Failure to Provide Appropriate Equipment for Resident Mobility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accommodate the needs of one resident by not providing appropriate equipment to assist her in getting out of bed, despite her expressed interest in participating in activities. The resident, who had multiple diagnoses including heart failure, hypertension, morbid obesity, and osteoarthritis, was assessed as having moderate cognitive impairment and required assistance with transfers and mobility. She reported to staff that she wanted to get out of bed and participate in activities, but staff were unable to assist her due to the lack of a bariatric geriatric chair that could accommodate her size. Staff interviews confirmed that only one bariatric geriatric chair was available on the floor, which was already in use by another resident, and that the resident's regular wheelchair caused her discomfort. The DON acknowledged that three residents required such a chair, but the facility only had one available. The Administrator was unable to confirm the number of residents needing bariatric geriatric chairs or the number available in the facility. This lack of appropriate equipment resulted in the resident remaining bedbound and unable to participate in desired activities.