Failure to Timely Address Resident's Request for Bathroom Assistance Resulting in Loss of Dignity
Penalty
Summary
A resident with a history of bilateral hip fractures due to prolonged steroid use, and who was currently unable to get out of bed because of a recent left hip fracture, requested assistance to use the bathroom by activating her call light. A CNA responded to the call light, turned it off, and informed the resident that he was busy providing care to another resident but would return to assist her. The resident reported waiting for a prolonged period, during which she was unable to get to the bathroom and subsequently urinated in her bed, leading to feelings of embarrassment and a sense of being unimportant. Facility records confirmed that the CNA acknowledged the resident's request but was unable to assist immediately due to being occupied with another resident and the lack of available staff to help. The incident was documented in a facility-reported incident, which noted that the CNA returned after the resident had already soiled herself. The facility's policy emphasized treating every resident with dignity and respect, fostering an environment where residents feel valued and heard.