Failure to Promote Dignity During Dining Assistance
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) was observed standing over a resident while assisting them with eating dinner, rather than sitting at eye level as required by facility policy. The resident involved had diagnoses including Alzheimer's disease with late onset, hemiplegia, hemiparesis, and dysphagia, and was documented as having severely impaired cognition and being dependent on assistance for eating. The LPN acknowledged awareness of the correct procedure but stated that due to being the only nurse on the floor and needing to assist multiple residents, they found it easier to stand while feeding. The Director of Nursing confirmed that staff are expected to sit and provide a comfortable dining experience for residents.