Failure to Maintain Proper Catheter Bag Position and Coverage
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with an indwelling urinary catheter was observed multiple times with their uncovered catheter drainage bag in direct contact with the floor. The observations occurred on three consecutive days, with the catheter bag either hanging from the bed and touching the floor or resting directly on the floor. The facility's Catheter Care Policy requires that catheter drainage bags be covered or shielded at all times and not be in contact with the floor, in order to maintain appropriate catheter care and resident dignity. The resident involved had significant medical conditions, including dementia, weakness, malignant neoplasm of the prostate, hemiplegia, urinary retention, and overactive bladder, and was assessed as being dependent for transfers, hygiene, dressing, and eating, with severe cognitive impairment. The Director of Nursing confirmed during an interview that catheter bags should not be placed on the floor and should be kept in a clean basin or have something underneath to prevent floor contact. Despite these requirements, the resident's catheter bag was repeatedly found uncovered and in contact with the floor.