Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity During Mealtime Assistance
Penalty
Summary
A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) was observed standing over a resident while feeding him lunch, rather than being seated as required by facility policy. The resident involved had a history of hemiplegia affecting the right dominant side, dysphasia, and dysphagia, necessitating assistance with eating. The facility's policy on meal assistance specifies that staff should not stand over residents while feeding them, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safety, comfort, and dignity. During interviews, both the LVN and the Director of Nursing confirmed that staff are expected to be seated and engaging with residents during meals. This incident demonstrated a failure to uphold the resident's dignity and individuality during mealtime assistance.