Failure to Provide Communication Support for Non-English Speaking Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to meet the communication needs of a resident who was admitted with a right femur fracture, muscle weakness, and severe memory impairment. The resident's preferred language was Russian, and the Minimum Data Set indicated a significant language barrier. Despite this, there were no communication devices or materials available in the resident's room, and staff were observed and interviewed confirming the absence of communication boards or use of translation services. The resident was seen responding to questions with gestures rather than verbal communication, and staff were unsure of the resident's language or how to effectively communicate with her. Interviews with staff, the resident's family member, and the physician revealed that communication was primarily attempted through gestures, which were not effective. The family member had requested an interpreter upon admission but was told none was available, and expressed concern about the resident's inability to communicate, especially given her cognitive impairment. The physician relied on the family member to interpret during assessments and had discussed the need for translation services with staff. The Director of Nursing confirmed that there was no communication care plan in place for the resident, despite facility policy requiring assistance with communication needs in the resident's preferred language.