Failure to Knock or Request Permission Before Entering Resident Room
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a treatment nurse entered a resident's room without knocking or requesting permission. The resident involved had a history of chronic respiratory failure and sepsis, was severely cognitively impaired, and was totally dependent on staff for activities of daily living. The incident was observed during a survey, and the nurse acknowledged during an interview that she did not knock or ask permission before entering, stating that she should have done so to show respect and promote privacy, as the facility is the resident's home. A review of the facility's policy on dignity and respect confirmed that staff are required to knock and request permission before entering residents' rooms. The policy also emphasizes caring for residents in a manner that promotes dignity, respect, and individuality. The failure to follow this policy resulted in a violation of the resident's rights to be treated with respect and dignity.