Failure to Follow PPE Protocols for Resident on Respiratory Isolation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow established infection control practices regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for residents on transmission-based isolation precautions. Facility policy and CDC guidelines require staff to use N95 masks, gowns, and eye protection when caring for residents with COVID-19 or those on respiratory isolation, and to ensure residents wear a facemask when leaving their rooms. During observation, a nurse aide was seen transporting a resident on respiratory isolation without wearing a gown or eye protection, and the resident was not provided with a facemask while in the hallway. Further observation showed the same aide assisting the resident inside the room without the required PPE. The unit manager confirmed that the resident was on respiratory isolation and that staff should have been using N95 masks, goggles or eye wear, and gowns, and that residents should wear an N95 mask when outside their room. These actions were not consistent with facility policy or CDC guidelines, resulting in a deficiency related to infection prevention and control.