Failure to Follow Infection Control Protocols During Blood Glucose Monitoring
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement an effective infection prevention and control program as required by internal policies, national guidelines, and regulations. During observations, an LPN was seen entering the rooms of two residents to check their blood sugar levels. On both occasions, the LPN donned gloves without performing hand hygiene beforehand and used a glucometer to check the residents' blood sugar. After use, the LPN placed the glucometer back into its case without cleaning or disinfecting the device. The LPN acknowledged these lapses during an interview and confirmed the brand of glucometer and the types of disinfectant wipes available for use. Review of the glucometer manufacturer's manual indicated that the device must be cleaned and disinfected after each use to prevent indirect transmission of bloodborne pathogens. The facility's hand hygiene policy and CDC guidelines both require hand hygiene before donning gloves and after glove removal, emphasizing that gloves do not replace hand hygiene. These requirements were not followed during the observed blood glucose monitoring procedures, resulting in a failure to adhere to established infection control practices.