All Reports

Nurse Staffing, Patient Safety, and Environment of Care Concerns at the Community Living Center within the San Francisco VA Health Care System in California
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20-00005-271
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Topics:  Staffing ● Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director ensures that the Associate Director for Patient Care Services performs a comprehensive review of Community Living Center nurse staffing methodology, retrains the Nurse Staffing Methodology Coordinator, and develops staffing methodology processes that reflect the needs of the Community Living Center.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director continues efforts to recruit and hire for Community Living Center nursing assistants and ensures that alternate staffing strategies are consistently available to meet target nursing hours per patient day until optimal staffing is attained.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director confers with facility nursing leadership and the Office of Human Resource Management to identify and mitigate barriers to nursing assistant staff retention and recruitment and takes appropriate action.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director consults with VA Sierra Pacific Network and VA Central Office to determine the number and status of approved Community Living Center operating beds and takes action as appropriate.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/24/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director ensures a review of the episode of care related to Resident B’s elopement to determine if a formal quality management review is needed and takes action accordingly.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director evaluates the requirement for Community Living Center registry nursing assistant staff access to the electronic health record system, involving the Office of General Counsel and the Network Contracting Office 21 as appropriate and takes action if needed.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director ensures that Environmental Management Services provides Community Living Center staff a clear communication pathway to request assistance for all shifts and confirms its functionality.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director establishes comprehensive quality monitoring of the ongoing issue of the presence of flying insects in the Community Living Center, and monitors compliance.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director ensures that Community Living Center staff adhere to Veterans Health Administration hand-hygiene policies and ensures that corrective actions are initiated when hand-hygiene performance falls below established thresholds.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/17/2021
The San Francisco VA Health Care System Director ensures a comprehensive review of the registry agency agreement for performance, the provision of nursing assistants as requested, and determines if the agreement meets the needs of the Community Living Center.
Deficiencies in Provider Oversight and Privileging Processes at the Carl Vinson VA Medical Center in Dublin, Georgia
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19-07828-265
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Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/15/2021
The Veterans Integrated Service Network 7 Director ensures Carl Vinson VA Medical Center leaders, in permanent or acting roles, are knowledgeable about and compliant with the oversight of medical staff, including those with possible physical impairments.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/27/2021
The Veterans Integrated Service Network 7 Director ensures Carl Vinson VA Medical Center leaders, in permanent or acting roles, are knowledgeable about and compliant with privileging policies.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/15/2021
The Veterans Integrated Service Network 7 Director ensures Carl Vinson VA Medical Center leaders, in permanent or acting roles, are knowledgeable about and compliant with state licensing board reporting policies.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/16/2021
The Carl Vinson VA Medical Center Director evaluates concerns that the urologist has a possible physical impairment, consults with Human Resources, and takes action, if indicated.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/15/2021
The Carl Vinson VA Medical Center Director reviews current clinical care review processes, identifies areas of noncompliance with facility bylaws, and takes action to ensure compliance.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/16/2021
The Carl Vinson VA Medical Center Director reviews current reduction of privileges processes, identifies areas of noncompliance, and takes action to ensure compliance with Veterans Health Administration policy.
Pharmacy Process Concerns and Improper Staff Communication at the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia
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20-01102-266
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Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/26/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures prescriber education on prior authorization drug request consultation procedures including consult documentation options, urgency level communication, patient notification, and appeals processes.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director promotes mental health prescribers’ utilization of the prior authorization drug request process in consideration of the medication plan most effective for each patient.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures that electronic health records are reviewed for improper entries, and takes action as indicated.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/26/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director conducts a review of staff improper electronic health record entries and electronic mail and consults with Office of Human Resources to determine if administrative action is warranted, and takes action as appropriate.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director evaluates ways to improve the workplace relationships between Mental Health and Pharmacy Services staff, including consultation with the Veterans Integrated Services Network or the National Center for Organizational Development, and takes actions as appropriate.
