Deficiency in Resident Communication Privacy and Access
Penalty
Summary
Hampton House Rehabilitation and Nursing Center was found to be non-compliant with federal and state regulations regarding residents' rights to communication privacy and access. The facility failed to provide a functional, resident-only telephone for a resident in the B-Wing Resident Lounge, as the phone was non-operational with exposed wires and no dial tone. This issue was reported by the resident during a Resident Council Meeting, but no action was taken to address the concern, as evidenced by the absence of a maintenance work order to repair the phone. Additionally, the facility did not ensure privacy for residents making telephone calls. Residents were required to use a landline telephone located behind the nursing station, which did not provide privacy as it was positioned on the counter, necessitating residents to sit in front of the nursing station during calls. This arrangement was confirmed by a licensed practical nurse and the Nursing Home Administrator, who acknowledged the lack of privacy and access to a functional, resident-only telephone, impacting residents' ability to communicate confidentially and independently.
Plan Of Correction
Preparation and/or execution of this plan of correction does not constitute admission or agreement by the provider of the truth of the facts alleged or conclusion set forth in the statement of deficiencies. The plan of correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provisions of federal and state law. FTAG 576- Rights to forms of Communication with Privacy- B lounge not working. 1. B wing Resident Lounge Phone fixed immediately. 2. January 2025 Resident council minutes were reviewed to ensure any concerns documented were resolved. 3. 3 cordless phone devices were purchased for each of the nursing units providing access to additional functional, resident-only telephones. Cordless phones to be utilized by residents in their resident room allowing for privacy, confidentiality and independent communications. 4. NHA/Designee will provide education to current staff regarding Resident's Right to Forms of Communication with Privacy. 5. NHA/Designee will conduct weekly audits x4 and then monthly x3 to ensure all Resident-only telephones are appropriately working. Results of the audits will be reviewed at the facility QA meeting. 6. NHA/Designee will conduct monthly audit x3 to ensure all monthly resident council documented concerns have work orders and work orders are addressed and appropriately resolved. Results of the audits will be reviewed during facility QA meeting. 7. Date of Compliance March 7, 2025.