Failure to Safely Manage Smoking Paraphernalia and Smoking Assessments
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure smoking paraphernalia was stored in a safe location and to maintain accurate smoking assessments for residents who smoke off-campus. The facility’s Non-Smoking Campus Policy, revised 9/12/25, stated that smoking, including e‑cigarettes and vaping devices, was not permitted anywhere on the premises and that the facility maintained a smoke‑free environment. Despite this, Resident #6’s care plan dated 1/8/26 documented that she was an independent smoker who could smoke when off the facility’s property as she desired, while nursing progress notes dated 1/15/26 documented she was a dependent/assisted smoker and to review the evaluation. A smoking assessment dated 1/15/26 documented Resident #6 was a dependent smoker who required assistance but could keep her smoking accessories locked in her room. On 2/17/26 at 10:15 AM, the Administrator stated residents who chose to smoke off-campus were assessed for independent or dependent smoking status, and on 2/19/26 at 4:48 PM, the DON stated Resident #6’s 1/15/26 smoking assessment was not accurate as she was an independent smoker. The facility also failed to ensure safe storage of smoking paraphernalia for Resident #42. Resident #42, admitted with diagnoses including other stimulant use, depression, and nutritional deficiency, had a care plan revised 10/15/25 documenting she was an independent smoker and had been educated on the facility’s smoke/nicotine use policy. A Smoke‑Free Acknowledgment in her record documented the facility’s smoke‑free policy and expectations. On 2/18/26 at 10:35 AM, Resident #42 was observed lying on her bed asleep with a vape device in her right hand. On 2/20/26 at 12:10 PM, the DON stated she was not aware that Resident #42 was using a vape and confirmed that although Resident #42 was an independent smoker, the expectation was that all smoking paraphernalia be stored safely.
We Help Long-Term Care Teams Stay Survey-Ready
We process and analyze inspection reports and plan of correction using AI to extract insights and trends so providers can improve care quality and stay ahead of compliance risks.