Failure to Provide Proper Ostomy Care
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents with ileostomies received care consistent with professional standards of nursing practice for 2 of 2 residents reviewed. Resident #1 had a history of ileostomy, significant cognitive impairment, and multiple hospitalizations. Although a prior physician order for ostomy care had existed, it was discontinued, and after the resident was readmitted there were no new ostomy care orders entered. The care plan still addressed the ileostomy and included nursing and CNA interventions, but the documentation reviewed showed nurses signed off on ostomy-related care on some dates while the CNA task documentation did not specify wafer changes. Resident #2 had an ileostomy for more than 10 years and was cognitively intact. He reported that over a 2-week period he used approximately 8 ostomy wafers because they leaked stool due to incorrect wafer sizing and improper application. He stated staff were cutting the wafer opening too large and were not allowing his skin to dry before applying the wafer. He also stated that CNAs at the facility routinely performed ostomy care, including wafer application, and that many did not appear competent or adequately trained to perform the task. Facility staff interviews showed inconsistent understanding of who was performing ostomy care and what the task included. A unit manager stated both nurses and CNAs were trained to provide ostomy care and that CNAs were permitted to perform it within their scope. Another unit manager stated some staff were unfamiliar with properly cutting the wafer and that towels had been used to manage leakage for Resident #1. The DON stated ostomy care was a CNA task and that CNAs documented the care, while also acknowledging that staff were expected to size the wafer correctly to prevent leakage. The facility’s CNA competency materials and refresher education included measuring the stoma, cutting the opening, and applying the ring, while the facility policy stated ostomy care would be provided per physician orders. Florida Administrative Code cited in the report limited CNA duties to emptying ostomy bags or changing bags that do not adhere to the skin, and excluded removal of the flange or manipulation of the stoma site.
Penalty
Resources
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