Failure to Provide Dignified and Respectful Care During Resident Distress
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when staff failed to ensure respectful and dignified communication and care for a resident with anxiety, depression, and respiratory failure, who was cognitively intact and dependent on a tracheostomy and ventilator. The resident's care plan included interventions for anxiety and guidance for staff to use calm, consistent communication with firm boundaries. On the day in question, the resident experienced respiratory distress and expressed urgent needs for assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). A CNA observed the resident appearing to have difficulty breathing and reported this to an RN, who responded that they did not care and refused to check on the resident. The CNA relayed this dismissive comment to the resident, further impacting the resident's emotional state. Progress notes indicated the resident was demanding immediate care, refused assistance from an available aide, and became upset when their needs were not met promptly. The RN, along with another nurse and a respiratory therapist, remained at the nurses' station and did not immediately respond to the CNA's concerns. The respiratory therapist eventually went to the resident after a delay. The resident reported feeling anxious, crying, and experiencing rapid breathing during the incident. Facility policy required staff to treat residents with dignity, respect, and sensitivity, especially during intimate care tasks, but this standard was not upheld in this instance.