HospitalInspections.org

Based on observations and review of the facility's Policy and Procedure revealed that the facility failed to follow their Policy and Procedure and ensure that hospital personnel implemented infection prevention and control process that reduce the risk of infection to staff and patients.

Findings:

Observation on 07/13/10 at 12:30 PM in the Emergency Department revealed that a Computer on Wheels (COW) was parked in the hallway outside the Triage room with a bottle of water sitting on the stand of the COW.

Observation on 07/13/10 at 1:00 PM on the 6th Floor surgical unit revealed that a COW was parked outside the nursing station with a half empty bottle of Pepsi and a Pop tart on the stand of the COW.

Review of the facility's Infection Control Policy and Procedures titled Infection Control-Associate Food and Drink Policy revealed the following:
Policy:
A. Associate foods or drinks are prohibited in any area where patient care is provided or patient specimens are handled.
B. All food eaten by associates should be in the break rooms or Dining Room.
C. Drinks are permitted at the nurses station if the container is covered with a lid or cap. Drinks should be secured in the nurses's station out of public view.