Unsanitary Storage of Respiratory Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the clean and dry storage of respiratory equipment for three residents, leading to unsanitary conditions. Resident #25's nebulizer mask was found face down on their nightstand, uncovered and without a barrier. This resident, diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and muscle weakness, confirmed the use of the nebulizer. Infection Control (IC) Nurse A stated that nebulizer masks should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a bag, which was not followed in this case. Resident #44's CPAP face mask was stored uncovered inside a metal basket, and their coughing machine mouthpiece was in direct contact with the back of the oxygen concentrator. This resident, with diagnoses including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), COPD, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea, required assistance with their respiratory equipment. IC Nurse A acknowledged that the storage of Resident #44's equipment was unacceptable. Resident #54's respiratory treatment mask was observed sitting on a window sill on top of a clear plastic bag, contrary to the IC Nurse's statement that it should be placed on a paper towel to dry before being stored in a plastic bag. The Director of Nursing confirmed the absence of a specific policy for storing respiratory equipment in plastic bags, although it was expected practice.