Failure to Provide Facial Hair Grooming Assistance for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), specifically grooming of facial hair, for a resident diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and depression. The resident had moderately impaired cognition and required set-up assistance for personal hygiene and oral care, as well as moderate assistance with other ADLs. The care plan directed staff to provide limited assistance with hygiene and oral care but did not address facial hair grooming. Documentation indicated that the resident received showers and facial hair care on certain days, but there were multiple days when these tasks were not completed, and the resident did not refuse care during this period. Observations showed the resident had prominent beard stubble on multiple occasions while in communal areas. Interviews with the resident and staff confirmed that the resident was unable to shave himself due to tremors and required staff assistance, which was typically only offered on shower days. Staff acknowledged that shaving should be offered or provided when requested, and administrative staff noted that the care plan lacked specific direction for shaving. Facility policy required review of the care plan for special needs and documentation of shaving, but these steps were not consistently followed.