Hi Roger,
the reason i highlighted the critical equipment is that we saw JCI really put emphasis on safety and quality of care. This was one of the first things they looked into, that we have a system wherein critical equipment are categorized, scheduled (quarterly, twice a year and so on, as per the manufacturers' recommendation, location, age, etc) as well as the general yearly PPM for the other equipment.
they also looked into how we process the equipment under repair (if we tagged them properly, etc), use of googles, safe storage of flammable materials, etc .
to cover all the bases, we checked all electrical machines (even the DVD players, television, kettles) in the patient rooms and all other patient related areas using the electrical safety analyzer. they didnt ask but we assumed they noticed the tags.
In our case, the regulations of the country regarding fire safety were followed so the gap between firedoors and fire retardant drapes were recommendations and not noncompliant items. We are currently in the process of implementing those as it is the right thing to do.
They were thorough, they looked under the false ceiling, went up the roof, scrutinized the bathroom tiles, etc.
but it was good as all of these were for the welfare of our patients and ourselves also. and with focus-pdca, we can ensure that the changes would be not only beneficial but also cost effective.
Good Luck
on another note, it has been years since i last visited Singapore (hp medical was not yet agilent), really enjoyed the night safari. :-)
