Failure to Provide Adaptive Eating Equipment for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to assess and provide appropriate adaptive eating equipment for a resident with limited range of motion in the upper extremities, leading to difficulties in eating independently. The resident, who had multiple diagnoses including dementia and cerebral conditions, was observed on two separate occasions struggling to eat independently due to the inability to use the left arm and hand. During these observations, the resident was seen dropping food on the table, floor, and protective clothing while attempting to eat with a fork using only the right hand. Despite these challenges, no staff assistance was provided during the initial observations, and the resident continued to struggle with self-feeding. The Director of Nursing was informed of the situation and acknowledged the need for an assessment of adaptive equipment. Subsequently, the Restorative Nurse assessed the resident and determined that a scoop plate would aid in preventing food spillage and improve the resident's ability to eat independently. The assessment also noted that the resident could grip regular utensils and did not require special utensils. The Director of Nursing emphasized the expectation for nursing staff to report any resident needing adaptive equipment to ensure prompt assessment and provision of necessary tools to maintain nutritional intake.