Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity and Privacy
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to maintain or enhance the dignity, respect, and individuality of residents, as required by facility policy. Specifically, a certified nursing assistant was observed standing while feeding a resident who was slouched in bed, rather than sitting at eye level, which did not promote dignified care. The resident in question had a history of dyskinesia of the esophagus and was assessed as moderately cognitively impaired, with a care plan indicating the need for assistance with meals. Additionally, staff members, including an LPN and a staffing coordinator, were observed entering residents' rooms without knocking or identifying themselves, despite facility policy and staff awareness that this was required to respect residents' living space and privacy. Further observations revealed that during repositioning of a resident, staff did not pull the curtain or shut the door to provide privacy from visitors or others in the hallway. Interviews with staff confirmed that some routinely entered rooms without knocking or announcing themselves, and one CNA stated she always stood while feeding residents. A resident also reported that staff would enter the room without knocking or announcing themselves. These actions and inactions were inconsistent with the facility's policy on promoting and maintaining resident dignity and privacy.