Failure to Honor Resident's Shower Preferences
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with hemiplegia, hemiparesis, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorder was not provided showers twice a week according to their stated preference and care plan. Facility policy required that showers or tub baths be offered per resident preference, and documentation indicated that the resident was scheduled for showers on Mondays and Thursdays during the day shift. However, review of records and progress notes over a two-month period showed no evidence that the resident consistently received or refused these showers, with only a few documented instances of showers provided. During observation, the resident appeared unkempt, with greasy hair, and expressed embarrassment about their appearance, stating they had not received a shower in approximately three weeks and often did not get showers as preferred. Interviews with staff confirmed that the resident did not typically refuse showers and that their preferences were clearly documented in the care plan and on assignment sheets. The LPN Unit Manager was unaware that the resident was not receiving showers as scheduled, and the DON acknowledged awareness of the issue after it was brought to their attention by the ombudsman. The deficiency was further supported by the lack of documentation regarding shower provision or refusal, and by staff statements that all residents should receive showers per their preferences, as outlined in facility policy and resident rights.