Short, citable facts about PCREE testing and electrical safety citations in U.S. nursing homes. Each answer links to the full explanation. Statistics come from our analysis of CMS data processed October 1, 2026, and are updated monthly. You are welcome to cite any figure on this page with a link to PCREETest.com.
What is PCREE testing?
PCREE (patient care-related electrical equipment) testing is the inspection and electrical safety testing of devices used in the patient care vicinity, such as electric beds, lifts, oxygen concentrators, pumps and monitors. It is required by NFPA 99 (2012 edition), Chapter 10, which CMS enforces in nursing homes through Life Safety Code surveys.
Which CMS tag covers PCREE testing?
K921 ("Electrical Equipment – Testing and Maintenance Requirements"). Related electrical tags are K911, K912, K914, K919 and K920.
How many nursing homes are cited under K921?
1,365 of 14,686 U.S. nursing homes (9.3%) received a K921 citation on Life Safety Code surveys from October 2023 through September 2026, according to CMS data.
How serious are K921 citations?
76% of K921 citations were rated scope F (widespread), because missing test records usually affect every device in the building.
What is the most-cited electrical tag in nursing homes?
K920 (power strips and extension cords): 4,188 nursing homes (28.5%) were cited in three years.
What share of nursing homes are cited for any electrical issue?
43.9% (6,445 facilities) received at least one electrical Life Safety Code citation (K911–K921) from October 2023 through September 2026.
How long does it take to correct a K921 citation?
The median nursing home corrected K921 in 37 days in CMS data.
How often is PCREE testing done?
NFPA 99 lets each facility set testing intervals in written policy. Most nursing homes test patient care equipment annually, and also before first use and after any repair.
What does a PCREE test measure?
A visual inspection plus measured ground (protective earth) resistance and chassis leakage current for each device, recorded with the date, technician and analyzer used. Surveyors look for measured values, not just pass/fail.
How much does PCREE testing cost?
Most skilled nursing facilities pay $15–$40 per device, or $2,000–$8,000 per year under an annual service contract. Device count is the biggest cost driver.
How long does PCREE testing take?
About 5–15 minutes per device. A 100-bed facility typically has 150–300 devices, or roughly 2–4 technician-days.
How many nursing homes belong to multi-facility organizations?
69.6% of U.S. nursing homes are linked to a chain or affiliated entity in CMS data, and 491 of 546 organizations with five or more buildings had some buildings cited for electrical safety and others not.
Primary sources
- NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code, 2012 edition, Chapter 10 (Electrical Equipment), as adopted by CMS
- 42 CFR 483.90(a), Life Safety from Fire (requirements for long-term care facilities)
- CMS Provider Data Catalog: Nursing Home Fire Safety Deficiencies and Provider Information
- New York State DOH, DAL NH 18-04: Inspection and Maintenance of Patient Care Related Electrical Equipment
- Wisconsin DHS bulletin: Patient Care Related Electrical Equipment
Data: CMS Provider Data Catalog, Nursing Homes, Fire Safety Deficiencies and Provider Information (processed October 1, 2026), Life Safety Code surveys from October 2023 through September 2026. PCREE Test is not affiliated with CMS or NFPA.
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About the Author
PCREE Test Editorial Team
Content reviewed by biomedical professionals with experience in patient care electrical equipment testing, NFPA 99 compliance, and CMS Life Safety survey preparation for skilled nursing facilities.