(1) Residential units which are established by a licensed hospice provider will not be required to be separately licensed. Residential units shall comply with local codes and ordinances governing zoning, fire, safety, and health standards.
    (2) Residential units shall be maintained in a manner which provides for managing personal hygiene needs of the patients and implementation of infection control procedures.
    (3) Equipment and furnishings in residential units will provide for the health care needs of the resident while providing a home-like or non-institutional type of atmosphere.
    (4) The hospice provider shall insure that:
    (a) Each patient residing in a residential unit has an identified individual who will serve as that patient’s principal advocate and contact person.
    (b) The residential unit is staffed at sufficient skill level and number to meet the needs of the patients and their families.
    1. At all times the residential unit shall be staffed with a minimum of two (2) employees, one (1) of which shall be a licensed nurse.
    2. Units for more than eight (8) patients shall be a staff-to-patient ratio of one to four (1:4) calculated on a twenty-four (24) hour period. At no time shall the unit have a staff-to-patient ratio of less than one to six (1:6).
    3. All staff on duty shall assist with evacuation of patients in the event of an emergency.
    (5) Services provided in the residential unit are consistent with the plan of care prepared for that patient and are consistent with services provided by the hospice program in other settings.
    (6) Residential units shall be equipped to prepare meals that meet the dietary requirements of the patient.
    (7) Upon adoption of this rule, newly constructed or renovated residential units shall comply with the requirements of Florida Statutes § 400.6051
Rulemaking Authority 400.605 FS. Law Implemented 400.605, 400.6051 FS. History-New 4-27-94, Formerly 59A-2.0236, Amended 6-5-97, 8-10-03, 4-24-07, Formerly 58A-2.0236, 7-1-19.