Failure to Notify Resident Representative of Change in Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify the resident's representative of a change in condition or care for one of three residents reviewed. Specifically, a resident with diagnoses including high blood pressure, sepsis, and muscle weakness was found to have live lice and a significant amount of nits present. The resident was reportedly unaware of the lice infestation. Following this discovery, the RN Supervisor consulted with the Nurse Practitioner, obtained and implemented orders for lice treatment, and initiated interim measures until the prescribed shampoo arrived. Despite these actions, a review of the clinical record did not show documentation that the resident's family or emergency contact was notified about the presence of lice or the initiation of new treatment. The facility's policy requires prompt notification of the resident's representative in such situations, regardless of the resident's competency. The Director of Nursing confirmed during an interview that there was no documentation of notification to the resident's representative regarding this change in condition and care.