Joint Commission Seeks Feedback on Universal Protocol Implementation

In January 2010, the Joint Commission implemented revisions to the Universal Protocol (UP), interpreted as having a uniform method to assure safe practice whenever a surgical and invasive procedure is performed. As part of the Joint Commission's effort to improve this National Patient Safety Goal, it is seeking feedback on the revisions to the UP from Hospital, Critical Access Hospital, Ambulatory Care, and Office-based Surgery accreditation programs. Specifically, the Joint Commission would like to know whether healthcare institutions were able to implement the changes and whether there has been an effect on patient care and internal processes.

The Joint Commission is asking that clinicians complete a brief questionnaire on the UP. The questionnaire consists of 15 questions and should take approximately 10 minutes to complete. The deadline for completing this survey is Sept. 10, 2010. To access the survey, CLICK HERE.