HospitalInspections.org

Based on two (2) of two (2) observations, staff interviews, and review of nationally recognized guidelines, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that Infection Control practices for posting visual alerts providing COVID-19 instructions on social distancing, masking and hand hygiene are developed and implemented in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines.

Findings include:

Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control-recommendations.html, updated November 4, 2020 states, "... Post visual alerts (e.g., signs, posters ) at the entrance and in strategic places (e.g., waiting areas, elevators, cafeterias) to provide instructions (in appropriate languages) about wearing a cloth face covering or facemask for source control and how and when to perform hand hygiene."

1. On 12/2/20 at 9:40 AM, upon entering the main entrance of the facility, there was no signage posted on the outside door, alerting visitors/patients of the use of face coverings, or social distancing, in accordance with CDC guidelines.

a. At 10:20 AM, during a tour of the entrance to the Emergency Department (ED), there was no signage posted on the outside door, alerting visitors/patients of the use of face coverings, or social distancing, in accordance with CDC guidelines.

2. The above findings were confirmed by Staff #2, Staff #3 and Staff #12 on 12/2/20 at 12:30 PM.