Failure to Support Resident's Religious Practices and Self-Determination
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident's right to self-determination and religious practice was honored. The resident, a male with dementia and depression, had informed staff of his Muslim faith and expressed a desire to practice his religion within the facility. Despite this, his care plan did not include any mention of his religious preferences or related activities, except for a selective menu for certain meals. The resident reported feeling excluded because he could not participate in religious activities relevant to his faith, while other residents could attend Bible study. He also stated that he was unable to watch religious programs on his TV due to it not working, an issue the facility was aware of but had not resolved. Interviews with staff, including an LVN, the Activities Director, and the DON, revealed a lack of awareness or effective support for the resident's religious needs. The Activities Director acknowledged attempts to support the resident's religion, but these efforts did not meet his expectations. The resident also noted that he did not receive food before fasting periods and felt unable to request accommodations due to the facility's set meal times. The facility's policy requires respect for resident rights and individuality, but documentation and staff actions did not reflect adequate support for this resident's religious practices.