Failure to Maintain Resident Privacy and Confidentiality
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of a resident's personal and medical information by posting signage on the resident's door that disclosed specific care instructions related to dialysis. The sign indicated that the resident was to have a pad placed underneath her on certain days before going to dialysis. This information was visible to anyone passing by the room, including staff, visitors, and other residents. Multiple staff members, including an LPN and a CNA, confirmed the presence of the sign and acknowledged that the information was already documented in the resident's care plan. The resident involved was cognitively intact, as indicated by a BIMS score of 15, and had not requested the signage to be posted. The resident had a history of chronic kidney disease and was dependent on renal dialysis, receiving treatment three times weekly. Facility policies reviewed emphasized the importance of treating residents with dignity and maintaining the confidentiality of personal and medical records. Despite these policies, the signage remained on the door until it was brought to the attention of nursing leadership, who confirmed that such postings were not appropriate.