Every finding on record at West Virginia Home Health LLC

An emergency preparedness survey was conducted at West Virginia Home Health, LLC as part of a recertification survey on 10/5/22 through 10/6/22. The agency is compliant with the Emergency Preparedness Conditions of Participation for Home Health Agencies.

A recertification survey was conducted at West Virginia Home Health, LLC on 10/05/22 to 10/06/22. The agency provides skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical social work and home health aide services to Berkeley and Jefferson counties. The census at the time of the survey was twelve (12) with unduplicated admissions of one hundred and eight (108) for the past year. A total of nine (9) records were reviewed and one (1) home visit was made. It was determined the agency was not in compliance with 42 CFR, Part 484 the Medicare Conditions of Participation for Home Health Agencies.

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 observation, document review, and staff interview, it was determined the agency failed to prevent the transmission of infections and communicable diseases by failing to follow standard infection control policies and procedures, in one (1) out of one (1) home visit (patient #5) conducted with a Registered Nurse (RN). This failure has the potential to negatively impact all patients receiving care by the agency. An observation was conducted as a home visit with patient #5, with the RN, on 10/06/22 at 11:10 a.m. The RN placed the supply bag on the floor under a table in the kitchen. Two (2) small dogs were present in the home, approached and placed their noses up to the bag. At approximately 11:20 a.m., the RN removed a stethoscope, blood pressure equipment, and pulse oximeter from the bag and obtained vital sign readings. The RN then placed the equipment back into the supply bag. No cleaning of the equipment was completed. A review was conducted of document titled “Exposure Control Plan: OSHA Regulations,” last approved 12/18/19. The policy states in part: “General Information- Infection Control and Standard Precautions … 5. Keep supplies off the floor and out of the reach of children … Methods of Disinfection ... 6. Stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs will be cleaned with agency approved disinfectant after each used by the employee who has possession of the equipment … Nursing Bag Technique … 2. Upon entering the home, place the bag on a clean surface, paper towels or plastic bag may be used to create a clean area if indicated." An interview was conducted with the Director of Clinical Services and the Regional Director on 10/06/22 at 12:55 p.m. They both concurred the RN did not follow the proper procedures for bag placement and cleaning of supplies.