Failure to Provide Translation for Non-English Speaking Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accommodate the communication needs of a resident who spoke only Hmong and was her own representative. The resident was admitted with hemiplegia, hemiparesis following a cerebral infarction, and dysphagia. Record review indicated that the resident had a communication deficit due to a language barrier, and the care plan noted that social services provided a picture binder for communication, with an intention to provide a communication board. However, during multiple interviews with staff, family members, and direct observation, it was confirmed that the facility did not provide any means of translation or communication aids for the resident. Staff, including the DON, CNAs, and a nurse, all stated that there was no way to translate or communicate with the resident, and family members confirmed that the only attempts at translation involved asking family to assist. No communication boards or picture aids were found in the resident's room, and the resident was rarely or never understood according to the MDS assessment. As a result, the resident was not properly assessed and her pain was not treated.