Failure to Ensure Daily Glucometer Testing and Documentation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the accurate testing and documentation of a glucometer used for residents in halls 100, 200, and 400. Review of the glucometer logbook revealed that test results were not recorded on multiple dates in July. The DON confirmed that it was the responsibility of night shift nurses to test the glucometers daily and record the results, and that both the DON and ADON were responsible for checking the logbooks to ensure compliance. However, the DON also stated there was no official policy in place regarding the frequency of glucometer testing, though it was considered best practice. Interviews with staff indicated that night shift nurses were trained to perform and document daily glucometer tests, but attempts to contact night shift nurses for further clarification were unsuccessful. The lack of recorded test results meant there was no verification that the glucometer was functioning accurately on the specified dates. The DON and an LVN both acknowledged the importance of accurate glucometer readings for safe insulin administration. No facility policy regarding glucometer testing frequency was provided to the surveyor upon request.