10.1.1 Policies, procedures and/or protocols are in use that are consistent with best practice guidelines (where available) and incorporate screening and assessment tools




C 10.2 Using a robust, organisation-wide system of reporting, investigation and change management to respond to falls incidents

10.2.1 Regular reporting, investigating and monitoring of falls incidents is in place


C 10.2.2 Administrative and clinical data are used to monitor and investigate regularly the frequency and severity of falls in the health service organisation


C 10.2.3 Information on falls is reported to the highest level of governance in the health service organisation.


C 10.2.4 Action is taken to reduce the frequency and severity of falls in the health service organisation


C 10.3 Undertaking quality improvement activities to address safety risks and ensure the effectiveness of the falls prevention system

10.3.1 Quality improvement activities are taken to prevent falls and minimise patient harm


C 10.4 Implementing falls prevention plans and effective management of falls

10.4.1 Equipment and devices are available to implement prevention strategies for patients at risk of falling and





management plans to reduce the harm from falls

Criterion: Screening and assessing risks of falls and harm from falling Patients on presentation, during admission, and when clinically indicated, are screened for risk of a fall and the potential to be harmed from falls.


C 10.5 Using a best practice-based tool to screen patients on presentation, during admission and when clinically indicated for the risk of falls

10.5.1 A best practice screening tool is used by the clinical workforce to identify the risk of falls


C 10.5.2 Use of the screening tool is monitored to identify the proportion of at-risk patients that were screened for falls


C 10.5.3 Action is taken to increase the proportion of at-risk patients who are screened for falls upon presentation and during admission


C 10.6 Conducting a comprehensive risk assessment for patients identified at risk of falling in initial screening processes

10.6.1 A best practice assessment tool is used by the clinical workforce to assess patients at risk of falling


C 10.6.2 The use of the assessment tool is monitored to identify the proportion of at-risk patients with a completed falls assessment


C 10.6.3 Action is taken to increase the proportion of at-risk patients undergoing a comprehensive falls risk assessment


Criterion: Preventing falls and harm from falling Prevention strategies are in place for patients at risk of falling.


C 10.7 Developing and implementing a multifactorial falls prevention plan to address risks identified in the assessment

10.7.1 Use of best practice multifactorial falls prevention and harm minimisation plans is documented in the patient clinical record


C 10.7.2 The effectiveness and appropriateness of the falls prevention and harm minimisation plan are regularly monitored


C 10.7.3 Action is taken to reduce falls and minimise harm for at-risk patients


C 10.8 Patients at risk of falling are referred to appropriate services, where available, as part of the discharge process

10.8.1 Discharge planning includes referral to appropriate services, where available




Criterion: Communicating with patients and carers Patients and carers are informed of the identified risks from falls and are engaged in the development of a falls prevention plan.


D 10.9 Informing patients and carers about the risk of falls, and falls prevention strategies

10.9.1 Patient information on falls risks and prevention strategies is provided to patients and their carers in a format that is understood and meaningful


D 10.10 Developing falls prevention plans in partnership with patients and carers

10.10.1 Falls prevention plans are developed in partnership with patients and carers


Standard 11: Service Delivery


Information about services The community has information on health services appropriate to its needs.

This criterion will be achieved by: Actions required: ACHS Comments

11.1 Informing consumers / patients and the community about services accessible through the organisation.

11.1.1 There is evidence of evaluation and improvement of the quality of information provided to consumers / patients and the community about: services provided by the organisation access to support services, including advocacy.


11.1.2 The organisation’s processes for disseminating information on healthcare services are evaluated, and improved as required.


11.2 Informing healthcare providers both internal and external about health services available.

11.2.1 Healthcare providers within the organisation have information on relevant external services.


11.2.2 Relevant external service providers are provided with information on the health service and are informed of referral and entry processes.


Access and admission to services Access and admission / entry to the system of care are prioritised according to healthcare needs.


11.3 Meeting the needs of consumer / patients and the community for admission / entry.

11.3.1 The organisation evaluates and improves its system for admission / entry and prioritisation of care, which includes: documented processes for prioritisation clear inclusion and/or exclusion criteria management of waiting lists minimisation of duplication utilisation of information from referral documents

received on admission from other service providers management of access block.




Consumer / Patient Consent Consumers / patients are informed of the consent process, and they understand and provide consent for their health care.


