Failure to Notify Resident Representative of New Injury
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify a resident's representative of new bruising found on the resident, as required by facility policy. The resident in question had diagnoses including dementia and hemiplegia, and required total assistance with transfers and personal hygiene. On a specific date, an LPN documented the discovery of two new dark purple bruises on the resident's left outer elbow but did not inform the resident's son, who was the responsible party and had previously requested to be notified of any changes in the resident's condition. During interviews, the family member confirmed he was unaware of the bruising and expressed frustration, noting this was not the first time he had not been informed of changes. The DON acknowledged that the family should have been updated about the new injury, in accordance with facility policy, but this did not occur.