With The Joint Commission (TJC) expected to arrive unannounced for triennial accreditation surveys at Yale New Haven and Bridgeport hospitals late this fall or early winter, an informational tool is making a comeback.
The RACE/PASS Emergency Response ID badge buddy, which was phased out after the 2016 TJC surveys, has been resurrected for staff use. The card includes the correct steps for fire response (RACE – Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish/Evacuate); how to use a fire extinguisher (PASS – Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep); and how to call an emergency code.
The RACE/PASS Emergency Response badge buddy, created to help address safe patient care, is the only one approved by the health system.
“The intent is to give staff an effective tool that’s easy to use during emergencies and survey activity,” said Victoria Dahl Vickers, RN, vice president, Accreditation and Regulatory Affairs (ARA), Yale New Haven Health.
The badge cards are available on the YNHHS Print Center (item #DES716) in packages of 10. Orders should only be submitted by managers, who will distribute them to staff. Badge buddies come pre-punched so they can be clipped to a lanyard or badge reel behind ID badges.
Each department director or manager is responsible for their area’s survey readiness in coordination with ARA liaisons assigned to each department. However, staff should remember that they are also responsible for participation and preparedness, said Dahl Vickers.
“Every employee at every level is responsible for upholding Yale New Haven Health’s mission and providing excellent patient care,” she said. “TJC surveyors may speak with you about your contribution to your organization’s overall goals and your individual work responsibilities. It’s okay to look at your badge for answers.”
Questions? Contact your ARA liaison.
