Failure to Provide Alternative Communication Method for Non-English Speaking Resident
Penalty
Summary
Resident 96, who was diagnosed with vascular dementia, anxiety disorder, and depression, was identified as having severely impaired cognitive skills and was dependent on staff for multiple activities of daily living. The resident was noted to speak only Chinese and had a care plan in place that required the use of alternative communication tools, such as a communication board, writing pad, signs, and pictures, to facilitate communication. However, during observations and interviews, it was found that no communication board or signage was present at the resident's bedside, and staff primarily relied on hand gestures or contacting a family member to translate, which staff acknowledged was not a reliable or appropriate method for effective communication. Multiple staff members, including a CNA, RN, and Treatment Nurse, confirmed the absence of appropriate communication aids and expressed concerns that the resident's inability to communicate her needs due to the language barrier could impact her care and quality of life. The Director of Nursing also acknowledged that the resident's specific care needs were not being met because of the language barrier. The facility's policy required staff to accommodate residents' communication needs, but this was not implemented for Resident 96, resulting in a deficiency related to the failure to provide an alternative communication method in a language the resident could understand.