Care plan not revised for resident’s refusal and discomfort with torticollis orthosis
Summary
The facility did not revise R16’s comprehensive care plan to reflect his preferences and needs related to the torticollis orthosis used for meal-time positioning. R16 was admitted with Alzheimer’s disease with late onset, moyamoya disease, hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting the left nondominant side, epilepsy, dysphagia, and aphasia. His MDS assessment dated 12/30/2025 showed a BIMS score of 10/15, indicating moderate cognitive impairment, and he had an activated healthcare power of attorney. His care plan, last revised 12/23/2025, included applying the torticollis orthosis during AM shift meals and feeding from the left side to encourage improved positioning. During observations from 02/09/2026 through 02/11/2026, R16 was assisted with breakfast and lunch meals without the torticollis orthosis cushion in place. R16 told the surveyor that the cushion was not being used during meals and stated he did not like it because it hurt while in place. The cushion was observed on a desk in his room. CNA F stated R16 was supposed to wear it when eating but refused because it hurt him. RN D stated staff had tried it and that R16 did not like it because it hurt him. OT H stated the cushion was intended to be worn during mealtime to assist with proper neck alignment, and PT I stated R16’s compliance depended on the staff member applying it and that another PT evaluation for effectiveness was indicated. Record review showed the monthly restorative/maintenance summaries documented inconsistent participation with the torticollis orthosis, including 10/19 AMs in January and 0/30 AMs in February. CNA documentation showed refusals on multiple days, but not for all days in January and February. The care plan did not include R16’s resistance to wearing the orthosis, interventions to promote compliance when he experienced discomfort, or alternatives for maintaining neck alignment during meals. The TAR did not include documentation for monitoring placement of the cushion, and there were no orders for a PT reevaluation for placement and/or effectiveness of the torticollis orthosis cushion. MDS Coordinator/Interim DON B stated any nurse could make care plan changes and that care plans were reviewed quarterly and as needed, and was aware that R16 did not always wear the cushion.
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