Improper Storage of Oxygen Tanks
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure safe storage of oxygen tanks for one resident who was receiving oxygen therapy. During observations, one oxygen tank was found properly secured to a cart with a strap, while another tank was left loose and leaning against the wall in the resident's room. Facility policy requires all oxygen cylinders to be stored in a fire safety closet, locked, and secured with a non-combustible strap or chain to prevent tipping. Staff interviews confirmed that oxygen tanks should be stored in the designated oxygen room and secured according to policy. The resident involved had a history of cirrhosis of the liver and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, was on hospice care, and required oxygen as needed for respiratory comfort, with intact cognition as per recent assessment.