Failure to Update Emergency Power Loss Policy After Generator Upgrade
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to update its Emergency Preparedness policies and procedures following an upgrade to the emergency backup generator. Although the generator was enhanced to cover the power load of the entire facility, the written policy still instructed staff to use extension cords and red outlets to provide backup power only to certain resident rooms and treatment areas. This outdated information did not reflect the current capabilities of the upgraded generator. During a record review and interview with the maintenance director, it was confirmed that the utility power loss policy had not been revised to align with the new generator system. The continued reference to outdated procedures in the policy could cause confusion among staff during a power outage emergency, as the instructions no longer matched the facility's actual emergency power resources.