Inadequate RN Coverage in Facility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide the services of a Registered Nurse (RN) for 8 consecutive hours per day, seven days a week, as required. This deficiency was identified through interviews and record reviews. Several staff members, including Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and the Administrator, confirmed that RN coverage was inconsistent, particularly on weekends. The Director of Nursing (DON) and another RN attempted to cover the required hours, but there were days without RN coverage. The facility's nursing schedule from late February to early April documented multiple days without RN coverage. The facility's policy mandates RN coverage for 8 hours daily, 7 days a week, with LPNs covering in the absence of an RN, who would be on call. However, the policy was not adhered to, as evidenced by the lack of RN coverage on specific dates. The Administrator acknowledged the issue and mentioned efforts to hire more RNs to meet the requirement. This deficiency has the potential to affect all 42 residents living in the facility.