CMS approves the use of alcohol hand rubs
CMS approves the use of alcohol hand rubs
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has published an interim final rule that will allow hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) to use alcohol-based hand-rub dispensers under specific conditions. Previously, officials had expressed concerns that the hand rubs could accelerate a fire.
Facilities can put alcohol-based hand-rub dispenses in exit corridors if:
- placing dispensers does not conflict with any state or local codes;
- installation protects against access by vulnerable populations, such as patients in a psychiatric ward;
- installation is performed in accordance with the specific provisions;
- the dispensers are installed in a way that minimizes leaks and spills.
In addition to any extra steps such as additional hardware installation, facilities should follow all manufacturer maintenance recommendations for dispensers, CMS says in the regulation. "Regular maintenance of dispensers in accordance with the directions of the manufacturer is a crucial step toward ensuring that the dispensers do not leak or spill," the agency says.
The rule was published in the March 25, 2005, Federal Register. The amendment goes into effect May 24, 2005. The Federal Register is available online at www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/index.html.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has published an interim final rule that will allow hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) to use alcohol-based hand-rub dispensers under specific conditions. Previously, officials had expressed concerns that the hand rubs could accelerate a fire.Subscribe Now for Access
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