Failure to Follow Infection Control Guidelines for Floor Cleaning
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow infection control and prevention guidelines for environmental cleaning of floors in resident areas for 34 sampled residents. According to interviews and record reviews, staff were routinely mopping resident room floors using only water, without any cleaning solution or disinfectant, contrary to CDC guidelines which require a two-step process of cleaning with detergent and then disinfecting, especially in the case of spills involving bodily fluids. Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) reported that they were instructed not to use cleaning products due to concerns about the flooring warranty and the cost of approved products. In cases of visible contamination, such as bowel movements, some staff used hydrogen peroxide wipes, but this was not standard practice and was discouraged by management. Staff expressed concerns that using only water did not adequately clean or disinfect the floors and could spread contaminants. The Supportive Systems Manager confirmed that only water had been used for mopping and stated that a new cleaning and disinfecting product was expected to arrive soon. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that using only water was not appropriate, as it did not kill germs, and stated an expectation that staff should use detergent followed by a sanitizer. The facility's practice of cleaning floors with only water, without proper cleaning agents or disinfectants, was inconsistent with both CDC recommendations and internal expectations, leading to a deficiency in infection control practices.