Conclusion

Proper infection control programs require assessing a variety of factors. Sleep lab staff should be able to demonstrate their understanding of the infection control program through orientation key learnings and through compliance training. An onsite surveyor will assess competencies and review evidence of the implementation of the infection control program through cleaning and maintenance logs, inspections of equipment, and interviews. Surveyors also will evaluate written policies and procedures for the infection control program, who is responsible for implementing them, and how they are communicated.

Exercising the highest level of infection control does not have to be difficult. By achieving ACHC Sleep Lab Accreditation, for example, sleep providers demonstrate their commitment to providing the highest-quality service through compliance with national regulations and industry best practices.

Dottie Covey-Elleby, BS, RPSGT, is the clinical manager for the Sleep Accreditation Program with the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). ACHC is a nonprofit healthcare accrediting organization with over 30 years of experience promoting safe, quality patient care. Prior to joining ACHC, Covey-Elleby served as clinical coordinator for the Polysomnography Associate Degree program at Sandhills Community College in North Carolina. She also managed a six-bed sleep lab and sleep practice for a sleep medicine provider and oversaw multiple outpatient diagnostic services—including in the sleep, neurodiagnostics, and cardiology departments, for a non-profit regional hospital system. She is a veteran of the United States Air Force. Contact her at [email protected] or 855-937-2242.

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