SUBCHAPTER 70k ‑ RESIDENTIAL MATERNITY HOMES
SECTION .0100 ‑ GENERAL
10A NCAC 70K .0101 DEFINITION
For the purposes of the rules in this Subchapter,
"residential maternity home" means a child-caring institution which
provides continuing full time care for adolescent women during pregnancy and
after delivery when delivery takes place in a licensed hospital, and a facility
for adult women during pregnancy and after delivery when delivery takes place
in a licensed hospital. The rules in this Subchapter apply to persons
intending to organize, develop, or operate a residential maternity home.
Residential maternity homes shall not hold dual licensure under G.S. 131D and
G.S. 122C. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division
of Social Services, is the licensing authority for residential maternity homes.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. February 1, 1986;
Amended Eff. October 1, 2008; June 1, 1990.
10A NCAC 70k .0102 ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION
Persons licensed or seeking licensure to provide residential
maternity home care shall comply with requirements as specified in 10A NCAC 70F
and 10A NCAC 70K.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. February 1, 1986;
Amended Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0103 LICENSING ACTIONS
(a) License.
(1) Licensure is required in accordance with
G.S. 131D-10.3 and with rules in Subchapters 70F and 70K of this Chapter.
(2) Licenses shall be in effect for two years
unless suspended or revoked. Appeal procedures specified in 10A NCAC 70L .0301
apply for persons seeking an appeal of the licensing authority's decision to
deny, suspend, or revoke a license.
(3) Residential maternity homes licensed after August
1, 2011 shall have a three year or longer accreditation from either the Council
on Accreditation (COA), The Joint Commission, formerly known as the Joint
Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (TJC), The Commission on
Accreditation and Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) or The Council on Quality
and Leadership (CQL).
(4) Applicants shall inform the licensing
authority of any current licenses or licenses held in the past five years for
child-placing agencies, maternity homes, or residential child-care facilities
in other states. Applicants shall provide written documentation from the
licensing authority in other states regarding violations, penalties, or
probationary status imposed in other states.
(b) Changes in any information on the license.
(1) The licensing authority shall change a
license during the period of time it is in effect if the change is in
compliance with rules in Subchapters 70F and 70K of this Chapter.
(2) A residential maternity home shall notify
the licensing authority in writing of its request for a change in license,
including information that is necessary to assure the change is in compliance
with the rules in Subchapters 70F and 70K of this Chapter.
(c) Termination.
(1) When a residential maternity home
voluntarily discontinues operations, either temporarily or permanently, the
residential maternity home shall notify the licensing authority in writing of
the date, reason and anticipated length of closing.
(2) If a license is not renewed by the end of
the licensure period, the licensing authority shall automatically terminate the
license.
(3) When the license of any existing
residential maternity home is terminated for more than 60 days, the home shall
meet all requirements of a new facility prior to being relicensed.
(4) Any existing licensed residential maternity
home that is closed or vacant for more than one year shall meet all
requirements of a new facility prior to being relicensed.
(d) Adverse licensure action.
(1) The licensing authority shall deny, suspend
or revoke a license when a residential maternity home is not in compliance with
the rules in Subchapters 70F and 70K of this Chapter unless the residential
maternity home within 10 working days from the date the maternity home
initially received the deficiency report from the licensing authority submits a
plan of correction. The plan of correction shall specify the following:
(A) the measures that will be put in place to correct
the deficiency;
(B) the systems that will be put in place to prevent a
re-occurrence of the deficiency;
(C) the individual or individuals who will monitor the
corrective action; and
(D) the date the deficiency will be corrected which
shall be no later than 60 days from the date the routine monitoring was concluded.
(2) The licensing authority shall notify a
residential maternity home in writing of the decision to deny, suspend or
revoke a license.
(3) Appeal procedures specified in 10A NCAC 70L
.0301 shall be applicable for persons seeking an appeal to the licensing
authority's decision to deny, suspend or revoke a license.
(e) Licensure shall be denied when it is determined that
the following conditions apply:
(1) the applicant owns a facility or agency
licensed under G.S. 122C and that facility or agency incurred a penalty for a
Type A or B violation under Article 3 of G.S. 122C, or any combination thereof,
and any one of the following conditions exist:
(A) A single violation has been assessed in the six months
prior to the application.
(B) Two violations have been assessed in the 18 months
prior to the application and 18 months have not passed from the date of the
most recent violation.
(C) Three violations have been assessed in the 36 months
prior to the application and 36 months have not passed from the date of the
most recent violation.
(D) Four or more violations have been assessed in the 60
months prior to application and 60 months have not passed from the date of the
most recent violation.
(2) the Department of Health and Human Services
has initiated revocation or summary suspension proceedings against any facility
licensed pursuant to G.S. 122C, Article 2; G.S. 131D, Articles 1 or 1A; or G.S.
110, Article 7 that was previously held by the applicant and the applicant
voluntarily relinquished the license and 60 months have not passed from the
date of the revocation or summary suspension;
(3) there is a pending appeal of a denial,
revocation or summary suspension of any facility licensed pursuant to G.S.
122C, Article 2; G.S. 131D, Articles 1 or 1A; or G.S. 110, Article 7 that is
owned by the applicant;
(4) the applicant has an individual as part of
their governing body or management who previously held a license that was
revoked or summarily suspended under G.S. 122C, Article 2; G.S. 131D, Articles
1 or 1A; and G.S. 110, Article 7 and the rules adopted under these laws and 60
months have not passed from the date of the revocation or summary suspension;
(5) the applicant is an individual who has a
finding or pending investigation by the Health Care Personnel Registry in
accordance with G.S. 131E-256; or
(6) the applicant is an individual who has a
finding on the Responsible Individual's List as described in 10A NCAC 70A
.0102.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-10.10; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008;
Amended Eff. August 1, 2011.
SECTION .0200- MINIMUM LICENSURE STANDARDS
10A NCAC 70K .0201 PERSONNEL
(a) Staff Qualifications and Functions.
