Breach of Resident Confidentiality on Medication Cart
Penalty
Summary
Harmar Village Health & Rehab Center was found to be non-compliant with federal and state regulations regarding the confidentiality of residents' medical information. During an observation, a medication cart on the 3 East unit was left unattended at the nurses' station with the computer screen open, displaying identifiable resident information. This lapse in security allowed any passerby to view personal and confidential information, violating the residents' right to privacy and confidentiality as outlined in 42 CFR Part 483 and the 28 Pa. Code. The incident was confirmed by a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and the Nursing Home Administrator during interviews conducted on the same day as the observation. The failure to secure the computer screen on the medication cart represents a breach of the facility's obligation to protect residents' personal and medical records, as required by federal and state regulations. This deficiency highlights a specific instance where the facility did not uphold the necessary standards for maintaining the confidentiality of resident information.
Plan Of Correction
There were no residents affected by this deficient practice. All residents have the potential to be affected. To prevent this from recurring, staff education will be provided to facility staff regarding F583 and facility policy, on the importance of maintaining confidentiality of residents' medical information by the DON/designee. For ongoing compliance, the Director Of Nursing (DON)/designee will conduct audits of maintaining confidentiality of residents' medical information related to keeping medical information secure and out of view of visitors/family 3 times per week for 4 weeks, then weekly for 2 weeks to ensure compliance. Any noted discrepancies will be addressed as appropriate, and results of auditing will be reviewed at the facility Quality Assurance Meeting.