Immediate Jeopardy (SOM Appendix Q) Flashcards

Under the revised Appendix Q (2019), which three key components must be present to cite Immediate Jeopardy?

Answer: Noncompliance, serious adverse outcome or likelihood of one, and need for immediate action

Appendix Q requires (1) noncompliance, (2) that the noncompliance caused or created a likelihood of serious injury, harm, impairment, or death, and (3) a need for immediate action to prevent that outcome.

Which element was removed from the Immediate Jeopardy determination in the 2019 revision of Appendix Q?

Answer: Culpability

Earlier guidance asked surveyors to assess culpability, meaning whether the provider knew or should have known. The 2019 revision dropped culpability as a required component so the focus is on the risk to recipients.

Which scope-and-severity grid levels represent Immediate Jeopardy?

Answer: J, K, L

The top row of the grid, levels J (isolated), K (pattern), and L (widespread), is Immediate Jeopardy to resident health or safety.

In Appendix Q, 'likelihood' of serious harm means:

Answer: A reasonable expectation that serious harm will occur if the noncompliance is not corrected

Appendix Q defines likelihood as a reasonable expectation of a serious adverse outcome, which is higher than a mere possibility. IJ can be cited before any harm has actually occurred.

When surveyors identify Immediate Jeopardy during an onsite survey, what should happen?

Answer: Surveyors notify the facility's administrator (or designee) promptly, typically using the IJ template, so action can begin right away

Appendix Q directs the team to notify facility leadership promptly once IJ is identified, usually with the IJ template describing the noncompliance and risk. Prompt notice lets the facility start removal right away rather than waiting for the exit conference.

What is the purpose of the facility's IJ removal plan?

Answer: To describe the immediate actions taken to remove the jeopardy, which surveyors must verify onsite

A removal plan lists the immediate actions the provider has taken or will take to remove the risk. Surveyors verify onsite that the plan has been implemented before determining the jeopardy is removed. A separate Plan of Correction is still needed for the remaining noncompliance.