Deficient Infection Control Practices for Droplet Precautions
Summary
Surveyors observed that a resident's room was under droplet precautions for influenza, as indicated by signage and the presence of a PPE cart outside the room. Staff interviews revealed inconsistent understanding and implementation of droplet precaution protocols. The Infection Preventionist stated that staff should wear a surgical mask, face shield, and gown, but the signage only required a mask and face shield, and staff reported that gown use was optional or no longer required. A physical therapy assistant was seen donning a gown, gloves, and mask, but only sanitized the finger area of a vital sign machine after use in the resident's room, despite signage indicating the need for dedicated or disposable equipment. The assistant confirmed that there was no dedicated equipment for that area and that only part of the machine was cleaned before it was taken into the hallway. Further interviews with staff showed confusion about proper PPE donning and doffing procedures, with some staff stating that gowns were not necessary and that face shields should be cleaned in the hallway rather than in the resident's room. The Infection Preventionist clarified that face shields should be cleaned in the room, but this was not consistently practiced. The residents involved had recent diagnoses of influenza and other significant medical conditions, and one resident confirmed ongoing illness. The observations and interviews demonstrate a deficiency in the facility's implementation and staff understanding of infection control protocols for droplet precautions, including the use of PPE and cleaning or dedicating equipment.
Penalty
Trusted data from CMS and state health departments
Every citation, penalty and Plan of Correction is sourced from public CMS records (latest release May 27, 2026) and official state health department websites — never guesswork.
Trusted by long-term care providers and associations.
