Failure to Follow Infection Control Practices During Blood Glucose Monitoring
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to follow infection prevention and control practices during blood glucose monitoring for three residents. Specifically, a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) was observed entering residents' rooms and placing a multiuse glucometer directly on bedside tables without using a barrier. After obtaining blood glucose readings, the CNA cleaned only the end of the glucometer with an alcohol wipe, rather than using the approved disinfectant wipes as required by facility policy and manufacturer instructions. The Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, which were available on the cart and approved for use, were not used between resident contacts, but only after all glucose checks were completed. Interviews confirmed that the CNA was aware of the need for a barrier and proper disinfection but did not follow these procedures, stating that administration had indicated alcohol wipes were acceptable. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the correct procedure was to use a barrier and disinfect the glucometer with the approved wipes between each resident. The residents involved had diagnoses including Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, with varying levels of cognitive function as documented in their records.