Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity and Respect During Care and Dining
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain resident dignity and respect for multiple residents, as evidenced by observations, interviews, and record reviews. Several cognitively intact residents reported that staff were rough or disrespectful during care. One resident described staff as rushing and handling her roughly, while another reported that a CNA dug her nails into his skin during incontinent care. Additional residents indicated that staff had poor attitudes, were not polite, and sometimes yelled at them for using the call light. These interactions were described as disrespectful and lacking in consideration for the residents' comfort and dignity, though not necessarily abusive. Further, a resident with a history of mental illness reported being treated differently by staff due to her higher level of independence. She stated that a CNA refused to assist with tasks such as making her bed or doing laundry, and would provide minimal assistance with meals and water, allegedly to upset her. The resident filed grievances regarding this treatment and requested not to be cared for by the CNA in question. Staff interviews confirmed knowledge of resident rights and abuse training, but also revealed strained relationships and inconsistent care practices. During a dining observation, three residents with dementia or dysphagia were found with tablecloths tied around their necks as makeshift clothing protectors while waiting for their meals, despite the facility having proper clothing protectors available. Staff interviewed were unsure why this practice was occurring. Facility policy requires residents to be treated with consideration, respect, and dignity, but these incidents demonstrate a failure to uphold these standards for several residents.