Uncovered Urinary Catheter Bag Compromises Resident Dignity
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident's urinary catheter bag was observed hanging uncovered and visible to others in the resident's room while the resident was eating lunch. The catheter bag, filled with yellow urine, was not concealed by a privacy bag, making it visible to anyone entering the room. The resident, who had a history of hemiplegia, hemiparesis, obstructive and reflux uropathy, and benign prostatic hyperplasia, stated he was unaware of why the catheter bag was left uncovered. Staff interviews confirmed that the standard practice and facility policy require catheter bags to be covered with privacy bags to maintain resident dignity and privacy. The Certified Nurse Assistant responsible for the resident acknowledged the oversight and immediately covered the bag upon noticing the deficiency. Both the Infection Preventionist and the Director of Nursing confirmed that all staff are expected to ensure catheter bags are covered at all times, as outlined in the facility's dignity and resident rights policies.