The Joint Commission recently published a new frequently asked question (FAQ) and answer providing guidance concerning the storage of sterile supplies, and more specifically temperature and humidity requirements. This is a timely FAQ as, for the past few months, ambulatory surgery center (ASC) clients have been reaching out to us at ICCS for assistance concerning meeting The Joint Commission's requirement relating to out-of-range temperature and humidity parameters in the perioperative environment.
Here are two examples of requests and questions submitted to us by ASCs about this issue:
During our recent survey, the surveyor was focused on temperature and humidity in the ORs and specifically asked what protocols we have in place if these parameters are breeched. We do not have a policy that addresses this. Can you provide a policy concerning this issue?
How would you advise us to respond to The Joint Commission on how we will proceed with regard to the contents in the OR, such as supplies and instrumentation, if our temperature and/or humidity is out of range?
If your ASC requires assistance with this area, please reach to ICCS. You may also find the FAQ helpful, which is accessible here.