Improper Storage and Handling of Oxygen Equipment
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a safe physical environment for four residents who were reviewed for respiratory services. During observations, it was noted that oxygen concentrator units and portable oxygen tanks were improperly stored and not in use, despite being present in the residents' rooms. For instance, a portable oxygen concentrator unit was found resting against the right side of a resident's bed, with the nasal cannula tubing coiled up on the floor under the bed. The resident, who is blind and a fall risk, confirmed that they do not use oxygen, and there were no physician orders for oxygen therapy in their records. Similar issues were observed with other residents, where oxygen equipment was found in their rooms without any current orders for oxygen therapy, posing potential safety hazards due to improper storage and handling of the equipment. In another instance, a green cylinder oxygen tank was found standing against the wall in a shared bathroom, which is not a secure storage location. The resident's physician order indicated the use of oxygen as needed for shortness of breath, but the storage of the tank in the bathroom was not in compliance with safety guidelines. The Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledged that oxygen tanks should be stored securely and was unsure why the tank was in the bathroom. Additionally, an oxygen concentrator with tubing labeled with a resident's name was observed sitting on the floor next to the resident's bed, with the nasal cannula and tubing wrapped around the bed rail. The resident mentioned that they do not need to use oxygen all the time, and there were no current physician orders for oxygen therapy. The DON confirmed that the oxygen equipment had been discontinued and subsequently removed from the room. The facility's policy on the safe handling, storage, and transporting of compressed gases was not adhered to, as evidenced by the improper storage of oxygen equipment in residents' rooms and shared spaces.
Penalty
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