(1) Executive Director. There shall be an
executive director employed for the general management and supervision of the
maternity home. The executive director shall meet the requirements of a Social
Services Program Administrator I as defined by the North Carolina Office of
State Personnel. A copy of these requirements can be obtained by contacting
the Division of Social Services at 828-669-3388 or by reviewing the following
web site: (http://www.osp.state.nc.us/CLASS_SPECS/Spec_Folder_03100-04099/PDF_Files/04077.pdf).
The college or university degree shall be from a college or university listed
at the time of the degree in the Higher Education Directory. This information
can be obtained by calling Higher Education Publications, Inc. at
1-888-349-7715.
The executive director shall:
(A) direct the maternity home's program of care and
services in accordance with policies established by the governing board and
within license standards;
(B) recruit, employ, supervise and discharge staff;
(C) assure a training program for staff;
(D) prepare the annual budget, supervise expenditures,
and operate within the budget established;
(E) establish and maintain good working relationships
with other human service agencies and represent the agency in the community;
and
(F) delegate authority to a staff member meeting the
qualifications described in this Subparagraph during his or her absence.
(2) Professional Services Staff. The maternity
home shall have available professional services personnel to assure appropriate
services are provided for each resident in accordance with her case plan or
out-of-home family services agreement.
(3) Social Work Supervisor. Social work
supervisors shall be employed by the maternity home to supervise, evaluate and
monitor the work and progress of the social work staff. The social work
supervisor shall meet the requirements of a Social Work Supervisor II as
defined by the North Carolina Office of State Personnel. A copy of these
requirements can be obtained by contacting the Division of Social Services at
828-669-3388 or by reviewing the following web site: (http://www.osp.state.nc.us/CLASS_SPECS/Spec_Folder_03100-04099/PDF_Files/04016.pdf).
The college or university degree shall be from a college or university listed
at the time of the degree in the Higher Education Directory. Social work
supervisors shall receive 24 hours of continuing education annually.
(4) Social Worker. Social workers shall be
employed by the maternity home to provide intake services and social work
services to the residents and their families in accordance with the case plan
or out-of-home family services agreement. The social worker shall meet the
requirements of a Social Worker II as defined by the North Carolina Office of
State Personnel. A copy of these requirements can be obtained by contacting
the Division of Social Services at 828-669-3388 or by reviewing the following
web site: (http://www.osp.state.nc.us/CLASS_SPECS/Spec_Folder_03100-04099/PDF_Files/04012.pdf).
The college or university degree shall be from a college or university listed
at the time of the degree in the Higher Education Directory. Social workers
shall receive 24 hours of continuing education annually.
(5) Direct Care Staff. All direct care staff
shall have a high-school diploma or GED. Direct care staff shall receive 24
hours of continuing education annually.
(6) Direct Care Supervisory Staff. All direct
care supervisory staff shall have a high-school diploma or GED. Direct care
supervisory staff shall receive 24 hours of continuing education annually.
(7) Staff members of the maternity home may
maintain dual employment or serve as volunteers with adoption agencies or
crisis pregnancy centers as long as the maternity home does not provide
services to the clients of the adoption agency or crisis pregnancy center. Staff
members of the maternity home may serve on the board of directors of adoption
agencies or crisis pregnancy centers as long as the adoption agency or crisis
pregnancy center does not provide services to the clients of the maternity
home.
(b) Staffing Requirements. There shall be at least one
social worker assigned for every 15 residents. Supervision of social workers
shall be assigned as follows:
Supervisors
Required
Social Workers
Employed
0
0-4
(executive director
serves as social work supervisor)
1
5
2
6-10
3
11-15
There shall be one
additional supervisor for every one to five additional social workers.
(c) Direct Care Staff. Direct care staff shall be employed
for direct care of maternity home residents (residents include mothers and
infants as well as any children or dependents of staff members who live or are
cared for in the home). There shall be at least one direct care staff member
assigned for every eight residents during waking hours and one direct care
staff member for every twelve residents during sleeping hours. Additional
direct care staff or other personnel shall be available to assist with
emergency situations or special needs of the residents.
(d) Direct Care Supervisory Staff. There shall be at least
one direct care supervisor for every 15 direct care staff members.
(e) Volunteers and Interns. If the maternity home uses
volunteers or interns to work directly with residents, the requirements of 10A
NCAC 70F .0207 apply.
(f) Additional Personnel Requirements. In addition to
those requirements specified in 10A NCAC 70F .0207, the following rules are
applicable to maternity home programs:
(1) Health Examinations. All direct care
staff, food service staff and anyone serving in the capacity of direct care
staff and food service staff shall have a medical examination completed by a
physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner, hereafter referred to
as "licensed medical provider," within at least 12 months before
beginning employment and biennially thereafter. The agency shall maintain
documentation that all direct care staff and food service staff or anyone
serving in the capacity of direct care staff and food service staff have had a
TB skin test or chest x-ray prior to employment unless contraindicated by a
licensed medical provider. A medical history form shall be completed by all
direct care staff and food service staff. Examinations must include tests
necessary to determine that the staff member is able to carry out assigned
duties and does not have any communicable disease or condition which poses risk
of transmission in the facility. A report of each examination shall be made a
part of the employee's personnel file. A medical examination report shall be
completed on any adopted children or relative children of direct care staff
residing in the maternity home within 12 months prior to the license date. The
birth children of direct care staff who reside in the maternity home shall be
tested for TB only if one or more of the parents tests positive for TB. There
shall be documentation that adopted children or other relative children
residing in the maternity home have had a TB skin test or chest x-ray prior to
initial licensure unless contraindicated by a licensed medical provider. A
medical examination and TB test, if required, shall be completed on any
children or relative children of direct care staff who subsequently begin
residing in the maternity home. Examinations shall include tests necessary to
determine that the children or relative children of staff members who reside in
the maternity home do not have any communicable diseases or conditions which
pose risk of transmission in the facility. A medical history form shall be
completed on any children or relative children of direct care staff who reside
in the living unit. Medical examination reports and medical history forms of
children of the residents residing the maternity home shall be maintained in
the personnel file of their parent or relative.
