Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity and Privacy
Summary
The facility failed to uphold the dignity and respect of its residents, as evidenced by several observations and interviews. Staff members were observed standing while feeding residents in the main dining room, which is against the facility's policy and considered a dignity issue. This was noted with Resident #16, where both a CNA and the DON were seen standing while assisting with feeding, despite being instructed to sit to ensure proper eye contact and monitoring of the resident's swallowing. Interviews with staff confirmed that sitting while feeding is necessary to prevent negative outcomes such as choking or aspiration. Resident #54 was not offered a clothing protector during meals, resulting in his clothing being soiled with food. Despite his cognitive impairments and tendency to eat with his hands, staff failed to consistently offer or ensure the use of a clothing protector. Interviews with various staff members revealed a lack of consistent practice in offering clothing protectors, with some staff citing being too busy or the resident's refusal as reasons for not providing one. The DON acknowledged that not using a clothing protector could impact the resident's dignity and should be documented in the care plan if refused. Resident #58's privacy was compromised as his Foley catheter bag was not covered with a privacy bag while he was in bed, contrary to his care plan instructions. Observations showed the catheter bag hanging from a trash can and later from a bed rail without a dignity bag, posing a risk of infection and embarrassment for the resident. Interviews with nursing staff confirmed the expectation for catheter bags to be covered at all times to maintain privacy. Additionally, Resident #89 was observed with long facial hair, which she found embarrassing. Despite her care plan indicating the need for assistance with personal hygiene, including shaving, staff interviews revealed inconsistencies in offering or performing this care, with no specific policy in place for shaving female residents.
Penalty
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