Failure to Properly Store Respiratory Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for residents requiring oxygen therapy and nebulizer treatments, as evidenced by improper storage of respiratory equipment. Specifically, three residents with diagnoses including COPD, acute respiratory failure, and other chronic conditions were observed with their nebulizer masks, tubing, and oxygen cannulas left exposed to the environment rather than stored in protective bags as required by facility policy. In one instance, a nebulizer mask and tubing were found on a bedside table next to a urinal bottle, and in another, an oxygen cannula and tubing were observed lying on the floor. Record reviews confirmed that these residents had physician orders for oxygen therapy and nebulizer treatments, and their care plans included interventions for respiratory support. However, the equipment used for these therapies was not stored according to infection control protocols, which require such items to be bagged when not in use. Interviews with the residents indicated that they relied on staff for assistance with respiratory treatments and that the equipment was used as needed for symptoms such as shortness of breath or wheezing. During interviews and observations, the Director of Nursing acknowledged that the respiratory equipment was not stored properly and confirmed that staff were expected to follow the facility's infection control policies. The facility's policies outlined the need to change or properly store respiratory equipment to prevent contamination and the spread of infection, but these procedures were not followed in the cases observed.