Resident's Dignity Compromised Due to Inadequate Coverage During Hallway Walk
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident, who required substantial assistance with activities of daily living and had an intact thought process, was not fully covered while walking in the hallway with a physical therapist student. During the walk, the resident's gown was pulled upward, exposing the incontinence brief. The physical therapist student acknowledged that the resident's brief was exposed and stated the importance of keeping the resident covered to maintain dignity and comfort. The Director of Nursing confirmed that staff are required to ensure residents are fully covered at all times in public areas to protect their dignity. Facility policy on dignity and respect, reviewed on 10/30/2024, also states that residents must be treated with dignity and respect at all times, including assistance in maintaining self-esteem and self-worth. The failure to keep the resident covered in the hallway constituted a lack of dignity and respect as required by facility policy.