Failure to Follow Enhanced Barrier Precautions During Incontinence Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure effective infection control techniques were practiced during incontinence care for a resident who was under Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP). The resident, who had multiple diagnoses including epilepsy, muscle weakness, hemiplegia, aphasia, and was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living, was ordered to be on EBP due to wounds and the presence of a PEG tube. Facility policy required staff to wear gowns and gloves during high-contact care activities for residents on EBP, with proper signage and PPE available in the resident's room. During an observation, two CNAs provided incontinence care to the resident without donning the required gown and gloves, despite being aware of the EBP status, signage, and availability of PPE. Both CNAs confirmed in interviews that they should have worn the appropriate PPE but did not do so. Review of facility policy confirmed the requirement for gown and glove use during such care activities for residents on EBP.