Improper Storage of Oxygen Cylinder in Resident Room
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when an oxygen cylinder was found stored in a resident's room, contrary to the facility's policy which prohibits storing oxygen cylinders in any resident room or living area. The resident involved was an elderly female with a history of dysphagia, chronic pain, encephalopathy, hyponatremia, and a personal history of COVID-19. Her medical records indicated moderate cognitive impairment and a need for assistance with transfers. She had orders for oxygen therapy and nebulizer treatments due to respiratory failure. During an observation, a full oxygen cylinder was found in the resident's room. Interviews with the LVN and DON confirmed that the oxygen cylinder should have been stored in the designated oxygen storage room for safety reasons. The LVN was unaware of how long the cylinder had been in the room or why it was there, as the resident did not use it. Facility policy, as reviewed, clearly states that oxygen cylinders must be stored in racks, carts, or approved stands and never in resident rooms.