SERIOUS
(G)
Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures
Pressure Ulcer Prevention
(Tag F0686)
A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review and interviews, the facility failed to ensure resident care consistent with professional st...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review and interviews, the facility failed to ensure resident care consistent with professional standards of practice, to prevent avoidable pressure ulcers (injuries) for two (#63 and #85) of four residents reviewed out of 39 sample residents.
Resident #63 was admitted with dementia and muscle weakness and required extensive two-person assistance for mobility and transfers. This made the resident at risk for skin breakdown. The facility was aware of the resident's condition and failed to implement offloading, pressure relieving interventions until after the resident developed pressure ulcers. The resident had developed five facility-aquired pressure ulcers, two of which were stage 4, and two were unstageable. Furthermore, some interventions that were implemented were not person-centered or effective to assist the ulcers in healing (see observations and physical therapist interview).
Additionally, the facility failed to monitor an implemented intervention of a Roho cushion (pressure relief cushion, made of soft flexible aire cells) for Resident #85 to ensure it was inflated and provided the appropriate amount of offloading required to promote healing of a pressure ulcer to the right buttocks.
Findings include:
I. Facility policies and procedures
The Pressure Injury Prevention policy, revised October 2019, was provided by the clinical assistant (CA) on 2/10/2020 at 3:22 p.m. The policy required staff to:
-Upon Admission, complete an initial skin risk assessment by utilizing the admission nursing data collection evaluation in the electronic medical record to identify a resident risk factor for development of pressure injuries.
-The facility will then complete a Braden scale for predicting pressure sore risk tool upon admission.
-The facility will implement a care plan to identify potential risk for development of pressure injuries to include the identified risk (quoted in original) factors.
-The facility nursing assistants will complete a skin observation (quoted in original) and document finding by completing the every shift skin observation question in electronic medical record. The skin observation documentation is reviewed by a supervisor or designee daily. An abnormal finding will be reported to the director of nursing (DON) who will initiate additional follow-up.
-When a pressure injury is identified, the nurse will obtain a physician order and initiate a prescribed treatment.
-The facility will consult with PT/OT about appropriate wheelchair cushion/ positioning as needed.
The Pressure Injury Management policy, revised October 2019, was provided by the clinical assistant (CA) on 2/10/2020 at 3:22 p.m. The policy documented in pertinent part:
-The charge nurse or designee will be responsible to complete an initial narrative note in the resident's medical record to describe the residents' identified risk factors and a description of how the pressure injury most probably occurred if known.
-Risk factors may include but not limited to impaired/ decreased functional mobility, comorbid conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, drugs such as steroids that may affect healing, impaired diffuse or localized blood flow, undernutrition, malnutrition and hydration deficits etc
-A care plan will be initiated to identify actual skin breakdown to include identified related to risk factors (quoted in original) and individualized (quoted in original) interventions to aid in wound healing
-The resident's pressure reducing surfaces (wheelchair and mattress) will be re-evaluated. An upgrade will be made if indicated.
-Resident will be offered position changes at least every two hours unless otherwise specified per their care plan.
-Any resident who has a pressure injury, nursing will be responsible to complete daily documentation on the monitoring of the wound in the progress note section of the medical record.
-Weekly, the wound nurse or designee will conduct wound rounds and document the evaluation in the medical record.
-The facility will have an interdisciplinary team (IDT) meeting to review current treatment plans and initiate any revisions/ changes to the plan of care as indicated.
II. Failure to prevent unstageable pressure injuries for a resident with known risk
A. Resident #63 status
Resident #63, age [AGE], was admitted on [DATE], and readmitted on [DATE]. According to the February 2020 computerized physician's orders (CPO), diagnoses included Alzheimer's dementia, anemia, congestive heart failure, and muscle weakness.
The 1/15/2020 minimum data set (MDS) assessment documented the resident was severely cognitively impaired with a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of four out of 15. She required extensive two person assistance with bed mobility, dressing, toileting, personal hygiene and bathing. She was totally dependent on staff for transfers. She required supervision to eat. She had six unstageable, deep tissue injuries (DTIs) due to pressure. Two of the wounds were present on admission. Four of the wounds were acquired at the facility. One of the wounds was covered in eschar (necrotic dead tissue).
B. Record review
1. Five facility acquired wounds
On 2/13/2020 at 10:15 a.m., the clinical advocate (CA) provided a timeline for five (one more than identified on the MDS on 1/15/2020) facility acquired wounds which documented:
-Right posterior medial heel, onset date 10/1/19. Initial measurements 4.0 cm (centimeters) long x 5.0 cm wide x 0 cm deep. Current measurements on 2/10/2020 were 0.8 cm long x 1.6 cm wide x 0.2 cm deep. The current treatment was to cleanse with normal saline, apply skin prep to the periwound, Collagen Alginate, cut to fit wound, cover with Allevyn, wrap with kerlix, change three times per week and as needed.
-Left plantar lateral heel, onset date 10/1/19. Initial measurements 3.4 cm long x 3.0 cm wide x (unable to determine depth). Current measurements on 2/10/2020 were 0.5cm long x 0.3 cm wide x 0 deep. Current treatment was skin prep to periwound, cover with hydrocolloid dressing, change three times per week and as needed.
-Left medial first (not marked on any diagram) foot, onset date 12/9/19, initial measurements 0.6 cm long x 0.3 cm wide x (unable to determine depth). The wound resolved 1/27/2020.
-Left plantar heel, onset 12/23/19, initial measurements 0.9 cm long x 0.6 cm wide by 0 cm deep, measurements on 2/10/2020 were 0.6 cm long x 0.2 cm wide x 0 cm deep. Current treatment was skin prep to periwound, cover with hydrocolloid dressing, change three times per week and as needed.
-Right distal first toe, onset date 1/6/2020, initial measurements, 0.4 cm long x 0.7 cm wide x 0 cm deep. The wound resolved on 2/10/2020.
2. Delayed treatment after wounds developed
The timeline further documented an air mattress was implemented on 10/18/19, 17 days after the heel wounds were identified. Blue lift boots were ordered 10/17/19, 16 days after the heel wounds developed. A nutritional supplement, four ounces three times a day, was added 10/18/19. This was 17 days after the heel wounds developed. Prevalon boots were not ordered until 10/28/19.
3. Facility knowledge of pressure injury risk and failure to implement timely prevention/healing measures
The Braden skin risk assessment dated [DATE], prior to the development of the wounds, documented the resident's mobility was very limited and friction and shearing were a problem. The resident scored a 13, moderate risk. The Braden scale documented scores, at risk score were 15-18, moderate risk 13-14, high risk 10-12, very high risk 9 or below. However, the facility failed to implement any repositioning, turning or offloading interventions at that time.
The MDS assessment dated [DATE], prior to the onset of the wounds, documented Resident #63 was at risk for developing pressure injuries. She was not on a turning or positioning program. She was on a pressure reduction mattress. She required extensive one person assistance with bed mobility and extensive two person assistance with transfers. However, the facility failed to implement any turning, offloading or repositioning interventions at that time.
The CPO dated February 2020 was reviewed. There was an order initiated 10/17/19 to offload heels at all times. Heel lift boots and pillow while in bed. This was 16 days after the wounds developed. There was an order dated 10/18/19 for blue lift heel boots on at all times to both feet. This was 17 days after the heel wounds were acquired in the facility on 10/1/19. There was no order for any kind of air mattress.
The care plan initiated 7/21/19, prior to the development of the wounds, was reviewed. The care plan did not document any type of repositioning or offloading of the feet/heels despite the known risk identified in the MDS and Braden risk assessment. The care plan documented potential impairment to skin integrity related to fragile skin and increased use of wheelchair, and reduced walking. Avoid scratching and keep hands and body parts from excessive moisture. Keep fingernails short. Encourage good nutrition and hydration in order to promote healthier skin. Keep skin clean and dry. Use lotion on dry skin.
The current care plan, initiated 12/10/19, documented Resident #63 had pressure injuries to her bilateral lower extremities. Interventions included: encourage good nutrition, keep skin clean and dry, monitor pain level, obtain lab and diagnostic work as ordered, pressure relieving mattress, weekly skin check by nurse, and wound team. The care plan did not include interventions to offload the heels or use protective offloading boots despite the current orders and known wounds to the heels and feet. The care plan did not include the use of an air mattress.
The nurse's note, dated 9/30/19 at 11:02 p.m. (one day before the heel wounds were documented), was reviewed. The nurse's note documented the heels are intact, blanching well, pink and firm.
4. Deep tissue injuries identified to bilateral heels
The nurse's note dated 10/1/19 at 3:00 p.m. was reviewed. Deep tissue injury pressure areas noted to bilateral lateral aspect of heels during shower. Left lateral heel 4 x 3 cm, right 4 x 2 cm, both 100 percent deep tissue injuries.
-Left heel skin open so dressing applied for protection. Tight fitting shoes removed. Will offload with heel boots during the day and offload with boots and pillows at bed time. These interventions were not included in the care plan.
The physician wound notes on 10/7/19, one week after the development of the wounds to the right medial heel and left lateral heel, were reviewed.
-The wound notes documented, the resident had an unstageable, DTI of the right, posterior, medial heel for at least six days duration. There was no exudate (drainage). The resident appeared to have associated pain evidenced by restlessness. Measurements were 4.0 cm x 5.0 cm x depth was not measurable.
-The left lateral heel was unstageable due to necrosis (dead tissue), there was moderate serosanguinous drainage (clear fluid mixed with blood) and the wound measured 3.4 cm length x 3.0 cm wide x depth was not measurable.
-Discussed etiology of her wounds and advised of the importance of offloading her heels.
The physician wound notes dated 1/27/2020 were reviewed. The physician documented both heels were stage four wounds. The physician documented off load wounds, prevalon boots instead of bunny boots, pillow between her legs when she is on her sides especially on left which she favors and also under her legs when she is on her sides. However, the care plan and the February 2020 CPO did not document orders for Prevalon boots or offloading the resident with pillows when she was positioned on her side.
5. Additional, unstageable pressure ulcer identified to left plantar heel; bilateral heel wounds assessed as stage IV
The physician notes, dated 1/6/2020, for the wound to the left plantar heel, developed 12/23/19 were reviewed.
The physician documented the left plantar wound was 0.8 cm long x 0.3 cm wide x not able to measure depth. It was a pressure injury, an unstageable wound, deep tissue injury with intact skin. The wound had no exudate (drainage). Off-load wound.
The note summary by the physician on 1/6/2020 documented the right posterior heel was a stage 4 pressure wound, the left lateral heel was a stage four pressure wound, the left plantar foot was an unstageable DTI.
6. Most current wound assessment/condition - two unstageable pressure injuries
The nursing pressure injury reports for 2/3/2020 were reviewed.
