Improper Perineal Care Technique During Incontinent Care
Penalty
Summary
A certified nursing assistant (CNA) was observed providing incontinent care to a resident with dementia, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, hypothyroidism, and hyperlipidemia, who was always incontinent of bowel and bladder and required extensive assistance. During the care, the CNA wiped the resident's buttocks in a back to front motion, contrary to proper perineal care technique. The CNA acknowledged using the incorrect motion and stated she was unaware of her mistake, despite having received training on incontinent care from the facility. The resident's care plan specified the need to keep the resident clean, dry, odor-free, and free from signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection (UTI). The facility's policy and the Director of Nursing (DON) both confirmed that the correct technique is to clean from front to back to prevent infection. The DON stated that staff receive annual training and skills checks, and spot checks are conducted for infection control and quality of care. Despite these measures, the CNA had passed her competency assessment earlier in the year but did not follow the correct procedure during the observed care.