Inadequate PPE Use for COVID-19 Positive Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to its infection prevention and control program, specifically regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for residents diagnosed with COVID-19. The facility's policy required staff to wear gloves, gowns, face masks, and face shields when caring for residents who tested positive for COVID-19. However, observations revealed that nurse aides and an occupational therapist did not comply with these requirements. For instance, nurse aides entered the room of a resident who tested positive for COVID-19 without wearing gowns, and an occupational therapist provided care to another COVID-19 positive resident without wearing a gown. Additionally, the facility's infection control measures were compromised when a staff member was observed wearing a gown used during care while walking through resident areas, instead of removing it before exiting the resident's room. This action was contrary to the facility's policy, which required PPE to be removed before leaving the resident's room to prevent the spread of infection. These lapses in following the established infection control protocols were confirmed by the Nursing Home Administrator, Director of Nursing, and Infection Preventionist during an interview.
Plan Of Correction
1) Residents 2, 3, and 4 have since been removed from COVID precautions. Staff members were educated on the policy on precautions. Reviewed were the proper procedures for donning and doffing. Staff was also educated on what PPE is required. 2) Residents who are on precautions related to COVID or who are on precautions will have appropriate signage on their doors. Currently, no residents are on COVID precautions. 3) Staff have been re-educated on the COVID policy and procedure as well as what PPE is required for droplet precautions and/or contact precautions. 4) The DON/or her designee will monitor staff when providing care to residents on precautions. This will occur daily for one week and biweekly thereafter until the precautions are lifted. The audits will be reviewed with the Quality Assurance for review and recommendations as needed.