What testing protocol must be followed for rental and loaner equipment based on JCAHO standards?

The correct answer is "Tested at incoming and at regular intervals thereafter." According to Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) standards, medical equipment that is rented or loaned must be put through appropriate testing to ensure its safety and functionality before it is used in a healthcare setting.

The reasoning behind testing incoming rental and loaner equipment is to verify that it meets the necessary operational standards and is free from defects that could compromise patient safety. Additionally, conducting regular interval testing thereafter is crucial to monitor the equipment’s performance over time, ensuring it remains safe and effective for continued use. This aligns with best practices in healthcare to manage the risks associated with medical equipment, as well as the requirement to provide high-quality patient care.

The combination of initial testing upon arrival and ongoing assessments ensures that any issues that may arise during its use can be promptly addressed, thus enhancing patient safety and equipment reliability.