Delay in Assisting Resident to Bathroom Compromises Dignity
Penalty
Summary
A resident with diagnoses including a right femur fracture, pressure wound, and history of falls, who was dependent on staff for toileting, activated her call light to request assistance to use the bathroom. The resident, who had severely impaired cognition but no impairment to her extremities, was observed waiting in her wheelchair with two family members present. Despite informing an LPN of her need to use the bathroom, the nurse left the room after stating she would return shortly. The resident continued to wait, expressing concern that staff had forgotten her request. The call light log indicated the call was activated at 4:38 p.m., and staff did not assist the resident to the bathroom until approximately 17 minutes later, when two CNAs entered and provided the necessary help. The resident was able to void on the toilet after the delay. The care plan and care card both indicated the resident required assistance for toileting and transfers, with one staff member needed for transfers. The delay in responding to the resident's request resulted in a failure to treat her with respect and dignity as required.