Failure to Provide Consistent Shaving Assistance for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary assistance with shaving for a resident who was severely cognitively impaired and dependent on staff for personal hygiene. Over several days, the resident was repeatedly observed with thick facial hair on her upper lip and chin, measuring about one quarter inch long. The resident expressed discomfort and embarrassment about the facial hair and stated that she would like to be shaved more often. She reported that shaving was only offered on shower days and not in between, despite her desire for more frequent care. Review of the resident's personal hygiene records showed no documentation of refusal of care for shaving during the observed period. Interviews with staff revealed inconsistent practices regarding the frequency of shaving, with some staff indicating it was offered daily and others stating it was only provided during showers. The Director of Nursing confirmed that shaving should be offered daily or as needed, and refusals should be documented, but this was not reflected in the resident's records. These findings demonstrate a failure to ensure consistent and adequate assistance with activities of daily living for a dependent resident.