Infection Control Deficiencies: Unlabeled Urinals and Contaminated Oxygen Tubing
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection prevention and control practices in two key areas. For one resident, the nasal cannula oxygen tubing was observed lying on the floor during a concurrent observation and interview with the Infection Preventionist (IP). The IP confirmed that the tubing was contaminated and needed immediate replacement, as it could introduce bacteria to the resident. The resident had diagnoses including cachexia and atelectasis, required partial to moderate assistance with activities of daily living, and had an order for oxygen therapy via nasal cannula as needed for low oxygen. Additionally, the facility did not ensure that urinals used by two residents were labeled with resident identifiers. In one case, a plastic urinal bottle at a resident's bedside was found without any written identifier, and the IP stated that labeling was necessary to prevent accidental use by roommates. In another case, two unlabeled urinals were observed at a different resident's bedside, and a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) confirmed the lack of labeling. The IP emphasized the importance of labeling urinals to prevent cross-contamination among residents. The facility's policy on Standard Precautions requires that all resident-care equipment soiled with blood, body fluids, secretions, and excretions be handled in a manner that prevents contamination and transfer of microorganisms. However, the Director of Nursing (DON) stated that there was no specific policy addressing the labeling of urinals for infection control. The observations and interviews confirmed that the facility did not consistently implement its own infection control policies regarding the handling and labeling of resident care equipment.