Infection Control and Environmental Sanitation Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain safe and sanitary conditions to prevent the spread of infection, as evidenced by improper disinfection of blood glucose meters and inadequate laundry handling practices. Nursing staff were observed using alcohol wipes to disinfect glucometers, despite the manufacturer's instructions and facility policy requiring the use of Super Sani-cloth sanitizing wipes. Interviews with nursing staff confirmed the use of alcohol wipes, and the infection preventionist acknowledged that alcohol wipes were not recommended. Additionally, clean linen was observed uncovered and stored in close proximity to dirty laundry, with soiled items found on the floor in the laundry area. The environmental services supervisor confirmed that clean linen should be covered when moved and that the observed practices did not meet facility expectations. Black marks were also noted on the plastic door flaps separating clean and dirty laundry areas, indicating a lack of proper cleaning. The facility also failed to consistently monitor and maintain water temperatures as part of its legionella prevention measures. The maintenance director reported that water temperatures were recorded at the boiler, but documentation showed that temperatures were only recorded for 16 out of 31 days in May, and none of the recorded temperatures reached the required 116 degrees Fahrenheit. The administrator confirmed that the facility aimed to follow CDC guidelines by maintaining the boiler at 116 degrees, but the logs did not support that this standard was met.