Mismanagement of Emergency Department Care of a Patient with Acute Coronary Syndrome at the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas
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20-01318-258
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Topics:  Patient Safety ● Care Coordination

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director ensures that Emergency Department physicians receive training on the facility’s acute coronary syndrome protocol and verifies that ST-elevation myocardial infarction time goals are monitored, and improvements implemented as needed.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director makes certain a facility policy that is applicable to all patient care areas outlines standardized processes for safe and timely interfacility transfers, including communication of appropriate transport services needed.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/24/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director conducts an analysis of the contributing factors that led to the delay in the patient’s interfacility transfer and takes action as necessary to improve identified deficiencies.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/24/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director ensures the newly implemented Emergency Department Interfacility Transfers policy is reviewed and updated to include improvements as data are obtained from the interfacility transfer analysis.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/24/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director makes certain that Emergency Department and Health Administrative Service staff are trained on the Emergency Department Interfacility Transfers policy, the updated service agreement between Cardiology and Emergency Departments, and interfacility transfer process and monitors the transfer process, including timeliness of transfers.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director ensures the Critical Care Committee evaluates all concerns identified during code events, makes recommendations for improvement, confirms actions are implemented, and assesses effectiveness of actions.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director ensures the Chief, Quality Management is a member of the Critical Care Committee, develops a process to address problems in obtaining the assistance of Emergency Medical Services or use of the 911 call system, and assesses the effectiveness of the process.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/24/2021
The VA Heartland Network Director reviews the peer reviews of physicians who provided care to the patient to determine if a focused clinical review by an independent reviewer is warranted and takes actions as necessary.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/24/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director reviews the patient’s care provided in the Emergency Department and the circumstances of the interfacility transfer to determine if an institutional disclosure is warranted.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/10/2021
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center Director ensures interfacility transfer data are collected, analyzed, and incorporated into the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center’s quality management program as required by Veterans Health Administration policy.
Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital in Hines, Illinois
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20-00069-222
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Topics:  Patient Safety ● Medical Staff Privileging Credentialing

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/19/2022
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures specific action items are monitored and documented in the Quality Board minutes when problems or opportunities are identified.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that all applicable deaths within 24 hours of admission are peer reviewed.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that a summary of the Peer Review Committee’s analyses is reviewed quarterly by the Medical Executive Board.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures all required representatives consistently participate in interdisciplinary reviews of utilization management data.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures service chiefs initiate and complete focused professional practice evaluations on all newly hired licensed independent practitioners.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/21/2022
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that service chiefs include the minimum pathology and radiation oncology specific criteria for ongoing professional practice evaluations of licensed independent practitioners.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/5/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures service chiefs collect, review, and use ongoing professional practice evaluation data in determinations to continue current privileges.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/5/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that the Medical Executive Board’s decisions to recommend initial and continuation of privileges are based on focused and ongoing professional practice evaluation results.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that provider exit review forms are completed within seven calendar days of licensed healthcare professionals departing the medical center.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that Sterile Processing Services employees remove expired commercial sterile supplies from service.
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/20/2022
The Associate Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures clinical areas are in good repair and that a safe and clean environment is maintained throughout the medical center.
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that providers complete pain screening for all patients prior to initial dispensing of long-term opioid therapy.
No. 13
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that providers complete an aberrant behavior risk assessment on all patients prior to initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 14
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that providers consistently conduct urine drug testing as required for patients on long-term opioid therapy.
No. 15
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that providers consistently obtain and document informed consent for patients who are initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 16
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that follow-up with patients receiving long-term opioid therapy include an assessment of adherence to the pain management plan of care and the effectiveness of the intervention.
No. 17
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/22/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures staff receive annual suicide prevention refresher training.
No. 18
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that at least 10 percent of reprocessed endoscopes are tested for bioburden.
No. 19
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/25/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services determines the reasons for noncompliance and ensures that traffic flow in the gastroenterology clean storage area is restricted.
No. 20
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/16/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that Sterile Processing Services maintains required climate control parameters for areas where reusable medical equipment is reprocessed and stored.
No. 21
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/25/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services determines the reasons for noncompliance and ensures Sterile Processing Services staff complete Level 1 training within 90 days of hire
No. 22
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/5/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that the Sterile Processing Services Chief complete competency assessments for staff reprocessing reusable medical equipment.
