Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity During Care and Meals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to treat two residents with dignity during daily care activities. For one resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple diagnoses, an Activity Assistant referred to the individual as a "feeder" while the resident was seated in the dining room. This terminology was used in the presence of the resident and was confirmed during an interview with the staff member. The resident's records indicated a high level of dependence on staff for daily activities, including eating and personal hygiene. In a separate incident, another resident with Huntington's disease, dysphagia, and moderate cognitive impairment was assisted with eating by a staff member who stood over the resident at the bedside. The resident later stated that being assisted at eye level would have maintained their dignity. The staff member involved acknowledged standing while assisting and confirmed awareness that sitting at the same level is the appropriate practice. Facility policies reviewed indicated that residents should be treated with dignity and respect, specifically noting that staff should not stand over residents while assisting with meals and should avoid using labels such as "feeder."