HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and interview, environmental staff in the emergency department (ED) failed to clean in a manner that prevents healthcare acquired infections among patients and staff.

Findings:

Department of Health survey staff conducted an environmental tour/inspection of the ED on 6/21/2022 from approximately 12:15 PM to 1:45 PM.

-Observed, at 12:15 PM in room B15 (which had already been cleaned), a thermometer stored directly on top of an in-use sharps container. This finding was confirmed with the Assistant Nurse Manager who accompanied survey staff on the the tour.

-At approximately 12:30 PM a bed turnover cleaning by environment services staff (EVS) was observed at a hall bed, station B-2 overflow. The bed is housed directly at the wall with the full length of the bed touching the wall. The bed was properly wiped with an acceptable product, however the wall aside bed was not cleaned between patients. EVS staff Assessment and Competency validation report and ARAMARK Cleaning Standards for the ER for the staff observed were reviewed. Cleaning the wall at hall bed stations was not specified on either document.

The finding was verified with the EVS supervisor who was observing the cleaning procedure with survey staff.

Thorough cleaning decreases risks of transmission of infections to patients and staff.