Failure to Provide Nutritional Supplements to Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that nutritional supplements were consistently provided to a resident, identified as R28, who was at risk for weight loss. R28, a female resident with a history of Parkinson's, congestive heart failure, depression, anxiety, and cerebral infarction, was noted to have a low BMI and was recommended to gain weight. Despite dietary recommendations to provide supplements such as health shakes, whole milk, and magic cups with meals, these were not consistently offered. Observations revealed that R28 was not assisted or encouraged to eat during meals, and she was not provided with all her prescribed supplements, contributing to her inadequate food and fluid intake. Interviews with staff indicated that R28 had a poor appetite and required cueing to eat, yet staff did not consistently assist her. The dietary manager noted that R28 refused some supplements and gave them to her tablemates, leading to the decision not to offer them anymore. However, the dietitian stated that supplements should still be offered if listed as part of the resident's nutritional plan. R28's weight decreased from 117 pounds to 113 pounds over several months, indicating a failure to implement effective nutritional interventions as per the facility's Weight Monitoring Policy.