Failure to Implement and Document Infection Control Measures for Scabies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its infection prevention and control procedures to prevent the potential spread of scabies in the Memory Care Unit. According to the facility's policy, early identification and management of scabies, including treatment of close contacts, laundering of clothing and bedding, and thorough cleaning of the resident's environment, are required. However, after a resident was diagnosed and treated for scabies at the hospital and subsequently readmitted, the Infection Preventionist (IP) did not document the skin assessments performed on the resident, the roommate, or other close contacts. Additionally, the IP did not document inquiries made to staff regarding rashes or skin issues. The facility did not clean or launder the resident's or roommate's clothing, bedding, or room prior to the resident's return from the hospital, as required by policy. The resident involved had severe cognitive impairment and was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living. The IP acknowledged that no in-services were conducted for staff regarding scabies management, as it was deemed unnecessary. The lack of documentation and failure to implement required infection control measures, including environmental cleaning and staff education, contributed to the facility's noncompliance with its own infection prevention and control program.