Improper Infection Control During Catheter Care
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a certified nurse assistant (CNA) failed to perform proper infection control procedures during indwelling catheter care for a resident with a history of malignant neoplasm of the bladder, obstructive and reflux uropathy, urinary tract infection, and infection related to a catheter. The resident was dependent on staff for toileting and had an indwelling catheter as ordered by the physician, with care to be provided every shift. During observation, the CNA used a basin of water and multiple washcloths to clean the catheter and surrounding area. However, the CNA placed used washcloths back into the basin, contaminating the water, and then reused these washcloths for further cleaning and rinsing, rather than using clean washcloths for each step. The CNA confirmed during interview that contaminated washcloths were reused from the same basin, and only two of the three washcloths were used, despite the contamination. The regional nurse also acknowledged ongoing issues with CNAs placing dirty washcloths back into the basin, contaminating the water, and not following proper infection control practices. The facility's policy requires appropriate treatment and services to prevent urinary tract infections, but the observed practice did not align with these standards.