No. 23
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/5/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services determines the reasons for noncompliance and ensures Sterile Processing Services staff receive monthly continuing education.
Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas
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19-06872-199
|
Topics:  Patient Safety ● Medical Staff Privileging Credentialing ● Suicide Prevention

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures all required representatives consistently participate in interdisciplinary reviews of utilization management data.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/9/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that root cause analyses include all required review elements and are properly documented in the VHA Patient Safety Information System.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/9/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that root cause analysis actions are implemented and properly documented in the VHA Patient Safety Information System.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that the Patient Safety Manager or designee provides an annual patient safety report to medical center leaders.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/29/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures clinical managers define in advance, communicate, and document expectations for focused professional practice evaluations in provider profiles.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/31/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that reprivileging decisions are based on service-specific ongoing professional practice evaluation data.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/31/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures clinical managers consistently collect and review ongoing professional practice evaluation data.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/31/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that providers with similar training and privileges complete ongoing professional practice evaluations of licensed independent practitioners.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/31/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and makes certain that Medical Professional Standards Board meeting minutes consistently reflect the review of professional practice evaluation results when recommending continuation of privileges.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/29/2021
The Chief of Staff determines reason(s) for noncompliance and makes certain that provider exit review forms are completed within seven calendar days of licensed healthcare professionals departing the medical center.
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Chief of Staff determines reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures the departing licensed healthcare professional’s first- or second-line supervisor appropriately signs the exit review form.
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Associate Director determines reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that patient care supply areas are properly designated, and adequate temperature and humidity controls are continuously monitored and maintained.
No. 13
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that a safe and clean environment is maintained throughout the medical center.
No. 14
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Chief of Staff determines the reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that personally identifiable information is protected when transporting information or specimens from the clinics to the medical center.
No. 15
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/14/2022
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that clinicians complete a behavioral risk assessment that includes a history of substance abuse, psychological disease, and aberrant drug-related behaviors on patients prior to initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 16
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/13/2022
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and makes certain that healthcare providers consistently obtain and document informed consent for patients who are initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 17
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/14/2022
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures healthcare providers follow up with patients within three months after initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 18
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Chief of Staff determines reason(s) for noncompliance and makes certain that clinicians conduct four follow-up appointments within the required time frame and document the patient’s preference for telephonic follow-up, if warranted.
No. 19
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that clinicians complete safety plans in a timely manner and that all required elements—including firearm and opioid safety—are assessed for patients with High Risk for Suicide Patient Record Flags.
No. 20
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures clinical and nonclinical staff receive annual suicide prevention refresher training.
No. 21
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/9/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and appoints a multidisciplinary committee responsible for life-sustaining treatment decision reviews that includes representatives from three or more different disciplines.
No. 22
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Medical Center Director evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and makes certain that required members consistently attend Women Veterans Health Committee meetings.
No. 23
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and makes certain that Sterile Processing Services reports the annual risk analysis to the Veterans Integrated Service Network Sterile Processing Services Management Board.
No. 24
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that Sterile Processing Services maintain required airflow parameters for areas where reusable medical equipment is reprocessed.
No. 25
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/18/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that staff avoid eating, drinking, and/or storing food items in areas where decontamination, sterilization, or clean/sterile storage occurs.148
No. 26
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/15/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services determines reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that staff properly store endoscopes.
Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the VA St. Louis Health Care System in Missouri
|
19-06873-210
|
Topics:  Medical Staff Privileging Credentialing ● Suicide Prevention ● Patient Safety

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/22/2021
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures improvement actions recommended by the Quality Executive Board are fully implemented and improvement changes are monitored.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/9/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures all required representatives consistently participate in interdisciplinary utilization management data reviews.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/22/2021
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that the Patient Safety Manager or designee consistently implements improvement actions arising from root cause analysis activities.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/22/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that service chiefs include service-specific criteria for ongoing professional practice evaluations of licensed independent practitioners.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/27/2022
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that service chiefs’ reprivileging recommendations are based on ongoing professional practice evaluation activities.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/22/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that the Medical Executive Board’s decision to recommend continuation of privileges is based on ongoing professional practice evaluation results.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/25/2023
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that provider exit review forms are completed within seven calendar days of licensed healthcare professionals departing the healthcare system.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/24/2021
The Associate Director determines the reasons for noncompliance and ensures mental health unit cameras are reconfigured to eliminate blind spots.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that providers complete a behavioral risk assessment that includes a history of substance abuse, psychological disease, and aberrant drug-related behaviors for all patients prior to initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that healthcare providers consistently conduct urine drug testing as required for patients on long-term opioid therapy.
