Failure to Provide Required Bathing Assistance for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident who was dependent on staff for activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, did not receive the necessary assistance with bathing. The resident had multiple diagnoses, including a cutaneous abscess, COPD, end stage renal disease, a periprosthetic fracture, a Stage 2 pressure ulcer, and anxiety disorder. Documentation in the electronic health record and shower sheets showed that the resident received only one shower during the month of July, with no documented refusals for bathing. The care plan and assessments indicated the resident required staff assistance for bathing and other ADLs, and the facility policy required staff to provide and document bathing or refusals. Observations confirmed that the resident was dependent on staff for mobility and hygiene, and interviews with the resident and staff revealed that the resident had requested showers but did not receive them as scheduled, resulting in the resident having to perform bed baths independently. Staff interviews confirmed that bathing was to be offered at least twice weekly, and refusals were to be documented, but there was no evidence of refusals or consistent bathing provided. This failure to provide necessary ADL care was based on direct observation, record review, and interviews.