Failure to Maintain Infection Control Practices for IV Catheter Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection prevention and control practices in the management of intravenous catheters for a resident receiving IV therapy. During observation, the resident's peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line dressing was found to be dated three days prior and included square gauze pads directly over the insertion site, which prevented observation of the site. Facility policy requires that if gauze is used, it must be changed every two days, and that catheter site care includes observation and evaluation of the catheter-skin junction and surrounding tissue. Additionally, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) was observed flushing the resident's PICC line and leaving the end of the connection exposed, with the connection resting against the resident's body. The LPN then prepared IV antibiotic medication and attached the IV tubing to the PICC line connection without wiping the connection prior to attachment. The LPN acknowledged during interview that the connection should have been wiped with an alcohol wipe before connecting the IV tubing, which is consistent with facility expectations for central line care.