Failure to Maintain Infection Control Practices for Catheter Care and PPE Use
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection control practices in the care of an indwelling urinary catheter for one resident. Specifically, the resident had a diagnosis of high blood pressure, heart failure, and obstructive uropathy, and required an indwelling urinary catheter. During an observation, the resident's catheter drainage bag was found lying directly on the floor beside the bed without a privacy cover, contrary to facility policy which requires the drainage bag to be kept below bladder level but not on the floor and covered for privacy and dignity. Additionally, staff failed to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required under Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) when providing care to the resident. A nursing assistant emptied the resident's catheter without wearing gloves or a gown, despite EBP signage and PPE being available outside the room. The nursing assistant acknowledged awareness of the EBP requirements and confirmed the failure to use PPE and the improper placement of the drainage bag. The Director of Nursing also confirmed these lapses in infection control practices.