Deficiency in Staff Competency for Resident Bathing
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that nursing staff had the necessary competencies and skills to provide proper bathing care for residents. This deficiency was identified for five nursing staff members, including an LPN and four nurse aides. The issue arose when the facility experienced a lack of hot water, and staff were unprepared to provide alternative methods for resident hygiene. The facility's policy on emergency water supply, which included the use of disposable wash wipes, was not followed as the staff reported that such wipes were not available. During interviews, staff members expressed confusion and uncertainty about how to proceed with resident hygiene without hot water. Some staff attempted to heat water in microwaves as a makeshift solution. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the facility could not provide evidence of specific competencies and skill sets necessary for resident bathing care. This lack of preparation and adherence to policy resulted in the deficiency noted by the surveyors.
Plan Of Correction
1. The facility provided disposable wipes to the units to provide hygiene care to the residents. Disposable wipes are provided by central supply and are available on all units. Central Supply is responsible for stocking and having a supply available. 2. Nursing staff will be educated on the emergent water policy which includes utilizing disposable wipes to provide hygiene care. This education will be provided by DON or designee. 3. Audits of emergent disposable wipe inventory will be conducted weekly x 3 weeks and monthly x 2 months by Central Supply or designee. 4. Results of staff education will be submitted to monthly QA process for monitoring and IDT discussion.