Failure to Assess and Monitor Skin Conditions
Summary
The facility failed to comprehensively assess, monitor, and treat skin conditions for 2 residents reviewed for skin integrity. R2 was admitted with multiple diagnoses including fractures and other multiple trauma, renal failure, hyponatremia, anxiety disorder, depression, and respiratory failure, and was identified as dependent on staff for most ADLs and at risk for pressure ulcers. Her care plan included generic skin interventions such as turning and repositioning, use of barrier creams as needed, and monitoring for skin issues, but the record did not show comprehensive assessments or ongoing monitoring after new skin problems were identified. R2’s record documented a scrape to the right lower leg and a scratch to the left lower extremity, followed later by a small skin tear to the right antecubital area. The documentation did not include comprehensive wound assessments such as measurements, pain, wound characteristics, or further description, and there was no evidence the areas were monitored for improvement or deterioration. The record also did not show that the skin care plan was reviewed for appropriateness and effectiveness or that individualized interventions were developed in response to the new wounds. During interview, nursing staff and management stated they were not aware of the skin tear or bruising, and the DON stated she would need more information to determine whether a skin event should have been created and the provider contacted. R3’s quarterly MDS identified her as cognitively intact, requiring staff assistance for most ADLs, with diagnoses including hypertension, renal failure, anxiety, depression, and COPD, and at risk for pressure ulcers and MASD. Her skin care plan directed staff to avoid shearing, observe pressure areas daily, turn and reposition every two hours, use a pressure redistribution mattress, and complete weekly skin assessments. Her record documented recurrent MASD and redness under the breasts, and a physician order directed nystatin powder under the breasts until healed and then PRN. However, the record did not include comprehensive assessments describing size, extent, pain, drainage, open areas, or other wound characteristics, and there was no indication the skin condition was routinely monitored for improvement or deterioration. Staff also used Thera antifungal powder containing miconazole nitrate, and the DON stated the documentation did not show whether the MASD was improving and that staff should have clarified the use of Thera powder instead of, or in addition to, nystatin powder.
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