Failure to Treat Resident with Dignity During Meal Service
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) failed to treat a resident with dignity and respect during a meal service. The resident, who had diagnoses including Alzheimer's disease, dementia with agitation, and was noted to be confused and unable to express wants, approached the meal serve-out window and attempted to take food from a tray. The LPN responded by grabbing the resident's arm and forcibly removing the food from the resident's hand. Camera footage confirmed the LPN's actions, and the resident's face appeared distraught following the incident. Other staff, including Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) and a Registered Nurse (RN), indicated in interviews that they would have allowed the resident to keep the food and would have replaced the tray, rather than taking food away from the resident. The resident's care plan indicated a need for finger foods and noted behavioral challenges related to dementia, including wandering and difficulty sitting for meals. Staff interviews and facility policy emphasized the importance of treating residents, especially those with cognitive impairments, with dignity and sensitivity. Both the Director of Nursing and the Administrator acknowledged that the LPN's actions were inappropriate and not in line with facility expectations or policy, which prohibits demeaning practices and requires staff to promote resident dignity at all times.