(2) Staff Development. The maternity home
staff shall have a written staff development plan which provides staff training
in the following areas:
(A) medical, physical, and psychological aspects of
pregnancy;
(B) prenatal and postnatal care;
(C) developmental needs of adolescents and young adults;
(D) developmental needs of infants and children;
(E) parenting preparation classes;
(F) stages of growth in infants;
(G) day-to-day care of infants;
(H) disciplinary techniques for infants, children and
adolescents;
(I) education planning;
(J) job seeking skills;
(K) locating housing;
(L) money management;
(M) food management;
(N) child care;
(O) health education;
(P) stress management;
(Q) life skills;
(R) decision making;
(S) substance abuse;
(T) pregnancy prevention;
(U) counseling skills;
(V) emergency medical care; and
(W) nutrition and food preparation.
(3) A residential maternity home shall ensure
that a staff member trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first
aid, such as those provided by the American Red Cross, the American Heart
Association or equivalent organizations, is always available to the clients in
care; and that direct care service personnel shall receive training in first
aid and CPR within the first 30 days of employment. Training in CPR shall be
appropriate for the ages of clients in care. First aid and CPR training shall
be updated as required by the American Red Cross, the American Heart
Association or equivalent organizations.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-10.10; 143B-153;
Eff. February 1, 1986;
Amended Eff. June 1, 1990;
RRC Objection Eff. April 15, 1993 Due to Lack of
Statutory Authority;
Amended Eff. August 1, 2011; August 1, 2010; November 1,
2009; October 1, 2008; July 2, 1993.
10A NCAC 70K .0202 SERVICES
(a) A maternity home shall have a written statement of
purpose and objectives, services offered, eligibility requirements, application
procedures, and procedures for implementing all services. This information
shall be available to persons or agencies making inquiries.
(b) Social Services. The maternity home shall provide
admission, residential, and discharge services to applicants, residents in
care, and their families or legal custodians, as follows:
(1) Admission services shall include an
assessment of the need for maternity home care, for specific services for the
applicant's individual needs, and shall include information to determine if the
maternity home's program of care and services can meet these needs.
(2) When an applicant who lives out of state is
being considered for admission and the applicant is under the age of eighteen
years, the provisions of the North Carolina interstate placement laws (G.S.
7B-3800 et. seq.) shall be met.
(3) Staff responsibility shall be established
for decisions on admissions.
(4) Applicants or legal custodians shall
complete a written application before or upon admission. Written agreements
shall be made concerning release of information, medical care, and fees for
care and services.
(5) An applicant accepted for care shall be
referred to and have a working agreement with a licensed child-placing agency
or county department of social services of the applicant's choice for planning
and decision making in relation to her baby. No maternity home staff member
shall directly or indirectly assume responsibility for placement of children
for adoption.
(6) Residential services throughout the period
of care shall include counseling for each resident and her family.
(7) Each resident shall have the opportunity to
talk privately with staff, family members, friends and social workers from
child-placing agencies or county departments of social services and to express
grievance.
(8) Each resident shall have assistance as
requested in making the best use of her time in the maternity home, adjusting
to the living situation, accessing all services needed, resolving personal and
family problems, and planning for discharge.
(9) Discharge services for residents shall
include planning for living arrangements, employment or education, and for
those residents planning to keep their babies, preparation for parenthood and
support services for single parents.
(c) Psychological and Psychiatric Services. Arrangements
shall be made for a resident to have the services of a psychologist or a
psychiatrist, if necessary, as well as for consultation for the staff providing
care and services to the resident.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. February 1, 1986;
Amended Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0203 CASE RECORD
A confidential case record shall be maintained for each
resident which includes:
(1) a completed application for admission and
services with identifying information about the resident;
(2) a summary of the referral source, background
information about the resident, and an assessment of the services needed;
(3) a complete medical and obstetrical history
and examination before or within one week after admission to the home;
(4) record of medical and dental services
received;
(5) authorization for medical care for minors;
(6) authorization for receiving or sending
information concerning the resident;
(7) copy of financial agreements;
(8) a copy of the agreement with the licensed
child placing agency or county department of social services providing services
to the resident;
(9) case plan or out-of-home family services
agreement;
(10) visitation and contact plan including type,
duration, location both on-site and off-site, and frequency, as well as any
rationale for restrictions on family involvement; the facility shall maintain
documentation of all family time;
(11) date of admission to the maternity home and
documentation of services provided including hospital care and delivery dates;
(12) date, time and circumstances of discharge
from the maternity home and the resident's plans for herself and baby; and in
the case of minors the name, relationship and signature of the individual the
resident was released to;
(13) correspondence and contacts with other
persons or agencies concerning the resident; and
(14) signed acknowledgement of client rights.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. February 1, 1986;
Amended Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0204 PROGRAM OF CARE
(a) The program of care shall be suited to the needs of
adolescent and adult women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. There shall be
opportunity provided for private time, for family contacts, and for group fellowship.
(b) The residents shall be free from duress to make their
own decisions about releasing or keeping their babies.
(c) The residents shall be provided confidentiality
concerning their situations and protection from harm insofar as possible.
(d) Educational opportunities shall be provided or arranged
by the residential maternity home in accordance with the needs of individual
residents and resources available in the community. For those residents who
are required to attend school under the compulsory school attendance laws of North Carolina, the maternity home shall arrange for attendance in a public or a nonpublic
school which is operated in accordance with the laws of North Carolina. If a
school or educational program is maintained and operated by the maternity home
which residents attend in lieu of attending public schools, the maternity home
shall comply with the North Carolina General Statutes governing nonpublic
schools. Opportunity shall be offered to residents who wish to participate in
educational courses available in the community.
(e) Health education including information about pregnancy,
delivery, and family planning services shall be provided residents. Information
about the care of infants shall be made available to the residents who want
this information.
(f) Recreational activities shall be provided which meet
the needs of residents. Suitable space shall be provided at the maternity home
for both indoor and outdoor activities. Participation in community activities
shall be provided.
