Lack of Staff Training on External Cardiac Defibrillator
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to ensure that licensed nurses had received training on the use of an external cardiac defibrillator (Life Vest) prior to providing care for a resident who was required to wear the device at all times following hospital discharge. Record review showed that the resident was alert and oriented, receiving dialysis, required extensive assistance with transfers, and had an active infectious disease requiring transmission-based precautions. Multiple LPNs who provided care to the resident confirmed in interviews that they had not received any training on the Life Vest, nor were there training materials available for staff reference. The Director of Nursing also confirmed that no training on the Life Vest had occurred prior to the resident's admission and care.