Failure to Properly Store Respiratory Devices
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for residents who required it, as evidenced by improper storage of respiratory devices for three residents. Observations revealed that a resident's nebulizer mask was left sitting on top of the nebulizer on a chair after use, another resident's nasal cannula was found on the floor near the oxygen device and not bagged, and a third resident's inhaler was stored unbagged inside a nightstand. These actions were not consistent with professional standards of practice, the residents' care plans, or their goals and preferences. Interviews with nursing staff, including RNs, ADONs, and the DON, confirmed that respiratory devices such as nasal cannulas and breathing masks should be bagged when not in use to prevent infection. Staff acknowledged that it was their responsibility to ensure proper storage of these devices during rounds. The facility's respiratory care policy also indicated the importance of safe and evidence-based respiratory services for residents requiring such care.