Failure to Provide Timely Fingernail Care for Dependent Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate fingernail care for three residents who were unable to perform this activity of daily living themselves. Observations revealed that these residents had visibly long, untrimmed, and in some cases discolored fingernails. Interviews with the residents confirmed that their nails had not been trimmed for several weeks, and they expressed a desire for this care to be provided. Staff members, including CNAs and a licensed nurse, acknowledged upon observation that the residents' nails were too long and required trimming. The staff also confirmed that nail care is part of the CNAs' responsibilities and that the residents did not refuse this care. A review of the facility's policy indicated that residents unable to perform activities of daily living should be provided with services to maintain grooming and personal hygiene. Despite this policy, the affected residents did not receive timely fingernail care, as confirmed by both staff and resident interviews. The lack of a specific schedule for nail trimming and reliance on staff judgment contributed to the deficiency, resulting in unmet hygiene needs for these residents.