Failure to Adhere to Enhanced Barrier Precautions for Resident with G-Tube
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to infection control protocols for Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) for a resident with a gastrostomy tube. Observations revealed that a licensed nurse did not wear a gown while cleaning the resident's nebulizer mouthpiece after administering a nebulizer treatment. Additionally, a certified nurse aide assisted the same resident with changing his shirt without wearing gloves or a gown, despite the presence of personal protective equipment (PPE) and signage indicating the need for EBP for residents with indwelling medical devices such as feeding tubes. The facility's policy required the use of gowns and gloves during high-contact care activities for residents with indwelling medical devices, including feeding tubes, to prevent the spread of infection. PPE was available near the resident's room, and signage was posted with instructions for its use. However, staff did not consistently follow these protocols during observed care activities, resulting in a failure to implement the infection prevention and control program as outlined in facility policy.