CMS SOM App. H, Tag V404

Page 173 of 420

(1) The space for treating each patient must be sufficient to provide needed care and

services, prevent cross-contamination, and to accommodate medical emergency equipment

and staff.

Interpretive Guidance §494.60(c)(1)

There are no specific square-footage requirements for dialysis treatment areas unless specified

by state or local regulations.

“Sufficient space” to provide needed care would allow space for:

• All dialysis equipment, supplies and items for each patient;

• Caregivers to provide emergency care including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR),

the use of emergency equipment including access to needed supplies, stretcher and

emergency personnel; and,

• The provision of personal privacy when needed, i.e., sufficient space to allow for use of

some type of privacy screens.

Note that privacy requirements are addressed in V406 of this section, and under the Condition

for patients’ rights at V454.

“Sufficient space” to prevent cross-contamination would allow space to:

• Prevent blood or body fluid spatters from one patient or station to another;

• Prevent contact between machines, chairs and other equipment;

• Reasonably accommodate patient belongings;

• Provide privacy and aseptic care of catheters including dressing changes;

• Safely dispose of bodily wastes/fluids and hazardous waste; and,

• Readily access hazardous waste receptacles.

The space around the hemodialysis stations should be sufficient for all of the above. The space

allowance should take into consideration the space taken up by patients’ dialysis chairs when

reclined with foot rests up.