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that healthcare providers consistently obtain and document informed consent for patients prior to beginning long-term opioid therapy.
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures healthcare providers follow up with patients within three months after initiating long-term opioid therapy and assess intervention effectiveness.
No. 13
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that the Pain Committee monitors the quality of pain assessment, effectiveness of pain management interventions, and opportunities for improvements.
No. 14
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that the Suicide Prevention Coordinator delivers at least five outreach activities each month.
No. 15
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that providers conduct four follow-up visits, either face-to-face or telephonic with documented consent, within the required time frame.
No. 16
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures staff receive annual suicide prevention refresher training.
No. 17
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/9/2021
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that required members are assigned and consistently attend Women Veterans Health Committee meetings and that the committee reports to an executive leadership board.
No. 18
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/9/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services determines the reasons for noncompliance and ensures that gastroenterology staff test at least 10 percent of reprocessed endoscopes for bioburden and testing to include each endoscope model.
No. 19
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that all new Sterile Processing Services employees complete Level 1 training within 90 days of hire.
No. 20
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/21/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures Sterile Processing Services staff receive monthly continuing education.
Surrogate Decision-Maker, Clinical, and Patient Rights Deficiencies at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky
|
19-08666-212
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/30/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director ensures staff document clinical assessments of patients’ decision-making capacity throughout hospitalization as required by Veterans Health Administration policy.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/30/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director evaluates social worker practices related to facilitating the release of information when a patient lacks decision-making capacity, and takes action as indicated.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/30/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director establishes “reasonable inquiry” parameters for determination of a surrogate as required by Veterans Health Administration policy and provides staff education as needed.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/30/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director ensures that when patients lack decision-making capacity, staff verify and document the status of surrogates, and the efforts to identify surrogates, according to Veterans Health Administration policy.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director evaluates the quality and comprehensiveness of clinical documentation in support of diagnoses and treatment decisions across the patient’s hospitalization, and takes action as indicated.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director ensures interdisciplinary and cross-service communication and collaboration for complex patients and monitors compliance.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/22/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director ensures providers complete medication reconciliation for patients transferred to the mental health unit(s) as required by Veterans Health Administration and Robley Rex VA Medical Center policies.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director ensures compliance regarding completion of documentation of PRN (as needed) medication effectiveness as required by Veterans Health Administration and Robley Rex VA Medical Center policies.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/22/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director reviews clinical decision-making and administrative processes relative to the patient’s admission to hospice, and takes appropriate actions as indicated.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/20/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director develops a mechanism to ensure involuntary admissions (72-hour holds) for current and future patients are managed and documented according to Veterans Health Administration and Robley Rex VA Medical Center policies, and Kentucky state laws.
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director develops a mechanism to ensure that patients in behavioral restraints are assessed every 15 minutes as required, and that documentation complies with Veterans Health Administration policy.
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director ensures that its policy on restraints and seclusion is updated to reflect the frequency of training requirements, and that staff are appropriately trained and competent in the use of restraints as required by Veterans Health Administration and Robley Rex VA Medical Center policies.
No. 13
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/22/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director takes action to ensure processes for reviewing inpatient deaths is consistent with Veterans Health Administration policy.
No. 14
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director reviews the patient’s continuum of care and evaluates if additional peer reviews and/or other quality reviews are warranted, and takes action as indicated.
No. 15
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center Director reviews the circumstances related to an unauthorized individual making decisions for the patient and conducts appropriate disclosure to the patient’s representative as warranted.
