Broken Window Blind Compromises Resident Privacy
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident's window blind was found to be broken, preventing it from fully covering the window. Observations revealed that the resident, who had intact cognition and required setup or cleanup assistance for activities of daily living, was concerned about her privacy, especially when changing clothes in her room, as people outside could see through the uncovered window. The resident stated she thought she had reported the issue but was unsure when the blind became broken. Staff interviews confirmed the blind was not functioning, and both CNAs and an LVN acknowledged that the lack of a working blind could compromise the resident's privacy during care and personal activities. Further review of the resident's care plan indicated she required assistance with incontinence care, and staff typically used blinds to protect privacy during such care. However, the broken blind was not reported by the resident to the staff, and some staff were unaware of the issue until it was brought to their attention. The Director of Nursing also confirmed that the broken blind could affect the resident's privacy, and emphasized that all staff are responsible for protecting residents' privacy during care. Facility policy supports the right to privacy and confidentiality, including private and unrestricted communication and privacy during treatment and personal care.