Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity During Meal Assistance
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to maintain a resident's dignity during meal assistance, as observed on two separate occasions. On the first occasion, a CNA stood to the left of a resident with dementia and psychosis while assisting with the meal, placing her hand on the resident's forehead to hold her head up and feeding her without engaging in conversation. The CNA instead conversed with other staff members during the meal. On the second occasion, the Activity Director also stood in front of the same resident while assisting with eating. The resident's care plan indicated a total dependence on staff for meal assistance due to dementia. Staff interviews confirmed that proper protocol requires sitting and engaging with residents during meal assistance, rather than standing and conversing with other staff. The facility's Resident Rights policy emphasized the right to a dignified existence and being treated with respect and consideration, which was not upheld during these observed meal times.