Improper Storage of Nebulizer Mask for Resident Receiving Respiratory Care
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with acute and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was not provided respiratory care consistent with professional standards and the facility's own policies. The resident, who was cognitively intact and receiving oxygen therapy, had a physician's order for Budesonide inhalation via nebulizer twice daily. During an observation, the resident's nebulizer mask and tubing were found stored in a drawer with other personal items and not placed in a bag as required. The resident was unaware that the mask should have been bagged. Interviews with nursing staff and the DON confirmed that the nebulizer mask should have been stored in a plastic bag when not in use to prevent infection, and that it was the nurse's responsibility to ensure proper storage. The facility's policy specifically required nebulizer equipment to be stored in a dated, resident-labeled plastic bag between uses. This failure to follow policy and professional standards resulted in the resident's respiratory equipment being improperly stored.