M 11.4 Demonstrating that the consent process is managed through systems of governance which are consistent with organisational, jurisdictional and legislative requirements.

11.4.1 The organisation has implemented policies and procedures that address: how consent is obtained situations where implied consent is acceptable situations where consent is unable to be given where consent is not required the limits of consent


M 11.4.2 The consent system is evaluated and improved as required.


Appropriate and effective care Health care and services are evaluated to ensure that they are appropriate and effective.


11.5 Implementing systems to ensure that consumers / patients receive appropriate and effective care and services in the appropriate setting.

11.5.1 The organisation ensures appropriate and effective care through: processes used to assess the appropriateness of care an evaluation of the appropriateness of services provided the involvement of clinicians, managers and consumers /

patients in the evaluation of care and services


11.5.2 Policy / guidelines are implemented that address the appropriateness of the setting in which care is provided including where consumers / patients are accommodated outside the specialty ward area.




Diverse needs and diverse backgrounds The organisation meets the needs of consumers / patients and carers with diverse needs and from diverse backgrounds.


11.6 Establishing the needs of the community to meet legislative requirements, inform the delivery of services and assess whether those needs are met.

11.6.1 The organisation obtains demographic data to: identify the diverse needs and diverse backgrounds of

consumers / patients and carers monitor and improve access to appropriate services improve cultural competence, awareness and safety


11.7 Ensuring that diverse populations are provided with care and services that address their needs.

11.7.1 Policies and procedures that consider cultural and spiritual needs are implemented to ensure that services, care and food are provided in a manner that is appropriate to consumers / patients with diverse needs and from diverse backgrounds.


11.7.2 Mechanisms are implemented to improve the delivery of care to diverse populations through: demonstrated partnerships with local and national

organisations providing staff with opportunities for training


Population health Better health and wellbeing is promoted by the organisation for consumers / patients, staff, carers and the wider community.


11.8 Delivering health promotion programs, interventions and information based upon current and emerging priority areas and jurisdictional priorities, which are built on collaborative partnerships.

11.8.1 Performance measures are developed, and quantitative or qualitative data collected, to evaluate the effectiveness / outcomes of health promotion programs and interventions implemented by the organisation.


11.9 Collecting health surveillance data and taking appropriate action.

11.9.1 The organisation identifies and responds to emerging health trends.


11.9.2 The organisation meets its legislative requirements for reporting on public health matters


11.10 Implementing strategies to promote better health and wellbeing.

11.10.1 There is evidence of evaluation and improvement of strategies to promote better health and wellbeing, which include:

undertaking opportunistic health promotion / education strategies in partnership with consumers / patients,





carers, staff and the community

providing education, training and resources for staff to support the development of evidence-based health promotion and interventions

Standard 12: Provision of Care


Assessment and care planning Assessment and care planning ensures current and ongoing needs of the consumer / patient are identified.


M 12.1 Ensuring assessment is comprehensive and based upon current professional standards and evidence-based practice.

12.1.1 Guidelines are available and accessible by staff to assess physical, spiritual, cultural, psychological and social, and health promotion needs.


M 12.1.2 Guidelines are available and accessible by staff on the specific health needs of self-identified Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers / patients.


M 12.2 Meeting the needs of consumers / patients through a timely comprehensive assessment process.

12.2.1 The assessment process is evaluated to ensure that it includes: timely assessment with consumer / patient and, where

appropriate, carer participation regular assessment of the consumer / patient need for

pain / symptom management provision of information to the consumer / patient on

their health status


M 12.2.2 Referral systems to other relevant service providers are evaluated and improved as required.


M 12.3 Care planning and delivery based upon assessment of consumer / patient needs.

12.3.1 Care planning is evaluated to ensure it is: effective comprehensive multidisciplinary informed by assessment documented in the health record carried out with consumer / patient consent and, where

appropriate, carer participation.


M 12.4 Ensuring the assessment process includes planning for discharge and use of the referral system.

12.4.1 Planning for discharge / transfer of care is evaluated to ensure it: commences at assessment is coordinated consistently occurs is multidisciplinary where appropriate meets consumer / patient and carer needs.




Management of nutrition The organisation ensures that the nutritional needs of consumers / patients are met.


