Failure to Label and Date Enteral Feeding Equipment
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with a history of atherosclerotic heart disease and unspecified dysphagia was observed receiving enteral tube feeding. The physician's orders specified the use of Osmolite 1.2 at a set rate and water flushes, both administered via an electronic pump. During multiple observations, the tube feeding container and the accompanying water flush bag were found to be unlabeled and undated, despite designated areas for staff to sign and date them. Additionally, the tubing itself was not labeled or dated, and at one point, the water flush bag was observed to be open at the top. Interviews with staff confirmed that the feeding container and water flush bag should have been labeled and that the flush bag should not have been left open. The LPN acknowledged the oversight and indicated that another nurse had started the feeding earlier. The DON and Administrator also confirmed that the tube feeding bag should have been signed and dated, indicating a failure to follow established protocols for labeling and dating enteral feeding equipment.