Failure to Obtain Vital Signs After Unsuccessful Pulse Oximetry
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a licensed practical nurse (LPN) failed to obtain vital signs for a resident after being unable to obtain a pulse oximetry reading due to the resident's cold and swollen fingers. The resident, who had a medical history including acute on chronic congestive heart failure, ischemic cardiomyopathy, atherosclerotic heart disease, hypertension, fluid overload, coronary angioplasty implant/graft, and a cardiac defibrillator, was administered medications and subsequently became nauseated. The LPN did not recall if vital signs were taken following the inability to obtain a pulse oximetry reading. The Assistant Director of Nursing and the resident's physician both confirmed that vital signs should have been checked in this situation.