Infection Control Deficiencies in Respiratory Equipment, Laundry Handling, and Legionella Monitoring
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection prevention and control practices in several areas. Two residents' respiratory equipment was not stored in a sanitary manner: one resident's nasal cannula was found wrapped around a canister handle in the room, and another resident's nebulizer was left on a bedside table without a clean barrier or sanitary container. Staff interviews confirmed that respiratory equipment should be cleaned, air-dried, and stored in a plastic bag with the resident's name and date, as per facility policy, but this was not followed in these instances. Additionally, the laundry room lacked a gown for staff to wear while sorting dirty laundry, and laundry staff were unaware of the requirement to use a gown. Clean laundry was observed being transported uncovered, with clothing and linens placed on top of the cart, contrary to facility policy that requires clean laundry to be covered and handled in a sanitary manner. The facility was also unable to provide documentation of trend and tracking for Legionella monitoring, as required by their policy, due to a change in staffing and missing records.