Alleged Deficiencies in Pharmacy Service Procedures at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, West Virginia
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19-09776-223
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/26/2021
The Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center Director ensures implementation of a process to document and track orientation, competency assessment, and annual competencies of pharmacy staff, and monitors compliance.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/26/2021
The Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center Director ensures facility leaders are trained in the process of reporting any and all future diversions and loss incidents according to requirements outlined in VHA Directive 1108.01, Controlled Substance Management, May 1, 2019.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/26/2021
The Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center Director conducts a review of the circumstances that resulted in the misplacement of testosterone and develops an action plan to prevent a similar recurrence, if warranted.
Facility Oversight and Leaders’ Responses Related to the Deficient Practice of a Pathologist at the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia
|
19-07600-215
|
Topics:  Patient Safety ● Medical Staff Privileging Credentialing

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/23/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures that the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Services actionable supplemental test results are communicated timely in accordance with Veterans Health Administration policy.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures that facility leaders adhere to Veterans Health Administration policy that outlines the processes for the disclosure of adverse events, including clinical and institutional disclosures.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director reviews the treatment course for the identified dermatology patient who experienced an adverse clinical outcome and takes action, including disclosures, if appropriate.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures staff compliance with Veterans Health Administration policies related to reporting of all adverse events to the patient safety manager.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/23/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures staff compliance with Veterans Health Administration policies related to reporting adverse events to the VA Pathology Regional Commissioner.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/23/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures staff compliance with Veterans Health Administration policies related to issue briefs.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/23/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures that facility leaders adhere to Veterans Health Administration policy that outlines the summary suspension process for licensed independent practitioners.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/23/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director verifies that facility leaders adhere to Veterans Health Administration policy that outlines the credentialing and privileging process as related to the subject pathologist.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/23/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director and facility leaders meet all Veterans Health Administration requirements for state licensing board reporting.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/27/2021
The Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Director ensures that the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service Chief ensures the required Veterans Health Administration and facility quality reviews of the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Services’ pathologists are performed.
Inadequate Care by a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist and a Primary Care Provider at the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System in Nashville
|
19-07543-178
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/19/2021
The Veterans Integrated Service Network Director conducts a comprehensive review of the patient’s care including collaboration among Patient Aligned Care Team members and takes action as indicated.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/19/2021
The Tennessee Valley Healthcare System Director ensures facility staff are aware of and follow Veterans Health Administration Directive 1088, Communicating Test Results to Providers and Patients, specifically the requirement for the ordering clinician to communicate all test results to patients.
Deficiencies in Evaluation, Documentation, and Care Coordination for a Bariatric Surgery Patient at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System in Pennsylvania
|
19-09436-185
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/18/2021
The VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System Director considers developing a facility policy for bariatric surgery to include preoperative medical and mental health evaluations.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/25/2021
The VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System Director ensures that bariatric patients receive all preoperative medical and mental health evaluations and monitors compliance.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/1/2020
The VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System Director reviews the documentation error noted in this report and takes action as appropriate.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/7/2021
The VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System Director provides education to staff on how to correct documentation errors and the requirement to follow facility policy.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/25/2021
The VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System Director ensures interdisciplinary discussions about preoperative bariatric patients are documented in the electronic health record and monitors compliance.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/7/2021
The VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System Director considers a programmatic review of the Bariatric Surgery Program to ensure patients receive a comprehensive preoperative evaluation and postoperative follow-up care.
Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System in Topeka
|
19-06870-175
|
Topics:  Patient Safety ● Medical Staff Privileging Credentialing ● Suicide Prevention

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures specific action items are documented in Quality, Safety, and Value Board minutes when problems or opportunities for improvement are identified.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/12/2021
The Chief of Staff determines the reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that peer reviewers consistently use at least one of the nine aspects of care for evaluations and address the initial screener’s concern.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/12/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that all applicable deaths within 24 hours of admission are peer reviewed.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/12/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that final peer reviews are completed within 120 calendar days from the date it is determined a peer review is required and any necessary extensions are approved in writing by the System Director.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that a summary of the Peer Review Committee’s analyses is reviewed quarterly by the Medical Executive Board.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/29/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that physician utilization management advisors consistently document their decisions in the National Utilization Management Integration database.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures all required representatives consistently participate in interdisciplinary reviews of utilization management data.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that root cause analyses include all required review elements and be properly documented in the VHA Patient Safety Information System.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures clinical managers define in advance, communicate, and document expectations for focused professional practice evaluations in the provider profiles.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that service chiefs include the minimum required gastroenterology- and pathology-specific criteria for focused professional practice evaluations of licensed independent practitioners.
