Failure to Provide Private Space for Resident Council Meetings
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a private space for the resident council meetings, resulting in repeated interruptions by staff and providers during the meetings. Observations showed that the meetings were held in the activities room, which is an open area without doors, allowing staff to enter and disrupt the proceedings. During one observed meeting, five care staff and providers entered the room, interrupting the group. Residents reported that staff frequently came in and out of the activities room during meetings and used the vending machines located there. Interviews with facility leadership confirmed that resident council meetings were typically held in the activities room or dining room, and that the conference room, which is a private area, was unavailable because it was used as a workspace by nurse managers. The classroom was only available if not in use for orientation. The facility's Resident Rights policy states that residents are entitled to privacy and confidentiality, but the current practice did not ensure these rights during resident council meetings.