12.5 Proactively managing consumer / patient centred nutritional care.

12.5.1 Policy / guidelines for:

delivery of nutritional care

prevention of malnutrition

assessment of need for assistance with meals are consistent with jurisdictional guidelines, adapted to local needs and implemented across the organisation.


12.5.2 The organisation’s strategic and coordinated approach to delivering consumer / patient-centred nutritional care is evaluated and improved as required.


12.6 Adopting a strategic and multidisciplinary approach to managing and ongoing monitoring of nutritional care for all consumers / patients.

12.6.1 Food, fluid and nutritional care forms part of an intervention and clinical treatment plan.


12.6.2 Relevant healthcare providers use an approved nutrition risk screening tool to assess consumers / patients:

on admission

following a change of health status

weekly thereafter and referrals to nutrition-related services occur when needed.


12.6.3 The adequacy of consumer / patient nutrition is actively monitored and reported, and improvement is made to the care as required.


12.7 Ensuring that healthcare providers and/or other staff understand the role of nutrition in clinical care and integrate nutrition with other care planning.

12.7.1 A multidisciplinary team oversees the organisation’s nutrition management strategy to ensure that provision of food and fluid to consumers / patients is consistent with best practice nutritional care.





12.7.2 Education programs for relevant staff about their roles and responsibilities for delivering best practice nutritional care and preventing malnutrition are evaluated and improved as required.


Ongoing care and Discharge / transfer Systems for ongoing care and discharge / transfer are coordinated and effective and meet the needs of the consumer /patient.


M 12.8 Ensuring appropriate clinical information is made available in a timely manner to external healthcare providers and consumers / patients to facilitate ongoing care.

12.8.1 Discharge / transfer information is discussed with the consumer / patient and a written discharge summary and/or discharge instructions are provided.


M 12.8.2 Arrangements with other service providers and, where appropriate, the carer, are made with consumer / patient consent and input, and confirmed prior to discharge / transfer of care.


M 12.8.3 Results of investigations follow the consumer / patient through the referral system.


M 12.9 Implementing a system that facilitates follow-up of identified at-risk consumers / patients.

12.9.1 Formalised follow-up occurs for identified at-risk consumers / patients.


12.10 Developing and implementing systems to provide continuing care to consumers / patients with ongoing needs or who require care by multiple service providers as inpatients and/or outpatients.

12.10.1 Formal processes for timely, multidisciplinary care coordination and/or case management for consumers / patients with ongoing care needs are evaluated and improved as required.


12.10.2 Systems for screening and prioritising consumers / patients with ongoing care needs who regularly require readmission are evaluated and improved as required.


12.10.3 Education is provided for consumers / patients requiring ongoing care and where appropriate, for their carer.




End-of-life care The care of dying and deceased consumers / patients is managed with dignity and comfort, and family and carers are supported.


12.11 Implementing organisation-wide policies and procedures that address the requirements for end of life care, including advance care plans, referrals, culture and spirituality, organ and tissue donation, and mortality management.

12.11.1 Policy and procedures for the management of consumer / patient end-of-life care consistent with jurisdictional legislation, policy and common law are available and staff receive relevant education.


12.11.2 There is policy / guidelines for supporting staff, consumers / patients and carers involved in organ and tissue donation.


12.12 Providing access to specialised services to address the needs of consumers / patients at end of life, including palliative care, pain management and/or other support services.

12.12.1 Access to and effectiveness of end-of-life care is evaluated, including through the use of clinical review committees.


12.12.2 A support system is used to assist staff, relatives, carers and consumers / patients affected by a death.


Standard 13- Workforce Planning and Management


Workforce planning Workforce planning supports the organisation’s current and future ability to address needs.


13.1 Ensuring that the long term and broader goals of the organisation are met by workforce planning that reflects current and future needs of consumers / patients and staff and is clearly linked to the organisation’s strategic direction.

13.1.1 Workforce management functions and responsibilities are clearly identified and documented.


13.1.2 The workforce policy, procedures, plan, goals and strategic direction are regularly reviewed, evaluated, and improved as required.


13.2 Implementing systems to ensure that the skill mix of clinical and support staff meets consumer / patient needs and service requirements.

13.2.1 Contingency plans are developed to maintain safe, quality care if prescribed levels of skill mix of clinical and support staff are not available, and in order to manage workforce shortages.


