Failure to Ensure Water Access for Resident at Risk of Dehydration
Penalty
Summary
A resident with chronic congestive heart failure, who was at risk for dehydration due to the use of diuretic medication, did not have proper access to fluids as required. The resident's care plan identified the risk for dehydration, and the facility's policy stated that adequate hydration should be provided. During multiple observations, the resident's water pitcher was found out of reach, once on a nightstand and another time on a bedside table that had been moved against the wall by staff and not returned to its original position. The resident was unable to reach the water pitcher on both occasions. Staff interviews confirmed that the water pitcher should have been within the resident's reach at all times, especially given the resident's increased risk for dehydration. The certified nursing assistant acknowledged moving the bedside table and forgetting to return it, while both the licensed nurse and the director of nursing confirmed the importance of water access for this resident. The facility's policy also required nursing aides to provide and encourage fluid intake as part of daily routines.