(A) As used in this rule and rule 3701-84-43 of the Administrative Code, “service” means obstetrics and newborn care services. Obstetrics and newborn care services do not include services performed in a freestanding birth center licensed or a freestanding birthing center exempted from licensure under Chapter 3702. of the Revised Code and Chapter 3701-83 of the Administrative Code or services performed in an individual’s home. Obstetrics care services include antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum care.
(B) Each provider of an obstetrics care service shall provide newborn care services commensurate with the level of obstetric care services provided.
(C) Each provider of a service shall:
(1) Designate in writing to the director the level classification it provides or intends to provide as set forth in rules 3701-84-46 and 3701-84-50 (level I), 3701-84-51 and 3701-84-54 (level II), and 3701-84-55 and 3701-84-59 (level III) of the Administrative Code;
(2) Designate in writing to the director the scope of services provided within the level classification; and
(3) Meet the requirements of rules 3701-84-01 to 3701-84-15, and rules 3701-84-42 to 3701-84-45 of the Administrative Code and shall meet the applicable provisions under rules 3701-84-46 to 3701-84-59 of the Administrative Code for the service level designated. A provider of a service shall not hold itself out to any person or government entity by means of signage, advertising, or other promotional efforts as having a level I, II, or III classification unless the provider meets the requirements for the level classification.
(D) Each provider of a service planning to change the level classification of its service shall notify the director sixty days prior to implementing the level classification change and document that the service complies with the applicable provisions of rules 3701-84-42 to 3701-84-59 of the Administrative Code with respect to the new level classification.
(E) Each provider of a service shall provide direct care staff to accommodate the acuity level of the patient population and the volume of patients served and have a system in place to adjust staffing levels based on changes in patient acuity levels and volumes. Each provider of a service shall establish minimum competency requirements for staff in accordance with national standards and ensure that all staff are competent to perform services based on education, experience and demonstrated ability.
(F) In addition to the infection control requirements of paragraph (D) of rule 3701-84-09 of the Administrative Code, the provider of a service shall establish and follow policies and procedures that address:
(1) Visitor guidelines;
(2) Laundering or disposal of newborn linens, including diapers; and
(3) Integration of non-infectious gynecologic patients to the service.
(G) In addition to the medical record requirements of rule 3701-84-11 of the Administrative Code, the provider of a service shall maintain fetal monitoring strips in a format that maintains the record for the period of time required for medical record retention.
(H) Each provider of a service shall develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure the safety and security of all patients including newborn identification procedures.
(I) Each provider of a service shall provide hands free hand washing fixtures in all areas for staff use where patient care delivery is provided.
(J) Each provider of a service shall provide a system of communication that interconnects all areas in which patient care is provided and that effectively alerts staff members of emergencies or patient needs. Each toilet/shower room used by patients shall have an emergency communication system capable of alerting staff of emergencies or patient needs.
(K) Each provider of a service shall provide appropriate safety features including handrails, emergency power, and electrical outlets for the services provided.
(L) Equipment and technology required under rules 3701-84-42 to 3701-84-59 of the Administrative Code may be replaced by newer technology and equipment with equivalent or superior capability. In assessing new equipment and technology, consideration shall be given to the recommendations of recognized professional societies and accrediting bodies.
(M) Staffing requirements under rules 3701-84-42 to 3701-84-59 of the Administrative Code may be met by individuals with equal or greater qualifications, if the replacement’s scope of practice encompasses the duties of the required staff.
Effective: 05/15/2008
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 02/29/2008 and 03/01/2013
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 3702.11, 3702.13
Rule Amplifies: 3702.11, 3702.12, 3702.13, 3702.14, 3702.141, 3702.15, 3702.16, 3702.18, 3702.19, 3702.20
Prior Effective Dates: 3/1/1997, 3/24/03