Failure to Calibrate Scales per Manufacturer Instructions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that resident weighing scales were calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions. During interviews, the Maintenance Worker described calibrating the standing scale by pressing the tare button to zero it out and did not use any certified weights, instead placing a person on the scale to check accuracy. The Maintenance Supervisor reported using two five-pound hand weights to calibrate both the standing and wheelchair scales, placing the weights on the scale and confirming the reading matched the weight. However, a review of the manufacturer's instructions for both types of scales indicated that calibration should be performed using certified weights, with specific weight standards required for accuracy. The Director of Nursing confirmed that her expectation was for maintenance staff to calibrate the scales according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure accurate resident weights. The facility's policy also required the use of calibrated and facility-approved scales for weighing residents. The failure to follow the manufacturer's calibration procedures had the potential to result in inaccurate weight measurements for residents.