Failure to Maintain Enhanced Barrier Precautions and PPE Availability
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection control practices and ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) was readily available for two residents who required enhanced barrier precautions (EBP). For one resident with a history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dementia, and a chronic wound, observations revealed a soiled dressing on the floor next to the bed and no PPE available inside or outside the room. Staff interviews confirmed that the resident frequently removed dressings and that there was confusion among staff regarding the purpose of the EBP signage. Additionally, there was no trash can near the exit for disposing of used PPE, and staff confirmed that PPE was not readily accessible for use. For another resident with severe protein calorie malnutrition, an indwelling catheter, and a feeding tube, staff were observed administering medications and handling the feeding tube without donning an isolation gown, as required under EBP. The LPN involved stated that she did not believe a gown was necessary for medication administration via tube feeding and confirmed that she worked across multiple floors. Facility policy required gowns and gloves to be available near or outside the resident's room and a trash can positioned for discarding PPE, but these measures were not observed to be in place.