Joint Commission Sentinel Event: Preventing Unintended Surgical Instrument Retention

The Joint Commission has issued a sentinel event alert focused on the prevention of unintended retention of foreign objects.

Advertisement

The average total cost of care per incident is estimated to be from $166,000 to more than $200,000.

The Joint Commission recommends:

•    Development of a counting system to ensure all surgical instruments are accounted for
•    Implementation of an evidence-based, facility-wide protocol for prevention
•    Effective communication between all team members
•    Careful documentation
•    Safe selection and use of technology

More Articles on Quality Issues:
10 Steps to Improve Medication Adherence
Study: 50% Accuracy in Surgical Safety Checklists
50 State Statistics on Medicare Reimbursements

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Advertisement

Next Up in Clinical Leadership & Infection Control

  • How many of you have felt like a flea in a jar? If you put fleas in a jar, they…

Advertisement

Comments are closed.