Lack of Training Leads to Resident Harm from E-Stim Device
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that physical therapy staff were adequately informed or educated before applying an electronic medical device for electrical stimulation treatment (e-stim) on a resident, resulting in actual harm. The incident involved a resident who sustained a burn on the right leg with 100% slough in the wound bed after a physical therapy staff member applied the e-stim device and left the room. The resident, who was cognitively intact, reported that the device began to burn intensely, prompting him to remove it and discover three burn marks. The resident expressed concern that staff were using residents as test subjects without proper training. Interviews with facility staff revealed a lack of training and competency checks for the e-stim device. The Physical Therapy Manager admitted that the therapy staff had not received training or education on the device within the facility, assuming that their schooling sufficed. The Physical Therapy Assistant confirmed the absence of formal training, relying on her school training and personal experimentation. The Administrator acknowledged the need for skill checks to ensure staff competency, and the Regional Rehabilitation Manager confirmed that no training was provided before the incident. The facility began educating the physical therapy department after the incident, but the reason for the delay was not provided.
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