Failure to Provide Dignified Hair Care for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate care and services to promote dignity for a resident who required assistance with activities of daily living (ADL), specifically in the area of hair care. The resident, who was admitted with multiple diagnoses including paraplegia, spina bifida, and pressure ulcers, was dependent on staff for personal hygiene and grooming. Observations revealed that the resident's hair was matted and oily, and the resident reported only having her hair washed once since admission. She also stated that she and her mother had requested staff to cut the matted hair, but the DON informed them that it was not within her scope of practice and that the facility lacked the necessary equipment or personnel to cut hair. Interviews with staff confirmed that hair grooming and washing were part of the resident's ADL care, but these tasks were not being performed due to the condition of the hair. The DON and a CNA acknowledged the resident's hair was severely matted and had not been maintained. The administrator confirmed responsibility for ensuring residents' dignity and rights but did not indicate that appropriate hair care had been provided. Facility policy requires all residents to be treated with respect and dignity, including assistance with personal care, but this was not upheld in this instance.