Patient Safety/ROPs
Patient safety is defined as the prevention and mitigation of unsafe acts within the health care system. Accreditation Canada International is committed to playing a major role in improving patient safety globally through accreditation.
The accreditation process is a way of identifying conditions of unsafe practice and supporting health care organizations to promote safe care. In particular, it is a means of reducing risk and fostering ongoing quality improvement. By complying with Accreditation Canada International’s standards, the potential for adverse events occurring within health care and service organizations is reduced.
Required Organizational Practices (ROPs)
Accreditation Canada International defines a Required Organizational Practice (ROP) as an essential practice that organizations must have in place to enhance patient/client safety and minimize risk. In the Qmentum International accreditation program, ROPs are vital components of patient safety and quality improvement.
These patient safety requirements are integrated within the standards. The ROPs are reviewed annually to ensure they reflect the current health care sector environment.
An ROP is presented as a stated goal followed by tests for compliance. Client organizations must meet all tests for compliance as proof that the ROP is in place. Tests for compliance are evaluated by surveyors during the on-site survey using tracer methodology. In conducting tracers, surveyors look for evidence to support documentation, such as specific policies and processes have been implemented throughout the organization.
Nine ROPs are required for international client organizations:
Patient Safety Area
.................................................... | ROP
....................................................................... |
| Communication | Client verification
Transfer of client information at transition points
Medication reconciliation
Safe surgical practices |
| Medication use | Control of concentrated electrolytes |
| Worklife | Training on patient safety |
| Infection prevention and control | Hand hygiene
Timely administration of prophylactic antibiotics
Safe injection practices |
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