Failure to Provide Hand Hygiene Assistance Before Meals
Penalty
Summary
During meal service, a staff member failed to follow the facility's infection prevention and control policy regarding hand hygiene. Specifically, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) A did not offer or assist two residents with hand hygiene prior to serving their lunch meals. Both residents had documented needs for assistance with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, as indicated in their care plans and Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments. Observations confirmed that CNA A delivered meal trays, opened silverware and plate covers, and allowed the residents to begin eating without providing hand hygiene assistance. Interviews with the residents confirmed that staff did not offer hand hygiene before the meal. CNA A acknowledged the omission, and the Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that staff are expected to assist all residents with hand hygiene before meals, as per facility policy. The failure to provide hand hygiene assistance was observed and verified through policy review, medical record review, direct observation, and staff and resident interviews.