On 2/3/2020, the right medial heel was documented as unstageable, 0.8 cm long x 1.7 cm wide x 0.25 cm depth. The wound had a moderate amount of drainage, serosanguinous.The resident had granulation tissue (pink, red shiny) and slough (yellow white tissue). The resident was to be premedicated before the wound care for pain.
On 2/3/2020, the left lateral heel was documented as unstageable, 0.5 cm long x 0.4 cm wide x 0 depth. The wound bed was necrotic tissue with eschar, black brown or tan in color. There was no drainage. The resident was to be premedicated before wound care for pain.
On 2/3/2020, the left plantar heel was documented as a stage one, 0.7 cm long x 0.3 cm wide x 0 cm deep. The wound bed had new epithelial tissue growing, light pink and shiney.
C. Observations and interview
On 2/10/2020 at 10:30 a.m., the resident was up in a wheelchair with her legs lifted and extended, with soft light blue boots on each foot. Her heels were not off loaded.
On 2/11/2020 at 1:09 p.m, the resident was in bed, blue soft boots were noted on both feet. Her heels were floated.
On 2/13/2020 at 11:10 a.m., the resident was observed with the physical therapist (PT) in the dining room. Both feet were in soft blue boots which had an opening at the heel. The PT confirmed the boots were lift boots. Her feet were covered with kerlix wrap except the toes which were edematous. Her heels were not off loaded
D. Interviews and record review
Registered nurse (RN) #1 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 10:37 a.m. She said the resident was basically bed bound at the time the wounds were found, the night nurse found them. She said, They were from pressure on the bed and probably in the wheelchair. She could not move herself.
Certified nurse aide (CNA) #6 was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 10:45 a.m. She said she knew the resident well and had worked on the residents hallway over the last year. She said Resident #63 had never been able to move in the bed. She said she had to be transferred with a lift. CNA #6 said the nursing staff did not put boots on the resident or offload her heels on a pillow until after the wounds occurred despite her immobility in bed.
The director of nursing (DON) was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 10:46 a.m. She said the wounds could not be observed because the treatment had already been done and was not due again until Saturday.
The DON was interviewed again 2/12/2020 at 12:47 p.m. She said the wound could not be observed by looking under the dressing because the resident was in too much pain with dressing changes. She said, She is on Roxanol because she has so much pain with dressing changes so I do not want to lift the dressing for you to see it.
The pain assessments were reviewed on the medication administration record (MAR). The resident received morphine before a dressing change on 2/3/2020 for a documented pain level of zero and 2/10/2020 for a documented pain level of two. The morphine ordered on the February CPO, dated 1/29/2020, documented to give morphine sulfate 20mg (milligram)/ml (milliliter), 5mg by mouth before dressing changes weekly. However, the dressing changes were three times a week and as needed. There was no documentation to show the facility requested order clarifications or changes.
The CA was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 1:11 p.m. She said the resident only had pain when the wounds were debrided. She said she would have the morphine order clarified. The CA said she had been at the facility for four years and had been doing the weekly wound assessments for this resident. She said she did not know how the wounds occured. She said she did rounds with the wound care physician weekly.
The DON was interviewed again on 2/12/2020 at 2:34 p.m. She said the nurses told her the resident had pain with the wound care treatments. She said that may not be totally accurate after reviewing the records for morphine and pain. She said the wound could still not be observed because there would be too much risk of infection to look under the dressings.
Although the facility was aware of Resident #63's risk for skin breakdown, they failed to prevent unstageable pressure injuries from developing.
III. Resident #85
A. Resident status
Resident #85, age [AGE], was admitted on [DATE]. According to the October 2019 computerized physician orders (CPO), diagnoses included paraplegia, unspecified, other vascular myelopathies, hereditary and idiopathic neuropathy, phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of unspecified deep vessels of unspecified lower extremity, personal history of nicotine dependence, hyperlipidemia, unspecified, personal history of other venous thrombosis and embolism, polyneuropathy, unspecified, osteoarthritis of hip, long term (current) use of insulin, neuromuscular dysfunction of bladder, unspecified, other chronic pain, opioid dependence, uncomplicated, periapical abscess without sinus, type 2 diabetes mellitus with other diabetic neurological complication, type 2 diabetes mellitus with other circulatory complications, encounter for change or removal of nonsurgical wound dressing, pressure ulcer of other
site, stage III was added to the list of diseases on 11/26/19.
The 1/20/2020 minimum data set (MDS) assessment revealed the resident was cognitively intact with a brief interview for mental status score of 15 out of 15. The resident required two persons physical assistance with bed mobility, transfers, dressing and toilet use. She also required one person physical assistance with personal hygiene.The assessment identified that the resident was at risk of developing pressure injury. It was further documented that the resident had developed a stage III pressure ulcer. The resident was not on a repositioning program. The resident did not not reject care.
B. Resident wheelchair chair observations and record review
A physician's order (PO), dated 4/17/19 revealed to monitor roho cushion for proper inflation per (Q) shift.
Resident #85's wheelchair was observed on 2/10/2020 at 11:17 a.m. while it was positioned by the resident's bedside. The wheelchair was electric powered and had a roho cushion on it. The roho cushion was deflated and relatively flat to provide any type of cushioning off loading effect See observation below with the therapy program manager.
Resident #85's wheelchair was observed on 2/11/2020 at 2:38 p.m. while it was positioned by the resident's bedside. The wheelchair had a roho cushion on it. The roho cushion was deflated and relatively flat to provide any type of cushioning effect.
Resident #85's wheelchair was observed on 2/12/2020 at 12:46 p.m. while the resident sat in it. The therapy program manager (TPM) observed the level of inflation of the roho cushion and reported that the cushion was almost completely out of air. Specifically, the therapy manager stated yes the cushion is definitely not cushioning with this level of inflation, there is almost no air in this.
The TPM demonstrated the procedure of checking the appropriateness on the inflation of the roho cushion by first seeking and obtaining consent from the resident, he then placed his right hand between the roho cushion and the wheelchair seat, he performed this procedure while the resident sat in the cushion.
Therapy program manager was interviewed on 2/12/20 at 12:49 p.m., The TPM verified that the roho cushion was underinflated per his observation as discussed above. He did not recall providing any education to nursing staff on how to check for the proper inflation of the roho cushion. He stated pumping the roho cushion was a primary responsibility of the restorative staff.
He verified that nursing staff do not have access to the pump utilized in pumping the roho cushion. He reviewed the resident's PT/OT record and verified that the last time the resident was on their caseload was 10/6/19 through 10/15/19 and that the sessions were primarily for passive range of motion for the residents legs relative to their position while the resident sat in her wheelchair.
Certified nurse aide (CNA #8) who transferred the resident to her wheelchair was interviewed on 2/12/20 at 1:03 p.m. about her knowledge of how and when to check the inflation level of the roho cushion. CNA #8 stated she does not know how much air to pump it in, she stated she once tried to pump air in a cushion for another resident, but did the procedure wrong and she pumped too much air which was not beneficial to the resident. She concluded the interview stating she did not recall when last she checked the air in cushions.
CNA #9 who assisted CNA #8 with transferring Resident #85 was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 1:07 p.m. The CNA stated she lacked knowledge of the need to check the roho cushion prior to transferring the resident on it. She said she does not know when to check the inflation level of the roho cushion. She said she does not know where the cushion pump is kept.
C. Mattress observation and record review
A physician order, dated 6/20/16 revealed to place Resident #85 on low air loss mattress and check air inflation and functioning every shift.
The resident's mattress was observed on 2/12/2020 at 9:53 a.m. The mattress had [company name] alternating pressure with 10 low pressure mattress (LPM) compressor.
The director of nursing (DON) was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 10:47 a.m., she stated the mattress currently being utilized by Resident #85 was rented by the facility to accommodate the residents' need. She provided information about the suitability of the mattress to be utilized for a stage 1-4 pressure ulcer. Specifically, the DON provided documentation which reads {company name] CG9900 alternating pressure mattress replaced with probasic satinair alternating pressure low air loss mattress. The document further revealed that the mattress currently in use by Resident #85 had been discontinued. (See follow-up below)
D. Record review
A review of the Braden scale assessment dated [DATE] (last assessment on the resident's medical record prior to development of the stage III pressure ulcer) revealed a score of 12. The resident had a score of 12 or high risk for the following reasons. Her sensory perception was slightly limited. She responds to verbal commands, but cannot always communicate discomfort or the need to be turned. OR has some sensory impairment which limits ability to feel pain or discomfort in 1 or 2 extremities. The resident is constantly moist. Her skin is kept moist almost constantly by perspiration, urine, etc. Dampness is detected every time the patient is moved or turned. The resident was bedfast (Confined to bed). She has very limited ability to change her body position. She makes occasional slight changes in body or extremity position but unable to make frequent or significant changes independently. The resident also has potential for skin friction as she moves feebly or requires minimum assistance. During a move skin probably slides to some extent against sheets, chair or other devices. which was interpreted as high risk for developing pressure ulcer.
-There were no changes made to the resident care plan to address the identified risk of diminished sensory perception, inability to adequately communicate discomfort or need to be turned, her limited ability to independently change her position and also her potential for skin friction.
Another Braden Scale for predicting pressure sore risk was completed on 1/17/2020 at 1:57 p.m. The scale documented resident risk score as 11, which is interpreted as high risk.
Per the facility's pressure injury prevention and management policy, a skin observation was to be conducted daily Q (every) shift and observation documented of any skin issues for at risk residents.
However a review of Resident #85's pressure injury initial and weekly monitoring report (The first one done after discovery of the pressure ulcer) revealed that though the pressure ulcer was first identified on 11/26/19, a skin evaluation which revealed the pressure ulcer measurement of 1.5cmx0.8cmx0.1cm was not completed until 12/2/19. There was no prior documentation of any suspected skin issues around the area. The evaluation further identified the pressure ulcer as facility (In-House) acquired. There was no interdisciplinary team (IDT) note which documented investigation to find the root cause and analysis of the now identified in-house acquired pressure ulcer. The site of the ulcer was identified as the right buttocks. Exudate type was characterized as serous, and the amount of exudate was rated as small. There was no odor reported for the assessment. The wound bed was described as granulation tissue - pink or red with shiny, moist granular appearance and slough - yellow or white tissue that adheres to the ulcer bed in strings or thick clumps, or is mucinous. The surrounding skin color and surrounding tissue/wound edges were described as normal. The wound summary described the pressure ulcer as 30% slough, 20% granulation, 20% dermis and 30% subcutaneous.
A review of the wound doctor's note dated 12/2/19 revealed,a documentation under the history of present illness portion of the assessment which reads ,At the request of the referring provider (Doctors name), a thorough wound care assessment and evaluation was performed today. Resident has a stage III pressure wound of the right buttocks for at least five days duration. There is light serous exudate. There is no indication of pain associated with the condition.
