Every finding on record at Accentcare Home Health of California, Inc

The following reflects the findings of the California Department of Public Health during the investigation of a facility reported incident (FRI). ERI/Complaint Number: CA00744965 Category: Infection Control Sub-category: Covid-19-Noncompliance Representing the Department: 36708, Health Facilities Evaluator Nurse (HFEN). The inspection was limited to the FRI investigated and does not represent the findings of a full inspection of the facility. One deficient practice was identified from this investigation.

Infection Prevention CFR(s): 484.70(a) Standard: Infection Prevention. The HHA must follow accepted standards of practice, including the use of standard precautions, to prevent the transmission of infections and communicable diseases. This STANDARD is not met as evidenced by: Based on interview and record review, the agency failed to ensure its policy and procedure on infection control and prevention related to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) COVID-19 Guidelines, was implemented to 1 of two patients. An unvaccinated Registered Nurse (RN 1) did not wear an N95 mask (respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles) during an initial home visit. This deficient practice had the potential to subject the already compromised patient in acquiring infection. Findings: Patient 1 was referred to the agency on 7/14/21 to be admitted to Home Health services. Patient 1 had diagnoses that included respiratory failure, unspecified with hypoxia (having low oxygen levels) per the agency's Patient Information Report. On 8/2/21 at 11:20 A.M., an interview with the Director of Patient Care Services (DPCS) was conducted. The DPCS stated the agency received a call from Patient 1's spouse related to the home visit made by an unvaccinated RN who was not wearing an N95 mask. The DPCS further stated the agency does not mandate staff to be vaccinated, however, per the agency policy, unvaccinated staff should wear an N95 mask during home visits. The DPCS confirmed RN 1 was not wearing the required PPE (N95) during the home visit. An attempt was made to interview RN 1, however, RN1 was a traveler nurse for the agency and was unavailable for an interview. The agency's policy titled, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) COVID-19 Guidelines, dated 7/14/21 indicated,"...3. Unvaccinated staff will wear N95 for all patient encounters..."