LPN Staffing Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to meet the required LPN-to-resident ratios on seven out of twenty-one reviewed shifts, as determined by a review of nurse staffing records, resident census, and staff interviews. Specifically, the facility did not provide the minimum of one LPN per 30 residents on the evening shift and one LPN per 40 residents on the night shift. On January 24, 2025, the evening shift had 1.84 LPNs instead of the required 2.97 for a census of 89. On January 26, 2025, the evening shift had 2.22 LPNs instead of 2.97, and the night shift had 1.97 LPNs instead of 2.23 for the same census. On January 27, 2025, the evening shift had 1.91 LPNs instead of 2.90 for a census of 87. On January 28, 2025, the evening shift had 1.69 LPNs instead of 2.87 for a census of 86. On January 29, 2025, the evening shift had 1.84 LPNs instead of 2.87, and the night shift had 2.06 LPNs instead of 2.15 for a census of 86. An interview with the Nursing Home Administrator confirmed these deficiencies.
Plan Of Correction
Facility cannot retroactively correct this deficiency. Recruitment of nursing staff will continue via facility websites, Indeed, social media websites, job fairs, off site recruiters, and instant interviews from walk-in candidates. Agency staff may be utilized for open shifts if available. The Valentine Open Hiring Event was conducted with interest expressed. Retention efforts will be made in earnest. Referral bonuses are offered to current employees. The facility is currently offering a significant sign-on bonus for all new nursing staff. The Director of Nursing/designee will review the ratio daily for compliance. All efforts will be made to meet LPN's ratios. If a call off occurs, all efforts will be made to fill that position. The Director of Nursing/designee will audit the LPN ratio 1x/week for 4 weeks, then monthly for 2 months. Results of the audits will be presented to the QA committee for review and recommendation.