Summarized wound care assessment and individualized treatment plan portion of the wound doctor's note reads Plan of care reviewed and addressed, my goal for this wound is healing as evidence by decrease in surface area of the wound and/ or a decrease in the percentage of necrotic tissue within the wound bed. The best medical estimate of the time required for this wound to heal with continued physician evaluation and intervention is 42 days. This estimate is made with an 80 percent (%) degree of certainty. The assessment also recommended to off-load wound and reposition per facility protocol.
The Resident's primary care physician note dated 1/25/2020 at 12:19 p.m. documented that Resident #85 was quadriplegic with a recent overall decline following pneumonia. The note further documented that the resident was now on hospice. In addition, the note reported that Resident #85 had no feeling on her back side. Furthermore, the note documented that the resident was on a high end air mattress and that her oral intake has been poor and also that resident is provided protein supplement. It was also reported that the resident was up in her electric scooter several times a day but not more than an hour at a time. The report concluded that all appropriate steps were taken by staff but the decubitus pressure ulcer was unavoidable.
The pressure ulcer care plan initiated on 2/3/2020 and revised on 2/3/2020 documented that the resident has hx(history) of pressure ulcers, DM and fragile skin, paraplegia and history of pressure sores in the same area, with surgical flap previously done. In addition, the care plan further documented that Resident #85 is on aspirin (ASA) causing frail skin increasing the risk of bruising and skin tears. Furthermore, it was documented that the resident at times prefers to sit up in her wheelchair for extended amounts of time. The care plan also identified that Resident #85 had a Stage IV pressure ulcer to her right buttocks and traumatic wounds to her right toes
The interventions of the care plan documented to:
-Administer medications as ordered. Monitor/document for side effects and effectiveness.
-Administer treatments as ordered and monitor for effectiveness.
-Encourage resident to change position and overload pressure by not sitting up in
wheelchair for extended amounts of time.
-Resident lays in bed without a brief or underwear per her preference.
-Resident requires pressure relieving/reducing device on bed and chair
-Low air loss mattress, check air inflation and functioning every shift
-Monitor/document/report PRN any changes in skin status: appearance, color,
wound healing, s/sx of infection, wound size (length X width X depth), stage.
-Pressure relieving cushion(roho) to wheelchair
-Skilled nursing documentation including skin assessments every shift while on skilled care. Weekly skin assessments for integrity and wound documentation while not on skilled care requirement.
-Weekly skin check by licensed nurse.
-Weekly treatment documentation to include measurement of each area of skin breakdown's width, length, depth, type of tissue and exudate
-Wound team to follow-up
E. Wound observation
The resident's right buttocks wound was observed on 2/12/20 at 12:13 p.m. with the director of nursing. The wound was approximately 1 cm in diameter, crater-maybe 0.2 cm deep. Wound bed red and moist no drainage, edges pink, no odor. Treatment done-wound cleaned with normal saline (NS), cut to fit calcium alginate, covered with hydrocolloid. Hand hygiene and clean field maintained.
F. Interviews
Resident #85 was interviewed on 2/10/2020 at 12:53 p.m., she stated she used to reposition herself in bed several months back but for a severe shoulder pain she has not been able to help herself. She added that she is not currently getting a specialized treatment to address her shoulder pain other than the generalized pain medication she was taken. She also said she does not get assistance with repositioning. Specifically, the resident stated They only come to get me out of bed into my wheelchair with the lift, and also to change out my brief when it was soaked, other than that, I am not offered repositioning.
CNA #10 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 6:12 p.m. She stated she worked well with Resident #85. She listed the care she performed with Resident #85 which included transfers from wheelchair to bed and vice versa, bathing, toileting, grooming, dressing. She said she considered the moments when the resident's briefs are changed or when she was transferred to wheelchair as repositioning. She stated the resident could reposition herself.
The CNA stated she typically applied barrier cream to the resident's groin and abdominal folds. She did not recall having had any directive instructing her to apply barrier cream to the resident's coccyx since the onset of her current stage III pressure ulcer.
CNA #11 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 6:10 p.m. She stated Resident #85 was cooperative with care. The CNA said she would apply barrier cream to the resident's groin and abdominal folds. She did not recall having had any directive instructing her to apply barrier cream to the resident's coccyx since the onset of her current stage III pressure ulcer.
The wound nurse (WN) was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 1:28 p.m., She said the pressure ulcer to the resident's right buttocks was a facility acquired ulcer that started late November of 2019.
She said she took the measurements of the resident's right buttocks wound and placed this information in the PCC. She said the resident's physician and the IDT could review the information in PCC. She said the wound doctor did visit the facility to look at the resident's right buttocks wound. She said the start date for this right heel wound was on 11/26/19.[TRUNCATED]
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0558
(Tag F0558)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review and interviews, the facility failed to provide a reasonable accommodation of needs for one (...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review and interviews, the facility failed to provide a reasonable accommodation of needs for one (#9) of one out of 39 sample residents reviewed for preferences and needs.
Specifically, the facility failed to ensure a touch pad call light system was available to Resident #9 who had impaired function in the upper left and right hand and that his call light was within reach.
Findings include:
I. Resident #9
A. Resident status
Resident #9, less than [AGE] years of age was admitted on [DATE]. According to the February 2020 computerized physician orders, diagnosis included history of falling, hemiplegia and hemiparesis following nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage affecting right dominant side, need for assistance with personal care, anxiety disorder, unspecified, unspecified dementia with behavioral disturbance, muscle weakness (generalized), polyosteoarthritis, unspecified and rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified.
The 11/24/19 minimum data set (MDS) assessment revealed the resident is severely cognitively impaired. A brief interview for mental status (BIMS) was not completed with the resident. The resident required two persons physical assistant with bed mobility, dressing, toilet use and transfer between surfaces including to or from bed, chair, wheelchair and standing position. He also required a one person physical assistant with personal hygiene, eating, locomotion on and off the unit.
B. Observation
-Resident #9 was observed in his room while he laid in bed on 2/10/2020 at 9:52 a.m., his call light was on the floor. The call light was observed to be the regular cylindrical with push button type of call light.
-On 2/11/2020 at 10:15 a.m., nursing staff were observed going into resident room, they exited at 10:23 a.m., they did not put Resident #9's call light within reach as the call light was observed at the residents' feet.
-On 2/12/2020 at 10:28 a.m., nursing staff was observed in the resident's room, she exited the room at 10:35 a.m. Resident #9's call light was left buried within the blanket of the resident, out of reach of the resident.
-On 2/12/2020 at 1:46 p.m., the resident's call light was observed entangled in his blanket and right about his feet, out of reach The call light type and position was observed with registered nurse RN #6.
On 2/12/2020 at 2:07 p.m., RN #6 replaced the cylindrical push button call light system with the pad like press on call light and Resident #9 was able to use it.
C. Record review
The fall care plan initiated for Resident #9 on 4/23/19 and reviewed on 2/4/2020 documented one of the fall interventions was to have the residents call light within reach and that the resident be encouraged to use the call light for assistance.
The occupational therapy evaluation and plan of treatment for certification period dated 11/21/19 through 12/20/19 recorded in the musculoskeletal system portion of the assessment that resident had impairment in his right upper extremity (RUE) and left upper extremity (LUE).
Specifically, the assessment recorded the range of motion (ROM) in the RUE as:
Shoulder- impaired; elbow/ forearm- impaired; wrist- impaired; hand-impaired; middle finger-imapaired. It also reported the same for the LUE excluding that the middle finger was impaired.
D. Interviews
RN #6 was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 1:46 p.m. RN #6 stated that the call light (described above) currently in place could not be utilized by Resident #9 due to impairment in the resident's left and right hands. Specifically, RN #6 stated the call light system the resident had at the time of the observation required fine motor skill to operate which she verified Resident #9 does not. She also verified that the call light was not within reach of the resident. RN #6 immediately called for a replacement on the cylindrical push button call light with a pad-like call light system. She also placed the same within reach of the resident. RN #6 acknowledged that Resident #9 was able to utilize the new call light replacement. She concluded the interview stating she would educate nursing staff on the need for proper call light assessment and the need to have the residents call light within their reach at all times.
Resident #9's family member was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 3:19 p.m. the family member said that he was happy observing Resident #9 utilize his call light for the first time. Specifically, the family member stated I never knew there was a call light like this that he could use. I have never seen him use the former call light before. I am glad he got this one and he was able to use it.
II. Follow-up observation and interview
-On 2/13/2020 at 10:34 a.m. RN #5 the house supervisor for the 200 hallway accompanied the surveyor and observed the call light was placed at resident feet. She proceeded to place the call light within reach and stated she would follow-up with and educate nursing staff on the need to always ensure residents call light are within reach.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0604
(Tag F0604)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and interviews, the facility failed to ensure residents were free from physical restraints...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and interviews, the facility failed to ensure residents were free from physical restraints imposed for staff convenience and not required to treat medical symptoms for one (#13) of one resident reviewed for restraints out of 39 sample residents.
Specifically, the facility failed to:
-Perform an initial assessment and subsequent quarterly assessments for the use of a lap belt;
-Obtain a physician's order with a specific medical diagnosis for the use of a lap belt;
-Obtain a consent from the resident's medical durable power of attorney (MDPOA) prior to the use of a lap belt;
-Develop a monitoring system for the safe utilization of a lap belt; and
-Develop a care plan to reflect the interventions that addressed underlying problems that might be causing the symptoms, measures taken to systematically reduce or eliminate the need for the lap belt, and alternatives that were implemented prior to the use of the lap belt.
Findings include:
I. Facility policy and procedures
The Physical Restraint Management policy, revised 12/6/19, was provided by the clinical advocate (CA) on 2/13/2020 at 10:00 a.m. The policy revealed restraints should only be used for the safety and well being of the resident and only after other alternatives had been tried unsuccessfully. Restrains would only be used to treat the resident's medical symptoms and never for discipline, staff convenience or for the prevention of falls.
Restraints were reviewed upon admission, quarterly, annually and with a significant change of condition. The physical restraint would be reviewed for its use and appropriateness utilizing the restraining assessment form.
Residents using physical restraints would have a pre-physical restraint and reduction assessment completed upon initiation of the restraint, quarterly and with any significant change of condition as long as the restraint was in place.
The resident, family member or legal representative would be included in the decision process. They would be fully informed of: how the use of the restraint would treat the resident's medical symptoms and promote the highest practicable level of physical and psychosocial well being; the risks and potential negative outcomes of using a restraint, and alternatives to the use of a restraint.
Any resident using a physical restraint must have a signed consent from the resident and/or resident's representative for the use of the restraint to include the risks and benefits of the specific restraint utilized by the resident, the risks/benefits for not using the restraint and the alternatives to the use of a restraint. The resident and/or resident representative would receive ongoing education and updates on the use of the restraint at least quarterly during care conferences and as needed.
Any resident requiring a restraint would have a current physician order with the following components: the specific reason for the use of a restraint as it related to the resident's medical symptoms: how and when the restraint was to be used to benefit the resident's medical symptoms; and the type of restraint with the period of time for its utilization.
