HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, product information review, and interview, the hospital failed to ensure a glucometer was disinfected after patient use for 1 (Patient #7) of 2 patients' glucometer tests observed.


The findings include:


Observation on 1/7/15 at 3:50 p.m., Staff C performed a point-of-care blood sugar test on Patient #7. Staff C brought the glucometer to a work station and wiped the device with a Microkill+ wipe (a disinfectant wipe) and set it down to dry. She placed the glucometer back in the carrier ready for the next patient. The glucometer was dry within seconds.

In an interview on 1/7/15 at 3:55 p.m., when asked about the disinfection process, Staff C explained, "It takes about 10 seconds."

In an interview on 1/7/15 at 3:56 p.m., the nurse on duty stated to disinfect the glucometer, " wipe it and let it dry for 2 minutes."

Microkill+ label directions for disinfection include: "Thoroughly wet pre-cleaned, had, non-porous surface with a wipe, keep wet for 2 minutes (5 minutes if fungus suspected), and allow to air dry..."

Review of the glucometer manufacturer's instructions provided by the hospital documented on page 123, "If dedicating blood glucose meters to a single patient is not possible, the meters must be properly cleaned and disinfected after every use ..." Disinfecting instructions include on page 129 step 2 includes, "Allow the surface of the meter to remain damp with the recommended disinfecting solution ..."

The manufacturer instructions recommended 2 name brand disinfecting wipe products. Microkill+ was not one of the listed recommended products.


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