Failure to Properly Store Respiratory Equipment and Indicate Oxygen Use
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who required oxygen therapy and as-needed breathing treatments. Observations revealed that the resident's t-tube, used for nebulized medication administration, was left unbagged on the side table after its last use, which was reportedly a week prior to the survey. Both the resident and staff confirmed that the t-tube was not stored in a clean plastic bag as required by facility policy and professional standards, and staff did not notice or address the improper storage during routine rounds. Additionally, there was no sign posted outside the resident's room to indicate that oxygen was in use, as required for safety precautions. Interviews with nursing staff and facility leadership confirmed that the expectation was for all respiratory equipment to be properly cleaned and stored in a plastic bag when not in use, and that the lack of proper storage could not be accounted for. Review of facility policy confirmed the requirement for infection control practices and proper handling and storage of respiratory equipment.