During the times a restraint was in place, the restraint would be periodically removed and the resident would be assisted with a change of position, range of motion, and/or stretching movements. Restraints should always be removed during supervised mealtimes and activities unless clinical contraindication was documented.
The care plan would be developed and implemented addressing the restraint usage as well as interventions to promote restraint reduction or elimination.
At least quarterly, the interdisciplinary team would review those residents using physical restraints for any changes that may be indicated to determine whether they were candidates for restraint reduction, a less restrictive method of restraint, or total restraint reduction. When changes were assessed, they must be documented in the medical record and care planned as indicated.
II. Resident status
Resident #13, under age [AGE], was admitted on [DATE]. According to the February 2020 computerized physician orders (CPO), diagnoses included intellectual disabilities and abnormal posture.
The 12/4/19 minimum data set (MDS) assessment revealed the resident had severe cognitive impairment for daily decision making. The resident had both short and long term memory problems. The resident required extensive staff assistance for bed mobility and dressing. The resident also required total staff assistance for transfers, eating, toileting and personal hygiene.The resident utilized a wheelchair for mobility. The assessment did not document the resident utilized a lap belt restraint.
III. Record review
Care plans
The care plan for falls, revised 1/16/19, revealed the resident was at risk for falls requiring two staff member assistance with most activities of daily living (ADLs) related to a diagnosis of Trisomy 18 (a genetic disorder causing physical and intellectual disabilities). The resident was not able to ambulate but could wiggle in her wheelchair. The resident used a fastened lap belt when she was up in her wheelchair to aid in positioning. One intervention revealed the use of a lap belt for wheelchair positioning.
The care plan for ADLs, revised 1/15/19, revealed the resident required total staff assistance secondary to a diagnosis of Trisomy 18. One intervention was to use a lap belt on the resident's wheelchair to aid in positioning.
Neither of the care plans revealed any assessments for the appropriateness of the use of the lap belt. Neither care plan revealed the resident was unable to unfasten the lap belt. Neither plan reflected on how the lap belt would treat the resident's medical symptoms and promote the resident's highest practicable level of physical and psychosocial well being. Neither plan listed the risks or potential negative outcomes for the use of the lap belt. Neither plan included the measures taken to systematically reduce or eliminate the need for the lap belt. Neither plan provided any alternatives other than the use of the lap belt.
Occupational therapy notes
An occupational therapy summary note, signed 3/28/19 at 11:43 a.m., revealed the resident needed assistance with repositioning in her wheelchair due to sliding down at times but had improved upright posture when her wheelchair was tilted back. The current recommendation was to have the resident remain in a tilt-in-space wheelchair with a lap belt for tactile sensation that decreased the resident's wiggling actions. The sensation of the lap belt on her body increased the resident's comfort and the resident experienced increased anxiety when the lap belt was removed.
IV. Resident observations
On 2/11/2020 at 10:55 a.m., the resident sat in a tilted wheelchair in the common area on the 100 hallway. Two staff members sat in chairs on either side of the resident. The lap belt was in place and fastened.
On 2/12/2020 at 8:57 a.m., the resident was seated in a tilted wheelchair watching television in her room. The lap belt was in place and fastened. Licensed practical nurse (LPN) # 3 went into the room with the surveyor. She said the lap belt was always in place and fastened when the resident was up in her wheelchair.
On 2/13/2020 at 9:55 a.m., the resident was seated in a tilted wheelchair in her room watching television. The lap belt was in place and was fastened.
V. Staff interviews
The CA was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 8:57 a.m. She said the lap belt was for positioning only and the resident was unable to unfasten the lap belt.
The nursing home administrator (NHA) was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 4:00 p.m., with the director of nursing (DON) present. The NHA said the current MDS did not reveal the resident utilized a lap belt as a restraint. The NHA said the resident was unable to unfasten the lap belt. The NHA said the facility did not have a consent from the resident's MDPOA for the use of the lap belt. The NHA said the facility did not have a physician's order or a specific medical diagnosis for the use of the lap belt. The NHA said the care plans did not have any interventions for the reduction or the elimination of the lap belt. The DON said the facility did not have a monitoring system in place for the resident's safety for the utilization of the lap belt.
On 2/13/2020 at 11:38 a.m., the minimum data set coordinator (MDSC) was interviewed. She said the 12/4/19 MDS did not code the resident as utilizing any restraints. She said she did not know why the lap belt was not coded as a restraint. She said the lap belt was always in place and fastened when the resident sat in her wheelchair. She said there were no assessments related to the use of the lap belt prior to the survey. She said there was no physician's order or specific diagnosis for the use of the lap belt prior to the survey. She said she was unable to find documentation the facility staff routinely monitored the lap belt for the resident's safety. She said the resident's care plans revealed the lap belt was used for positioning and there were no interventions for the removal or elimination of the lap belt.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Accident Prevention
(Tag F0689)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and interviews, the facility failed to ensure the environment remained as free from accide...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and interviews, the facility failed to ensure the environment remained as free from accident hazards as possible for one (#99) of two residents reviewed out of 39 sample residents.
Specifically, the facility failed to ensure the metal bar on the Hoyer lift did not injure Resident #99's shins during transfers, resulting in multiple abrasions.
Findings include:
I. Facility policy and procedures
The SkinTears - Abrasions and Minor Breaks, Care of policy, revised September 2019, was provided by the social services director (SSD) on 2/13/2020 at 4:15 p.m. The policy revealed the purpose was to guide the prevention and treatment of abrasions, skin tears and minor breaks in the skin.
-Obtain a physician's order as needed and document the physician was notified in the medical record. Complete the non-pressure risk management report.
-An abrasion was an area on the skin that had been damaged by friction, scraping, rubbing or trauma. A skin tear was the disruption of the epidermis resulting in a lifting or friction of the skin.
-Complete an in-house investigation of the causation. Develop a care plan to prevent recurrence and implement interventions in a timely manner.
-Interventions implemented or modified to prevent additional abrasions (e.g., clothes that cover arms and legs).
-When an abrasion/skin tear/bruise was discovered; complete a Report of Incident/Accident.
II. Resident status
Resident #99, age [AGE], was admitted on [DATE]. According to the February 2020 computerized physician orders (CPO), diagnoses included visual loss in both eyes, diabetes mellitus, muscle weakness, hemiplegia affecting nondominant side, and encounter for orthopedic aftercare following surgical amputation of a toe.
The 1/29/2020 minimum data set (MDS) assessment revealed the resident was cognitively intact with a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 14 out of 15. The resident required extensive staff assistance for bed mobility, dressing, eating, toileting and personal hygiene. The resident was totally dependent on staff for transfers with a two-plus person's physical assistance.
III. Resident/family interview
On 2/13/2020 at 12:23 p.m., the resident and his wife were interviewed. She ambulated her husband into the conference room using his wheelchair. She pulled up the resident's pant legs and asked the three surveyors to observe the multiple abrasions on both the residents' shins. The resident's left shin had one large abrasion with two smaller abrasions just above the larger abrasion. The right shin had multiple abrasions of various sizes. She said the resident scraped both of his shins on the facility's Hoyer lift during transfers. She said she mentioned this to the facility staff about three days ago during the last care conference. She said the facility offered to put cloth sleeves on both of his legs. She said she told the staff she did not want sleeves on his legs; she wanted the staff to stop banging his legs on the Hoyer lift bar during transfers. She said the staff should be more careful with him because he was blind and diabetic.
The resident said his left leg was very sore.
IV. Record review
The care plan, revised on 6/21/19, identified the resident was at risk for falls related to visual impairment and the need to transfer the resident with a Hoyer lift. One of the interventions was to educate the resident/family/caregivers about safety reminders with use of all equipment utilized for caregiving and what to do if a fall occurred.
The care plan, revised on 12/23/19, identified the resident with an activities of daily living (ADLs) self-care performance deficit related to visual impairment and impaired strength. The resident was non-weight bearing to his left lower extremity post amputation of his left lateral toe. Some of the interventions revealed the resident needed total assistance from staff for toileting. The resident needed a Hoyer lift for transfers.
The care plan, revised on 2/4/2020, identified the resident was at risk for skin breakdown due to staying in bed most of the time. The resident had a recent amputation to the left lateral toe and had a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. One intervention revealed weekly skin checks by a licensed nurse. A second intervention revealed the resident's wife refused the offer for sleeve protectors for the resident's legs on 2/10/2020.
The nursing weekly skin documentation (NWSD) form, dated 2/3/2020 at 11:58 p.m. by a registered nurse (RN), revealed the resident had dry skin to his bilateral shins and lotion was applied. The resident had calf measurements of 26 cm for the left and 24 cm for the right. The resident's skin turgor was fair and his oral mucosa was pale and moist.
The Complements/Complaints/Concerns Report (CCCR) dated 2/10/2020 at 10:00 a.m., was completed by the social services assistant (SSA). The report revealed the Resident's wife related that the Resident's legs/shins were scraped/skinned during transfers using the Hoyer lift. The wife was told that staff would look into this concern. The solution section in part III of the report revealed, the facility offered skin protector sleeves for the Resident's legs/shins. The wife refused the sleeves. This concern was taken to the interdisciplinary team to determine further interventions. The Hoyer lift was padded with a date of resolution of 2/13/2020.
The NWSD form, dated 2/10/2020 at 11:58 p.m. by an RN, revealed the resident's skin was pale and warm. The resident had calf measurements of 26 cm for the left and 24 cm for the right. The resident's skin turgor was fair and his oral mucosa was pale and moist. The skin assessment did not reveal the resident had any abrasions to either of his shins at this time. The knowledge of the abrasions was evident in the aforementioned CCCR dated 2/10/2020 at 10:00 a.m. (above).
The February 2020 Documentation Survey Report, printed on 2/13/2020 at 2:20 p.m., was provided by the SSD. The report revealed from 2/11 through 2/13/2020 the resident was toileted/transferred by staff seven times. During this same time period the resident's skin was observed seven times with no documentation of any new skin conditions. The knowledge of the abrasions was evident in the aforementioned CCCR dated 2/10/2020 at 10:00 a.m. (above).
The Skin Condition Monitoring for Non-pressure Ulcer Skin Conditions form, dated 2/13/2020 at 4:04 p.m., revealed under the category of other, a right shin 15.2 centimeters (cm) by 2.4 cm with 95% skin and 5% scab.
-A second form, dated 2/13/2020 at 4:12 p.m., revealed under the category of other, a left shin measuring 10.7 cm by 0.5 cm with 95% skin and 5% scab. Both skin issues were categorized as newly identified on 2/13/2020.
-This was the first set of skin assessments that acknowledged the presence of the abrasions on both of the resident's legs/shins since the CCCR dated 2/10/2020 at 10:00 a.m. Neither form revealed the facility planned to pad the center bar of the Hoyer lift or educate staff on the proper safety precautions to use with this resident during transfers with the Hoyer lift.
