F0690

D

Improper Incontinence Care and Inadequate Linen Use During Perineal Hygiene

Westmont, Illinois Survey Completed on 01-13-2026

Penalty

No penalty information released

Summary

The deficiency involves staff failing to provide incontinence and perineal care according to facility policy and protocols, primarily due to inadequate use of clean linens and improper wiping techniques. For one resident with bowel and bladder incontinence, a CNA opened a saturated brief and observed a large, reddened scrotum, then used a single washcloth multiple times to wipe the penis, scrotum, buttocks smeared with feces, and rectal area. The CNA stated that disposable wipes were no longer used, that towels usually ran out, and that only one towel was available for the incontinence care provided. The resident’s care plan required cleaning the perineal area after each incontinence episode.

Another resident with bowel and bladder incontinence received perineal care from the same CNA, who reported finding only one washcloth on the linen cart. The CNA used that single washcloth to wipe the groin from right to left and then down the perineal area, and then used the same cloth to clean the perianal area. A third resident, also incontinent of bowel and bladder, received care from a different CNA who had only one washcloth and one towel. The CNA wet the bath towel and used it to wipe the groin, perineal, and perianal areas, including an area with stool, and then used a wet paper towel to remove soap from the perineal area. The DON confirmed that CNAs had voiced concerns about not having enough linen, that the facility used washcloths and bath towels instead of disposable wipes, and that staff were expected to swipe only once with each clean washcloth during perineal care, which could not be met if linens were insufficient. The facility’s incontinence care policy required perineal and genital care to prevent infection and ensure appropriate care and services to prevent urinary tract infections.