Infection Control Deficiencies: Improper Biohazard Waste Handling, Unsanitary Resident Environment, and Lack of Hand Hygiene Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection prevention and control practices as evidenced by several observed deficiencies. For one resident on transmission-based precautions with a tracheostomy and multi-drug-resistant organisms, the biohazard waste container in the room was found overflowing with used personal protective equipment (PPE), with some waste spilling onto the floor. Additionally, the biohazard container was being used to hold cubicle curtains in place, resulting in direct contact between the container and the curtains. The unit manager confirmed unawareness of the overflowing waste and improper use of the container. Another resident with a history of malignant neoplasm of the lung, COPD, and hypertension was observed multiple times with a urinal containing urine placed on the overbed table next to the water pitcher. This unsanitary practice was confirmed by the unit manager as not following safe infection control procedures. The urinal remained on the overbed table across several observations, indicating a persistent issue with maintaining a sanitary environment for the resident. Additionally, five residents with varying degrees of cognitive and physical impairment were not offered hand hygiene assistance prior to meals during meal tray distribution. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) A was observed setting up meal trays for these residents without providing or encouraging hand hygiene, despite facility policy requiring staff to assist residents with hand hygiene before eating. Both the unit manager and the Director of Nursing confirmed that staff are expected to ensure residents' hands are clean prior to meals, and CNA A acknowledged the failure to provide this assistance.