ICU patient monitor PM frequencies

[gsmart]

My hospital just got inspected by JCAHO & one of the inspectors suggested that we should PM our ICU monitors monthly. Any comments?

[biomed_ed]

I can imagine that the inspector wanted the monitors to be safe and accurate. Most current monitors will not benefit from frequent inspections but it is very likely that something in the ICU dept will need attention every month. A general check list of things to consider might be advisable and a certain portion of them verified each month, in order to stay on top of things.

[stoec]

i would rather recommend to have at least a daily checklist for the monitor which is to be done by the ICU's technician, from it you can distinguish which parameters are on the right track (accuracy wise).