Emergency Preparedness (Appendix Z) Flashcards

Which of the following is one of the four core elements of the CMS emergency preparedness rule?

Answer: Communication plan

The four core elements are (1) an emergency plan based on an all-hazards risk assessment, (2) policies and procedures, (3) a communication plan, and (4) training and testing.

What approach must a facility's emergency plan risk assessment use?

Answer: All-hazards, including facility-based and community-based risks

Section 483.73(a)(1) requires a facility-based and community-based risk assessment using an all-hazards approach, including missing residents.

How often must a long-term care facility review and update its emergency preparedness program?

Answer: At least annually

The 2019 burden-reduction rule moved many provider types to biennial reviews, but LTC facilities must still review and update their emergency preparedness program at least annually.

How many emergency preparedness exercises must an LTC facility conduct each year?

Answer: Two exercises per year, one of which must be a full-scale or functional exercise

LTC facilities must conduct two exercises per year. One must be a full-scale exercise (community-based, or facility-based if a community exercise isn't available) or an individual facility-based functional exercise. The second may be another full-scale or functional exercise, a mock drill, or a tabletop exercise.

LTC emergency policies must address subsistence needs for staff and residents during an emergency. Which item is specifically required?

Answer: Alternate sources of energy to maintain temperatures that protect resident health and safety

Section 483.73(b)(1) requires LTC facilities to plan for food, water, medical, and pharmaceutical supplies, plus alternate energy sources to maintain temperatures, emergency lighting, fire detection and extinguishing, and sewage and waste disposal.

Which emergency-plan information must LTC facilities share with residents and their families or representatives?

Answer: Appropriate information from the emergency plan, along with the method for sharing information and updates on the resident's condition

Section 483.73(c) requires LTC facilities to have a method for sharing information from the emergency plan, as appropriate, with residents and their families or representatives.