Failure to Maintain Sanitary Respiratory Care Equipment
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that an oxygen concentrator remained at the bedside of a resident who reported not having used oxygen for a month, with the tubing still attached to the machine. The resident confirmed that they no longer required oxygen, yet the equipment was left in their room. This indicates a failure to remove unnecessary respiratory equipment in a timely manner, which is part of maintaining a sanitary environment. Additionally, in another room, surveyors found that the oxygen tubing for two residents was not stored in a sanitary manner. The tubing was draped over the concentrator, and the nasal cannula was found directly on the floor. Both residents had active or recent orders for oxygen therapy, but the tubing was not properly stored when not in use. Staff interviews confirmed that the tubing should have been coiled and stored in a bag, but this was not done, resulting in unsanitary conditions related to respiratory care.