V. Staff interviews
RN #4 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 1:48 p.m. She said skin assessments were performed weekly. She said the assessment included observations of the resident's legs and heels looking for abrasions, skin tears, wounds or redness. She said the certified nurse aides (CNAs) also checked the resident's skin in the shower and verbally reported any concerns to the nurse.
The minimum data set coordinator (MDSC) was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 2:27 p.m. She said the care plan for ADLs revealed the staff were to use a Hoyer lift for transfers. She said the intervention for the use of sleeves on both of his legs was initiated on 2/10/2020 by the clinical advocate (CA).
The director of nursing (DON) was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 2:33 p.m. and at 3:25 p.m. She said the resident was totally dependent on staff for transfers using the Hoyer lift. She said today the staff placed padding on the bar in the center of the Hoyer lift. She said none of the staff had mentioned to her that the resident hit his legs on the Hoyer lift. She said she did not know how the abrasions on his legs occurred.
The DON said the concern about the abrasions on the resident's legs was voiced by the resident's wife in the CCCR dated 2/10/2020 at 10:00 a.m. The DON agreed the NWSD, dated 2/10/2020 at 11:58 p.m., revealed the nurse measured both of the resident's calves, however the nurse did not describe any abrasions to either of the resident's legs/shins. The DON agreed the NWSD was completed approximately 14 hours after the CCCR. She said she did not look at the resident's legs and did not interview any staff members regarding the concern that the resident had obtained abrasions from being transferred by staff with the Hoyer lift.
The DON reviewed and agreed with the documentation on the February 2020 Documentation Survey Report. She said transferring and monitoring of the resident's skin was performed by CNAs. She said a CNA would identify and document a new skin condition in the resident's computerized clinical record. She said if the skin condition persisted for several days it would not be mentioned again in the clinical record because it was no longer a new skin condition. If the CNA found a new skin condition the CNA would inform the nurse.
The CA was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 3:21 p.m. She said protector sleeves for the resident's bilateral legs were offered as an intervention, however the resident's wife refused the offer. She said the offer for the sleeves was based on a CCCR dated 2/10/2020 at 10:00 a.m., related to the complaint the resident's legs/shins were scraped/skinned while being transferred by staff with the Hoyer lift.
CNA #7 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 2:54 p.m. She said on 2/4/2020 she heard the resident's wife complain to another CNA that the resident's legs were getting banged up during transfers. She said the Hoyer lift was used to transfer the resident and she had seen scars on his shins but no new wounds.
CNA #4 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 2:58 p.m. She said the resident's legs did not bend and it was difficult to maneuver his legs in the Hoyer lift during transfers. She said transfers required one staff person to guide his legs. She said she knew that his legs had tapped the Hoyer lift during a transfer.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Unnecessary Medications
(Tag F0759)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on record review, observations and interviews, the facility failed to ensure it was free of a medication error rate of five percent (%) or greater to include three residents (#105, #12 and #38)....
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Based on record review, observations and interviews, the facility failed to ensure it was free of a medication error rate of five percent (%) or greater to include three residents (#105, #12 and #38).
Specifically, the medication pass observation error rate was 16.67 percent, or five errors out of 30 opportunities for error.
Findings include:
I. Facility policy and procedure
The Medication Administration policy, revised 11/26/19, was provided on 2/10/2020 at 3:22 p.m. by the clinical advocate (CA). The policy documented in pertinent part, Medications are administered in accordance with written orders of the attending physician. Double check the amount of medication to be administered. Observe that the resident swallows oral drugs. Do not leave medications with the resident.
II. Medication error for Resident #105
A. Record Review
Resident #105 had physician's orders on the medication administration record (MAR) that documented:
Metformin ER (extended release) 500 mg (milligram), give two tablets by mouth twice daily.
B. Observation
On 2/11/2020 at 8:09 a.m., licensed practical nurse (LPN) # 2 was observed preparing and administering medications to Resident #105. LPN #2 was observed to dispense and administer one 500 mg tablet to Resident #105 instead of two tablets as ordered.
C. Interview
LPN #2 was interviewed on 2/11/2020 at 8:15 a.m. She checked the medication card and and order and said she had administered one tablet and not two tablets as ordered. She said she wished the pharmacy would send a 1000 mg tablet instead. She administered a second 500 mg tablet to the resident.
III. Medication error for Resident #12
A. Record Review
Resident #12 had physician's orders on the MAR that documented:
Aspirin EC (enteric coated) tablet delayed release 81mg (milligrams). Give one tablet by mouth daily.
B. Observation
On 2/11/2020 at 8:44 a.m., LPN #3 was observed dispensing and administering medications to Resident #12. She took a bottle of chewable aspirin 81mg out of the drawer and poured it into a cup for resident #12. She administered the medication to Resident #12.
C. Interview
LPN #3 was interviewed on 2/11/2020 at 8:50 a.m. She reviewed the orders and the bottle of chewable aspirin. She said, I did not think it mattered what kind of Aspirin you gave someone. She said she had not administered enteric coated aspirin as ordered.
IV. Medication errors (three) for Resident #38
A. Record Review
Resident #12 had physician's orders on the MAR that documented:
-Glycolax powder (Polyethylene Glycol 3350) Give 17 grams by mouth daily,
-Spiriva Respimat Aerosol Solution 1.25 MCG (micrograms) inhaler, two puffs, inhale orally one time daily,
-Wixela Inhub Aerosol, Powder Breath Activated, 250-50 MCG (microgram) inhaler, one inhalation, inhale orally two times daily, rinse mouth with water after use.
B. Observation
On 2/12/2020 at 8:33 a.m., LPN # 3 was observed dispensing and administering medication to Resident # 38. She mixed 17 grams of Glycolax powder in approximately 8 ounces of water. She then took the Spiriva inhaler, Wixela inhaler and Glycolax powder mixed in water to the resident's room. She handed the Spiriva inhaler to the resident and told him to take a puff. He took one puff and handed it back. However, the order was for two puffs. She then handed him the Wixela inhaler and had him take a puff. She then handed him the Glycolax powder mixed in water and left the room. The nurse failed to have the resident rinse his mouth after the Wixela inhaler as specified in the physician's order. LPN #3 left the Glycolax powder and water with him without staying with the resident to ensure the medication was taken.
C. Interview
LPN #3 was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at approximately 9:00 a.m. She said she always leaves the Glycolax with the resident to drink and then goes back to check on him later. She said she should not leave medications with residents and should not have left the Glycolax mixed in water at the resident's bedside. She said the resident was able to administer his own inhalers when she had given them to him. She thought he would have taken the correct dose.
V. Follow-up interview
The director of nursing (DON) was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 10:39 a.m. She said the nurse should follow the provider's instructions for medication administration. She said she thought LPN #3 was just nervous which contributed to the errors.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0761
(Tag F0761)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations and interviews, the facility failed to ensure drugs and biologicals were labeled and stored in accordance ...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations and interviews, the facility failed to ensure drugs and biologicals were labeled and stored in accordance with accepted professional standards, in two out of two medication rooms and three out of five medication carts.
Specifically, the facility failed to:
-Remove expired medications from medication rooms and carts to prevent the use of expired medications;
-Date medications when opened; and
-Ensure medications were labeled with the medication name, dose, strength, expiration date, appropriate instructions and precautions, and route of administration.
Findings include:
I. Professional references
According to Novo Nordisk (January 2019) Storage information and travel tips for Novolog, retrieved 2/14/2020 from:
https://www.rapidactinginsulin.com/novolog/using-novolog/storage-and-handling.html
Novolog insulin, once opened, can be used up to 28 days.
According to Lilly USA (January 2020) Humolog insulin, Storage and Disposal of vials, retrieved 2/14/2020 from:
https://www.humalog.com
Throw away open vials 28 days after first use, even if there is insulin left in the vial.
According to Sanofi-Aventis (November 2019) Lantus Storage instructions, retrieved 2/14/2020 from:
http://products.sanofi.us/Lantus/Lantus.html#section-16.2
Lantus insulin is good for 28 days after opening.
II. Facility policy and procedure
The Storage of Medications policy, revised April 2007, was provided by the clinical advocate (CA) on 2/10/2020 at 3:22 p.m. The policy documented in pertinent part, Drugs and biologicals shall be stored in the packaging, containers, or other dispensing systems in which they are received.
The Medication Storage Guidance policy, dated April 2019 from the facility's pharmacy, was provided by the CA on 2/10/2020 at 3:22 p.m. The guidance documented in pertinent part, Tuberculin tests, date when opened and discard after 30 days.
In addition, the CA provided an untitled, undated form on 2/10/2020 at 3:22 p.m. that documented, Insulin Expirations: Lantus, 28 days and other insulin 30 days.
III. Medication room [ROOM NUMBER]
A. Observations
Medication room [ROOM NUMBER] was observed on 2/10/2020 at 2:56 p.m. with licensed practical nurse (LPN) #2.
Observed in the refrigerator were:
-a vial of Novolog insulin, one half full, labeled with an open date of 12/16/19; the insulin was opened 56 days ago;
-a vial of Novolog insulin, one half hull, labeled with an open date of 11/15/19; the insulin was opened 87 days ago;
-Two vials of Tuberculin (tuberculosis skin testing), one half full, labeled with an open date of 12/2/19 and 11/28/19; the medications were opened 70 days and 74 days ago.
B. Interview
LPN #2 was interviewed on 2/10/2020 at 2:56 p.m. She said she did not know how long insulin or Tuberculin were good after opening. LPN #2 looked around the medication room and medication cart and said there was no information for the nurses that documented how long different medications were good after opening. The LPN said she could call the staff development coordinator (SDC), and pulled a cellular phone from her pocket and called someone. She asked the SDC how long insulin and Tuberculin were good after opening. She said the SDC said all insulin and Tuberculin were good for 30 days after opening. She said the insulin and Tuberculin in the refrigerator were no longer good.
IV. Medication room [ROOM NUMBER]
A.Observations
Medication room [ROOM NUMBER] was observed on 2/10/2020 at 2:19 p.m. with LPN #6.
Observed in the refrigerator was an open vial of Novolog insulin (no cap), almost full, no date of opening on the box or vial.
B. Interview
LPN #6 removed the insulin to dispose of it. She said the medications needed to be dated when opened and the insulin was only good for 30 days. She said she did not think the insulin was opened. She said the cap probably fell off the insulin. She looked in the box and did not find the cap.
V. Medication cart #1
A. Observations
Medication cart #1 was observed with LPN #2 on 2/10/2020 at 1:59 p.m.
Observed in the cart were:
-A bottle of calcium supplement with vitamin D3, one fourth full, with expiration date of 10/2019. The medication expired over three months ago. LPN #2 removed the bottle for destruction.
-Three vials of Humolog insulin open, with no date of opening on the box or vial,
-One vial of Lantus insulin, one half full, with no date of opening on the box or vial. LPN #2 removed the insulin and said she would dispose of the insulin because there was no date on the vials.
