Failure to Conceal Catheter Bag Compromises Resident Dignity
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to treat a resident with respect and dignity by not concealing her catheter bag from public view. During observations, the resident's catheter bag was seen hanging from her bed without a privacy bag, making it visible from the hallway. Interviews with an LVN and the DON confirmed that the resident should have had a privacy bag to maintain her dignity, and that it was standard practice for nursing staff to ensure all residents with catheter bags had privacy bags in place. The resident involved was a female with neuromuscular dysfunction of the bladder, an active urinary tract infection, and a physician's order for a Foley catheter. The facility's own policy on dignity emphasized care that promotes residents' well-being and self-worth. Despite this, the catheter bag was left uncovered and visible, contrary to both facility policy and staff expectations, resulting in a failure to maintain the resident's right to a dignified existence.