Failure to Provide Dignified Dining Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide dignified dining assistance to two residents who required help with their meals. One resident, with moderate cognitive impairment and muscle wasting, was observed being fed by a CNA who stood over him during the meal. This was confirmed by a registered nurse, who stated that there was no reason for the CNA to stand while feeding the resident, and that this was not a dignified dining procedure. The resident's medical records indicated a need for assistance with all meals, as ordered by the physician. Another resident, with severe cognitive impairment, protein-calorie malnutrition, cerebral infarction, aphasia, muscle wasting, dysphagia, vascular dementia, and poor vision, was also observed being fed by CNAs who stood over him while he was in bed. Both CNAs acknowledged during interviews that they were aware they should sit while assisting with feeding, but stated they preferred to stand. The resident's care plan and physician orders documented the need for assistance with all meals due to his medical conditions. These observations were made during dining and had the potential to affect additional residents who required assistance with meals.