Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity and Timely Assistance During Care and Meals
Penalty
Summary
Multiple deficiencies were identified regarding the failure to honor residents' rights to dignity, respect, and timely assistance. One resident with Parkinson's disease, who was dependent for eating and required one-on-one feeding assistance, was observed on two separate occasions sitting alone in the dining room without staff assistance while other residents were being helped. Staff interviews confirmed that feeding assistance was delayed, and the facility's policy required immediate assistance for residents needing full help upon meal delivery. Another deficiency involved two residents with urinary catheters whose drainage bags were left uncovered. Observations showed that the catheter bags were not covered with privacy bags as required by the residents' care plans and facility policy. Staff interviews confirmed awareness of the requirement to cover catheter bags for privacy, dignity, and infection control, but this was not done for these residents. Additionally, a resident reported that housekeeping and dietary staff were speaking in a language other than English in her presence while providing care and working in the facility. This was confirmed by direct observation and staff interviews, with staff acknowledging that English should be spoken when residents are present. The facility's policy emphasized the importance of promoting dignity and respect for all residents, including communication practices and privacy measures.