Failure to Provide Adaptive Utensils for Resident with CVA
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adaptive utensils to a resident who required them for independent feeding due to a history of cerebrovascular accident (CVA) and bilateral carotid stenosis. The resident's care plan specified the need for built-up silverware at meals, and meal tickets confirmed this requirement. However, during observations on two consecutive mornings, the resident was given only standard or plastic utensils and was seen attempting to eat with these, resulting in difficulty managing his food. Staff interviews confirmed the resident's need for weighted utensils to assist with eating and to promote strength in his affected hand. The facility's policy also indicated that adaptive eating equipment should be provided to residents who need them to promote feeding independence.