Improper Storage and Administration of Portable Oxygen Cylinder
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a portable oxygen cylinder was observed stored improperly, lying sideways on the seat of a manual wheelchair at the base of a resident's bed. The resident, who had diagnoses including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respiratory failure, and congestive heart failure, had been provided with an extra oxygen tank to facilitate movement and socialization within the facility. The resident was cognitively intact and required varying levels of assistance with mobility and dressing. The care plan included monitoring for respiratory symptoms and administering oxygen as ordered. During interviews, a social worker reported that she had provided oxygen to the resident in the past and knew how to operate the oxygen tank, despite not being professionally trained or qualified to do so. The Director of Nursing confirmed that only nursing staff should administer oxygen and that the social worker did not have the necessary competency or qualifications. Facility policy required staff to identify hazards related to oxygen therapy, particularly for residents with COPD, but this was not followed in this instance.