HospitalInspections.org

Based on observations and interviews for four of six patients, the hospital failed to ensure that patient belongings were protected from possible environmental contamination. The findings include:

A tour of the 7 W Behavioral Health Unit was conducted with Manager #1 and an Infection Preventionist, IP #2, on 2/21/21. Observations of the soiled utility room on 1/21/21 at 9:47 AM identified a paper waste receptacle, hand sink and soiled equipment within the room and six (6) plastic bins that contained patient belongings were noted on a shelf. Four (4) of the six (6) bins lacked a plastic cover or a cover that enclosed the entire top of the bin, therefore the items were susceptible to possible environmental contamination. Interview with IP #2 on 1/21/21 at 9:50 AM indicated that storage space was limited, and patient belongings should either be enclosed in plastic bags or inside of a bin with the cover secured. IP #2 identified that the hospital did not have a policy regarding personal belonging storage on the Behavioral Health Unit.