HospitalInspections.org

Based on staff interview and document review, it was determined the facility failed to prevent the possibility of cross contamination between 2 (#1, #2) of 10 sampled patients.

Findings include:

The facility's policy "Standard Precautions", #4.1, revised 11/09, required that patient care equipment be handled in a manner that prevents transfer of microorganisms from one patient to another. During interview with the Risk Manager on 7/3/12 at approximately 10:00 a.m., it was revealed that a metered dose inhaler that belonged to patient #2 was found in the room of patient #1. The inhaler was found at approximately 8:00 p.m. on 5/23/12 lying on a bedside commode. It was determined the day shift nurse had inadvertently left the medication in the room. The Street 5 unit manager was interviewed on 7/3/12 at approximately 10:30 a.m. She indicated that the nurse had been counseled regarding this incident. The physician was notified of the incident and determined no action was necessary.