Failure to Clean and Sanitize Glucometer After Use
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to properly clean and sanitize a glucometer after use during blood glucose testing for two residents. On two separate occasions, a medication aide (MAC) entered residents' rooms with a glucometer and associated supplies, placed the glucometer directly on overbed tables and sink counters without using a barrier, and performed blood glucose checks. After testing, the MAC placed the glucometer on various surfaces and then returned it to a storage container without cleaning or sanitizing it. The storage container also held other supplies such as cotton balls, alcohol wipes, lancets, and test strips. During interviews, the MAC admitted to not cleaning or sanitizing the glucometer before placing it back in its container and expressed uncertainty about the need for cleaning since each glucometer had its own container. The facility's Infection Preventionist (IP) confirmed that a barrier should be used between the glucometer and surfaces, and that the glucometer should be cleaned before storage. These actions were not in accordance with CDC guidelines for environmental infection control in healthcare facilities.