Emergency Preparedness (Appendix Z) Flashcards

Which four core elements form the framework of the CMS Emergency Preparedness rule in Appendix Z?

Answer: Risk assessment and planning, policies and procedures, communication plan, training and testing

Appendix Z is built on emergency planning based on a risk assessment, policies and procedures, a communication plan, and training and testing.

What approach must a facility's risk assessment use under Appendix Z?

Answer: An all-hazards approach covering facility-based and community-based risks

CMS requires a documented, facility-based and community-based risk assessment using an all-hazards approach.

In 2019 interpretive guidance, CMS clarified that the all-hazards approach should also include which hazard?

Answer: Emerging infectious diseases

CMS updated the guidance to state that emerging infectious diseases (e.g., Ebola, influenza) belong in all-hazards planning.

A surveyor finds that a hospital's emergency plan was reviewed 30 months ago. Under the 2019 burden-reduction rule, what is the hospital's required review frequency?

Answer: At least every 2 years

Since 2019, most providers including hospitals review the plan at least every 2 years, so a 30-month gap is noncompliant.

Which provider type must still review its emergency program annually after the 2019 rule changes?

Answer: Long-term care facilities

CMS kept the annual review requirement for long-term care facilities.

Policies and procedures for hospitals, CAHs, and LTC facilities must address subsistence needs for staff and patients. Which item is included?

Answer: Food, water, medical and pharmaceutical supplies

Subsistence needs include food, water, and medical and pharmaceutical supplies, whether patients evacuate or shelter in place.

Which of the following is an example of an alternate energy need that hospital policies must address?

Answer: Maintaining temperatures to protect patient health and safety

Policies must address alternate energy sources for temperature control, emergency lighting, fire detection, and sewage and waste disposal.