Failure to Maintain Dignity for Residents with Urinary Catheters
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the dignity of two residents who utilized indwelling urinary catheters. Both residents were observed with uncovered urine drainage bags that were visible to others, either from the hallway or in common areas. Staff members, including nursing staff, walked past the rooms or observed the residents with uncovered bags but did not take action to cover them. One resident reported that staff had never asked if they wanted a cover on their urine bag and expressed discomfort at the idea of others seeing the contents. Another resident was seen moving around the hallway and dining area with an uncovered urine drainage bag attached to their wheelchair, visible to other residents and staff. Interviews with staff, including an RN, LPN, and the DON, confirmed that catheter bags should be covered for reasons of dignity and decency. The DON also noted concerns regarding infection control and dignity related to uncovered catheter bags. Despite requests, the facility's policy on dignity was not provided for review. The observations and interviews demonstrate that the facility did not ensure the residents' right to a dignified existence was upheld in relation to the management of urinary catheter drainage bags.