CNA Administered Medication Outside Scope of Practice
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a certified nursing assistant (CNA) was given a resident's pain medication by a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and subsequently delivered the medication and water to the resident. The incident involved a resident with diagnoses including fibromyalgia, depression, and chronic pain syndrome. Video footage and staff interviews confirmed that the LPN handed the medication cup and water to the CNA, who then entered the resident's room and returned empty-handed. The CNA's written statement indicated that the resident had requested pain medication, and the LPN asked the CNA to deliver it, which the CNA did. Interviews with other staff members confirmed that administering medication is not within the CNA's scope of practice, and facility policy documents outlined that CNAs are responsible for providing direct care such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and mobility, but not medication administration. The event was identified through record review, video evidence, and staff interviews, establishing that the facility failed to ensure staff followed professional standards and scope of practice for CNAs.