HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, interview, and document review, the facility did not ensure staff entering COVID-19 patient rooms were appropriately donning isolation gowns in accordance with facility policy and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance.

Findings include:

Observation on 06/08/2020 at 05:00 PM in the Medical Intensive Care Unit revealed Staff (E), MICU Physician and Staff (F), Respiratory Therapist both entered Patient #24's room (room #2209) that was designated as an enhanced isolation/COVID-19 positive. Staff (E)'s gown was not completely covering his back, leaving an approximate 6- inch gap exposing his scrubs. Staff (F) did not secure the top of the gown leaving his upper back and shoulders exposed. Interview with Staff (C), Associate Director of Infection Prevention, and Staff (L), Associate Chief Nursing Officer verified this finding.

Medical record review for Patient #24 dated 06/08/20 at 05:11 PM revealed Staff (F) documented Patient #24's endotracheal tube was suctioned.

Observation on 06/08/2020 at 05:45 PM on Unit 4800 revealed Staff (LLL), RN, enter the room of Patient # 27 with intravenous medication, without securing the isolation gown at the neck. Interview with Staff (X), Associate Chief Nursing Officer verified this finding.

Medical record review for Patient #27 dated 05/30/2020 to present revealed a positive diagnosis of COVID-19.

Review of policy "Guidance for Managing a Patient with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19" effective 03/2020 revealed patients will be placed on enhanced isolation precautions, including facemask or N-95, eye protection, a gown, and gloves. Personal protective equipment must be donned and doffed according to CDC recommended procedures.

Review of CDC Sequence for Putting on Personal Protective Equipment, (no date), revealed a gown is to fully cover torso from neck to knees, arms to end of wrists, and wrap around the back. Fasten the gown on the back of neck and at the waist.