CMS updates ligature risk guidance for hospitals

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services July 17 released updated guidance for state surveyors assessing ligature risk in hospitals, which pertains to environmental safeguards for patients at risk of harm to self or others. As urged by the AHA, the guidance clarifies that hospitals can demonstrate compliance with certain patient safety standards by conducting appropriate patient assessments, adequately staffing and monitoring units, and mitigating environmental risks through risk assessments. AHA members will receive a Special Bulletin soon with more on the updated guidance.