(g) Work assignments in the maternity home shall be geared
to the physical health and emotional well-being of the residents in care.
Residents shall be given the opportunity to voluntarily seek paid employment
when employment is in accordance with the recommendation of their licensed
medical provider and other professional staff of the maternity home. No
resident shall be required to work for the purpose of paying the maternity home
for her care.
(h) The maternity home shall define in writing and make
available to applicants and residents those rules and regulations which the
residents shall be expected to follow. These rules and regulations shall
respect the personal freedom of the residents. These rules and regulations
shall not infringe on the residents' rights to send and receive uncensored mail
and for planned visits with their families and others. Visitors shall not be
allowed to visit minors without prior consent of the parents or guardian, or
legal custodian.
(i) Nutritious, foods shall be provided in the variety and
amounts necessary to meet the National Research Council's Recommended Daily
Dietary Allowances (USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, 1120 20th Street,
NW, Suite 200N, Washington, DC 20036). Special diets shall be planned to meet
the modified needs of individual residents as prescribed by a licensed medical
provider. Menus shall be planned and written by, or in consultation with, a
licensed dietician/nutritionist. Menus shall be planned and written at least
one week in advance. Snacks shall be recorded on the regular menu.
(j) Each resident shall be provided prenatal care and
general health care by a licensed medical provider which includes:
(1) a complete medical and obstetrical history
and examination before or within one week after admission to the home;
(2) periodic examinations during pregnancy as
outlined by the licensed medical provider;
(3) dental services as needed; and
(4) medical services as needed.
(k) Each resident shall be provided delivery care in a
licensed hospital or any facility licensed as a place for delivery of babies.
(l) All prescription and non prescription medicines shall
be stored in a locked cabinet, closet or box not accessible to residents. The
agency shall have written policies and procedures regarding staff administering
medications to residents that shall be discussed with each resident and their
parents or guardian, or legal custodians (if resident is a minor) prior to or
upon placement. These policies and procedures shall address:
(1) medication administration;
(2) medication dispensing;
(3) packaging, labeling;
(4) storage and disposal;
(5) review;
(6) education and training; and
(7) documentation, including medication orders,
Medication Administration Record (MAR); orders and copies of lab tests; and, if
applicable, administration errors and adverse drug reactions.
The residential maternity home shall maintain a MAR for each resident that documents all medications administered. Upon discharge of a resident,
the residential maternity home shall return prescription medications to the
resident or person or agency legally authorized to remove the minor from
residential maternity care. The residential maternity home shall provide oral
or written education to the resident or person or agency legally authorized to
remove the minor from residential maternity care regarding the medications.
Unwanted, out-dated, improperly labeled, damaged, adulterated or discontinued
prescription medications shall be returned to a pharmacy for disposal.
(m) The residential maternity home shall ensure that first
aid kits are available for immediate use in each living unit, recreation area
and in vehicles to transport residents. A residential maternity home shall
obtain a mouthpiece and other precautionary equipment for administering CPR to
the residents.
(n) When residents return to the maternity home, post
delivery care shall be available to the residents in accordance with the recommendations
of the resident's licensed medical provider and the professional staff of the
maternity home. A resident shall not be required to remain in the maternity
home after medical discharge. Referral to a licensed medical provider or
medical clinic or community family planning resource shall be made if requested
by the resident.
(o) A resident and her infant may be considered for
aftercare if the resident was in residential care prior to delivery.
(p) The period of aftercare for the resident and her child
shall not exceed 12 consecutive months, during which time a plan for
independent living shall be developed with the resident and assistance provided
in achieving the goal of the plan within the designated time frame.
(q) Services provided for the plan of independent living
shall include:
(1) parenting preparation classes;
(2) stages of growth in infants, children and
adolescents;
(3) day-to-day care of infants, children and
adolescents;
(4) disciplinary techniques for infants,
children and adolescents;
(5) education planning;
(6) job seeking skills;
(7) locating housing;
(8) money management;
(9) food management;
(10) child-care;
(11) health education;
(12) stress management;
(13) life skills;
(14) decision making;
(15) substance abuse;
(16) pregnancy prevention; and
(17) other services based on the needs of the
resident.
(r) A case record shall be maintained at the maternity home
for each resident which includes documents concerning all social work, counseling,
medical, psychological, and dental services, as well as any other services
provided to each resident.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. February 1, 1986;
Amended Eff. November 1, 2009; October 1, 2008; June 1, 1990.
10A NCAC 70K .0205 PHYSICAL FACILITIES
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. February 1, 1986;
Amended Eff. June 1, 1990;
Repealed Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0206 CASE PLAN OR OUT-OF-HOME FAMILY SERVICES
AGREEMENT
(a) A residential maternity home shall develop a written
case plan or out of home family services agreement within 30 days of a resident's
admission to the maternity home. The case plan or out of home family services
agreement shall be developed in cooperation with the resident, her parents or
guardian or the legal custodian. The case plan or out-of-home family services
agreement shall be based upon an assessment of the needs of the resident. The
case plan or out-of-home family services agreement shall include:
(1) goals stated in specific, realistic, and
measurable terms; and
(2) plans that are action oriented, including
specific responsibilities of the resident, the residential maternity home, the
parents or guardians, other family members, legal custodians and other agencies
that are providing services to the resident.
(b) The case plan or out-of-home family services agreement
shall be reviewed within 60 days of placement, the second case plan or
out-of-home family services agreement review shall occur within 90 days of the
first review and subsequent reviews shall be held every six months. The
resident, parents or guardians or legal custodians as well as any individual or
agency providing services shall participate in the reviews to determine the
resident's progress or lack of progress towards meeting the goals and
objectives, and to determine changes that need to be made in the case plan or
out-of-home family services agreement.