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that reprivileging decisions are based on service-specific ongoing professional practice evaluation data.
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that providers with similar training and privileges complete ongoing professional practice evaluations of licensed independent practitioners.
No. 13
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that Medical Executive Board meeting minutes consistently reflect the review of professional practice evaluation results in the decision to recommend continuation of privileges.
No. 14
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/20/2023
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that provider exit review forms are completed within seven calendar days of licensed healthcare professionals’ departing the healthcare system and include the signature of the first- or second-line supervisor in the properly designated area.
No. 15
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Associate Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures employees’ ability to access safety data sheet information.
No. 16
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Associate Director determines the reasons for noncompliance and ensures that clean/sterile storerooms are secured.
No. 17
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Associate Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures damaged wheelchairs are repaired or removed from service.
No. 18
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Associate Director determines the reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures areas are consistently stocked with medical supplies typically needed to meet patient care needs.
No. 19
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/29/2021
The Assistant Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that panic alarms are tested and that deficiencies identified from the testing are addressed, including staff education.
No. 20
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Associate Director determines the reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that deficiencies observed during Comprehensive Environment of Care Rounds are correctly documented in the Comprehensive Environment of Care Assessment and Compliance Tool and followed until completion.
No. 21
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Associate Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that Wyandotte County VA Clinic managers maintain a safe and clean environment by addressing the deficiencies identified by the inspection.
No. 22
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The Associate Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that personally identifiable information is protected when transporting information or specimens from the clinics.
No. 23
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/25/2022
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that healthcare providers consistently conduct urine drug testing as required for patients on long-term opioid therapy.
No. 24
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/29/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that healthcare providers obtain and document informed consent consistently for patients who are initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 25
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/5/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures healthcare providers follow up with patients within three months after initiating long-term opioid therapy.
No. 26
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that the Suicide Prevention Coordinator ensures completion of at least five outreach activities each month.
No. 27
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff evaluates and determines reasons for noncompliance and ensures that mental health providers consistently contact or attempt to contact patients flagged as high risk for suicide who miss mental health or substance abuse appointments and properly document those efforts.
No. 28
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/12/2021
The Chief of Staff evaluates and reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that the mental health provider and the Suicide Prevention Coordinator collaborate to determine next steps for patients flagged as high risk for suicide when attempted contact is unsuccessful after missed mental health or substance abuse appointments.
No. 29
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Chief of Staff determines the reason(s) for noncompliance and ensures that Suicide Prevention Safety Plans include an assessment of patients’ access to opioids and a discussion of safety and overdose risks.
No. 30
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/18/2022
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that each CBOC has at least two designated women’s health primary care providers or arrangements for leave coverage when CBOCs have only one designated provider.
No. 31
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/7/2021
The System Director evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that required members consistently attend the Women Veterans Health Committee that meets at least quarterly and reports to executive leaders.
No. 32
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that the Sterile Processing Service Chief maintains an accurate file for all reusable equipment that includes current manufacturers’ instructions for use.
No. 33
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that standard operating procedures are kept current and maintained as required, which includes alignment with manufacturers’ guidelines and instructions for use, review at least every three years, and update when there is a change in process or the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
No. 34
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and makes certain that the Sterile Processing Services Chief consistently performs an annual risk analysis and reports the analysis to the Veterans Integrated Service Network Sterile Processing Service Management Board.
No. 35
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/12/2021
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that annual airflow testing is conducted in all areas where reusable medical equipment is reprocessed.
No. 36
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures that endoscopes are stored properly.
No. 37
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines reasons for noncompliance and ensures that all current Sterile Processing Services employees complete Level 1 training and all new employees complete Level 1 training within 90 days of hire.
