When JCAHCO becomes aware of a sentinel event, a health care facility must submit a root cause analysis within _____ days.

The correct time frame for submitting a root cause analysis to JCAHCO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) after a sentinel event is 45 days. This requirement underscores the importance of promptly addressing serious incidents to enhance patient safety and the quality of care.

By establishing a specific timeframe for root cause analysis submission, JCAHCO encourages healthcare facilities to quickly investigate and understand the underlying issues contributing to sentinel events. This analysis is crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent similar incidents in the future and to improve overall organizational processes. The 45-day requirement thus reflects a balance between allowing adequate time for a thorough investigation while also emphasizing the urgency of addressing patient safety issues.

Understanding this timeline is essential for compliance with accreditation standards, as timely reporting can directly affect a facility’s accreditation status and its commitment to delivering safe healthcare.