Improper Storage of Nebulizer Mask for Resident Requiring Respiratory Care
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with asthma and severe cognitive impairment, who required respiratory care including nebulizer treatments, was not provided with safe and appropriate storage of her respiratory equipment. During observation, the resident's nebulizer breathing mask was found connected to the machine and not stored in a bag when not in use, contrary to professional standards and the facility's own infection prevention policy. The resident was unable to state where the mask was kept after treatments, indicating a lack of awareness or involvement in the storage process. Interviews with nursing staff and facility leadership confirmed that the expectation was for the breathing mask to be bagged after each use to prevent infection and cross-contamination, regardless of whether the treatment was administered daily or as needed. The facility's policy specifically required respiratory therapy equipment, such as nebulizer circuits, to be stored in a plastic bag when not in use. The failure to follow this protocol was observed and acknowledged by staff, resulting in a deficiency related to the safe and appropriate provision of respiratory care.