Resident's Beard Shaved Without Consent, Violating Dignity and Choice
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to honor a resident's right to self-determination and dignity by shaving off the resident's full beard without obtaining his consent. The incident occurred during a shower, when a certified nursing assistant began shaving the resident's mustache and beard despite the resident's attempts to stop her. The resident, who only has use of one arm, was unable to physically prevent the action and was observed to be very upset, anxious, and experiencing facial redness and razor burn following the incident. The resident expressed distress about the loss of his beard, which he had maintained for a long time, and reported discomfort from the razor burn. Interviews with staff revealed that the CNA applied aftershave lotion after shaving, and a LPN incorrectly stated that the resident's family had requested the beard be shaved off. However, the resident's sister clarified that she had only asked staff to keep the beard clean, not to remove it. Review of the clinical record showed no documentation of consent or refusal for shaving, and the resident's care plan did not reflect his grooming preferences. The nurse practitioner subsequently ordered hydrocortisone cream for the razor burn. Facility documentation confirmed the resident's right to be treated with respect and dignity, but this was not upheld in this instance.