Improper Perineal Care Technique Observed During Incontinent Care
Penalty
Summary
A certified nursing assistant (CNA) provided incontinent care to a resident with dementia, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and major depressive disorder, who was frequently incontinent of bladder and bowel and required assistance with activities of daily living. During the observed care, the CNA cleaned the resident's buttocks using a back to front motion, contrary to the facility's policy and standard infection control practices, which require cleaning from front to back to prevent contamination of the urethra. The CNA confirmed during an interview that she used a back to front motion and believed it was the correct technique, despite having received training and passing a competency check on perineal care earlier in the year. The Director of Nursing (DON) verified that the correct method is front to back and that staff receive annual training and skills checks on infection control and incontinent care. Facility policy also specifies cleaning from front to back. This improper technique was directly observed and acknowledged by both the CNA and the DON.