Continuous readiness for unannounced accreditation surveys requires a culture of ongoing compliance, engaging all staff to maintain standards.
Option A (Placing "accreditation survey items" on meeting agendas immediately before the survey occurs): This is reactive, not continuous, as unannounced surveys require year-round readiness.
Option B (Encouraging all staff to take ownership): This is the correct answer. The NAHQ CPHQ study guide states, “Continuous readiness programs should encourage all staff to take ownership of compliance with accreditation standards, fostering a culture of preparedness” (Domain 4). This ensures sustained engagement.
Option C (Creating policies that mimic the accreditation organization’s policies, even when at odds with the institution’s culture): Policies should align with standards but adapt to the organization’s culture for sustainability.
Option D (Identifying a few champions to be available for surveys): Champions support readiness but relying on a few limits broad staff engagement.
CPHQ Objective Reference: Domain 4: Performance and Process Improvement, Objective 4.7, “Develop continuous readiness programs,” emphasizes staff ownership. The NAHQ study guide notes, “Engaging all staff ensures ongoing survey preparedness” (Domain 4).
Rationale: Staff ownership fosters a culture of readiness, aligning with CPHQ’s accreditation principles.
[Reference: NAHQ CPHQ Study Guide, Domain 4: Performance and Process Improvement, Objective 4.7., , , , ]