(c) If the legal custodian is a county department of social
services, the residential maternity home, the department of social services,
parents or guardian, and resident shall develop a single out-of-home family
services agreement. The residential maternity home shall attend court
reviews, child and family team meetings, agency reviews and permanency planning
action team meetings. The Out-of-Home Family Services Agreement (DSS-5240 or
DSS-5241) and the Transitional Living Plan (CARS Plan Review) may serve as the
out-of-home family services agreement for the maternity home if the documents
reflect input and participation by the maternity home. Maternity homes shall
follow the same timeframes for completing these documents as described in
Paragraph (b) of this Rule.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0207 CLIENT RIGHTS
(a) A residential maternity home shall develop and
implement policies and procedures to protect the individual rights and dignity
of residents and family members who are provided services by the agency.
(b) A residential maternity home shall have a client's
rights policy, which includes that each resident has the right to:
(1) be treated with dignity and respect;
(2) be free from coercion and influence in
deciding to parent her baby or release for adoption;
(3) privacy;
(4) be provided adequate food, clothing and
shelter;
(5) have access to family time and have
telephone conversations with family members and other individuals, when not
contraindicated in the visitation and contact plan;
(6) have personal property and a space for
storage;
(7) express opinions on issues concerning the
resident's care or treatment;
(8) receive care in a manner that recognizes
variations in cultural values and traditions;
(9) be free from coercion by agency staff with
regard to religious or cultural decisions. The agency shall have a process to
assure that, whenever practical, the wishes of the resident and the parents of
minors with regard to religious and cultural participation are ascertained and
followed;
(10) not be identified in connection with
publicity for the agency which shall bring the resident, or resident's family
embarrassment;
(11) give written permission before pictures or
other means of identifying residents are used in publicity or public relations
for the maternity home (if the resident is a minor, written permission shall be
obtained from the parents, guardian or the legal custodian); and
(12) not be forced to acknowledge dependency on
or gratitude to the agency.
(c) A residential maternity home shall have a policy that
prohibits direct involvement by a resident in funds solicitation for the
agency.
(d) A residential maternity home shall have a policy, which
prohibits the resident's participation in any activities involving audio or
visual recording and research without the voluntary signed, time‑limited
consent of the resident and, if applicable, the resident's parents, guardian or
legal custodian.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70k .0208 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
(a) A residential maternity home shall provide to each
resident, parents, guardians or legal custodians of minors, upon placement:
(1) a written description of policies and
procedures that the resident her parents, guardian or legal custodian follows
to register complaints;
(2) information about resident's and family's'
rights;
(3) the process for appealing a decision or
action of the agency; and
(4) the process of resolution of a complaint.
(b) Upon resolution of a grievance, the agency shall
maintain a copy of the complaint and the resolution in the resident's case
record.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70k .0209 SEARCHES
(a) A residential maternity home shall have written
policies and procedures regarding staff conducting searches of resident's rooms
and possessions that shall be discussed with each resident and, if applicable,
their parents, guardians or legal custodians prior to or upon placement.
(b) The search policies and procedures shall include:
(1) circumstances under which searches are
conducted;
(2) persons who are allowed to conduct
searches;
(3) provision for removing and disposing of
items seized as a result of searches; and
(4) provision for documenting searches.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0210 CRITICAL INCIDENTS AND CRITICAL INCIDENT REPORTS
(a) A maternity home shall have written policies and
procedures for handling and reporting critical incidents.
(b) The maternity home shall have and follow policies and
procedures for handling any suspected incidents of abuse or neglect of a
resident involving staff, subcontractors, volunteers or interns in a facility
supervised by the maternity home. The policies and procedures shall include:
(1) a provision for reporting any suspicions
of abuse or neglect to the appropriate county department of social services for
investigation;
(2) a provision for recording any suspected
incident of abuse or neglect and for promptly reporting it to the executive
director or to the governing body;
(3) a provision for notifying the parents,
guardian, or legal custodian, if applicable;
(4) a provision for preventing a recurrence of
the alleged incident pending the investigative assessment;
(5) a policy concerning personnel action to be
taken when the incident involves a staff member, subcontractor, volunteer or
intern;
(6) a provision for submitting a critical
incident report to the licensing authority within 72 hours of the incident
being accepted for an investigative assessment by a county department of social
services; and
(7) a provision for submitting written
notification to the licensing authority within 72 hours of the case decision by
the county department of social services conducting the investigative
assessment.
(c) Critical incident reports shall be submitted to the
licensing authority by the executive director or his/her designee on a form
developed by the licensing authority within 72 hours of the critical incident.
Critical incidents include the following of a resident in placement:
(1) a death of a resident;
(2) reports of abuse and neglect;
(3) admission to a hospital as a result of
injury or serious medical condition;
(4) suicide attempt;
(5) runaway lasting more than 24 hours; and
(6) arrest for violations of state, municipal,
county or federal laws.
(d) Documentation of the critical incident shall include:
(1) name of resident or residents involved;
(2) date and time of incident;
(3) brief description of incident;
(4) action taken by staff;
(5) need for medical attention;
(6) name of staff involved and person
completing the report;
(7) name of resident's parents, guardian or
legal custodian, if applicable, notified and date and time of notification; and
(8) approval of supervisory or administrative
staff reviewing the report.
(e) When there is a death of a resident in placement the
executive director or his/her designee shall notify the parents, guardian, or
legal custodian, if applicable, and the licensing authority with 72 hours.
(f) Critical incident reports shall be maintained in a
manner consistent with the agency's risk management policies that include
clinical decisions and activities undertaken to identify, evaluate and reduce
the risk of injury to residents, staff and visitors and reduce the risk of loss
to the agency and shall be made available to the licensing authority upon
request..
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
SECTION .0300 – PHYSICAL PLANT
10A NCAC 70K .0301 APPLICATION OF PHYSICAL PLANT
REQUIREMENTS
(a) New construction and existing buildings proposed for
use as a residential maternity home shall comply with the requirements of this
Section.
(b) Except when otherwise specified, existing licensed
homes or portions of existing licensed homes shall meet licensure and code
requirements in effect at the time of construction, initial licensure, change
in service, change in resident capacity or evacuation capability of the
residents, addition, renovation or alteration.
(c) New additions, alterations, modifications and repairs
made to the building shall meet the requirements of this Section.
