Failure to Ensure Presence of CPR-Certified Staff for Full Code Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that at least one staff member certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was present at all times for residents who had chosen Full Code status. Review of staff records showed that one licensed nurse held a CPR certification from an online provider that did not include a hands-on skills component, contrary to facility policy. Additionally, the staff schedule did not identify which staff were CPR-certified for each shift, and there was no system in place to guarantee that a CPR-certified staff member was always present. A certified nurse aide responsible for transporting a resident with Full Code status to and from dialysis appointments did not have a current CPR certification, as her card had expired. Interviews with administrative staff confirmed that the facility did not track or ensure the presence of CPR-certified staff on each shift, and that some staff may not have completed the required hands-on component of CPR training. The facility's policy required staff to maintain current CPR certifications with a hands-on session and to have CPR-certified staff available 24 hours a day.