Failure to Consistently Provide Showers and Honor Resident Choice
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident, who was cognitively intact and able to make decisions, did not consistently receive showers according to her preferences and the facility's policy. The resident reported not being offered showers and expressed discomfort with the situation, attributing it to possible understaffing. Record review showed that the resident received only two showers over a three-week period, despite the expectation of twice-weekly showers for hygiene and comfort. Staff interviews confirmed that the resident was alert, oriented, and required some assistance with showers, and that the facility's policy was to accommodate resident preferences and provide necessary hygiene services. Further review of facility policies indicated that staff are required to review and accommodate residents' preferences, including for showers, and to provide necessary services for personal hygiene. Interviews with the CNA, LPN, and DON all confirmed the expectation that residents should not miss scheduled showers and that staff should promote dignity and accommodate hygiene needs. The failure to provide showers as scheduled resulted in the resident's preferences and choices not being honored or respected.