Failure to Ensure Safe Handling of Chemotherapy Waste
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a safe environment for a resident receiving chemotherapy, resulting in a deficiency related to accident hazards and supervision. Facility documentation showed that a resident was prescribed chemotherapy and required special handling of bodily waste, including flushing the toilet twice with the lid down after use. However, the shared restroom used by this resident and another was not equipped with a toilet lid, making it impossible to follow the physician's order. Additionally, the resident's care plan (Kardex) did not include instructions regarding the special waste disposal procedure. Staff interviews revealed that nursing assistants were not educated on the proper procedures for handling waste from a resident receiving chemotherapy. Both staff members interviewed were confused by the posted instructions, as there was no lid to close, and they had not received training on how to prevent exposure to chemotherapy drug waste. Facility leadership confirmed the failure to provide a safe environment for the residents involved.