B. Interviews
LPN #2 was interviewed on 2/10/2020 at 1:59 p.m. She said she did not know how long the insulin was good after opening and she would find out. She called the CA for assistance. The CA came to the cart. She said she was unable to locate the list from the pharmacy of medication storage guidelines at this cart. The CA said she did not know how long insulin was good after opening and she would find out.
VI. Medication cart #2
Observation and interview
Medication cart #2 was observed with LPN #6.
In the bottom drawer of the cart was a clear cup with a blue lid, a urinalysis specimen cup. The cup contained a white cream. There was no label on the cup. LPN #2 took the cup and disposed of it in the trash can on the cart. She said she did not know what it was. LPN #2 said there should not be medications in the cart that were not labeled.
VII. Medication cart #3
Observation and interview
Medication cart #3 was observed with LPN #4.
In the bottom drawer of the cart was a clear cup with a blue lid, a urinalysis specimen cup. The cup contained a blue cream. There was no label on the cup. LPN #4 said the cream was Deep Blue (cream used for pain), and it was used on several residents. She said the cup should be labeled with the name of the medication and expiration date. She removed the cup for destruction.
In addition, a Hemoccult test kit (test for blood in stool) was in the bottom drawer. The test kit had an expiration date of 11/2019, over 3 months ago. The LPN removed the kit and said it should not be used because it had expired the test results may not be accurate.
VIII. Follow-up interview
The director of nursing (DON) was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 10:39 a.m. She said the nurse on each cart should be checking the carts for expired medications and ensure items are dated when opened. She said the clinical advocate (CA) should check the carts monthly for expired medications. She said the SDC was responsible for ensuring the Tuberculin had not expired. The DON said she did not recall how long insulin was good after opening.
CONCERN
(F)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Food Safety
(Tag F0812)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
Based on observations, record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure food items were stored and served under sanitary conditions for one of one serving areas.
Specifically, the fa...
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Based on observations, record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure food items were stored and served under sanitary conditions for one of one serving areas.
Specifically, the facility failed to ensure:
-Food temperatures of cold food was held at the proper temperature to reduce the risk of food borne illness;
-Disinfecting chemicals were maintained at appropriate parts per million (PPM);
-Dented canned food items were not put in the rotation, ready to be used and served:
-Sugar, flour and utensils were stored appropriately; and
-Food preparation surfaces were properly sanitized in the bistro area.
Findings include:
I. Inadequate holding temperatures
A. Professional reference
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (2019) The Colorado Retail Food Establishment Rules and Regulations, https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/DEHS_RetailFd_6CCR10102_RFFC_EffJan2019.pdf. It reads in pertinent part; The food shall have an initial temperature of 41 degree Fahrenheit (ºF) or less when removed from cold holding temperature control or 135°F or greater when removed from hot holding temperature control.
B. Observation
During observations of the evening meal on 2/12/2020 beginning at 5:00 p.m., the following food temperatures were obtained from the steam table with the staff member present:
The initial temperature of the egg salad at the beginning of the meal at 5:00 p.m. reads:
-44 degrees fahrenheit (F).
The egg salad was prepared in a big bowl which sat in a well of ice. The well did not have enough ice in it, thus the egg salad bowl did not have a mechanism to keep its temperature relatively low. Individual portion was served out to the population of residents from the bowl of egg salad.
At 6:48 p.m., the temperature of the egg salad was taken immediately after the last tray was served and it reads:
-46 degrees F.
C. Interview
The dietary director (DD) and the dietary consultant (DC) were interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 1:16 p.m. The DC stated egg salads were served cold. Specifically, the DC stated for cold food to be considered served within a temperature of 41 degrees (F) and below. The DD however verified that the initial temperature of the egg salad served during the evening meal on 2/12/202 had an initial temperature of 44 degrees (F) and an holding temperature of 46 degrees at the end of service.The DD stated the mechanism used to preserve the food item in concern was not holding temperature due to not placing the sheet pan in well full of ice or back in the refrigerator and as such could not preserve the temperature. The DD stated she would utilize the refrigerator in the kitchen, specifically, the EC stated cold food items would be placed in the refrigerator in the kitchen and items needed to be served cold would be individually brought out of the refrigerator to preserve and maintain desired temperatures going forward.
II. Disinfecting chemicals not maintained at recommended part per million (PPM)
A. Observations
During observations of the evening meal on 2/12/2020 beginning at 5:00 p.m., the line cook brought out cabinet mats and plastic plate covers from the disinfecting compartment of the the three compartments wash system utilized by the facility. She then placed the same items in the rinse compartment. The DD took the PPM reading of the disinfectant with a PPM test strip and on comparing the color of the test strip with the calibration on the box, the PPM was at zero (0).
B. Interviews
The DD was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 5:00 p.m. The DD stated the facility utilized a three compartment sink. She added that the disinfectant was what the facility relied on to disinfect countertops, dishes and other relevant cooking utensils. The DD stated that for the chemical to be at a zero reading, it must have been sitting for several hours. She clarified that it was the duty of the line cook to check and replace the disinfectant as needed. The DD also verified that there was no schedule on file that directs the cooks on when to change out the disinfectants. Finally the DD stated she would educate dietary staff on the need to record the PPM of the disinfectants more frequently to ensure that they were maintained at the recommended level. The EC said the chemical should be at a minimum level of 50 PPM.
III. Dented food cans
A. Observation
During observations of the evening meal on 2/12/2020 beginning at 5:00 p.m.,
Canned food materials which were dented around the seam were observed on the shelf and ready to be served. The food materials included:
-two cans of sauerkraut; and,
-one can of mandarina naranja.
The DD and the DC were interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 1:16 p.m., the CD verified that the facility cared for vulnerable individuals and that it was essential to ensure food served to such a population were free from contaminants. Specifically, the DC verified that the three identified cans were dented enough to have raised a red flag for dietary staff not to have shelved them ready to serve. In addition, the DC stated the risk associated with canned food dented around the seam is that the dents could result in a pinhole-size opening and that the mixture of air and moisture from the food within the can have the potential to spur bacteria growth hence contaminating the food. She reported that the standard was to store dented cans separately and request credit for them from suppliers. The DC concluded the interview stating she would provide education to dietary staff going forward.
IV. Failure to ensure flour, sugar and utensils were stored in sanitary manner
A. Observation
During observations of the evening meal on 2/12/2020 beginning at 5:00 p.m.,
the pizza cutter, measuring spoons, spatulas, tongs whisks, sugar bin and flour bin were observed in the kitchen cabinets. The cabinets which housed the pizza cutter, measuring spoons, spatulas and tongs whisks had a mixture of oily and black dustlike particles which were consistent with long standing dirt. The DD examined the said cabinets using her finger to gather the particles and agreed that they were indeed dirty. The flour and sugar bin which had flour and sugar ready to serve in it, had dried up multi colored patches within the bins which were consistent with drainage flowing from the counter-top into the bin. Again the DD examined the flour and sugar and agreed that they needed to be cleaned.
V. Follow-up
The DD provided a copy of in-service attendant record for the topics:
-Cleaning sugar and flour bins properly
-Cleaning drawers that hold utensils on prep
The in-service attendant reported a start date of 2/13/2020. The document further reported an identified solution which read: All drawers and bins should be fully emptied, scrubbed and sanitized, let fully dry before putting clean utensils or new products in bins.
The DD and DC were interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 1:16 p.m. The DD verified that the facility conducted the above mentioned in-service because they were informed during survey of the above observations.
VI. Ineffective surface cleaning of a food service area.
Cross-reference F880, infection control
A. Observation and staff interview
AA #1 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 11:10 a.m. She said the bistro served concession food to residents, staff and visitors. AA#1 said she cleans food prep and delivery surfaces with a sanitized solution of water and steramine tablets. She said the solution's (PH) level should show 400 to 500 parts per million (ppm). She said she wiped the counter with a cloth and the sanitized solution before she prepared the food for service. AA #1 submerged an orange colored PH test paper strip into the solution. She removed the test strip from the water and compared the color the test strip color coded label. The test strip color was almost unchanged. The test strip remained orange. The very tip of the strip and part of the portion of the strip the AA held in her hand was green. The test strip revealed the PH level of the solution was less than 150 ppm.
B. Staff interview
The dietary consultant (DC) was interviewed on 2/13/20 at 2:16 p.m. with the dietary director (DD). She said the test strip should clearly read over 150 ppm. She said the bistro was also inspected by the county and have not had concerns related to the sanitized solution. She said the AD monitors the bistro and was primarily responsible for training her staff. The DC said she would order and place posters of safe infect control practices in the bistro.
The AD was interviewed on 2/13/20 at 12:30 p.m. She said she has trained how to mix the sanitized solution and the PH level should read between 200 and 400 ppm. She said if the solution does not reach that level, the AA should remix before using.
CONCERN
(F)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Infection Control
(Tag F0880)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review and interviews, the facility failed to effectively follow an infection control program desi...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review and interviews, the facility failed to effectively follow an infection control program designed to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment to help prevent the development and transmission of disease and infection
Specifically, the facility failed to:
-Follow proper housekeeping protocols to prevent cross-contamination;
-Ensure proper hand sanitation in rooms with residents with transmission based infections, and hand placement and hand hygiene when handling resident food;
-Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including the changing of contaminating gloves, the donning and doffing of PPE and disposal of PPE in a room with a resident designated on isolation with contact precautions.
-Create a complete program of infection surveillance, that investigated to determine the event of transmission, and causations to the spread of transmission based infections; and
-Identify correlation between staff practices and the spread of infections;
Cross-reference F812, kitchen sanitation
Findings include:
I. Improper handwashing and personal protective equipment (PPE) practices
Facility policies and procedures
The Handwashing/Hand Hygiene policy, revised August 2015, was provided on 2/13/2020 by the facility. The policy read in pertinent part: This facility considers hand hygiene the primary means to prevent the spread of infections. All personnel shall be trained and regularly in-serviced on the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the transmission of healthcare-associated infections. All personnel shall follow the handwashing/hand hygiene procedures to help prevent the spread of infections to other personnel, residents, and visitors Wash hands with soap and water for the following situations: a. When hands are visibly soiled; and, b. After contact with a resident with infectious diarrhea including, but not limited to infectionions caused by norovirus, salmonella, shigella, and C. difficile Use an alcohol-based hand rub containing at 62% alcohol; or alternatively, soap and water for the following situations before and after contact with residents; after removing gloves; Before and after entering isolation precaution settings; before and after eating or handling food; Before and after assisting a resident with meals Hand hygiene is the final step after removing and disposing of personal protective equipment The use of gloves does not replace hand washing/hand hygiene. Integration of glove use along with routine hand hygiene is recognized as the best practice for preventing healthcare-associated infections.
