Improper Handling of Soiled Linen by Staff
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) failed to properly handle soiled linen after providing activities of daily living (ADL) care to a resident. The LPN exited the resident's room carrying a large bundle of unbagged soiled linen and placed it in the laundry cart located 60 to 75 feet away from the room. This action was in direct violation of the facility's policy, which requires soiled linen to be minimally handled and placed in a collection bag before being removed from a resident's room. The LPN confirmed during an interview that the linen was not bagged as required by facility procedures. The resident involved had been readmitted with diagnoses including a urinary tract infection (UTI) and dysphagia, and was on Enhanced Barrier Precautions due to an enteral feeding tube. Interviews with other staff, including a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and the Infection Preventionist (IP), confirmed that the facility's expectation and policy is for all soiled linen to be bagged prior to removal from a resident's room to prevent the spread of infection. The failure to follow this protocol was observed and acknowledged by staff.