Q&A: Risk reduction strategies to demonstrate compliance (part II)

Q: What is the basic model for conducting a risk assessment?

A: When conducting a basic risk assessment, there are several elements of focus. These include an assessment of the valuables that need to be preserved or protected, identification of any threats that might be present or possible, identification of any potential areas of vulnerability or loss, and identification of the controls currently in place. The primary goal is to identify the probability of risk.

Let’s examine the components of a potential risk assessment using a blank warmer example outline:

1. Consider the Experts’ Recommendations: What does the literature say about the issue? Have any professional associations taken a position on the subject? If there is controversy, note the two sides of the position.
2. Review Your Quality and Risk Management Data: Have you had any issues or adverse events regarding your practice? This includes patient complaints or other appropriate feedback. Were any burns noted from patients using the blanket warmer or any issues noted on patient satisfaction surveys?
3. Analyze Your Current Operations: What is the impact of your operations throughout the facility? Make a notion if there have been no incidents related to your practice. Also note what the impact of making any changes would be, including cost or productivity if indicated.