Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity by Not Covering Urinary Catheter Bag
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with severe mental impairment and a diagnosis of benign prostate hyperplasia with lower urinary symptoms was observed multiple times in the dining room with an uncovered urinary catheter bag. The resident, who had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) score of 00 indicating severe cognitive impairment, was seen on several occasions with the urinary bag visible to others, while other residents were present in the dining area. Interviews with two CNAs revealed that one was unaware of the requirement to cover the urinary bag, while the other acknowledged that it should be covered to promote the resident's dignity. The Director of Nursing also confirmed that the urinary bag should have been covered in accordance with facility policy, which emphasizes treating residents with dignity and respect at all times. Facility policies reviewed supported the expectation that residents' dignity be maintained, including the covering of urinary bags.