Unsecured Germicidal Wipes Left Accessible to Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a housekeeper left a container of micro-kill germicidal wipes unattended on top of her cart in a hallway, rather than securing it in the cart's locked compartment as required. During this time, a male resident with hemiplegia, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and diabetes, who had a BIMS score indicating intact cognition but was noted to have impaired decision-making skills and safety awareness at intervals, accessed the wipes. The resident took approximately ten wipes from the container, used them to wipe his hands, both sides of his mouth, and his mattress, and then disposed of them in his trash can. The housekeeper was inside a resident's room and out of sight when this occurred. Interviews with staff revealed that the housekeeper was aware of the requirement to lock up chemicals but failed to do so, and could not recall details from her training on hazardous materials. Other staff, including a CNA and the housekeeping supervisor, confirmed that the wipes should have been secured to prevent resident access, as they could cause harm such as skin or eye irritation. The resident reported that he regularly took wipes from the cart. The facility's in-service documentation indicated that housekeepers were instructed to leave all chemicals in locked carts, and the housekeeper involved had signed this training. The facility's policy on accident/hazard prevention was requested but not provided.