Does The Joint Commission require age-specific competencies for employees? What is the standard for employees who provide direct patient care?
Age-Specific Competencies
Many years ago, age-specific competencies were an expectation. As a result, hospitals documented pediatric, adult and geriatric competencies for all staff and all functions, regardless of any actual differences in the job function or task.
This rigid approach is no longer necessary. But, there may be tasks that do require age specific skills. For example, the prescribing and preparation of neonatal total parenteral nutrition is unique. Consequently, the pharmacy, nursing and dietary staff involved in the process must be aware of the appropriate protein, glucose, and electrolyte dosages, which differ significantly from adult dosing. In addition, radiology staff in the CT area often need special competencies in positioning and performing CT scans and using appropriate radiologic protocols.
In conclusion, the age specific competencies should be applied only where appropriate.
Patton Healthcare Consulting
Patton Healthcare Consulting provides a complete range of Joint Commission and CMS Compliance Assistance and a full range of pre-survey and post survey services.
We serve more than 350 hospitals, behavioral health care organizations, ambulatory clinics and home care companies nationwide—hospitals ranging from critical access hospitals to the largest health systems. Contact us at (888) PHC-INC1 for more information.
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