Catheter Bag Found on Floor in Violation of Infection Control Protocols
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with a history of urinary retention, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and chronic heart failure was observed seated in a wheelchair with their urinary catheter bag resting on the floor. The resident had an active bladder infection and was being treated with antibiotics at the time. The facility had a physician's order for an indwelling catheter with instructions for care, including maintaining a closed system unless clogging or dislodgement occurred. Interviews with an LPN and the Director of Nursing confirmed that catheter bags are required to be kept off the ground at all times to prevent contamination and infection. Facility policies also specified that catheter tubing and drainage bags should not be placed on the floor to reduce the risk of contamination and catheter-associated urinary tract infections. Despite these protocols, the resident's catheter bag was found on the floor, indicating a failure to adhere to established infection control procedures.