Failure to Prevent Accident Hazard: Razor Left Accessible to Cognitively Impaired Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a pink disposable razor was found on top of the toilet bowl in the bathroom of a resident with severe cognitive impairment. The resident, who has diagnoses including hemiplegia, hemiparesis, diabetes with neuropathy, lack of coordination, and significant cognitive deficits, was unable to identify the razor's owner and stated she thought it might belong to her roommate. The resident's family confirmed that they would not provide her with a razor due to safety concerns. Staff interviews revealed that razors are typically kept by staff and only used under supervision, with all residents requiring assistance for shaving. Staff also indicated that razors should not be left in resident rooms and are disposed of after use. Further review of the resident's care plan confirmed interventions for impaired cognitive function, including supervision and cueing as needed. Staff and the Director of Nursing stated that only alert and oriented residents may keep razors, and these are stored in lock boxes. However, the razor found did not match facility-issued razors, and the roommate did not have family to bring in personal items. The facility was unable to provide a policy related to accident hazards, and staff acknowledged that sometimes families bring in items that are not always inventoried or monitored.