No. 38
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines reasons for noncompliance and ensures that the Chief of Sterile Processing Services documents completion of competencies for staff prior to performance of reprocessing duties.
No. 39
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/3/2020
The Associate Director for Patient Care Services evaluates and determines any additional reasons for noncompliance and ensures Sterile Processing Services staff receive monthly continuing education.
Deficiencies in Virtual Pharmacy Services in the Care of a Patient
|
19-07827-182
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/7/2021
The Under Secretary for Health ensures a review of the pharmacy care provided for the patient and consult with the Human Resources Department regarding administrative action, if warranted.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/8/2021
The Under Secretary for Health develops a standardized Veterans Health Information Systems and Technology Architecture menu for Meds by Mail Virtual Pharmacy Services clinical pharmacists and ensures training and access to clinical information to perform the functional statement duties.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/13/2021
The Under Secretary for Health ensures consistency between Virtual Pharmacy Services Meds by Mail clinical pharmacists’ functional statements and position responsibilities.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/29/2021
The Under Secretary for Health evaluates the Meds by Mail Virtual Pharmacy Services performance metrics, determines a reasonable productivity benchmark, and establishes additional metrics as appropriate.
No. 5
Not Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/18/2020
The Under Secretary for Health establishes program management and quality assurance objectives for Virtual Pharmacy Services that define the reporting frequency and structure, and monitors compliance with contract terms.
Deficiencies in Nursing Care and Management in the Community Living Center at the Coatesville VA Medical Center, Pennsylvania
|
19-06391-119
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/3/2021
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director reviews and monitors staff compliance with the Community Living Center required nursing processes and documentation for medication administration, pain management assessments, and care plans.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/3/2021
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director examines Community Living Center nursing processes and ensures that required documentation for fall prevention assessments, which include measures such as bed positions, call bell access, and post-fall assessments, is completed and monitored.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/10/2021
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director reviews and monitors staff compliance with Community Living Center call bell processes and practices.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2021
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director evaluates Community Living Center wound prevention processes and ensures that required wound documentation, including the measurement of patient weights and maintenance of skin integrity, is completed and monitored for compliance.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/3/2021
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director ensures that the newly developed Community Living Center hourly rounding form and process is approved in accordance with the facility’s standard operating procedure and aligns with the facility’s rounding policies, and monitors compliance.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/11/2020
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director makes sure that the fact-finding review process includes tracking and documenting issues through resolution and monitors compliance.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/10/2021
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director ensures that the Executive Leadership Board and the Geriatric and Extended Care Executive Council review, document, and track identified facility issues and, for the Executive Leadership Board, recommendations through resolution.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/10/2021
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director reviews and monitors the maintenance and functionality of essential safety equipment on Community Living Center units.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/11/2020
The Coatesville VA Medical Center Director updates the facility staffing methodology policy and staffing methodology calculations to comply with current Veterans Health Administration staffing methodology requirements.
Coordination of Care and Employee Satisfaction Concerns at the Community Living Center, Loch Raven VA Medical Center, in Baltimore, Maryland
|
19-08857-171
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/25/2021
The VA Maryland Health Care System Director conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the organizational health to include staff reporting of concerns and employee satisfaction at the Loch Raven Community Living Center, develops an action plan for improvement, and monitors progress.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/1/2021
The VA Maryland Health Care System Director reviews current laboratory specimen handling procedures at the Loch Raven Community Living Center and implements an action plan to address identified deficiencies.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/21/2021
The VA Maryland Health Care System Director ensures that concerns reported to Pathology &Laboratory Medicine Service are investigated and that action plans are instituted as needed.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/21/2021
The VA Maryland Health Care System Director ensures Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service staff notifies providers of critical laboratory results, documents in accordance with policy, and monitors compliance.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/9/2021
The VA Maryland Health Care System Director reviews the current process for medication delivery, to include the effectiveness of recently initiated actions as described in the report, from the Baltimore VA Medical Center pharmacy to the Loch Raven Community Living Center and implements an action plan to address identified vulnerabilities.
