What kind of plan must every nursing home maintain for emergency situations?

Every nursing home must maintain an emergency preparedness plan to ensure the safety and well-being of residents during unforeseen events, such as natural disasters, fires, or public health emergencies. This plan outlines protocols for evacuation, communication, resource management, and roles and responsibilities for staff during emergencies. It is crucial for nursing homes, which often house vulnerable populations, to be ready to respond effectively to protect residents and staff while maintaining continuity of care.

While other types of plans are important for the overall operation and quality of care in a nursing home, such as resident care improvement plans, financial management plans, and medication management plans, they do not specifically address the immediate and critical needs that arise during emergencies. The emergency preparedness plan is unique in its focus on crisis situations and the steps necessary to manage such events safely and efficiently.