Controlling Infections for Resident and Financial Health

With the implementation of the Phase II “Mega Rule” that went in to effect on November 28, 2017, nursing homes are now required to focus on healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in an effort to reduce the number of resident infections. The cost of HAIs on the long-term care industry is estimated to be between $700 million and $2 billion annually for antimicrobial therapy and hospitalization fees. For nursing homes, controlling these infections is critical for both the resident well-being and financial well-being of the facility.
According to the most recent CMS data, F880 Infection Prevention and Control is the most frequently cited F-tag since November 28, 2017, with the implementation of the revised long-term care survey process. Nationwide, 15.6 % of facilities have been cited (2,567 of 15,695 centers) in the area of infection prevention and control.
Random review of available national survey data reveals several common citations under F880, including the following:

• Hand hygiene during medication administration, IV therapy and after providing incontinence care.
• Failure to follow proper perineal care technique.
• Failure to implement and adhere to isolation policy and procedures.
• Management of urinary catheter tubing to prevent infection.
• Failure to cleanse/disinfect glucometers between residents.
• Less frequently cited were failure to complete the facility TB risk assessment and/or the Legionella risk assessment.

Centers should take the time to review their current practices and competency requirements related to hand hygiene, incontinence/perineal care, urinary catheter management and glucometer cleansing/disinfecting procedures. Ensure that an annual review of the facility specific TB Risk Assessment and the Legionella risk assessment is completed. For assistance with regulatory compliance, reach out to an AssuredPartners Senior Living Risk Solutions expert.
Sources: CMS and AHRQ Safety Program for Long-Term Care: Preventing CAUTI and Other HAIs