Failure to Properly Store Nebulizer Mask for Resident Receiving Respiratory Care
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident who required respiratory care for conditions including COPD, asthma, and chronic kidney disease was not provided care consistent with professional standards and the facility's own policies. During observation, the resident's nebulizer mask and tubing were found stored in the top drawer of the nightstand with personal items, not in a plastic bag labeled with the resident's name and date as required. The resident confirmed having used the nebulizer earlier that day. Staff interviews revealed that both nursing and CNA staff were aware that nebulizer masks should be bagged when not in use to prevent contamination, and that this was standard practice in the facility. Further interviews with the ADON and Regional Nurse Consultant confirmed that respiratory care items, including nebulizer masks and tubing, were to be changed weekly, dated, and stored in bags when not in use. The facility's policy also specified that nebulizer masks should be stored in a plastic bag with the resident's name and date. The failure to properly store the nebulizer mask was directly observed and acknowledged by staff, but had not been corrected at the time of the survey, resulting in a deficiency related to infection control and adherence to care standards.