13.3 Minimising the risk of fatigue associated with shift work and extended working hours.

13.3.1 The system for managing safe working hours and fatigue prevention is evaluated and improved as required.


Recruitment processes The recruitment, selection and appointment system ensures that the skill mix and competence of staff, and mix of volunteers, meets the needs of the organisation.


13.4 Meeting and ensuring compliance with: legislated obligations jurisdictional policy / regulations organisational policy / guidelines for recruitment, selection and appointment in a healthcare setting.

13.4.1 The organisation-wide recruitment, selection and appointment systems are evaluated and adapted to changing service needs where required.


13.5 Verifying the credentials of clinicians prior to commencement of employment / contracts.

13.5.1 Recruitment processes ensure adequate staff numbers and that the workforce has the necessary licences, registration, qualifications, skills and experience to perform its work.


M 13.5.2 The credentialling system to confirm the formal qualifications, training, experience and clinical competence of clinicians, which is consistent with national standards and





guideline, and with organisational policy, is evaluated and improved as required.

13.6 Ensuring the recruitment, selection and appointment system meets the needs of the organisation.

13.6.1 The volunteer recruitment system supports an adequate number and mix of volunteers to complement the work undertaken by paid staff.


Continuing employment and development The continuing employment and development system ensures the competence of staff and volunteers.


13.7 Ensuring personnel records contain current relevant information as required, including evidence of registrations.

13.7.1 Accurate and complete personnel records, including training records, are maintained and kept confidential.


13.7.2 There is a system to document training for staff and volunteers identified as necessary by the organisation.


13.8 Integrating the performance development system for staff, including contracted staff and volunteers, with any relevant service plans or changing service requirements.

13.8.1 The performance assessment and development system includes:

review of position descriptions

review of competencies

monitoring compliance with published codes of professional practice

assessing learning and development needs

providing adequate resources for learning and development

management of identified performance needs


M 13.8.2 Ongoing monitoring and review of clinicians’ performance is linked to the credentialling system.


13.8.3 The performance assessment and development system is evaluated through appropriate stakeholder consultation, and improved as required.


13.9 Having a system to protect the interests of consumers / patients and carers, clinicians and other staff, and the organisation, during the management of a complaint.

13.9.1 Processes are in place for managing a complaint or concern about a clinician, and there is evidence they have been used.





13.9.2 Processes are in place for managing a complaint or concern about a member of staff, including contracted staff and volunteers, and there is evidence they have been used.


Employee support and workplace relations Employee support systems and workplace relations assist the organisation to achieve its goals.


13.10 Providing clear information about staff and volunteer rights and responsibilities including access to grievance processes, and taking action when needed.

13.10.1 The workplace rights and responsibilities of management, staff and volunteers are clearly defined and communicated.


13.10.2 Managers take action on at-risk behaviour of staff and volunteers.


13.11 Management and staff working cooperatively to achieve effective workplace relations, with involvement of relevant external groups where appropriate.

13.11.1 There is a consultative and transparent system to identify, manage and resolve workplace relations issues which is evaluated and improved as required.


13.12 Implementing strategies to create a workplace culture that fosters and encourages staff.

13.12.1 Strategies to:

motivate staff

acknowledge the value of staff

support flexible work practices are evaluated with staff participation and improved as required.


13.13 Facilitating access to an effective system to provide support to the workforce.

13.13.1 Performance measures are used on a regular basis to assess staff access to an employee assistance program and to evaluate the staff support services, and improvements are made as required.


Standard 14 Information Management


Health records management Health records management systems support the collection of information and meet the consumer / patient and organisation’s needs.


14.1 Addressing the needs of the organisation by implementing systems to manage health records and records created by the organisation.

14.1.1 Health records management systems are evaluated to ensure that they include:

the secure, safe and systematic storage and transport of data and records

timely and accurate retrieval of records stored on or off site, or electronically

appropriate retention and destruction of records

reference to all relevant standards / legislation / policy / guidelines

defined governance and accountability

training for relevant staff in health records management


14.2 Establishing a system to support the allocation and maintenance of an organisation-specific consumer / patient identifier for the first and every subsequent visit to the organisation by a consumer / patient to ensure continuity of care.

14.2.1 The system for the allocation and maintenance of the organisation-specific consumer / patient identifier, including a process for checking multiple identifiers, is evaluated and improved as required.


