Failure to Use Wheelchair Footrests During Resident Transport
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that wheelchair footrests were in place during transportation and to assist with proper seated posture for a resident. On multiple occasions, the resident was observed sitting in a wheelchair without footrests, with her feet dangling and in a slouched position, both while stationary and while being transported by an Activities Assistant. The resident reported that staff often removed the footrests and did not replace them. The Activities Assistant acknowledged transporting the resident without footrests and stated that footrests should be used to prevent injury. Review of the resident's medical record indicated a history of cerebrovascular disease and vascular dementia, with moderate cognitive impairment and a need for dependent assistance with mobility. The Director of Nursing confirmed that footrests should be used during transportation and for positioning to ensure safety. Facility policy also stated that footrests should be down when the wheelchair is moving to prevent injury.