Failure to Preserve Resident Dignity in Personal Grooming
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that care was provided in a manner that preserved the dignity of two residents who required assistance with personal hygiene and had preferences regarding facial hair removal. One resident, who was moderately cognitively impaired and had multiple diagnoses including impaired vision, was observed on multiple occasions with several long chin hairs. The resident was unaware of the facial hair and stated they would have wanted it removed if they had known. Staff interviews revealed inconsistent practices and a lack of initiative in addressing unwanted facial hair, with some staff stating they would not offer to remove chin hairs and others indicating it was a personal issue. The resident's care plan included instructions for personal hygiene assistance and reminders to wear glasses, but did not address facial hair preferences. Another resident, who had intact cognition and required assistance with personal hygiene, was observed with significant facial hair despite a care plan indicating a preference for facial hair removal to maintain dignity. The resident expressed embarrassment and discomfort about the facial hair, stating that at home they would have removed it themselves. Staff were unaware of the resident's concerns and did not address the issue until after it was brought to their attention. Facility policies indicated that residents should be groomed as they wish and that both men and women should have facial hair shaved as part of morning care, but these policies were not consistently followed for the residents involved.