Failure to Provide Dignified Dining Experience for Cognitively Impaired Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a dignified dining experience to a resident on the secure memory care unit during breakfast meal service. The resident, who has Alzheimer's disease, morbid obesity, and a psychotic disorder, was assessed with a BIMS score of 2, indicating severe cognitive impairment, and required assistance with cutting food into bite-sized pieces prior to meals. According to the resident's care plan, staff were to assist with this task. However, during observations, the resident was found lying in bed with the breakfast tray placed within reach, but no food had been consumed, tasted, or cut into pieces. The dietary slip was accurate, and there was no evidence that the meal had been prepared or assisted as required. Staff interviews confirmed that the breakfast tray was delivered at 7:35 am and remained untouched by 10:00 am. The LPN verified that the food had not been consumed or cut, and the DON acknowledged the failure to provide a dignified dining experience for the resident. Facility policy requires treating each resident with respect and dignity, and the failure to assist the resident with their meal as outlined in the care plan resulted in the deficiency.