Failure to Provide Dignified Meal Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect and promote the right to a dignified existence for one resident during a lunch meal service. Specifically, a Medical Records Staff member stood beside the resident's bed and leaned over him to feed him, rather than sitting at eye level as required by facility policy and standard practice. The resident, who was legally blind but had intact cognition and was typically independent with eating, was observed being fed two spoonfuls of Jello and two spoonfuls of chicken noodle soup while the staff member stood over him. The resident also took sips of water and a shake supplement but refused to eat more food from his plate. Interviews with staff, including the Medical Records Staff, LVN, CNAs, and the DON, confirmed that the expected practice is for staff to sit at eye level with residents when assisting with meals, and to provide set-up and cues rather than direct feeding unless necessary. The resident's care plan indicated that assistance should be provided as needed, with a focus on maintaining the resident's level of function and dignity. Facility policy and the admission packet both emphasized the importance of treating residents with respect and dignity, which was not followed in this instance.