Infection Control Lapses in Equipment Handling and IV Site Labeling
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to adhere to infection prevention and control practices in several observed instances. One certified nursing assistant was seen placing a metal ice scoop on top of a transport cart instead of returning it to the designated ice bag cover while refilling residents' water pitchers. Both the CNA and the DON acknowledged that this action was not in line with facility policy, as the cart surface could be contaminated and potentially transfer germs or bacteria to the scoop. A resident with a peripheral intravenous (IV) saline lock was observed without a date or licensed nurse's initials on the IV site. The DON and Director of Staff Development confirmed that facility policy requires IV sites to be labeled with the date and initials of the nurse who inserted it, to ensure timely changes and reduce the risk of infection. The resident's medical record indicated recent IV hydration, and the lack of labeling was not consistent with the facility's procedures for infection control. During medication administration, an LVN was observed not disinfecting a blood pressure machine between resident uses and not following proper infection control practices when administering medications to a resident on enhanced barrier precautions. The LVN handled used medical equipment and medication cups without appropriate PPE and failed to disinfect the plastic tray after use. The DON confirmed that these actions did not meet the facility's infection control standards, which require disinfection of equipment between uses, proper use of PPE, and adherence to hand hygiene protocols.