Failure to Follow Enhanced Barrier Precautions During G Tube Medication Administration
Penalty
Fine: $64,3606 days payment denial
The penalty, as released by CMS, applies to the entire inspection this citation is part of, covering all citations and f-tags issued, not just this specific f-tag. For the complete original report, please refer to the 'Details' section.
Summary
The facility failed to follow its own policy on enhanced barrier precautions (EBP) for infection control during high-contact resident care activities. According to facility policy, EBP requires the use of gowns and gloves during care involving devices such as a G tube. A resident with a history of stroke, difficulty swallowing, and high blood pressure had a physician order and care plan indicating the need for EBP due to a G tube. Despite signage indicating EBP at the resident's doorway, an LPN was observed administering medication through the resident's G tube without wearing a gown as required. The Director of Nursing confirmed this failure to adhere to EBP protocols for the resident.