Failure to Supervise Residents During Smoking Sessions
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to provide required supervision for two residents who were assessed as needing supervision while smoking. During observations, both residents were seen smoking cigarettes on the patio without staff present, despite their care plans and smoking assessments indicating the need for supervision. The Activity Director confirmed that these residents should not be left unsupervised while smoking, as per facility policy. The Director of Nursing also acknowledged that supervision should be provided by Activity Department staff or assistants. Resident 2 had diagnoses including paranoid schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder, with moderate cognitive impairment and a need for partial/moderate assistance with activities of daily living. Resident 3 had muscle weakness, dysphasia, and right hip pain, requiring setup or cleanup assistance with hygiene and dressing. Both residents' care plans and the facility's smoking policy required staff supervision during smoking sessions, but this was not followed at the time of the observations.