Staff Unaware of Visual Identifier Meanings for Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that nursing staff, specifically Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs), were aware of the meaning of visual identifiers posted in resident rooms, which are intended to communicate special needs or accommodations for residents. During interviews, a CNA was unable to identify the significance of a 5-fingers visual identifier, which, according to facility policy, indicates that a resident requires more than two persons for assistance during transfers. Despite having attended an in-service training on visual identifiers, the CNA did not recall the meaning of the sign when questioned. A review of the facility's lesson plan and policy confirmed that staff are expected to check for visual identifiers before providing care and to follow any associated precautions. The Director of Staff Development stated that staff are expected to apply what they learn in training to their daily practice to ensure resident and staff safety. However, the lack of staff awareness regarding the visual identifier demonstrates a failure to ensure that staff have the necessary competencies to provide appropriate care for residents as outlined in facility policy.