Failure to Replace Expired Sink Faucet Filters for Infection Control
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow infection prevention and control guidelines by not ensuring that resident room sink faucet filters were changed once expired. During a facility tour, it was observed that several resident room sink faucet filters were past their expiration dates, with some being 6 to 7 days overdue. Manufacturer instructions indicated that the filters should be used for a maximum of 31 days following initial connection. The Maintenance Director confirmed that he and the maintenance assistant were responsible for changing the filters, but was unaware that several filters were overdue for replacement. Additionally, the facility did not maintain records or logs of water filter changes, and the Maintenance Director stated that the Maintenance Assistant should have changed the filters during his absence. Interviews with the DNS and Corporate Clinical Director revealed that the building had a known infectious agent in the water, and the water was being monitored. They confirmed that the 31-day sink faucet filters in the affected rooms should have been changed when due. The lack of timely filter changes and absence of documentation contributed to the facility's failure to adhere to infection prevention and control protocols.