Failure to Use Required PPE for Resident on Enhanced Barrier Precautions
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to implement its infection prevention and control program by not ensuring proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for a resident on Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP). The resident was admitted with diagnoses including toxic encephalopathy, Parkinson’s disease, and gastrostomy status, and was documented as moderately cognitively impaired, dependent on staff for toileting and lower body dressing, and frequently incontinent of bowels. The physician’s orders and active care plan required staff to use EBP, including gowns and gloves, during high-contact care activities such as ADL care, toileting, changing briefs, and linen changes due to the presence of a feeding tube. Surveyor observations showed that a CNA repeatedly entered and exited the resident’s room, which had an EBP sign on the door, without wearing a gown while assisting with toileting, perineal care, dressing, and changing bed linens. The CNA confirmed she was providing these high-contact care activities, verified that the resident was on EBP, and acknowledged that she did not wear a gown and that there was no supply of PPE near the room. A clear trash bag in the room contained discarded products but no used gowns. Review of the facility’s EBP policy dated 12/3/25 stated that, at minimum, staff must wear gloves and gowns during high-contact care activities including ADL care, toileting, and showers, which was not followed in this instance.
