Failure to Maintain Proper Catheter Tubing Position
Penalty
Summary
A resident with a history of palliative care, dementia, and previous urinary tract infection (UTI)/sepsis was observed to have an indwelling catheter with a large loop and two coils in the tubing, one of which was nearly kinked. The resident was dependent on staff for hygiene, dressing, toileting, and bathing, and had a physician order for an indwelling catheter. During observation, the catheter bag was hanging on the bedframe, and the tubing was not maintained in a straight position as required. Staff interviews confirmed that the catheter tubing should not be looped or coiled, as this could cause backflow of urine. The Treatment Nurse acknowledged that the observed condition of the tubing was inappropriate and could lead to complications. The Director of Nursing also stated that the tubing must remain straight to ensure proper drainage and prevent infection, especially given the resident's history of UTIs. Facility policy required that catheter and drainage tubing be free of loops and kinks to achieve a free flow of urine.