Failure to Follow Contact Precaution Protocols for Resident with C-diff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that staff implemented infection control policies for a resident on contact precautions. Facility policy required staff and visitors to wear gloves and a disposable gown when entering the room of a resident on contact precautions. A resident with diagnoses of Clostridioides difficile (C-diff) and sepsis was placed on contact precautions per physician order and care plan. On observation, a housekeeper entered the resident's room wearing only disposable gloves and a surgical mask, but not a protective gown, despite signage on the door indicating the requirement for both gloves and gown. After leaving the resident's room, the housekeeper removed her gloves and put on a new pair without washing her hands, then proceeded to clean the hallway and other resident rooms. The housekeeper stated she was aware of the contact precautions but believed only gloves and a mask were required. The deficiency was identified through observation, policy review, and staff interview, confirming that infection control protocols were not followed as required for residents on contact precautions.