Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity During Meal Assistance
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when an Activities Assistant (AA) assisted a resident with liquid nourishment while standing over the resident, rather than sitting at eye level as required by facility policy. The resident was observed seated in a Geri chair with the head tilted at a 45-degree angle, positioned in the corner of the activities room. The AA was seen standing directly over the resident during the assistance, which did not align with the facility's expectations for promoting safety, dignity, and respect during meal assistance. The resident involved had a diagnosis of dementia without behavioral disturbance and required total assistance with activities of daily living, including meals. The facility's policy and procedure for meal assistance specifically stated that staff should not stand over residents while assisting them with meals, emphasizing the importance of attention to safety, comfort, and dignity. During interviews, the AA acknowledged that he could either sit or stand while assisting, while the DON confirmed that staff are expected to sit at the resident's eye level. This failure to follow policy had the potential to negatively impact the resident's safety, dignity, and respect.