(d) A residential maternity home shall not have two
different types of occupancies, as defined in the State Building Code in the
same building.
(e) Rules contained in this Section are the Physical Plant
requirements and do not prohibit buildings, systems or operational conditions
that exceed these requirements.
(f) Equivalency: Alternate methods, procedures, design
criteria and functional variations from the physical plant requirements shall
be approved by the Division of Health Service Regulation when the facility can
demonstrate to the Division of Health Service Regulation's satisfaction, that
the intent of the physical plant requirements are met and the variation does
not reduce the safety or operational effectiveness of the facility.
(g) The facility must comply with all applicable local,
state and federal regulations.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0302 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
(a) Any building licensed for the first time as a
residential maternity home shall meet the applicable requirements of the North
Carolina State Building Code. All new construction, additions and renovations
to existing buildings shall meet the occupancy requirements of the North
Carolina State Building Code as determined by the Division of Health Service
Regulation, Construction Section based on the number and age of the mothers,
the number of infants and any other dependents of either the expecting mothers
or the live-in staff. The North Carolina State Building Code, which is
incorporated by reference, including all subsequent amendments can be purchased
for one hundred six dollars and twenty-five cents ($106.25) at the following
web site:
(http://www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/Engineering/CodeServices/engineering_codeservices_sales.asp) or calling 919-681-6550.
(b) Mobile homes, whether mobile or permanently situated,
shall not be used for residential maternity home facilities.
(c) Each residential maternity home shall be planned,
constructed, equipped and maintained to provide the services offered in the
home.
(d) Any existing building converted from another use to a
residential maternity home shall meet all the requirements of a new facility.
(e) Any existing licensed residential maternity home when
the license is terminated for more than 60 days shall meet all requirements of
a new home prior to being relicensed.
(f) Any existing licensed residential maternity home that
is closed or vacant for more than one year shall meet all requirements of a new
facility prior to being relicensed.
(g) Any existing licensed residential maternity home that
plans to have new construction, remodeling or physical changes done to the
facility shall have drawings submitted by the owner or his appointed
representative to the Division of Health Service Regulation for review and
approval prior to commencement of the work.
(h) The applicant for a residential maternity home shall
consult the local code enforcement official for information on required permits
and building code requirements before starting any construction or renovations.
(i) If the building is two stories in height, and is
classified as a Residential Occupancy, it shall meet the following
requirements:
(1) Infants or children less than six years old
shall not be housed on any floor other than the level of exit discharge.
(2) A complete fire alarm system with pull
stations on each floor and sounding devices which are audible throughout the
building shall be provided. The fire alarm system shall be able to transmit an
automatic signal to the local emergency fire department dispatch center, either
directly or through a central station monitoring company connection.
(j) The basement and the attic shall not to be used for
storage or sleeping.
(k) The ceiling shall be at least seven and one-half feet
from the floor.
(l) All windows shall be maintained operable.
(m) The sanitation, water supply, sewage disposal and
dietary facilities shall comply with the rules of the North Carolina Commission
for Public Health which are incorporated by reference, including all subsequent
amendments. The "Rules Governing the Sanitation of Hospitals, Nursing
Homes, Adult Care Homes and Other Institutions", 15A NCAC 18A .1300 and
the "Rules Governing Sanitation of Residential Care Facilities" 15A
NCAC 18A .1600 are available for inspection at the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Health, 2728 Capital
Boulevard, Raleigh, North Carolina. Copies may be obtained from Environmental
Health Services Section, 1632 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1632 at no cost.
(n) The residential maternity home shall request and obtain
current inspections from the local sanitarian and the local fire inspector.
Reports of such inspections shall be maintained in the facility and available
for review and shall be submitted to the licensing authority with the licensure
renewal application.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008;
Amended Eff. November 1, 2009.
10A NCAC 70K .0303 LOCATION
(a) A residential maternity home shall be in a location
approved by local zoning boards.
(b) The home shall be located so that hazards to the
residents are minimized.
(c) The site of the home shall:
(1) be accessible by streets, roads and
highways and be maintained for motor vehicles and emergency vehicle access;
(2) be accessible to fire fighting and other
emergency services;
(3) have a water supply, sewage disposal
system, garbage disposal system and trash disposal system approved by the local
health department having jurisdiction;
(4) meet all local ordinances; and
(5) be free from exposure to pollutants known
to the applicant or licensee.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0304 LIVING ARRANGEMENT
A residential maternity home shall provide living
arrangements to meet the individual needs of the residents, the live‑in
staff and their children or relative children. There shall be a designated
room for residents to talk privately with staff and to receive visitors.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0305 LIVING ROOM
(a) Residential maternity homes shall have a living room
area of a minimum of 200 square feet for a capacity of six or fewer residents
and 15 square feet per additional resident.
(b) All living rooms shall have operable windows that meet
the North Carolina State Building Code and be lighted to provide 30 foot
candles of light at floor level.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0306 DINING ROOM
(a) Residential maternity homes shall have a dining room or
area of a minimum of 120 square feet for a capacity of six or fewer residents
and 10 square feet per additional resident. The dining room may be used for
other activities during the day.
(b) When the dining area is used in combination with a
kitchen, an area five feet wide shall be allowed as work space in front of the kitchen
work areas and shall not be included in the required square footage.
(c) The dining room shall have operable windows and be
lighted to provide 30 foot candles of light at the floor level.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0307 KITCHEN
(a) The kitchen in a residential maternity home shall be
large enough to provide for the preparation and preservation of food and the
washing of dishes.
(b) The kitchen floor shall have a non-slippery, water-resistant
covering.
(c) The kitchen shall be approved by the local sanitarian
for the total number of residents (mothers, infants and any other children), as
well as any live-in direct care staff and their dependents.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. October 1, 2008;
Amended Eff. November 1, 2009.
10A NCAC 70K .0308 BEDROOMS
(a) There shall be bedrooms sufficient in number and size
to meet the individual needs of the maternity home residents (residents include
mothers and their children), the live-in staff and their children or relative
children residing in the home. Residents shall not share bedrooms with staff or
the staff's' children or relative children.
