Failure to Implement Restorative Nursing Program for Resident Mobility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to consistently provide restorative nursing services as planned for a resident with Alzheimer's disease and generalized muscle weakness. The resident, who was severely cognitively impaired and required substantial to maximal assistance for ambulation, had completed a course of physical therapy. At discharge, physical therapy recommended a Restorative Nursing Program (RNP) to maintain the resident's current level of mobility, specifically ambulation of 150 feet with a front-wheeled walker and the assistance of one person. These recommendations were intended to prevent decline and maintain functional abilities. Despite these recommendations, there was no documented evidence that the RNP for ambulation was incorporated into the resident's care plan or implemented. Reviews of the electronic task report and documentation for the relevant months showed no record of the restorative ambulation program being carried out. Additionally, there was no indication that licensed staff were aware that the program was not being implemented as planned. The Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility did not consistently implement the restorative nursing program as recommended by physical therapy.