Failure to Honor Resident's Incontinence Brief Size Preference
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to honor a resident's preference for incontinence brief size, despite repeated requests and clear evidence that the provided briefs were too small and uncomfortable. The resident, who had diagnoses of Schizoaffective Disorder and Alzheimer's but was cognitively intact, reported that the briefs did not cover the thigh or buttocks area, were too tight, and caused discomfort. The resident stated they had informed staff about the issue, but was told that the current size was all that was available. Observations confirmed that the briefs were stretched thin and did not fit properly, and the resident continued to be placed in briefs that were too small over several days. Further review of the facility's supply showed that larger briefs were available in the storage room, but the correct size was not provided to the resident. The Director of Nursing acknowledged the existence of bariatric briefs for larger residents and noted that shipments had been delayed, but staff had purchased appropriate sizes as needed. The resident's care plan documented the need for assistance with incontinence care, and the facility's admission contract guaranteed reasonable accommodation of resident needs and preferences. Despite this, the resident's preference for a larger brief was not honored, resulting in discomfort and inadequate care.