Failure to Provide Resident's Preferred Bathing Option
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to honor a resident's right to self-determination by not providing a tub bath as per the resident's preference. Resident #64, who has a history of malignant neoplasm of the prostate, diabetes mellitus type 2, and osteoarthritis, expressed a preference for tub baths, which was documented in their Activity Interview for Daily and Activity Preferences form. However, the facility did not have a functioning tub available, which prevented the resident from receiving their preferred method of bathing. Observations and interviews revealed that the facility's bathtubs were either non-functional or used for storage, with no available tubs in the units' shower rooms. The Environmental Department Director and other staff members confirmed that the tubs had been non-functional for an extended period, with some stating they had been broken for over a year or even two years. Despite the resident's preference being documented, the facility did not take action to repair or provide access to a functioning tub, and staff were unaware of any available alternatives. The facility's failure to provide a functioning tub bath option was acknowledged by various staff members, including the Director of Nursing and the Administrator, who were unaware of the issue until it was brought to their attention. The lack of communication and maintenance regarding the tubs led to the inability to accommodate Resident #64's bathing preference, which is a violation of the resident's rights as outlined in the facility's policies and state regulations.
Plan Of Correction
Plan of Correction: Approved January 14, 2025 1. Facility made repairs to the tub. Facility obtaining quotes to fix all tubs. Resident #64 received tub per preference. 2. All residents who prefer to have a tub are at risk for deficient practice of not receiving a tub bath. 3. All residents' assessments for preference will be audited by MDS to see who prefers a bath. Any deficient practices will be corrected immediately. 4. Policy and procedure for maintenance of the facility tubs were reviewed and updated. 5. Administrator educated Maintenance Director and Maintenance Tech on tub policy. 6. Facility will audit all tubs monthly to ensure tubs are functioning and available for preferences of the resident. Any deficient practices will be corrected and brought to QAPI for further review. Person Responsible: Maintenance Director