Failure to Accommodate Resident's Mobility Needs Due to Oxygen Equipment
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when the facility failed to reasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of a resident with multiple medical conditions, including acute respiratory failure with hypoxia, COPD, diabetes, heart failure, and depression. The resident, who was moderately cognitively impaired and used a wheelchair for mobility, expressed a preference for being out of his room and participating in activities. However, he reported being unable to leave his room due to the inconvenience of moving his oxygen concentrator, leading to repeated complaints of boredom and isolation during multiple observations and interviews. Staff interviews revealed that the resident previously had a portable oxygen tank, which allowed for greater mobility, but this was discontinued due to concerns about the resident not notifying staff when tanks were empty. Despite a physician's order for the resident to participate in activities as tolerated, and no clinical reason preventing the use of a portable tank, the resident remained confined to his room. The activity director and DON acknowledged the resident's limited participation in activities and the impact of the oxygen equipment on his mobility.