Improper Storage of Respiratory Equipment for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for two residents who required respiratory support, as evidenced by improper storage of respiratory equipment. For one resident with a respiratory disorder who was on continuous oxygen therapy via nasal cannula, the nasal cannula was observed inside a trash can and not bagged when not in use. This resident's care plan and physician's orders specified the need for supplemental oxygen and proper monitoring, but the equipment was not handled according to professional standards or facility policy. Another resident, diagnosed with pneumonia and severe cognitive impairment, had a nebulization machine with a breathing mask that was not bagged when not in use. The resident was unable to recall the last use of the equipment, and the mask was left exposed on the bedside table. The care plan for this resident included following orders for respiratory illness treatment, and physician's orders specified the use of inhaled medication as needed. Interviews with staff, including an LVN, DON, and ADON, confirmed that the nasal cannula and breathing mask should have been bagged when not in use to prevent cross-contamination and infection. The facility's policy on respiratory treatment and infection control required proper cleaning and storage of respiratory equipment, which was not followed in these instances.