Failure to Follow Infection Control Protocols During Wound Care
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to follow infection prevention and control protocols during wound care for two residents. In one instance, a Licensed Practical Nurse and a Nurse Aide provided wound care to a resident who was under Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP), as indicated by a sign on the resident's door, but neither staff member wore a gown or gloves during the procedure. This was confirmed by a licensed nurse during an interview. In another instance, a licensed nurse placed wound care supplies, including gloves, gauze, saline, border dressing, and medication, directly on the resident's bed at the foot of the bed. During the procedure, saline was observed dripping from the gauze onto the bed. The nurse removed used gloves and applied new gloves that had been placed on the bed, without performing hand hygiene between glove changes. These actions were not in accordance with facility policy or CDC guidelines for infection prevention and control.