Resident Exposed During Care Due to Open Window Blind
Penalty
Summary
A resident with acute and chronic respiratory failure, ventilator dependence, dysphagia, and hemiplegia was admitted to the facility and was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living, with documentation indicating the resident was rarely or never understood. Audio/video footage from the resident's room showed two unidentified CNAs providing care while the resident was naked and exposed in front of an open window, with the window blind left open. The room was on the ground floor, making it possible for passersby to see inside. The resident's representative expressed concern about the lack of privacy during care, specifically noting the risk of children next door being able to see into the room. Observation confirmed the blind was open during the day, and the DON reviewed the footage, confirming the exposure. Resident council minutes from a prior meeting also documented requests for CNAs to be reminded to knock before entering rooms to respect privacy, indicating ongoing concerns about resident dignity and privacy.