Failure to Ensure Privacy During Provider Visits
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain privacy and confidentiality of medical information during provider visits for two residents. Observations showed that an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) conducted medical discussions with one resident in the Memory Care Unit (MCU) TV room, a common area where other residents were present. The ARNP discussed specific medical conditions and laboratory results with the resident in this public setting. Staff interviews confirmed that the visit occurred in a common area and that privacy was not provided, contrary to facility expectations. A second resident was seen by the same ARNP while seated on a bench between the MCU nurse's station and dining room, another public area. The ARNP asked about specific medical conditions and attempted a physical assessment in this location. Staff interviews again confirmed that the visit was not conducted in private and that the expectation was for such visits to occur in a private setting. The Director of Nursing also acknowledged that provider visits should be conducted privately.