Failure to Provide Hygiene Assistance for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when staff failed to follow the care plan for a dependent resident requiring assistance with hygiene. The resident, who has a diagnosis of left hemiparesis, limited range of motion, hypertension, and COPD, was observed on multiple occasions with a long, unshaved beard and long, unclean nails. The resident reported being unable to shave or cut his nails independently and stated that staff were too busy to assist him. Despite being care planned for extensive assistance with hygiene and other activities of daily living, the resident's hygiene needs were not met as observed over several days. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of awareness regarding the resident's need for shaving, and documentation confirmed that the resident required substantial to maximal assistance with daily care. Facility policies require maintenance of resident self-image and adherence to person-centered care plans, but these were not followed in this instance, resulting in the resident's hygiene needs being neglected.