Inappropriate Use of PPE in Droplet Precaution Rooms
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to appropriately use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in two out of 18 droplet precaution rooms, which are designated for infection control measures to prevent the spread of diseases transmitted through respiratory droplets. During a tour of the COVID and exposed unit, it was observed that although droplet isolation signage and PPE were available at each room, staff members did not adhere to the required PPE protocols. Specifically, a housekeeper and a nurse assistant were observed not wearing the appropriate PPE, such as gowns, gloves, masks, and eyewear, while performing their duties in these rooms. Interviews with staff confirmed the deficiency, as both the nurse assistant and a registered nurse acknowledged the requirement to wear full PPE, including an N-95 mask, gown, gloves, and face covering, when entering droplet isolation rooms. The Director of Nursing also confirmed the facility's failure to use PPE appropriately, which posed a potential risk for cross-contamination and the spread of infections. The clinical records of residents in the affected rooms indicated current physician orders for droplet isolation and COVID testing, with care plans updated to reflect these isolation needs.
Plan Of Correction
1. All residents in rooms 227-236 have been assessed by the DON to ensure that no harm has occurred by not wearing appropriate PPE in their rooms. No findings noted. 2. All Covid isolation rooms have been assessed to ensure that they have the appropriate signage outside of their rooms and orders. 3. IP or Designee will educate Employees on the appropriate PPE to wear in isolation rooms. 4. DON or designee will audit 5 covid isolation rooms for 4 weeks to ensure that staff are wearing appropriate PPE. All findings will be reported to QAPI.