Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity by Not Covering Urinary Catheter Bag
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect a resident's privacy and dignity by not ensuring that the resident's indwelling urinary catheter drainage bag was covered, as required by physician orders and the resident's care plan. The resident, who had diagnoses including toxic encephalopathy, obstructive and reflux uropathy, and depression, was assessed as having moderately impaired cognitive skills and required maximal assistance with activities of daily living. Documentation indicated that the catheter was to be kept in a privacy bag at all times to promote dignity and prevent exposure. During an observation, the resident's catheter drainage bag was found uncovered and visible in a shared room with two other residents. Staff interviews confirmed that the privacy bag was not in use, and the DON acknowledged that the catheter should have been covered to maintain the resident's dignity. Facility policies also required that urinary catheter bags be kept covered to promote resident well-being and self-esteem, and to prevent demeaning practices.