Situation: Providers have been observed eating and drinking from cups without lids in patient care areas.
Background: The Joint Commission mandates there be no staff food or uncovered drinks in patient care areas. This is in an effort to protect staff and patients from infections. This will also help prevent infestations such as roaches.
Assessment: Providers may not be aware of this requirement.
Recommendation: Provider leadership, Unit Medical Directors, and attending physicians be reminded of the following and cascade the information.
- The Joint Commission mandates there be no staff food or uncovered drinks in patient care areas.
- Each unit has designated locations to store covered drinks. Please do not bring drinks into patient rooms.
- Each unit has designated refrigerators for staff food.
- Each unit has designated areas to eat.