Failure to Provide Clean Linens for Resident Hygiene Needs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide clean bed and bath linens for residents requiring assistance with daily hygiene, bathing, or showers. Observations revealed that residents did not have access to clean towels or washcloths, with some staff resorting to using blankets for bed baths and to cover urine accidents. One resident was observed sitting on the side of the bed with a urine-like spot on the floor and on their foot, stating they had waited over an hour for assistance and did not have any clean towels or washcloths available. Another resident reported that the facility often ran out of towels, washcloths, and pillowcases, sometimes requiring them to use their own linens or take what was available from carts. Staff interviews confirmed frequent shortages of linens, particularly towels and washcloths, and described the need to use alternative items or retrieve linens from the laundry room themselves due to insufficient supply on the units. Further investigation in the laundry and linen storage areas showed a limited number of towels and washcloths available, with distribution records indicating that the amount of linen provided to each unit was less than the number of residents. The laundry aide reported being the only staff member until the afternoon, making it difficult to keep up with washing, sorting, folding, and distributing linens in a timely manner. The Assistant Director of Nursing stated that the amount of linen delivered was not enough to provide adequate care, and the Administrator was unaware of the limited stocking practices. Inventory records confirmed that the total number of towels in the facility was insufficient to provide even the minimum of two towels per resident. The residents affected included one individual with moderate cognitive impairment and multiple chronic conditions, including palliative care needs, and another with intact cognitive function but significant physical limitations following joint replacement surgery. Both required assistance with hygiene and daily living activities, as documented in their care plans. Facility policies and job descriptions outlined the expectation for providing a clean, safe, and homelike environment, including the provision of clean linens, but these standards were not met due to the ongoing linen shortages and inadequate staffing in the laundry department.