Our approach now is toward a continuum of high-level performance. Consequently, last December's mock survey pointed out some areas for needed improvement but nothing to create major program changes. There are many areas of safety that fall under the purview of multiple departments, he notes. For example, we are required to have high standards on our handling of medical gases, for the safety of both the patients and employees. But medical gases are not controlled by only one department.
Clinical engineering is involved because the gas feeds into some of the equipment they maintain.
Engineering and Operations is involved because of the distribution system of pipes. Our office is involved because these gases may pose fire or chemical safety hazards if improperly handled. The Medical Center Safety Committee looks at these issues and coordinates the areas involved so that each area has an opportunity to develop complementary approaches for maintaining high levels of safety. Although Thomann and his colleagues on the committee may have little direct interaction with patients, the safety committee's work of maintaining the environment of care is crucial to the medical center's mission of excellence in patient care, research, and education, he said. We're really here to support the infrastructure.