Joint Commission Sentinel Event Alert details environmental disaster preparation

Editor's Note

To support healthcare organizations in implementing proactive risk management strategies, The Joint Commission has issued Sentinel Event Alert, “Environmental disasters: Preparing to safely evacuate or shelter in place.”

As detailed in a November 13 press release, this alert outlines steps for healthcare organizations to consider as they prepare for weather and climate-related disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, floods and extreme heat. Specific recommendations include:

• Revisit and update emergency plans.
• Establish and build collaborative relationships.
• Develop a resilient communications infrastructure.
• Plan how to meet essential needs and provide care to staff and patients.
• Plan and practice how to evacuate and shelter in place.

“As we witness the devastating impact of recent hurricanes in Florida, we remember the critical importance of emergency preparedness,” says Elizabeth Mort, MD, MPH, vice president and chief medical officer, The Joint Commission. “Disasters of this magnitude can compromise patient safety and disrupt essential care if healthcare organizations do not have the necessary resources and strategies to respond to these emergencies effectively. The recommendations listed in the Sentinel Event Alert, as well as The Joint Commission’s related requirements on emergency management, can help healthcare organizations protect patients and healthcare workers during an environmental disaster.”