Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity by Improper Handling of Soiled Linen
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with a compression fracture and moderate cognitive impairment was observed resting in bed with a pile of un-bagged, feces-smeared linen placed on a pillow on a recliner chair approximately 2 to 3 feet from the resident's face. The soiled linen remained in this position for at least 31 minutes. Interviews with a CNA and the Director of Nursing confirmed that facility protocol requires soiled linen to be immediately bagged and taken to the soiled utility room, and that there is no acceptable reason for soiled linen to be left un-bagged or placed on resident furniture. The incident occurred due to a failure to follow established procedures for handling soiled linen, resulting in a lack of dignity for the resident.