Failure to Provide Proper Incontinence Care per Facility Policy
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a certified nurse aide (CNA) provided incontinence care to a resident with significant cognitive impairment, dementia, diabetes, and who was always incontinent. During the observed care procedure, the CNA used only water to wet towels and wiped the resident’s perineal area without using any soap or approved cleansing product, contrary to the facility’s incontinence care policy. The CNA then used the dry half of the same towel to dry the area and repeated the process on the resident’s backside. Upon interview, the CNA stated she believed the resident had allergies and could not use soap, but a review of the resident’s chart confirmed there were no listed allergies or orders restricting the use of soap for incontinence care. The facility’s policy required staff to wash affected areas with body wash, cleanser, or soap and water after each incontinence episode, which was not followed in this instance.