Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity by Not Covering Catheter Bag
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident's urinary catheter drainage bag was left uncovered and visible to other residents and visitors, contrary to facility policy and expectations. The resident, who was cognitively intact and had diagnoses including Parkinson's disease, diabetes mellitus, obstructive and reflux uropathy, and malignant neoplasm of the prostate, had a physician's order for a Foley catheter to gravity drainage. During an observation, the catheter bag was not covered by a dignity bag as required. Staff interviews confirmed that the catheter bag should have been covered at all times to maintain the resident's dignity and privacy. Both a Licensed Vocational Nurse and the Director of Nursing acknowledged that the lack of a dignity bag violated the resident's right to privacy and dignity, as outlined in the facility's policy. The facility's policy specifically states that staff must help residents keep urinary catheter bags covered to promote dignity and respect.