Failure to Honor Resident's Right to Dignity and Self-Determination
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to honor a resident's right to dignity and self-determination by not allowing him to leave the facility according to his preference. The resident, who was alert, oriented, and had a BIMS score of 15, expressed a desire to go for walks or shopping outside the facility. Despite being capable of making his own decisions and not being deemed incompetent, staff consistently redirected him back into the facility and did not offer alternative solutions or plans to accommodate his wishes. The resident reported frustration and confusion about why he was unable to leave, and his sister confirmed that he was capable of making his own decisions but was told he needed someone to sign him out. Interviews with staff revealed that the facility van had been out of service for months, affecting planned outings, and that staff were concerned for the resident's safety due to his history of seizures and falls. The DON and Activities Assistant both stated that the resident could not sign himself out and go alone, and staff would intervene if he attempted to leave. The resident was not provided with outings or alternative options, and his requests to leave were met with redirection rather than support or accommodation, resulting in a lack of respect for his autonomy and dignity.