Failure to Document Annual Nursing Staff Competency Assessments
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that nursing staff met the required skills and competency evaluation requirements. During a review of employee files, it was found that four out of five files lacked documented proof of annual competency training. The Director of Staff Development (DSD) confirmed that competency training is required upon hire and annually, but acknowledged that missing documentation meant staff were not properly assessed in their skills related to resident care, including activities of daily living (ADL), medication administration, and intravenous infusion. The DSD stated that the absence of competency training could result in a decline in the quality of care provided to residents. The Director of Nursing (DON) also confirmed that employee competencies are intended to ensure nursing staff are assessed in their skills and remain up to date in performing their job duties. The DON described the process for skill assessment, which involves using a form to check required skills and document whether staff meet the necessary standards. Review of the facility's policy indicated that all nursing staff must meet specific competency requirements and participate in a facility-specific, competency-based training program. However, the lack of documented annual competency assessments for most reviewed staff files demonstrated noncompliance with this policy.