Failure to Preserve Resident Dignity During Dining Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide dining assistance in a manner that preserved the dignity of three residents. During meal observations, staff were seen assisting residents with eating while standing over them, rather than sitting at eye level. One resident with moderate cognitive impairment and Parkinson's disease was fed by a CNA standing behind and over his right shoulder while the resident faced a wall. Another resident, who required substantial assistance for eating and was rarely understood, was also fed by a CNA standing over and to the resident's left side. In both cases, the staff member did not sit to assist the resident, despite the presence of an empty chair in the room. Additionally, a third resident, dependent on staff for eating and rarely understood, was observed being fed by a CNA who stood over her during lunch. When questioned, the CNA was unsure of the correct protocol and later acknowledged that she should have been sitting to assist the resident, as standing could make the resident feel rushed. The facility's policy on resident rights did not address dignity during dining, and staff acknowledged the concerns when brought to their attention during the survey.