How to Build a Robust PCREE Testing Program from Scratch
A strong Patient Care-Related Electrical Equipment (PCREE) testing program starts with a complete inventory, a structured testing schedule, qualified personnel for execution, and consistent documentation/review. Following NFPA 99 and CMS guidance not only prevents citations but also protects residents from preventable risks.
Why Facilities Need a PCREE Testing Program
Every skilled nursing facility relies on medical devices and electrical equipment to provide daily care. From hospital beds to infusion pumps, this equipment must meet NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities Code requirements.
Surveyors from CMS and state health departments expect to see a documented program in place. Without one, facilities risk citations, penalties, and increased liability if an equipment failure harms a resident.
The good news? Building a robust program is straightforward if you follow a step-by-step process.
Step 1: Build a Complete Equipment Inventory
A testing program starts with knowing what you have.
List every PCREE device: beds, monitors, IV pumps, lifts, ventilators, etc.
Record details: model, serial number, manufacturer, and location.
Use digital tools: a spreadsheet or CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) makes tracking easier.
Surveyor expectation: A comprehensive list that matches what’s physically present in your facility. Missing items are a red flag.
Step 2: Establish a Risk-Based Testing Schedule
Not all equipment carries the same risk. High-use and life-support devices should be tested more frequently.
Reference NFPA 99 & IEC 60601 standards for baseline frequencies.
Prioritize by risk:
Life-support (ventilators, monitors): every 6–12 months.
General patient equipment (beds, pumps): annually.
Outlets/receptacles in patient care areas: per NFPA 99, often every 12 months.
Pro tip: Build a visual calendar (monthly or quarterly) so nothing slips through the cracks.
Step 3: Execute Testing with Qualified Personnel
Testing must include more than visual inspections.
Leakage current tests: confirm compliance with thresholds (≤100 µA in normal condition).
Ground resistance tests: ensure grounding integrity.
Functional checks: verify equipment works as intended.
Who should perform the tests?
Trained biomedical engineers, in-house maintenance with NFPA 99 training, or third-party biomedical service providers.
Surveyor expectation: Evidence that testing was done correctly and by qualified personnel.
Step 4: Document Everything
Documentation is where many facilities fail. Even if the work is done, missing paperwork = deficiency.
A complete log should include:
Equipment ID (serial, model)
Date tested
Type of test performed
Results (pass/fail)
Corrective actions (if failed)
Technician’s name/signature
Pro tip: Keep records electronic and searchable. CMS surveyors often ask for logs from the past 12–24 months.
Step 5: Review and Improve Regularly
A program isn’t “set it and forget it.”
Quarterly audits: Compliance officer or administrator reviews logs.
Trend analysis: Are certain devices failing repeatedly? Time to replace.
Policy updates: Adjust frequency or methods based on regulatory changes.
Surveyor expectation: An active, continuous improvement loop — not just one-off inspections.
Tools & Templates
To streamline your program:
Spreadsheet template: Columns for device, serial, date, test type, results.
Checklist template: Step-by-step guide for leakage current, ground resistance, receptacle testing.
Audit template: Quarterly review checklist to verify compliance.
Offering these to staff ensures consistency and reduces errors.
Example: A Facility Success Story
One mid-sized nursing facility built a PCREE program in less than 90 days:
Week 1–2: Completed a full device inventory.
Week 3–4: Partnered with a biomedical service vendor.
Month 2: Created a 12-month testing schedule and digital logbook.
Month 3: Conducted first round of inspections and stored records electronically.
During their next CMS survey, inspectors requested PCREE documentation. The facility provided an organized binder and passed without a single deficiency.
Key Takeaways
Inventory is the foundation — you can’t test what you don’t track.
Risk-based scheduling aligns with NFPA 99 and avoids over- or under-testing.
Documentation is as important as testing.
Review and improvement ensure long-term compliance and resident safety.
Resources
NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities Code
CMS State Operations Manual
FDA Medical Device Guidance
OSHA Healthcare Safety
Reviewed by the PCREE Test Compliance Team
Last Updated: September 2025