The second quarter of 2026 was a busy time for updates to QUAD A’s accreditation programs. If you missed out on the news or just need a refresher, we’ve compiled the most important updates from April, May and June 2026 for easy viewing.
General Updates
Updated Anesthesia Class Requirements
In May 2026, QUAD A provided several important clarifications to help facilities understand what’s allowed within each anesthesia class.
See the summary, in plain language, of what has changed and what to verify in your day-to-day workflows.
Crash Cart Essentials for Outpatient Surgery Centers
A well-stocked crash cart is essential in outpatient surgical facilities to support immediate patient stabilization and transfer, if needed.
In April 2026, QUAD A provided recommendations on stocking supplies and medications, documentation and protocols, and routine checks to promote preparedness.
Updates to QUAD A Standards
Standard 6-D-5: Contracted Anesthesia Professionals
In May 2026, QUAD A made an important update to the interpretive guidance for Standard 6-D-5, which relates to contracted anesthesia professionals bringing controlled substances into the facility.
See the updated interpretive guidance, and how to meet the new requirement of active compliance confirmation.
Standard 7-D-5: Sterilization Monitoring
QUAD A Standard 7-D-5 describes expectations for how facilities track, document, and review routine sterilization processes.
In May 2026, QUAD A provided suggestions for evaluating compliance with effective sterilization cycle monitoring and outlined common deficiencies to avoid.
Standard 8-B-9: Enhancing Patient-Centered Care
QUAD A Standard 8-B-9, which supports safe, personalized, and equitable care, was made a requirement for all surgical programs on April 7, 2025.
One year later, the standard still appears in top deficiency reports. See why Standard 8-B-9 matters and how facilities establish consistent documentation practices to stay compliant.
Standard 8-K-8: Written Discharge Instructions
Surveyors frequently identify deficiencies in compliance with QUAD A Standard 8-K-8, which provides guidance around written discharge instructions.
QUAD A put together a brief guide outlining common deficiencies with discharge instructions and guidance on how to stay compliant with Standard 8-K-8.
Accreditation Program-Specific Updates
Non-Surgical Aesthetic & Wellness (MedSpa) Accreditation Program
In Q2, QUAD A released Version 1.1 of the highly anticipated Non-Surgical Aesthetic & Wellness (MedSpa) Standards.
This update provides guidance related to the designation of the MedSpa Director, an important requirement for facilities to establish and maintain accountability and compliance with QUAD A requirements.
See the updated requirement and ongoing responsibilities for the designated MedSpa Director.
Outpatient Physical Therapy (OPT) Accreditation Program
CMS §485.713(a) requires outpatient physical therapy facilities to maintain four modalities that promote safe, compliant patient care: heat, cold, water, and electricity.
Surveyors often find noncompliance with this requirement, which can jeopardize compliance and patient care. QUAD A put together a list of recommendations to help facilities meet the requirements of CMS §485.713(a), and understand how surveyors assess compliance.
Get Support From QUAD A
If you have any questions or concerns about any of the updates shared here, QUAD A is here to help.
Please contact your QUAD A Accreditation Specialist, or email standards@quada.org for further assistance.
