Failure to Maintain Resident Nail Hygiene
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to provide adequate care and services to maintain good grooming and personal hygiene for one resident by not keeping the resident's fingernails clean and neat. During observations on two separate occasions, the resident was found to have long fingernails with a black substance underneath. The resident expressed a desire to have his fingernails cut and cleaned. Review of the resident's records indicated he had multiple diagnoses, including schizoaffective disorder, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, dysphagia, and muscle weakness. The Minimum Data Set showed the resident had intact cognitive skills and required moderate assistance with activities of daily living. Interviews with a CNA and the DON confirmed that it was the responsibility of CNAs to clean and trim residents' fingernails daily, as needed. Both staff members acknowledged the importance of maintaining clean and trimmed fingernails to prevent infection and maintain personal hygiene. Review of facility policies and the CNA job description further confirmed that nail care, including cleaning and trimming, was a required duty for CNAs. Despite these requirements, the resident's fingernails remained long and dirty during the survey period.