Inadequate Infection Control Training and Competency Verification
Summary
The facility failed to include mandatory training as part of its infection prevention and control program, specifically lacking written standards, policies, and procedures as required by S483.80(a)(2). This deficiency was identified through observations, interviews, and record reviews, revealing that 18 out of 28 nurses had not completed hand hygiene training, and 18 had not completed hand hygiene competency evaluations. Additionally, all 28 nurses had not completed wound care training, and 26 had not completed wound care competency evaluations. This lack of training and competency verification could potentially place residents at risk of receiving care from staff without the necessary skills. During observations, specific instances of inadequate hand hygiene were noted. For example, LVN K was observed performing wound care on a resident without performing hand hygiene before the procedure and washing hands for only 9 seconds afterward. Similarly, RN L was observed touching a mask with ungloved hands and failing to perform hand hygiene before donning a new mask. RN L also washed hands for less than the recommended 20 seconds multiple times during wound care procedures, which could lead to cross-contamination and infection. Interviews with staff revealed gaps in training and documentation. LVN K admitted to not performing hand hygiene due to nervousness and was unsure about the documentation of her wound care training. RN L, who had recently started working at the facility, stated she received wound care training but did not consistently follow hand hygiene protocols. The ADON and DON acknowledged the lack of documented competencies and training for staff, with the DON admitting responsibility for ensuring appropriate training and competency evaluations. The facility's policy on infection prevention and control emphasized staff education and competency, but the facility lacked a specific policy regarding nurse training and competency evaluations.
Penalty
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