HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, record review, and interview the facility failed to ensure that staff adhere to infection and prevention and control policies and procedures when disinfecting a glucometer.

Findings included:

Review of the" Disinfection of Shared Point of Care Instruments" policy, effective 05/2019, reflected the following:
" ... B. All portable Point of Care (POC) blood testing instruments must be properly cleaned and disinfected between each patient after every use as described in the manufacturer's recommendations. The cleaning of the instrument/equipment will be performed immediately after exiting the patient's room. The cleaning of the instrument/equipment exiting the patient room with any isolation precautions will be performed by the door before exiting the room. This is done to protect both the patient and the person performing the test.
C. Disinfect the exterior surface of the instrument after each use, even if there is no visible blood or soil, following the manufacturer's recommendations. Use an EPA-registered disinfectant effective against HBV, HCV, and HIV.3 ...
Procedure: ...
B. Directions ...
3. After allowing the disinfecting solution to remain on the surface for the manufacture's required time ...
6. Allow the analyzer to air dry for the recommended contact time according to the disinfecting solution product labeling."

Observation of two of three glucometers (glucometer #3 and #4) ready for use reflected a dried reddish-brown substance at the point where the blood glucose strip is placed for POC glucose testing.

During an interview with staff # 2 she verified that the substance appeared to be dried blood.

During an interview with staff #9 she revealed that she disinfects the glucometer after each use with the purple top saniwipes. She stated that she wipes the meter down and places is back in the container. The minimum contact time for Purple top Sani Wipes, as documented on the container, is 2 minutes.

Staff #2 verified the above findings.