14.3 Clinical coding and classification that is performed for all consumer / patients accessing services in accordance with jurisdictional standards, where available, or guidelines.

14.3.1 Healthcare workers participate in the analysis of data including clinical classification information.


14.3.2 Clinical coding and reporting time frames that meet internal and external requirements are evaluated and improved as required.


M 14.4 Implementing systems to ensure consumer / patient access to health records is in accordance with jurisdictional policy / legislation.

14.4.1 Consumers / patients are given advice / written guidelines on how to access their health information and requests for access are met.




Corporate records management Corporate records management systems support the collection of information and meet the organisation’s needs.


14.5 Addressing the needs of the organisation by implementing systems to manage corporate records created by the organisation.

14.5.1 Corporate records management systems are evaluated to ensure that they include:

the secure, safe and systematic storage and transport of data and records

standardised record creation and tracking.

appropriate retention and destruction of records

reference to all relevant standards / legislation / policy / guidelines.

defined governance and accountability

training for relevant staff in corporate records management


Collection, use and storage of information Data and information are collected, stored and used for strategic, operational and service improvement purposes.


14.6 Implementing an information management plan and system that addresses the needs of the organisation.

14.6.1 Monitoring and analysis of clinical and non-clinical data and information occurs to ensure:

accuracy, integrity and completeness

timeliness of information and reports

the needs of the organisation are met, and improvements are made as required.


14.6.2 The information management system is evaluated to ensure that it includes:

identification of the needs of the organisation at all levels

compliance with professional and statutory requirements for collection, storage and use of data

the validation and protection of data and information

delineation of responsibility and accountability for action on data and information

adequate resourcing for the assessment, analysis and use of data





data storage and retrieval facilitated through effective classification and indexing

contribution to external databases and registers

training of relevant staff on information and data management

14.7 Linking databases within and across units and departments to provide access to data.

14.7.1 The organisation uses data from external databases and registers for:

research

development

improvement activities

education

corporate and clinical decision making

improvement of care and services


14.8 Ensuring reference management and resource material meets the needs of staff.

14.8.1 Staff have access to contemporary reference and resource material.


Information and communication technology The organisation has an integrated approach to the planning, use and management of information and communication technology (ICT).


14.9 Ensuring effective governance of an ICT system that includes a risk management framework and a strategy for meeting current and future needs, which is supported by policy and procedure.

14.9.1 The ICT system is evaluated to ensure that it includes:

backup

security

redundancy

protection of privacy

virus detection

preventative maintenance and repair

disaster recovery / business continuity

risk and crisis management

monitoring of compliance with ICT policy and procedures





14.9.2 Licences are purchased as required to ensure intellectual property rights and title to products are retained by product owners.


Standard 15: Corporate Systems and Safety


Strategic and operational planning The organisation provides quality, safe health care and services through strategic and operational planning and development.


15.1 The governing body reviewing progress towards achieving the vision, goals and objectives of the strategic plan.

15.1.1 The strategic plan that:

includes vision, mission and values

identifies priority areas for care, service delivery and facility development

considers the most efficient use of resources

includes analysis of community needs in the delivery of services

formally recognises relationships with relevant external organisations

is regularly reviewed by the governing body.


15.1.2 Leaders and managers act to promote a positive organisational culture.


15.1.3 Operational plans developed to achieve the organisation’s goals and objectives and day-to-day activities comply with appropriate by-laws, articles of association and/or policies and procedures.


15.2 Ensuring change and risk management are considered in the development of plans.

15.2.1 Changes driven by the strategic plan are communicated to, and evaluated in consultation with, relevant stakeholders.


15.2.2 Change management strategies are implemented to achieve the objectives of the strategic and operational plans.




Systems and delegation practices Governance is assisted by formal structures and delegation practices within the organisation.


