CMS SOM App. U, Tag R200

A RNHCI must be designed, constructed, and maintained to ensure the safety of the

patients, staff, and the public.

§403.742(a) Standard: Buildings

The physical plant and the overall environment must be maintained in a manner

that ensures the safety and well-being of the patients. The RNHCI must have the

following:

Interpretive Guidelines: §403.742(a)

The RNHCI must ensure that the condition of the physical plant and overall

organization’s environment is developed and maintained in a manner to ensure the safety

and well-being of patients. This includes ensuring that routine and preventive

maintenance are performed as

necessary, in accordance with Federal and State laws, regulations, and guidelines and

manufacturer’s recommendations, by establishing maintenance schedules and conducting

ongoing maintenance inspections to identify areas or equipment in need of repair. The

RNHCI must be constructed and maintained to ensure risks are minimized for patients as

well as for employees and visitors. This may include but not be limited to accessibility

(e.g. wheelchair ramps, etc.); safety features (hand rails; call-systems etc.), but also

includes environmental hazards further explained within this condition under subsequent

standards.

Survey Procedures:

• Observe the RNHCI. Conduct a building tour.

• Verify that the condition of the RNHCI is maintained in a manner to assure the

safety and well-being of patients (e.g., condition of ceilings, walls, and floors,

presence of patient hazards, etc.).