Silver Spring Family Planning (aka American Women’s Center)

Violations and deficiencies found, including, 4 staff did not show competency in adequate patient care or infection control practices; physician/abortionist did not meet quality review guidelines; patient charts included procedural complications including vaso-vagal reaction, arrhythmia, drug reaction, and hospital transfer; 5 staff were untrained in emergency protocol or how to transfer patients to a nearby hospital; improper storage of controlled substances; risk of patient infection due to inadequate medication management; 5 random patients' files were lacking a discharge diagnosis; vital signs monitor and ultrasound machines not maintained or checked; improper storage of sharps; dirty surgical instruments were not sanitized; quality assurance program not in place.

Violations found during Feb. 2013 facility inspection, including: 2 of 2 RNs do not have experience or training to be competent in patient care for the administration of monitoring of IV / sedation; 7 of 7 staff not trained in emergency transfer of patient to hospital; 1 of 1 physician not compliant, missing information on claims against him from the National Practitioner Database; no procedure for mandatory biennial reappointment procedure of the physician; no policy or procedure for fire safety; suction equipment to clear patient's airway in case of emergency not inspected or maintained; administrator failed to develop procedures and policies regarding patient rights, including the right to confidentiality and the right to approve or refuse release of medical records.