Failure to Provide Timely Bathroom Assistance for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), specifically timely bathroom assistance, to a resident with severe cognitive impairment and significant physical limitations. The resident, who had diagnoses including atrial fibrillation, chronic heart failure, anxiety disorder, and unspecified pain, required substantial to maximum assistance with toileting hygiene and transfers. On the morning in question, the resident waited approximately 40 minutes for help after signaling for assistance from the bathroom, using both the call box and personal pendant. She reported having to scream and bang on the wall before staff responded. Review of the facility's response time logs confirmed the sequence of call activations and deactivations, showing a significant delay between the initial request for help and staff response. Staff interviews revealed that CNAs relied on call notification systems and did not check on residents after a call was cleared, even if the resident had not been assisted. The resident's care plan required staff to anticipate and assist with ADLs and monitor her regularly, but these interventions were not effectively implemented, resulting in the resident being left unattended for an extended period.