Failure to Provide Required Grooming Assistance to Resident Needing Moderate Support
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary assistance with grooming and personal hygiene for a resident who required moderate staff support due to multiple sclerosis, weakness, and moderate cognitive impairment. The resident's care plan and MDS indicated a need for moderate assistance with grooming, and her condition could fluctuate throughout the day. Despite these documented needs, observations over several days revealed that the resident had not received help with shaving, oral care, or washing her face and hands. The resident reported not being offered a shower or grooming assistance, and staff interviews confirmed that grooming care was expected on non-shower days, but there was no documentation of refusals except for one instance where a bed bath was provided instead of a shower. Physical observations showed the resident had visible whiskers on her chin and upper lip, stringy and matted hair, and a shiny face, indicating a lack of grooming. The resident stated she was not allowed to have a razor and had not been offered shaving assistance. Staff interviews revealed inconsistent accounts regarding when grooming and showers were provided, and documentation did not support claims of frequent refusals. Facility policies required regular assessment and assistance with shaving and grooming, but these were not followed as documented in the resident's records and observed condition.