Failure to Re-Evaluate and Update Pressure Ulcer Prevention Interventions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to re-evaluate and update preventative interventions for a resident who developed multiple new pressure ulcers. The resident, who had a history of stroke with left-sided deficits, impaired mobility, incontinence, and other comorbidities, was identified as being at risk for skin integrity issues. Despite the care plan outlining several interventions such as frequent repositioning, offloading, and moisture management, the resident developed a superficial open area on the left buttock, moisture-associated skin damage to the coccyx, and an unstageable pressure wound to the heel over a period of several months. Record review and staff interviews revealed that there was no documented evidence of reassessment or modification of the care plan interventions after the development of new pressure ulcers. Nursing staff acknowledged that additional interventions should have been implemented but were not. Recommendations for interventions, such as a pressure-reducing air mattress, were made verbally but not documented or followed up. The lack of timely re-evaluation and implementation of new interventions contributed to the resident developing additional pressure ulcers.