Failure to Disinfect Shared Equipment and Maintain Respiratory Infection Control
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to disinfect a shared sit-to-stand mechanical lift between uses with different residents. Observations showed that after using the lift with one resident, staff moved it directly to another resident's room and used it again without cleaning. Interviews with CNAs and housekeeping staff revealed confusion about responsibility for cleaning the lift, with both groups indicating it was the other's duty. Administrative nursing staff clarified that nursing staff were responsible for cleaning the equipment between residents, but this protocol was not being followed in practice. Additional infection control lapses were observed regarding respiratory equipment. A nebulizer was left attached to tubing with liquid remaining in the chamber overnight, and oxygen tubing was found on the floor with the nasal cannula resting on the ground. Staff interviews indicated that nebulizer cleaning procedures were not consistently followed, and oxygen tubing was not stored in a plastic bag as required by facility policy. Furthermore, a cart of lost and found clothing was left uncovered in common areas, contrary to infection control expectations.