Failure to Follow Enhanced Barrier Precautions for Resident with Gastrostomy
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an infection prevention and control program as required, specifically regarding the use of Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) for a resident with a gastrostomy. Facility policy mandates the use of gowns and gloves during high-contact care activities for residents with indwelling medical devices or wounds. Despite signage indicating EBP requirements in the resident's room, video surveillance footage on two separate dates showed that two nursing assistants provided morning care to the resident without wearing gowns, as required by policy. Interviews with the Infection Preventionist and the nursing assistants confirmed that the resident had been on EBP since admission and that staff were aware of the requirement to wear gowns and gloves during care. However, both nursing assistants acknowledged not wearing gowns during the observed care episodes. The Director of Nursing Services was unable to provide evidence that the facility maintained an infection control program to prevent the spread of infection related to EBP for this resident.