The Joint Commission released on April 30 its list of the most challenging standards or national patient safety goals (NPSGs) for health centers in 2013. Both the maintenance and inspection of medical equipment and of emergency power systems were included in this year’s list.

The Joint Commission list is based on results from surveys where in at least 25% of cases, findings were generated for a particular standard or NPSG. Of the 17 items, four were included from the “Environment of Care” category:

  • Manage hazardous materials and waste
  • Medical equipment is maintained, tested, and inspected.
  • Inspect, test, & maintain emergency power systems
  • Collect information to monitor conditions in the environment.

For the complete list of most challenging standards, visit the Joint Commission website.