Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity During Feeding Assistance
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, who requires extensive assistance with eating, was observed being assisted by an LNA during lunch. The LNA stood next to the resident and leaned over to place food in the resident's mouth, rather than sitting at eye level as required by facility practice and policy. The care plan for the resident specifically noted the need for staff to encourage self-feeding and to assist in a manner that promotes dignity. During an interview, the LNA stated a personal choice not to sit at eye level with residents while assisting with eating, and confirmed this was not their practice, despite facility policy and orientation training that require staff to do so. The facility's policy, revised June 2023, emphasizes the right of residents to a dignified existence and to be treated with respect and dignity. The administrator confirmed that the expectation is for staff to sit at eye level when assisting residents with eating.