Unclean Tube Feeding Equipment Due to Unclear Cleaning Responsibilities
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified regarding the cleanliness and sanitation of tube feeding equipment for one resident receiving tube feeding. Multiple observations over several days revealed that the resident's tube feeding pole and associated equipment, including the screen, base, and power cord, were covered in dried tube feeding splatter, crust, and unknown debris. Despite repeated observations, the equipment remained unclean, and the unsanitary condition persisted. Interviews with staff, including LPNs, housekeeping, and the Director of Nursing (DON), revealed confusion and lack of clarity regarding responsibility for cleaning the tube feeding poles. Some staff believed housekeeping was responsible, while others indicated that nursing staff should clean the equipment at the end of each shift. The ongoing lack of cleaning and unclear assignment of duties resulted in the tube feeding equipment remaining in an unsanitary state for several days.