Failure to Label and Date Oxygen Equipment for Residents Receiving Respiratory Care
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that two residents receiving supplemental oxygen therapy had oxygen equipment, including humidifier bottles and oxygen tubing, that were not labeled or dated to indicate when they were last changed. Both residents had physician orders specifying that the oxygen tubing, nasal cannula, and humidifier bottles should be changed weekly and labeled with the date of change. During the survey, the equipment in both residents' rooms lacked any such labeling, and in one instance, the oxygen tubing was found lying on the floor. Staff interviews confirmed that the labeling had not been completed as required. An LPN acknowledged the omission and stated that the night shift was responsible for labeling the oxygen tubing, regardless of whether the oxygen was administered as needed. The DON was also informed of the issue and agreed that the lack of labeling was unacceptable. The deficiency was identified based on direct observation, record review, and staff interviews.