15.3 Establishing processes of governance that comply with relevant legislation.

15.3.1 The processes of governance and the performance of the governing body are evaluated to ensure they include:

formal orientation and ongoing education for members of the governing body

defining terms of reference, composition and procedures for meetings of the governing body

communicating information about governing body activities and decisions with relevant stakeholders

defining the governing body’s duties and responsibilities and its role for strategy and monitoring


15.4 Implementing a formal system for delegating authority for the operation of clinical and non-clinical services.

15.4.1 Compliance with delegations is monitored and evaluated, and improved as required.


15.5 Assessing that quality, performance and governance are aligned and integrated.

15.5.1 Organisational structures and processes are reviewed to ensure quality services are delivered.


15.6 Ensuring governing body involvement throughout the ethical decision making process.

15.6.1 There is evidence of evaluation and improvement of the system to govern and document decision making with ethical implications, which includes:

a nominated consultative body

a process to receive, monitor and assess issues

review of outcomes


15.7 Facilitating the management and monitoring of health services through effective committees and meetings.

15.7.1 Organisational committees:

have access to terms of reference, membership and procedures

record and confirm minutes and actions of meetings

implement decisions and are evaluated and improved as required.





15.8 Implementing sound financial management practices. 15.8.1 The organisation has sound financial management processes that:

are consistent with legislative and government requirements

include budget development and review

allocate resources based on service requirements identified in strategic and operational planning

ensure useful, timely and accurate financial reports are provided to the governing body and relevant managers

include an external audit


External Service Providers External service providers are managed to maximise quality, safe health care and service delivery.


15.9 Developing and implementing systems to manage external service providers.

15.9.1 There is evidence of evaluation and improvement of systems to manage external service providers, which that:

are governed by implemented policy and procedure

include documented service agreements

defined dispute resolution mechanisms

monitor compliance of service providers with relevant regulatory requirements and specified standards

require evidence from service providers of internal evaluation of the services they provide

ensure external service providers comply with organisational policy and procedures


15.9.2 The organisation evaluates the performance of external service providers through agreed performance measures including clinical outcomes and financial performance where appropriate, and improvements are made as required.




Research Governance The organisation’s research program develops the body of knowledge, protects staff and consumers / patients and has processes to appropriately manage the organisational risk.


15.10 Fostering and encouraging clinical and health services research.

15.10.1 The system that:

determines what research requires ethical approval

oversees the ethical conduct of organisational research

monitors the completion of required reporting is evaluated and improved as required.


15.10.2 Consumers and researchers work in partnership to make decisions about research priorities, policy and practices.


15.11 Ensuring research integrity through governing body oversight.

15.11.1 Systems are implemented to effectively govern research through policy / guidelines consistent with:

key NHMRC statements

jurisdictional legislation

codes of conduct

scientific review standards


15.11.2 The governance of research through:

documented accountability and responsibility

establishing formal agreements with collaborating agencies

adequately resourcing the organisation’s human research ethics committee (HREC), where applicable

is evaluated and improved as required.




Safety management systems Safety management systems ensure the safety and wellbeing of consumers / patients, staff, visitors and contractors.


M 15.12 Implementing a safety management system that references relevant: Australian standards legislation codes of practice industry guidelines

15.12.1 Safety management systems include documented policies for:

workplace health and safety

manual handling

injury management

management of dangerous goods and hazardous substances

staff education and training on workplace health and safety responsibilities


M 15.13 Implementing an organisation-wide system for workplace health and safety (WHS).

15.13.1 The system for ensuring WHS includes:

identification of risks and hazards

documented safe work practices / safety rules for all relevant procedures and tasks in both clinical and non-clinical areas

staff consultation

staff education and provision of information

an injury management program

communication of risks to consumers / patients and visitors

and is implemented, assessed and improved as required.


M 15.13.2 Staff with formal WHS responsibilities are appropriately trained.


M 15.13.3 A register of dangerous goods and hazardous substances is maintained and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available to staff.





M 15.14 Monitoring compliance with the radiation safety management plan and taking remedial action where required.

15.14.1 There is evidence of evaluation and improvement of the radiation safety management plan, which:

is coordinated with external authorities

includes a register for all radioactive substances, safe disposal of all radioactive waste and radiation equipment

ensures staff exposure to radiation is kept as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA)

keeps consumer / patient radiation to a minimum whilst maintaining good diagnostic quality

includes a personal radiation monitoring system and any relevant area monitoring


Buildings, plant and equipment Buildings, signage, plant, medical devices, equipment, supplies, utilities and consumables are managed safely and used efficiently and effectively.


15.15 Implementing a procurement, management, risk reduction and maintenance system that is planned, prioritised, budgeted for and documented.

