Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity During Mealtime Assistance
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when staff failed to ensure a resident's dignity was maintained during mealtime assistance. The resident, who had parkinsonism, moderate protein-calorie malnutrition, and was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living, was observed being fed lunch by a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) who stood over her throughout the meal. The resident had intact cognition and specifically asked the CNA if she was going to sit down while feeding her, but the CNA did not respond or acknowledge the request and continued to stand. A chair was available nearby but was not used by the CNA. Interviews confirmed that the CNA stood for the entire feeding and that the resident had requested the CNA to sit. Review of the facility's Resident Rights Policy indicated that all staff must treat residents with respect and dignity, and provide care in a manner that promotes or enhances quality of life. The actions observed and confirmed by interviews did not align with this policy, resulting in a failure to honor the resident's right to dignity during mealtime.