Failure to Follow Droplet and Contact Precautions for Resident With Influenza A
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to implement its infection prevention and control policy for a resident on droplet and contact precautions. The resident was admitted with influenza A and had physician orders for contact and droplet isolation every shift. The resident’s care plan included an intervention to provide instructions and education to family, visitors, and staff regarding contact precautions and proper use of PPE when in direct contact with the resident and materials used by the resident. Droplet and contact precaution signage was posted outside the resident’s room. Surveyors observed a CNA enter the resident’s room on two occasions without donning the required PPE and without performing hand hygiene. On the first occasion, the CNA entered the room without gown, gloves, or face shield, removed the resident’s water pitcher, and exited the room without hand hygiene. On the second occasion, the CNA again entered the room without performing hand hygiene or donning gown, gloves, or face shield, placed a water pitcher on the bedside table, and left without hand hygiene. In an interview, the CNA stated she believed she only needed to wear a gown and gloves when providing direct care and thought the resident was on isolation for a urinary infection. The Infection Preventionist confirmed the resident was on droplet and contact precautions for influenza A and stated that all staff entering the room should perform hand hygiene and wear a face shield, disposable gown, and gloves, consistent with the facility’s written isolation policy.
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