Failure to Revise Care Plan for Effective Communication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to revise the care plan for a resident with anoxic brain damage, irritability/anger issues, developmental disorder of speech and language, and weakness, to address effective communication strategies. The resident had a documented history of stuttering and difficulty communicating, which sometimes led to frustration when staff could not understand them. The resident's care plan, although updated to address behavioral issues and medication administration, did not include specific preferences or directions for staff on how to communicate effectively with the resident when stuttering occurred. Staff interviews confirmed that all nursing staff had access to care plans and that communication strategies should be included in the care plan for this resident. Documentation in the medical record and communication notes indicated ongoing communication challenges and a request for speech therapy. The facility's policy required comprehensive, person-centered care plans to address each resident's physical, psychosocial, and functional needs, but the care plan lacked guidance for staff on effective communication with the resident.