Failure to Respect Resident's Personal Space and Belongings
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a certified nursing assistant (CNA) failed to treat a resident's room, supplies, and personal space with respect, contrary to the resident's rights to dignity and self-determination. The resident, a cognitively intact female with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder, was known to require supervision for showering and set-up assistance for dressing. The care plan also noted a history of hoarding towels and linens, with interventions focused on positive interaction and calm communication. The incident began when the CNA removed approximately ten towels from the resident's room without informing or seeking permission from the resident, who was outside on a smoke break at the time. The CNA stated that towels were removed due to facility shortages and that this was a routine practice when supplies were low. The CNA also admitted to previously removing briefs from the resident's room, leaving only a small supply, and did not notify or seek direction from nursing staff before doing so. The CNA acknowledged being trained on resident rights and the importance of seeking permission before entering a resident's room or taking belongings but did not follow this protocol in this instance. The resident expressed distress and frustration over the removal of her towels and briefs, stating that the CNA did not ask before taking the items and that it made her feel upset and unsure of the CNA's intentions. Interviews with nursing staff confirmed that there was no directive to remove towels or briefs from resident rooms and that such actions were not appropriate. The facility's policy emphasized treating residents with kindness, respect, and dignity, and staff interviews reiterated that residents have the right to their belongings and to be asked before items are removed from their rooms.