Improper Storage and Labeling of Suction Equipment
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with dementia, congestive heart failure, and gastrostomy status was observed with a portable suction machine at the bedside. The suction tubing, including the Yankauer tip, showed signs of prior use with dried residue and was left uncovered, resting directly on the bedside table. The tubing was not bagged, capped, or stored in a sanitary manner, and there was no date or label indicating when it was last used or replaced. The suction canister was also unlabeled. These observations were made during a routine check inside the resident's room. Interviews with staff revealed that the LVN was unaware of the facility's policy regarding the frequency of changing or replacing Yankauer suction tubing. The DON confirmed that the Yankauer tip was single-use and should have been discarded after use, and that both the suction canister and tubing should be labeled with the date of replacement. A review of the facility's policy indicated that critical and semi-critical items must be sterilized or disinfected and stored appropriately, which was not followed in this instance.