Failure to Provide Privacy Bag for Urinary Catheter
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to provide a privacy bag for a resident with a urinary catheter, as required by the facility's Incontinence Management policy. The resident, who had intact cognition and a diagnosis of neuromuscular dysfunction of the bladder with a suprapubic catheter, was observed on multiple occasions lying in bed with an uncovered urinary catheter bag hanging on the bed rail. The bag was visible from the hallway to residents, staff, and visitors. The care plan and physician's orders specified the use of a securement device and maintenance of the catheter, but did not mention the use of a privacy bag. Staff interviews confirmed that the urinary catheter bag was not covered and was visible from the hallway. Both an LPN and a CNA acknowledged that the bag should have been covered to maintain the resident's dignity and privacy, and noted that the lack of a cover could cause embarrassment and discomfort for the resident. The CNA indicated that the bag had not been covered for about a week, possibly due to a shortage of privacy bags. The DON stated that her expectation was for catheter bags to be covered at all times except when being emptied, and agreed that not covering the bag was a dignity issue that could affect the resident emotionally and psychologically.