15.15.1The procurement, management, risk reduction and maintenance system includes:

buildings / workplaces

plant

medical devices / equipment

other equipment

supplies

utilities

consumables

workplace design


15.15.2 Plant and other equipment are installed and operated in accordance with manufacturer specifications and plant logs are maintained.


15.16 Reducing the risk of incidents and hazards associated with buildings, plant, medical devices, equipment, utilities, consumables and supplies.

15.16.1 Incidents and hazards associated with:

building

plant

medical devices / equipment

other equipment





utilities

consumables

supplies are documented, evaluated and action is taken to reduce risk.

15.16.2 The safety and accessibility of the buildings / workplace, and the safe and consistent operation of plant and equipment, is evaluated, and improvements are made to reduce risk.


15.17 Ensuring that physical access to the organisation’s facilities meets the identified needs of the community.

15.17.1 Access to the organisation is facilitated by:

clear internal and external signage

the use of relevant languages and multilingual / international symbols

the provision of disability access

facility design that meets legislative requirements and/or is based on recognised guidelines


Emergency and disaster planning and management Emergency and disaster management supports safe practice and a safe environment.


M 15.18 Implementing systems for prevention, preparedness, response and recovery in emergencies, including triage and deployment of medical teams where appropriate, that comply with:

Australian standards

legislation

codes of practice

industry guidelines.

15.18.1 There is evidence of evaluation and improvement of the emergency and disaster management systems, which include:

identification of potential internal and external emergencies and disasters

coordination with relevant external authorities

installation of appropriate communication system

development of a response and evacuation plan / relocation plan

display of relevant signage and evacuation routes

planning for business continuity





M 15.19 Ensuring correct organisational response to emergencies and disasters.

15.19.1 There is evidence of evaluation and improvement of staff training and competence in managing emergency procedures, which includes:

education at orientation

annual training in emergency and evacuation / relocation procedures

regularly conducted emergency practice / drill exercises

the appointment of an appropriately trained fire officer

access to first aid equipment and supplies and training by relevant staff


M 15.20 Assessing compliance of buildings to relevant jurisdictional fire codes and documenting plans from any recommendations from inspections.

15.20.1 There is documented evidence that an authorised external provider undertakes a full fire report on the premises at least once within each EQuIPNational cycle (and/or) in accordance with jurisdictional legislation.


M 15.20.2 There is a documented plan to implement recommendations from the fire action plan.


Physical and personal security Security management supports safe practice and a safe environment.


15.21 Implementing policy and systems for the management of security risks, violence and aggression prevention that references any relevant:

Australian standards

legislation

codes of practice

industry guidelines

15.21.1 Service planning includes strategies for security management.


15.21.2 The organisation-wide system to identify and assess security risks, determine priorities and eliminate risks or implement controls is evaluated and improved as required.


15.22 Involving staff and relevant authorities in decision making around issues that affect security management.

15.22.1 Staff are consulted in decision making that affects organisational and personal risks and are informed of security risks and responsibilities.


15.22.2 Security management plans are coordinated with relevant external authorities.





15.23 Minimising and preventing violence and aggression in the workplace through an organisation-wide violence and aggression prevention plan.

15.23.1 The violence and aggression management program is evaluated to ensure it includes:

policies / procedures for the minimisation and management of violence and aggression

staff education and training

appropriate response to incidents


Waste and environmental management Waste and environmental management supports safe practice and a safe and sustainable environment.


15.24 Developing and implementing policy and system for the management of waste.

15.24.1 The waste and environmental management system is evaluated to ensure it includes:

development and implementation of policy

coordination with external authorities

staff instruction and provision of information on their responsibilities


15.25 Implementing systems based on recycling, reducing and reusing processes and identifying waste management streams through signage to ensure separation of waste within the organisation.

15.25.1 Controls are implemented to manage:

identification

handling

separation and segregation of clinical, radioactive and hazardous waste and non-clinical waste, and the controls are evaluated and improved as required.


15.26 Implementing systems to manage resource sustainability.

15.26.1 The system to:

increase the efficiency of energy and water use

improve environmental sustainability

reduce carbon emissions is evaluated and improved as required.


Documents

Standard 1: Governance for Safety and Quality in Health ... · Standard 1: Governance for Safety and Quality in Health Service Organisations The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards