Failure to Provide Timely Incontinence Care
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when staff failed to provide timely incontinence care to a resident who was dependent on staff for hygiene due to paraplegia, lack of coordination, and weakness. The resident was cognitively intact and required assistance with personal care, including toileting and bed mobility. On the early morning in question, the resident requested assistance from a CNA to be cleaned after an episode of incontinence. The CNA stated they would return but did not, and the resident reported waiting approximately 45 minutes while hearing the CNA in another room. The resident alerted multiple staff members, including another CNA and a registered nurse, but was not cleaned until the day shift arrived. Interviews with staff confirmed that the resident's call light was answered, but the aides prioritized getting other residents up for the day instead of providing the requested incontinence care. The CNAs and RN acknowledged the resident's request but did not provide care at that time, with the RN stating they were in the middle of a medication pass and would find someone to help. Documentation did not show any incontinence care provided to the resident on the date in question. The facility's policy requires prompt response to call lights and resident needs, which was not followed in this instance.