(b) Only rooms authorized by the Division of Health Service
Regulation, Construction Section by plan review or field inspection, shall be used
for bedrooms.
(c) A room where access is through a bathroom, kitchen or
another bedroom shall not be approved for a resident's bedroom.
(d) There shall be a minimum area of 100 square feet,
excluding vestibule, closet or wardrobe space, in rooms occupied by one mother
and a minimum area of 80 square feet per bed, excluding vestibule, closet or
wardrobe space, in rooms occupied by two mothers. There shall be additional
square footage of 40 square feet for each infant and toddler, 60 square feet
for each pre-school aged child and 80 square feet for each school aged child.
(e) The total number of residents assigned to a bedroom
shall not exceed the number authorized by the Division of Health Service
Regulation, Construction Section, by plan review or field inspection, for that
particular bedroom.
(f) A bedroom shall not be occupied by more than two
mothers along with any children or infants of those mothers.
(g) Each resident bedroom shall have one or more operable
windows and be lighted to provide 30 foot candles of light at floor level. The
window area shall be equivalent to at least eight percent of the floor space.
The windows shall have a maximum of 44 inch sill height. Each bedroom shall be
provided with a window that meets the North Carolina State Building Code for
emergency egress. These windows shall be openable without the use of keys or
tools.
(h) Bedroom closets or wardrobes shall be large enough to
provide each mother with a minimum of 48 cubic feet of separate clothing
storage space (approximately two feet deep by three feet wide by eight feet
high) of which at least one-half shall be for hanging clothes with an
adjustable height hanging bar. Additional closet or wardrobe space shall be
provided for the children of mothers at the rate of 10 cubic feet per child.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0309 BATHROOMS
(a) Residential maternity homes shall have one full
bathroom for each five or fewer mothers and children, not including infants.
Live-in staff shall have a separate bathroom from residents in care.
(b) The bathrooms shall be designed to provide privacy. A
bathroom with two or more water closets (commodes) shall have privacy
partitions for each water closet. Each tub or shower shall have privacy
partitions or curtains.
(c) Entrance to the bathroom shall not be through a kitchen,
another person's bedroom or another bathroom.
(d) The required bathrooms of residents shall be located so
there is no more than 40 feet from any resident's bedroom door.
(e) Hand grips shall be installed at all commodes, tubs and
showers used by the residents.
(f) Non-skid surfacing or strips shall be installed in
showers and bath areas.
(g) The bathrooms shall be lighted to provide 30 foot
candles of light at floor level and have mechanical ventilation at the rate of
two cubic feet per minute for each square foot of floor area. These vents
shall be vented directly to the outdoors.
(h) The bathroom floor shall have a non‑slippery,
water‑resistant covering.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0310 CORRIDORS
(a) Corridors shall be a minimum clear width of three feet.
(b) Corridors shall be lighted with night lights providing
one foot candle of light at the floor.
(c) Corridors shall be free of all equipment and other obstructions.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0311 OUTSIDE ENTRANCES AND EXITS
(a) In residential maternity homes, all floor levels shall
have at least two exits. If there are only two, the exit or exit access doors
shall be so located and constructed to minimize the possibility that both may
be blocked by any one fire or other emergency condition.
(b) At least one entrance and exit door shall be a minimum
width of three feet and another shall be a minimum width of two feet and eight
inches.
(c) If the home has any resident who requires physical
assistance with evacuation, the home shall have at least one principal outside
entrance and exit for the resident's use which shall be at grade level or
accessible by ramp with a one inch rise for each 12 inches of length of the
ramp. For the purposes of this Rule, a principal outside entrance or exit is
one that is most often used by residents for vehicular access.
(d) All exit door locks and latches shall be easily
operable from the inside at all times without keys.
(e) All entrances and exits shall be free of all
obstructions or impediments to allow for full instant use in case of fire or
other emergency.
(f) All steps, porches, stoops and ramps shall be provided
with handrails and guardrails.
(g) Outdoor stairways and ramps shall be illuminated by no
less than five foot candles of light at grade level.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0312 LAUNDRY ROOM
Laundry facilities shall be provided. The laundry equipment
shall be located out of the living, dining and bedroom areas.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0313 FLOORS
(a) All floors shall be of smooth, non‑skid material
and constructed to be easily cleanable.
(b) All floors shall be kept in good repair.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0314 HOUSEKEEPING AND FURNISHINGS
(a) Each residential maternity home shall:
(1) have walls, ceilings, and floors or floor
coverings kept clean and in good repair;
(2) have no chronic unpleasant odors;
(3) have furniture clean and in good repair;
(4) be maintained in an uncluttered, clean and
orderly manner, free of all obstructions and hazards;
(5) have a supply of bath soap, clean towels,
washcloths, sheets, pillow cases, blankets and additional coverings adequate
for resident use on hand at all times;
(6) have television and radio, each in good
working order;
(7) have curtains, draperies or blinds at
windows in resident use areas to provide for resident privacy;
(8) have recreational equipment, supplies for
games, books, magazines and a current newspaper available for residents; and
(9) have at least one telephone that does not
depend on electricity or cellular service to operate. Emergency telephone
numbers shall be posted at the telephone.
(b) Each bedroom shall have the following furnishings
in good repair and clean for each mother:
(1) a bed equipped with box springs and
mattress or solid link springs and no‑sag innerspring or foam mattress.
No day-bed, convertible sofa or other bedding of temporary nature shall be
used. A water bed is allowed if requested by a resident and permitted by the
home. Each bed is to have the following:
(A) at least one pillow with clean pillow case;
(B) clean top and bottom sheets on the bed, with bed
changed as often as necessary but at least once a week; and
(C) clean bedspread and other clean coverings as needed;
(2) a bedside type table and lamp;
(3) chest of drawers or bureau when not
provided as built‑ins, or a double chest of drawers or double dresser for
two residents;
(4) a wall or dresser mirror that can be used
by each resident;
(5) a minimum of one comfortable chair (rocker
or straight, arm or without arms, as preferred by resident);
(6) additional chairs available, as needed, for
use by visitors;
(7) a light overhead of each bed or a lamp. The
light shall provide a minimum of 30 foot‑candle power of illumination for
reading; and
(8) cribs for each infant; children's beds for
other children of the mothers.
