Failure to Maintain Dignity During Meal Assistance
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a certified nursing assistant (CNA) failed to assist a resident with eating in a dignified manner. The resident, a cognitively intact female with a history of acute and chronic respiratory failure, artificial larynx, and hypertension, was assessed as being totally dependent on staff for eating. During an observation, the CNA was seen standing while feeding the resident, rather than sitting beside her as required by facility policy and the resident's care plan. The CNA acknowledged during an interview that she should have been seated while assisting the resident, as standing could make the resident uncomfortable. The facility's policy on resident rights, as well as statements from the Director of Nursing (DON), confirmed that all staff are responsible for maintaining resident dignity and are trained to do so. The DON specifically stated that staff should be seated when assisting residents with meals to prevent discomfort. The failure to follow these protocols resulted in the resident not being assisted with eating in a manner that promoted her dignity and quality of life.