HospitalInspections.org

Based on document review and staff interview it was determined for 4 of 10 patients in droplet and or contact isolation (Pts #2, #4, and #3), the Hospital failed to provide patient/family education on droplet and contact isolation. This has the potential to negatively affect all patients, visitors and staff.

Findings include:

1. The hospital policy titled "Lipppincott Procedures - droplet precautions and contact precautions" (revised 7/7/15) was reviewed on 7/19/16 at 2:00 PM. Policy notes "explain isolation procedures to the patient and his family to ease patient anxiety and promote cooperation".

2. On 7/19/16 at approximately 2:00 PM, Pt #2's medical record was reviewed. Pt #2 was admitted to the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) for a 23 week 2 day delivery on 2/2/16. E #8 (NICU physician) placed Pt #2 on droplet and contact isolation after exposure to shingles on the unit. No documentation of family education on contact or droplet education was found.

3. On 7/19/16 at approximately 2:30 PM, Pt #4's medical record was reviewed. Pt #4 was admitted to the NICU for respiratory distress. E #8 placed Pt #4 on contact and droplet isolation after exposure to shingles on the unit. No documentation of family education on contact or droplet education was found.

4. On 7/19/16 at approximately 2:45 PM, Pt #3's medical record was reviewed. Pt #3 was admitted to the cardiac unit for chest pain. Pt #3 was placed in contact isolation on 7/18/16 after lab results were positive for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureaus (MRSA). No documentation of patient or family education on contact isolation was found.

5. On 7/19/16 at approximately 3:00 PM, E #9 (RN, facility contact) was told patient chart reviews with computer-IT assistance observed several records with no documentation of patient/family isolation education. E #9 had no answer.