Failure to Protect Resident Dignity Following Exposure Incident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident's right to a dignified existence was not ensured. On the specified date, one resident entered the room of another resident, unzipped their pants, exposed themselves, and made an inappropriate comment while holding their penis. The affected resident, who had a history of dementia, major depressive disorder, and moderate cognitive impairment, was found to be upset and crying as a result of this incident. The resident's care plan noted a risk for abuse and mood symptoms, including crying outbursts and verbalizations of fear following the exposure event. The facility's policy on resident rights, last revised in May 2024, states that all residents are to be treated with dignity and be free from abuse and exploitation. Documentation showed that the incident was reported to the Director of Nursing, and the affected resident expressed distress and fear related to the behavior of the other resident. The care plan for the resident included monitoring for signs of abuse and encouraging family involvement, but the incident still occurred, resulting in a violation of the resident's right to dignity.