Delay in Reporting Lab Results Led to Delayed UTI Treatment
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to ensure that laboratory results were obtained and reported to the provider in a timely manner, which delayed treatment for a urinary tract infection (UTI). A resident with multiple diagnoses, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, atrial fibrillation, major depressive disorder, hyperlipidemia, anxiety, hypertension, and malignant neoplasm of the large intestine, exhibited symptoms of a UTI and was seen by a nurse practitioner, who ordered a urinalysis with culture and sensitivity (UA C&S). However, the order for the UA C&S was not placed until two days after the initial assessment, and the urine sample was collected and sent to the lab on the same day the order was placed. The urinalysis indicated infection, and the urine culture, received by the facility three days later, confirmed the presence of Escherichia coli ESBL. Despite receiving the final urine culture results, the facility did not report these results to the nurse practitioner until three days after they were available. Only then was an antibiotic ordered and started for the resident. Interviews with the Director of Nursing (DON) and Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) confirmed the delay in reporting the abnormal laboratory results to the provider, and the ADON was unable to provide a reason for the delay. Facility policy required prompt notification of the provider when there was a need to alter medical treatment, including changes in provider orders.