Home Health & Hospice Week

If you’re accredited by the Joint Com-mission and your patients use oxygen at home, get ready to make some potential changes.

“The Joint Commission recently approved modifications to National Patient Safety Goal NPSG.15.02.01 on risks associated with home oxygen use for accredited home care organizations,” says the Oakbrook Terrace, Ill.-based accrediting body. “These modifications enhance the Goal’s focus on patient safety and clarify specific requirements.” The changes take effect Jan. 1.

For example: The modifications include a new element of performance (EP) “requiring organizations to implement strategies to improve compliance with oxygen safety precautions when unsafe practices are observed in the home,” the organization formerly known as JCAHO says. “Depending upon individual patient and family circumstances, the strategies may include notifying the licensed independent practitioner ordering oxygen, additional education, written reminders in various locations, and exploring alternative living arrangements.”

More information on other EPs and changes is online at www.jointcommission.org/revisions_ npsg_home_oxygen_use.