Failure to Follow Infection Control Protocols During Incontinent Care
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a certified nursing assistant (CNA) failed to follow proper infection prevention and control procedures during incontinent care for a male resident diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. The resident was cognitively intact and dependent on staff for toilet hygiene. During the observed care, the CNA washed her hands and donned gloves and a gown before beginning care. However, she did not change her gloves or perform hand hygiene after touching the trash can, after cleaning the resident's perineal area, or after cleaning the resident's bottom, and before handling a new brief. The CNA continued to use the same gloves throughout the care process, including after contact with soiled items and before touching clean supplies. The facility's policy required hand hygiene after contact with soiled or contaminated articles and after removal of gloves. The CNA acknowledged during an interview that she should have changed gloves and performed hand hygiene at several points during the care. The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) and the Administrator both confirmed that the expectation was for staff to change gloves and perform hand hygiene as outlined in the facility's infection control policy.