Failure to Use Enhanced Barrier Precautions During Wound Care
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to implement Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) during wound care and personal care activities for a resident with an open wound. During an observation, a CNA and an RN assisted the resident with toileting and performed a dressing change on a coccyx wound without wearing the required gown and gloves, despite the facility's policy mandating EBP for any wound requiring a dressing. The open wound had been identified several days prior and was being treated per physician orders. The facility's policy clearly states that EBP, including gown and gloves, must be used during high-contact care activities such as dressing changes, toileting, and hygiene for residents with wounds requiring dressings, regardless of MDRO status. Staff interviews confirmed that EBP supplies were available, but the precautions were not followed during the observed care.