Section 481.51.34. Pediatric services.

         51.34(1) All hospitals providing pediatric care shall be properly organized and equipped to provide appropriate accommodations for children. The supervision of the pediatric area shall be under the direction of a qualified registered nurse.

         51.34(2) Written policies and procedures shall be implemented governing pediatric services that are consistent with the needs of the child and resources of the hospital.

            a.               Policies and procedures shall be developed in consultation with and the approval of the hospital’s medical staff. At a minimum, the policies and procedures shall provide for:

             (1)             Pediatric services under the medical direction of a qualified doctor of medicine or osteopathy.

             (2)             Delineation of the privileges and qualifications of individuals authorized to provide pediatric services as set out in the hospital’s medical staff bylaws.

             (3)             The qualifications of nursing personnel and continuing education required, including care in the event of emergency situations.

             (4)             Adequate staffing and equipment for pediatric services including ancillary services. Staff participating in the care of pediatric patients shall have education appropriate for the care of pediatric patients.

             (5)             Ancillary services for pediatric patients shall be available and include, but not be limited to, pharmaceutical care, laboratory services, respiratory therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy.

             (6)             Ongoing quality assessment.

             (7)             Written protocol for transfer of pediatric patients in the event the hospital does not have capability to provide care for these patients.

            b.               Hospitals may consider the most recent editions of the following publications in the development of policies and procedures: the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Policy Reference Guide and policy statements which are published on a monthly basis in “Pediatrics” and the “Pediatric & Neonatal Dosage Handbook,” American Pharmacists Association.

[ARC 2472C, IAB 3/30/16, effective 5/4/16]