(c) The living room shall have functional living room
furnishings for the comfort of maternity home residents, with coverings that
are easily cleanable.
(d) The dining room shall have the following furnishings:
(1) tables and chairs to seat all residents
eating in the dining room; and
(2) high chairs and booster seats for all
infants and children in the home.
(e) This Rule shall apply to new and existing homes.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0315 FIRE SAFETY and Disaster Plan
(a) Fire extinguishers shall be provided which meet these
requirements in a residential maternity home:
(1) one five-pound or larger (net charge)
"A‑B‑C" type centrally located;
(2) one five-pound or larger "A‑B‑C"
or "CO/2" type located in the kitchen; and
(3) any other location as determined by the
code enforcement official.
(b) The building shall be provided with smoke detectors as
required by the North Carolina State Building Code and heat detectors located
in the attic and connected to a dedicated sounding device.
(c) Any fire safety requirements required by city
ordinances or county building inspectors shall be met.
(d) A written fire evacuation plan (including a diagrammed
drawing) which has the approval of the local code enforcement official shall be
prepared with a minimum of 1/8 inch high letters and posted in a central
location on each floor. The plan shall be reviewed with each resident on
admission and shall be a part of the orientation for all new staff.
(e) There shall be at least four rehearsals of the fire
evacuation plan each year. A residential maternity home shall maintain records
of rehearsals and copies furnished to the licensing authority upon request.
The records shall include the date and time of the rehearsals, staff members
present and a short description of what the rehearsal involved.
(f) Smoking is not be permitted in the residential
maternity home.
(g) A written disaster plan shall be prepared and updated
at least annually and shall be maintained in the home. This written disaster
plan requirement shall apply to new and existing homes.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0316 BUILDING SERVICE EQUIPMENT
(a) The building and all fire safety, electrical,
mechanical and plumbing equipment in a residential maternity home shall be
maintained in a safe and operating condition.
(b) There shall be a central heating system sufficient to
maintain 75 degrees F (24 degrees C) under winter design conditions. Built-in
electric heaters, if used, shall be installed or protected to avoid hazards to
residents (mothers and children) and room furnishings. Unvented fuel burning
room heaters and portable electric heaters are prohibited.
(c) Air conditioning or at least one fan per resident
bedroom, living and dining areas shall be provided when the temperature in the
main center corridor exceeds 80 degrees F (26.7 degrees C).
(d) The hot water tank shall be of such size to provide hot
water to the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry. The hot water temperature at all
fixtures used by residents shall be maintained at a minimum of 100 degrees F
(38 degrees C) and shall not exceed 116 degrees F (46.7 degrees C).
(e) All resident areas shall be well lighted for the safety
and comfort of the residents. The minimum lighting required is:
(1) 30 foot candle of light for reading;
(2) 10 foot candle of light for general
lighting; and
(3) one foot candle of light at the floor for
corridors at night.
(f) Fireplaces, fireplace inserts and wood stoves shall be
designed or installed to avoid a burn hazard to residents (mothers and
children). Solid fuel burning fireplace inserts and wood stoves shall be
labeled and approved by a third party testing agency accredited by the North
Carolina Building Code Council for solid fuel heating equipment.
(g) Gas logs may be installed if they are of the vented
type, installed according to the manufacturers' installation instructions,
approved through the local building department and protected by a guard or
screen to prevent residents and furnishings from burns.
(h) This rule shall apply to new and existing residential
maternity homes.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0317 OUTSIDE PREMISES
(a) The outside grounds of new and existing residential
maternity homes shall be maintained in a clean and safe condition.
(b) Fences shall be kept in good repair and shall not
prevent residents or adult staff from exiting or entering freely or be
hazardous.
(c) Outdoor stairways and ramps shall be illuminated by no
less than five foot candles of light at grade level.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D‑1; 143B‑153;
Eff. October 1, 2008.
10A NCAC 70K .0318 VEHICLES USED FOR TRANSPORTATION OF
RESIDENTS
(a) Vehicle Requirements for Transporting Residents.
(1) Vehicles shall comply with all motor
vehicle laws and regulations for the State of North Carolina.
(2) Motor vehicles shall be maintained in a
safe operating condition and shall be registered and inspected.
(3) A first-aid kit shall be in all motor
vehicles.
(4) The bed of an open body or a stake bed
vehicle shall not be used for transporting children.
(b) Driver Requirements. The name of and a copy of a valid
driver's license for each person transporting residents shall be maintained in
a separate file at the facility.
(c) Safety Practices for Transporting Residents.
(1) The interior of each vehicle shall be
maintained in a clean and safe condition with clear passage to operable doors.
(2) The driver shall ensure that all passengers
follow North Carolina laws regarding seat belt usage and shall adhere to child
passenger restraint laws when transporting children.
(3) The driver shall not transport more
persons, including children and adults, than allowed by the design capacity of
the vehicle.
(4) Residents shall have at least one 30 minute
rest stop for every four hours of continuous travel.
(5) Residents shall not be transported for more
than 10 hours in any 24-hour period.
(d) Transportation Records. Insurance verification and the
vehicle identification certificate shall be kept in the vehicle in accordance
with State law. Emergency medical information shall be kept in the vehicle for
each resident occupying the vehicle.
(e) Insurance. If a residential maternity home's
transportation services are provided by a private individual, a firm under
contract, or by another arrangement, the facility shall maintain a file copy of
the individual's or firm's insurance coverage.
(f) Emergency Transportation. A residential maternity home
shall have a plan for transporting residents when emergency situations arise
that includes:
(1) the need for immediate medical care;
(2) picking residents up at school before the
end of the school day; and
(3) transporting residents during adverse
weather conditions.
History Note: Authority G.S. 131D-1; 143B-153;
Eff. November 1, 2009.
