Every finding on record at K&M Hospice LLC

It is required that the hospice follows accepted standards of practice to prevent the transmission of infections and communicable disease, including the use of standard precautions, such as: hand hygiene; use of gloves, mask, eye protection, or face shield depending on anticipated exposure; safe handling of equipment in the patient’s care environment if it is likely to have been contaminated with body fluids; safe handling of soiled items in the patient’s care environment; [and] other requirements of applicable state and federal law and regulation. This standard was not met as evidenced by document review, interview and observation. Agency policy # IC.3 "Hand Hygiene" stated in part, "Wet hands and wrist with water, with hands held upright, dry thoroughly with clean paper towel. Use dry paper towel to turn off the faucet." In 1 of 3 (33%) home visits observed, the hospice did not ensure hand hygiene was performed, using correct technique, as indicated per the hospice agency's policy. Home Visit 1: During the home visit with the Registered Nurse (RN) on 10/11/2023. The RN washed their hands with soap and water, rinsed their hands, and turned off the faucet with a bare hand. The RN did not use a paper towel to turn off the faucet per the hospice agency's policy. The DON was present during the visit, was interviewed, and confirmed that the clinician did not follow their infection control policy.