Water Pitcher Not Accessible to Resident at Risk for Dehydration
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident's water pitcher was placed out of reach, contrary to the facility's policy and physician orders. The resident, who had diagnoses including dementia, Alzheimer's disease, hypertension, failure to thrive, and generalized muscle weakness, was assessed as being at risk for dehydration and was on a no added salt diet with extra hydration. The care plan and physician orders specifically indicated the need for additional hydration and that water should be encouraged and accessible. During observation, the water pitcher was found on the dresser, not within the resident's reach. The resident reported being unable to reach the water pitcher and expressed feeling thirsty as a result. Interviews with staff, including an LVN and the DON, confirmed that the water pitcher should have been placed within easy reach to prevent dehydration, in accordance with facility policy. The facility's policy and procedure for serving drinking water also required that the water pitcher and cup be placed within easy reach of the resident.