Failure to Maintain Resident Privacy and Provide Safe, Dignified Personal Items
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to maintain privacy and dignity for two residents during care and daily living activities. In one instance, a resident with severe cognitive impairment and total dependence for personal care was observed receiving incontinent care with both the privacy curtain and room door left open, exposing the resident to view by others in the hallway. The CNA involved acknowledged not closing the curtain or door, and another CNA confirmed that privacy should be maintained during such care to prevent resident embarrassment. Review of facility policy confirmed the expectation to promote privacy and dignity during care, which was not followed in this case. In a separate incident, another resident with the capacity to make decisions was found with a water pitcher that had a cracked, chipped spout with sharp edges on their bedside table. The resident confirmed the condition of the pitcher, and staff interviews indicated that such items are not acceptable due to safety and dignity concerns. Facility policy requires that residents be treated with respect and dignity, including providing a safe environment and appropriate personal items, which was not ensured for this resident.