Failure to Store Respiratory Equipment in Sanitary Conditions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain sanitary storage of respiratory care equipment for a resident with significant respiratory and neurological conditions. The resident had diagnoses including hemiplegia, hemiparesis following a stroke, chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia, and required the use of oxygen therapy, a nebulizer, and a CPAP machine. Observations revealed that the resident's oxygen tubing and nasal cannula were left unwrapped and draped around the top of a portable oxygen canister, while nebulizer and CPAP equipment not in use were left unwrapped or unbagged on bedside tables. Interviews with nursing staff and administrative personnel confirmed that these items should have been cleaned and stored in bags when not in use, in accordance with facility policy. Review of the facility's policies showed clear instructions that oxygen delivery devices, nebulizer mouthpieces, and CPAP equipment should be covered or stored in plastic or zip-lock bags when not in use. Despite these policies, the equipment was not stored as required, placing the resident at risk for respiratory infections. The deficiency was identified through observation, record review, and staff interviews, and was corroborated by documentation in the resident's medical record and care plan.