The recommendations were made by the organizations in a Dec. 2010 letter, according to an ASA Washington Alert
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The ASA indicated it particularly appreciated four clarifications and modifications made by The Joint Commission. They are:
1. Deleting of the NPSG 03.04.01 FAQ prohibiting pre-labeling of syringes. “We can agree with a general requirement of syringe labeling while allowing hospitals and providers to determine when and how they meet this standard,” according to the ASA.
2. Clarifying that anesthesia providers may carry appropriate medications on their body as long as the institution has and enforces written policies.
3. Clarifying that authorized personnel may be present around unlocked medication carts as long as such carts are located in a secured area and the hospital has and enforces written policies.
4. Clarifying that MM.06.01.01 EP9 with respect to informed consent was intended for medications ordered to treat conditions rather than anesthesia services. “Thus, anesthesiologists are not required to explain all of the possible effects of the dozens of medications that might be used during a surgical procedure as part of the informed consent process,” according to the ASA.
Read the ASA Washington Alert on The Joint Commission’s revisions to medication management.
Related Articles on Medication Management:
Joint Commission Releases Third Animated Patient Safety Video, Focuses on Medication Management
3 Areas of Focus for Safe Drug Management
20 Questions Surgery Centers Should Ask to Ensure an Effective Safe Medication Management Program
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