Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity by Not Ensuring Clean Bed Linen
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with major depressive disorder and dementia, who was severely cognitively impaired and required substantial to maximal assistance with daily activities, was found with food particles, specifically eggs, on their bed linen. During an observation, a CNA acknowledged the presence of the food crumbs and stated that it was not acceptable, as residents should be treated with dignity. The CNA also admitted that after the resident finished eating, they did not clean up the resident or the bed, although it was their responsibility to do so to maintain cleanliness and dignity. Further interviews with nursing staff confirmed that bed linens should be free of food particles and that linens should be changed if such particles are observed. The facility's policy on dignity and quality of life requires that each resident be cared for in a manner that promotes their well-being, self-worth, and self-esteem, and that residents are treated with dignity and respect at all times. The failure to keep the resident's bed linen clean and free of food particles was not in accordance with this policy.