The Personal Protective Equipment policy, revised October 2018, was provided on 2/13/2020 by the facility. The policy read in pertinent part: Personal protective equipment (PPE), provided to our personnel includes but is not necessarily limited to: a. Gowns/apron/lab coats (disposable, cloth and/or plastic); b. Gloves (sterile, non-sterile, heavy duty and/or puncture-resistant); c. Masks; and, d. Eyewear Training on the proper donning, use and disposal of PPE is provided upon orientation and at regular intervals.
The Personal Protective Equipment - Using Gloves policy, revised September 2010, was provided on 2/13/2020 at by the facility. The policy read in pertinent part: To prevent the spread of infections To protect hands from potentially infectious material Use non sterile gloves primarily to prevent the contamination of the employee hands when providing treatment or services to the patient and when cleaning contaminated surfaces. According to the policy, staff should remove gloves by:
-Using of one hand, pull the cuff down over the opposite hand turning the glove inside out;
-Discard the glove into the designated waste receptacle inside the room;
-With the ungloved hand, pull the cuff down over the opposite hand, turning the glove inside out;
-Discard the glove into the designated waste receptacle inside the room; and,
-Wash hands.
B. Improper practices of PPE and hand washing procedures in isolation rooms
1. Resident #16
Resident #16, age [AGE], was admitted on [DATE], with a readmission on [DATE]. According to the February 2020 computerized physician orders (CPO), diagnoses included pneumonia, unspecified atrial fibrillation and cardiomyopathy. The CPO verbal orders revealed the resident was on droplet isolation precautions, with a start date of 2/6/2020.
The tracking log for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), revealed Resident #16 was positive for RSV on 2/6/2020.
a Observations
Housekeeper (HSK) #1 was observed on 2/10/2020 at 10:50 a.m., cleaning the isolation room of Resident #16. HSK #1 was observed wearing the personal protective equipment (PPE), of mask, gloves and gown as she cleaned the room. HSK #1 removed her PPE, held her mask, gloves and gown in her hands, exited the room and entered the residential hallway. She opened the receptacle bin deemed for contaminated PPE, located outside the room of Resident #16. As she placed the PPE in the bin, she dropped the glove she used to clean the room on to the carpet beside the bin. HSK #1 picked up the glove with her bare hand and placed it into the receptacle bin. She then reached for a container of cleaning wipe clothes from her cleaning cart and proceeded to wipe down the bottom of her shoes. HK #1 did not wash or sanitize her hands after removing her PPE, after exiting the isolation room, after picking up the contaminated glove, and after wiping the bottom of her shoes. HSK #1 moved her cleaning cart to the doorway of the room next door to Resident #16, and proceed to clean the room without washing or sanitizing her hands upon entrance.
b. Staff interview
HSK #1 was interviewed on 2/13/20 at 10:55 a.m. She said she is a float housekeeper, responsible for cleaning the halls when the other housekeepers have the day off. She said she works on every hall, every week, depending on who was scheduled off. She said gloves need to be donned on entrance and doffed on exit of the room. HSK #1 said hands should be washed or sanitized after removing gloves and other PPE equipment.
c. Record review
The record of attendance for an all staff inservice held on 1/9/19 and again on 1/11/19, was provided by the facility on 2/13/2020. According to the record, the staff development coordinator (SDC), reviewed infection control procedures related to hand washing with staff. The record revealed HSK #1 attended the inservice.
The online course completion log, was provided by the facility on 2/13/2020. The log revealed HK#1 completed the courses of infection control and prevention, transmission-based precautions, and hand hygiene.
2. Resident #204
Resident #204, age [AGE], was admitted on [DATE]. According to the February 2020 computerized physician orders (CPO), diagnoses included enterocolitis due to clostridium difficile (C.Difficile or C.Diff). The CPO revealed the resident was contact isolation beginning on 2/10/2020, related to C.Diff.
a. Observations
Certified nurses aide (CNA) #2 entered the room of Resident #204 on 2/12/20 at 9:22 a.m. CNA #2 donned PPE gloves and gown from a PPE dresser located outside the door of the resident's room. The CNA removed a tray and plate cover used during food delivery, off the resident's bedside table. She doffed her gown and gloves, and dropped the plate cover onto the resident's floor in front of the bathroom. She wiped down the lid with wipe cloths, left the resident's room, used alcohol based sanitizer gel on her hands, and placed the lid on top of the room tray cart. The CNA did not wash her hands after picking up a cover from the floor and leaving the room of a resident on contact isolation precautions related to C.Diff.
-At 9:28 p.m., the speech therapist (ST), donned gloves and gown and entered the room of Resident #204. She did not secure the bottom of the gown, the strings to the gown were left untied.
-At 9:40 a.m. CNA #5 handed the ST an oxygen tank for Resident #204. As ST spoke to the CNA, she placed her left gloved hand on the resident's room door frame and held the strap to the oxygen tank with her gloved right hand.
-At 9:45 a.m. ST removed her gown and gloves and exited the room of Resident #204. She used alcohol sanitizer gel on her hands as she exited the room. She did not wash her hands.
On 2/13/20 at 10:09 a.m. activity assistant (AA) #2 was observed in the room of resident #204. She wore PPE gloves and a gown. The gown was loosely tied with the strings on the bottom portion of the gown. The top of the gown was not secured to AA #2. The strings were not tied, and the gown hung low of the front of her shoulders.
-At 10:13 a.m., AA #2 removed her gloves, balling them in her right hand, exposing the outer surface of the gloves to her bare hands. She entered the hallway still wearing the gown, walked around a PPE storage dresser, returned to the resident's room and removed the gown by rolling it into a ball, exposing the outer layer of the gown to her clothing and bare hands. She walked of the room of Resident #204 as she held the balled-up PPE. She did not wash her hands after exiting the room. She walked down the hallway and improperly placed the gown and gloves in a uncovered, small trash bin located next to a nurse medication cart, used to store and administer medications. She did not wash her hands after placing the PPE in the trash bin. AA #2 walked down the hall and walked behind the counter of a Bistro, used to offer food options to residents, guests and staff. AA #2 spoke to AA #1 behind the counter of the Bistro as AA #2 placed her unwashed hand on the surface of the counter. AA #2 left the Bistro and walked through an activity with residents in the living room. She briefly spoke to another activity assistant. She exited the activity and walked down the hall towards the uncovered trash bin next to the medication cart. AA #2 removed the PPE improperly placed in a trash bin, entered the room of Resident #204 without donning new PPE, and placed the used PPE into the receptacle bin deemed for used PPE located in the resident's bathroom. She then exited the room without washing her hands.
-At 4:10 p.m., a PPE gown hung on the bathroom door handle in the room of Resident #204.
-At 5:48 p.m., the PPE gown remained on the bathroom door handle. Registered nurse (RN) #3, removed the gown from the door, and placed it into the appropriate receptacle bin for PPE in the resident's bathroom. RN #3 said she did not know why the gown was hung on the bathroom door. She said she did not know if the gown was clean or dirty.
b. Staff interviews
The assistant nursing home administrator (ANHA), was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 11:58 a.m. According to the ANHA, a staff member reported AA #2 did not follow appropriate infection control procedures after interacting with Resident #204. He said AA #2 was reeducated on PPE removal and disposal. He said AA #2 should not have placed PPE in an uncovered waste receptacle in the hallway, next to the medication cart. He said AA #2 should have not reenter the isolation room of Resident #204 without donning proper PPE. The ANHA said he would ensure AA #2 was aware of the necessity to wash hands after handling potentially contaminated PPE and after exiting an isolation remove for C.Diff. He said he would also ensure all staff understood appropriate hand wash practices, spread of infections. The ANHA said it was very important to appropriately secure PPE to the body without letting it hang loosely on the staff member. He said staff should also be aware of hand placement with potentially contaminated gloves and understand when to sanitize hands and when hand washing. He said he would ensure increased staff education and understanding would be provided to prevent the future of spread of infections and repeat infection control outbreaks.
CNA #2 was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 1:55 p.m. According to the CNA, staff should hand wash with soap and water after contact with a resident with C. Diff or contaminated surfaces in a room with isolation precautions including C. Diff.
The activity director was interviewed 2/13/2020 at 2:30 p.m. She said her staff was aware of proper hand washing and PPE procedures. She said the SDC provided multiple training on infection control throughout the year. The AD said her staff should be prepared to work with residents with infections, including residents with C.Diff.
c. Record review
The 1/9/19 record of attendance for an all staff inservice for infection control related to hand washing revealed AA #2 attended the inservice. The attendance record did not indicated CNA #2 nor ST attended the hand washing inservice.
The record of attendance for an all staff inservice held on 2/11/20, was provided by the facility on 2/13/2020. According to the record, the staff development coordinator (SDC), reviewed infection control procedures related to isolation precautions. According to the inservice agenda, the SDC addressed how to don and doff PPE correctly, and reminded staff to wash in and out of infected areas. The record revealed AA #2 attended the inservice. The attendance record did not indicate ST nor CNA #2 attended the inservice.
The online course completion log, was provided by the facility on 2/13/2020. The log revealed CNA #2 completed the course for hand hygiene. According to the online course log, AA #2 completed courses for infection control and prevention, transmission-based precautions, and hand hygiene. The log did not indicate ST recieved the online training courses for infection control and prevention, transmission-based precautions, and hand hygiene.
C. Improper housekeeping cleaning practices
1. Observations
The housekeeping supervisor (HS), was observed on 2/12/20 between 9:20 a.m. and 10:55 a.m. During observation, the HS cleaned rooms #101, #103, #105, and #107. HS donned gloves prior to entering each room, and doffed the gloves on exit of the room. She did not change her gloves after scrubbing the toilet in each room, before proceeding to clean high touch surfaces in the residents' rooms.
-At 10:27 a.m., HS donned PPE gloves and entered room [ROOM NUMBER]. She sprayed a cleaning agent over the surface areas of the sink, grab bars, and toilet. She removed a scrub brush from her cleaning cart located in the doorway of room [ROOM NUMBER] and entered the bathroom. HS scrubbed the inside of the toilet with the brush. She returned the brush to her cleaning cart. She did not change her gloves. With her contaminated gloved hands she removed a cleaning dry cloth from the cart. The HS sprayed the cleaning agent onto the cloth. The HS proceeded to wipe down high touch surfaces while she wore the same gloves she used to scrub the toilet. With her gloved hands, the HS touched the bathroom door handles and door frame, the drawstring on the window blinds, chair, wheelchair leg rests, the bedside table three times, a lamp, a remote, and a box of tissues. The HS then reentered the bathroom, wiped down the surfaces of the sink, grab bars and toilet. The HS returned to her cleaning cart, doffed her gloves, sanitized her hands and swept and mopped the floor in room [ROOM NUMBER]. She doffed her gloves, sanitized her hands and proceeded to the next resident room.
