HospitalInspections.org

Based on surveyor observations made during tour, facility policy review, and staff interview, the facility failed to ensure staff removed soiled gloves. This had the potential to affect all patients receiving care in the ED.

Findings include:

The 28-bed Emergency Department, located on the main campus of the facility was toured on 02/13/24 at 8:45 AM. Staff L was observed walking down the hall of the ED wearing disposable gloves. She walked into Room #14 and was observed covering the patient with a blanket. Staff L was then observed leaving the room while still wearing the same disposable gloves. A second staff member, Staff M, was observed interviewing a patient in Room #1. She was typing on a computer on wheels. Staff L was observed walking out of the room and opening a door to a supply room while still wearing the same disposable gloves.

Staff A and Staff B, present during the tour, verified both staff members left patient rooms without removing their soiled gloves.

The facility policy titled "Isolation Precaution", effective 04/17/01, documented that wearing gloves is not a substitute for hand washing. Gloves are single patient use. Clean nonsterile gloves are required to be changed between tasks/procedures on the same patient and after contact with material that may contain a high concentration of microorganisms. Staff members are further instructed to remove gloves after contact with a patient and/or surrounding environment using proper technique to prevent hand contamination.