Failure to Maintain Proper Catheter Bag Positioning and Infection Control
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to follow appropriate infection control guidelines for indwelling urinary catheter care for a resident with a history of urinary tract infection (UTI) and sepsis. Multiple observations showed the resident's catheter bag hanging inappropriately, with portions of the bag touching the floor and no barrier in place. On several occasions, the catheter bag was seen either hanging from a trash can or under a recliner, with up to half of the bag in contact with the floor. Staff interviews confirmed that the catheter bag should not be touching the floor, and corrective action was taken during one observation to reposition the bag. The resident required staff assistance for mobility and was observed to use the call light when needing help. The facility's policy required adherence to professional standards of practice and infection prevention procedures for catheter care. Despite this, the observed practices did not align with infection control standards, as the catheter bag was repeatedly found in contact with the floor, increasing the risk of contamination.