Death of a Patient, Deficiencies in Domiciliary Safety and Security, and Inadequate Contractual Agreement at the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System in Cleveland
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19-07091-159
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/15/2020
The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System Director conducts a full review of the patient’s care, including electrocardiograms and methadone initiation, and considers whether an institutional disclosure is warranted.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/9/2021
The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System Director ensures that electrocardiograms are completed prior to and during methadone treatment in accordance with Veterans Health Administration Pharmacy Benefits Management Services recommendations.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/15/2020
The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System Director ensures that domiciliary leaders implement a process to monitor the integrity of Volunteers of America staff documentation including health and safety rounding sheets and additional documentation directly pertaining to patients’ health, safety, and security.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Asset Enterprise Management (OAEM)
Closure Date: 6/11/2020
The VA Office of Asset Enterprise Management Director ensures that the Residential Services Agreement includes references to the Services Provider Contract between CGA LSVA Residential, LLC and Volunteers of America.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Asset Enterprise Management (OAEM)
Closure Date: 6/11/2020
The VA Office of Asset Enterprise Management Director, in consultation with the VA Office of General Counsel, determines if the Residential Services Agreement and the new term agreement needs to be reformed, or whether new contracts should be executed that clearly define the rights and responsibilities of all parties with respect to domiciliary services.
Delays in Diagnosis and Treatment and Concerns of Medical Management and Transfer of Patients at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center, North Carolina
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19-08256-124
|
Topics:  Patient Safety ● Care Coordination

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/10/2021
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director ensures that ordering providers review, acknowledge, and document an action plan for abnormal laboratory results.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/8/2020
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director considers initiating an institutional disclosure for the failure of primary care provider 1’s clinical action and follow-up for Patient A’s abnormal test results and takes necessary actions.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/25/2024

The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director ensures that facility Community Care staff process Community Care consults according to the Veterans Health Administration policy.

No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/8/2020
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director conducts a comprehensive review of Patient A’s and Patient B’s episode of care and takes action as indicated.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/26/2021
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director evaluates the facility’s treating capabilities, delineates the medical conditions appropriate for admission, and updates the Policy for Admission/Discharge/Care of Patients to Intensive Care Unit.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/26/2021
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director conducts an analysis of the inter-facility transfer process for patients in emergency situations, and develops and implements strategies and actions for improvement.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/8/2020
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director updates the Patient Transfer Coordination policy to include the improvements from the transfer process analysis.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/10/2021
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director makes certain that facility staff are trained on the updated Patient Transfer Coordination policy and emergency inter-facility transfer process for inpatients and monitors the process, including timeliness of transfers.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/8/2020
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director reviews Patient B’s emergency medical services’ 911 call cancellation, considers initiating institutional disclosure, and takes appropriate action as indicated.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/10/2021
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director ensures the Critical Care Committee thoroughly evaluates code blue events, identifies related performance and system issues, makes recommendations, and ensures actions are implemented.
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/8/2020
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director makes certain that solo practitioners have the privilege-specific competency components of their focused and ongoing professional practice evaluations performed by another provider with similar training and privileges and monitors compliance.
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/10/2021
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center Director ensures inter-facility patient data is collected, analyzed and incorporated into the facility’s quality management program.
Critical Care Unit Staffing and Quality of Care Deficiencies at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, Georgia
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19-08296-118
|
Topics:  Patient Safety

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/1/2021
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Director ensures compliance with requirements outlined in Veterans Health Administration and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center policy memorandums for the prevention and management of pressure injuries, including nursing documentation requirements.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/1/2021
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Director ensures Critical Care Unit nursing staff receive ongoing training to manage patients at risk for developing pressure injuries.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/1/2021
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Director evaluates tele-ICU services, and makes changes as needed to ensure cardiac-monitored patients receive safe care.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/3/2021
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Director ensures that a review to evaluate the circumstances related to Patient 8’s respiratory care is conducted and takes action as indicated.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/1/2021
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Director reviews current practices related to sitter availability when a physician orders a 1:1 sitter for Critical Care Unit patients and takes action as indicated.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/1/2021
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Director reviews current practices related to Critical Care Unit nursing staff assignments and takes action as indicated to support safe patient care when intravenous medications that require frequent dose adjustments are prescribed.
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