Failure to Prevent Cross-Contamination During Incontinence Care
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to follow infection prevention and control protocols during incontinence care for two residents. During observed care, nursing assistants and an LPN removed soiled briefs and pants containing urine and feces and placed them directly onto the floor, contrary to facility policy which requires immediate disposal of such items into designated containers. After completing care, staff picked up the soiled items from the floor and disposed of them, but walked across the area where the contaminated items had been lying without sanitizing the floor. Staff interviews confirmed that the soiled briefs were placed on the floor and that the area was not sanitized afterward. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that this practice was not in accordance with facility policy, which prohibits placing soiled briefs on the floor and requires their disposal in designated containers. The actions observed created a potential for cross-contamination, as outlined in the facility's infection control policies.