Failure to Ensure Timely Assistance with Mechanical Lift Transfers Due to Equipment Issues
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with multiple medical conditions, including severe obesity, osteoarthritis, and limited mobility, did not consistently receive required assistance with transfers using a mechanical lift. The resident was dependent on staff for transfers and had a care plan specifying the use of a mechanical lift. However, both the resident and staff reported ongoing issues with the availability and functionality of the mechanical lifts, particularly due to dead batteries and a lack of working equipment. The resident described having to wait an hour and a half to be transferred to bed because the lift was not charged, resulting in distress and unmet care needs. Staff interviews confirmed that problems with mechanical lifts had persisted for months, with frequent difficulties finding a working lift and delays in obtaining new batteries. The ombudsman and staff corroborated that the issue was ongoing and affected residents' ability to be transferred as needed. The facility administrator acknowledged there was no policy regarding battery maintenance for the equipment. Facility policies required the use of mechanical lifts for residents with limited mobility and emphasized residents' rights to dignity and timely care, but these were not consistently upheld due to equipment failures and lack of procedures.