Failure to Provide Timely Assistance with Hygiene and Eating
Penalty
Summary
A resident with multiple sclerosis, muscle weakness, adult failure to thrive, and dysphagia was found to have unmet needs related to personal hygiene and eating assistance. Clinical record review and resident interview revealed that the care plan required staff to check, trim, and clean the resident's nails on bath day and as necessary, and to report any changes to the nurse. However, on two separate occasions, the resident was observed with long nails and visible dirt underneath. The resident stated she preferred short nails, had not refused nail care, and that staff had not offered to provide this care. Additionally, the resident required staff assistance with eating, as documented in a physician's order. During a meal observation, the resident struggled to obtain her utensil and had difficulty using adaptive utensils due to the foam handles sliding off, requiring her to use her mouth to adjust them. Staff did not offer or provide assistance with the meal until 36 minutes after the resident was observed with her meal tray, despite her evident difficulty.