Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity and Privacy
Penalty
Summary
Two residents were observed in situations that failed to maintain their dignity and privacy as required by facility policy. One resident, with severe cognitive impairment and multiple diagnoses including Parkinson's disease and dementia, was seen from the hallway sitting on the side of his bed, sleeping, and wearing only a T-shirt and a brief, with his brief visible from the hallway. Another resident, who had moderate cognitive impairment and required substantial assistance with dressing, was observed in her wheelchair with her nightgown pulled up and her briefs exposed, also visible from the hallway. Interviews with staff, including CNAs and the DON, confirmed that residents should not be visible in their briefs from the hallway and that maintaining resident privacy is part of their dignity training. The facility's policy emphasizes the importance of protecting and promoting resident rights, including maintaining privacy. Despite this, both residents were left exposed in a manner that did not uphold their dignity, as observed by surveyors.