2. Staff interviews
Housekeeper (HSK) #4 was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 8:44 a.m. She said each housekeeper on duty is responsible for cleaning one hallway except on weekends. She said that on weekends, there were only three housekeepers on duty, compared to four housekeepers during the week. She said the three housekeepers would share the open hall to ensure all resident rooms were clean. She said she had been trained on how to clean a resident's room if they were on isolation precautions related to a transmission based infection. HSK #4 said proper cleaning practices included using designated PPE and limit risk for cross contamination by hand washing, wiping down cleaning supplies after use and disinfecting shoes.
The HS was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 10:48 a.m. She said she sprays down the bathroom scrubs the toilet first when entering a resident room to allow a 10 minute dwell time. She said she then would clean all other high contact surfaces during the required dwell time, and then return to finish the bathroom. She said she removes her gloves after the completion of the bathroom cleaning and before sweeping and mopping the floor.
The housekeeping and laundry supervisor (HLS) was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 11:30 a.m. with the ANHA. She said all of her staff has received training on PPE use and disposal of PPE, isolation protocols, and how to prevent the spread of infections. The HLS said staff should only place PPE used from isolation rooms in a non designated waste receptacle because of the risk of cross-contamination. She said she trains newly hired staff by observing them clean unoccupied rooms. She said she reviews cleaning steps and chemical dwell times to ensure effected cleaning practices are learned. She said staff also receive infection control training in new hire orientation and all staff inservices. The HLS said her staff also went through an inservice on RSV last month, and recently reviewed precautions with C.Diff. She said her staff should be very aware not to contaminate high touch surfaces in resident rooms and provide a proper cleaning. The HLS said the cleaning of the restroom and the scrubbing of the toilet should be the last thing to clean to prevent cross-contamination. She said staff need to change gloves between cleaning areas. She said after they come out of the bathroom they should either wash their hands or use hand sanitizer and then change to a new pair of gloves. She said they should have changed gloves especially after cleaning the restroom.
D. Contamination of resident food
1. Observation and resident interview:
On 2/12/20 at 9:50 a.m., CNA #5 set down an unpeeled orange in a bowl on top of the PPE dresser before she answered a call light from a room across the hall. She exited the resident room without washing or sanitizing her hands. CNA #5 picked up the bowl by placing the palm of her right hand over the bowl, directing touching the peel of the orange as she walked down the hall. She entered the room of Resident #28 and delivered the orange.
Resident #28 was interviewed on 2/12/20 at 9:57 a.m. She said she would peel the orange by slicing it with her knife.
2. Staff interview
The dietary director (DD), who identified herself as the facilities registered dietitian, was interviewed with the dietary consultant (DC), on 2/13/20 at 2:16 p.m. The DD said she frequently inservices staff not to spider hand resident cups and bowls. The DD said spider handing referred to staff improperly holding a cup or bowl where the eating surface was touched by a staff member's hand. The DC agreed that the unpeeled orange was contaminated when CNA #5 palmed the peel with her unwashed or sanitized hands. She said the contaminates on the peel would contaminate the inside of the fruit when the resident cut the fruit with a knife.
II. Failure to create an effective infection surveillance system
A. Professional references
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reference guide for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), August 2017, was provided by the facility on 2/13/2020. The reference guide read in pertinent part: RSV infections can be dangerous for certain adults. Adults at highest risk for severe RSV infection include: Older adults, especially those 65 years or older; adults with chronic heart or lung disease; and, Adults with weakened immune systems RSV can sometimes lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia Each year an estimated 177.00 older adults are hospitalized and 14,000 of them die in the United States due to RSV infection.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reference guide for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), revised 6/26/18, was provided by the facility on 2/13/2020. The reference guide read in pertinent part: RSV can spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can get infected if you get droplets from the cough or sneeze in your eyes, nose, or mouth, or if you touch a surface that had the virus on it, like a doorknob, and you touch your face before washing your hands People infected with RSV are usually contagious for three to eight days. However, some infants, and people with weakened immune systems, can continue to spread the virus even after they stop showing symptoms, for as long as four weeks. RSV can survive for many hours on hard surfaces such as tables and crib rails. It typically lives on soft surfaces such as tissue and hands for shorter amounts of time.
B. Facility policies and procedures
The Surveillance for Infections policy, revised July 2016, was provided on 2/13/2020 at by the facility. The policy read in pertinent part: The infection preventionist will conduct ongoing surveillance for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and other epidemiologically significant infections that have substantial impact on potential resident outcome and that may require transmission-based precautions and other preventative interventions. The purpose of the surveillance is to identify both individual cases and trends of epidemiologically significant organisms and healthcare-associated infections to guide appropriate interventions, and to prevent future infections Infections that will be included in routine surveillance include those with: a. Evidence of transmissibility in a healthcare environment; b. Available processes and procedures that prevent or reduce the spread of infection; Clinically significant morbidity or mortality associated with infection (e.g., pneumonia, UTIs, C.difficile) Infections that may be considered in surveillance include those with limited transmissibility in a healthcare environment; and/or limited prevention strategies If transmission-based precautions or other preventive measures are implemented to slow or to stop the spread of infection, the Infection preventionist will collect data to help determine the effectiveness of such measures.
C. Inadequate infection surveillance - record review and staff interviews
The staffing development coordinator (SDC) was interviewed on 2/12/2020 at 2:55 p.m. He identified himself as the facility's infection control specialist. He said he was responsible for the surveillance of healthcare-associated infections (HAI). He said a known common factor of the spread of infections was often not washing hands and shared equipment/supplies. The SDC said he had provided staff with training on infection control and preventing the spread of transmission based infections through all staff inservices and online courses. He said department supervisors, such as in housekeeping, provided job specific training related to infection control. The SDC said staff must wash or sanitize their hands before and after resident contact to decrease the risk of potential contaminants from spreading, especially when having contact with body fluids, or surfaces on or around toilets. He said staff should know how to use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly. He said the staff should also know how when they need to use soap and water to wash as opposed to just sanitizing their hands. He said staff needed to wash their hands with soap and water after contacting a resident with C.Diff. because alcohol based sanitizer gel does not kill the C.Diff. bacteria. The SDC said he currently had one resident on transmission based precautions related to C.Diff., Resident #204.
The SDC reviewed his current practice of surveillance for HAIs and implementation of transmission-based precautions. The SDC shared his mapping of HAI for the month of January 2020. According to the mapping, several residents had signs and symptoms of pneumonia. Four of those residents contracted pneumonia within days of each other. Two of the four residents lived directly across the hall from each other. The other two residents out of the four, lived on the opposite hallway, each resident directly across the hall from each other. The SDC said pneumonia was difficult to determine if each of the residents had the same strain of pneumonia so he did not consider the location and timing as conclusively related. However he acknowledged that the location where the residents lived was a connection. The SDC revealed that one of the residents with confirmed pneumonia was bed bound and did not have direct contact with any of the other residents with confirmed cases. He said it was probable to suspect that staff or supplies could have been cross contaminated. He said he did not initiate an investigation on potential causation or implement additional training. He said staff reviewed infection control procedures in December, a month prior.
According to the SDC, the facility recently experienced an outbreak of RSV, beginning mid January. He said five of the residents with RSV lived in the 100 hall. Each of the residents was put on isolation precautions and the 100 hall was put on quarantine and the hall closed off to prevent the spread of the contagious infection. He said the staff who worked on the hall stayed in that hall. He said the outbreak lasted four weeks, ending on 2/11/20. The SDC said two of the residents showed symptoms at approximately the same time. He determined the resident's smoking together as the possible connection. He said he was able to determine which of those residents was patient zero but did not fully investigate how patient zero contracted the RSV infection. The SDC said a sixth person acquired RSV in February. He identified Resident #16 as the sixth resident. He said the resident did not live near the isolated residents on the 100 hall. He said Resident #16 lived in the 200 hall where no other residents presented symptoms. The SDC said he did not review all potential causation factors that could have contributed to the spread of the RSV infection to Resident #16. He said he did not review shared staffing with the housekeeping department or directly observe their practices of cleaning resident rooms. He said he would improve his investigative practices to better determine causation and contributing factors that could result in the spread of HAI. He said the knowledge of the causation and contributing factors could prevent or limit the future spread of transmission based HAI. He said the increased knowledge would improve staff training specific to infection control practices. He said he would also incorporate more observation of staff practices that could result in the spread of infections.
The housekeeping supervisor (HS) was interviewed on 2/13/20 at 10:03 a.m. The HS confirmed housekeeping staff split halls on the weekends. She said as a supervisor, she frequently cleaned resident rooms on all facility hallways to ensure coverage on either weekends or during the week.
HSK #1 was interviewed on 2/13/20 at 10:45 p.m. She said she is a float housekeeper, responsible for cleaning the halls when the other housekeepers have the day off. She said she works on every hall, every week, depending on who was scheduled off.
The housekeeping and laundry supervisor was interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 11:30 a.m. with the ANHA. She said housekeepers are usually assigned to a set hallway, including during the RSV outbreak on the 100 hall. She said her staff do not work seven days a week, so other housekeepers were assigned to hall during the four week isolation period. She said all of her housekeeping staff are trained to work in every hall. She said on weekends with only three housekeepers for four hallways, the housekeepers can decide which hall to divide rooms to share the cleaning of each room. She said her staff has been trained on proper cleaning procedures to prevent the spread of infections. She said her staff had the potential for cross-contaminating a resident room, if infection control practices were not practiced.
The director of clinical operations (DCO) and director of nursing was interviewed on DON on 2/13/2020 at 3:44 p.m. According to the DCO, the SDC shared the above related concerns regarding infection control surveillance. She said he acknowledged that he needed to improve practices to better identify and investigate all potential causation factors on the spread of transmission based infections and determine event of transmission that would create patient zero.
D. Record review
The RSV tracking log was provided by the facility on 2/13/2020, confirming information provided by the SDC. According to the log, the first two cases of RSV were discovered on 1/13/2020. Both residents were put on isolation precautions until 2/4/2020. Seven days after the first discovery, a new case RSV was determined on 1/20/2020, and placed on isolation until 2/6/2020. The following day, on 1/21/2020, another resident was placed on isolation because he was positive for RSV. On 1/30/2020, a fifth resident contracted RSV and was placed on isolation. According to the tracking log, all five residents were on isolation and did not have contact with residents on other hallways. All five residents resided in the 100 hall. On 2/6/2020, the last resident was placed on isolation precautions for positive RSV. According to the log, the sixth resident resided down the 200 hall. The facility was cleared for RSV on 2/11/20.
E. Facility follow up
The director of clinical operations (DCO) and director of nursing (DON) were interviewed on 2/13/2020 at 3:44 p.m. According to the DCO, the facility reviewed and identified contributing factors that led to the above noted observations of poor infection control practices that potentially spread HAI. The DON with DCO said moving forward, they would provide education to all staff, including staff that were identified as a concern. They said management would also conduct their own observations to help identify other areas of improvement related to infection control and prevention.