Failure to Follow Hypoglycemia Protocol and Monitor Toileting/Skin Integrity
Summary
The facility did not ensure that diabetic care was carried out according to established hypoglycemia protocols for a resident with type 2 diabetes who was receiving QID blood sugar checks and sliding-scale insulin. The resident’s blood glucose was documented as 60 mg/dL, but the record did not show any additional assessment, hypoglycemic intervention, or provider notification. Facility policy stated that blood glucose readings of 70 mg/dL or below required use of the hypoglycemic protocol, follow-up blood glucose monitoring, and notification of the practitioner as ordered. Facility standing orders also directed treatment and provider notification for low glucose values, and staff interviews confirmed that hypoglycemic interventions and notification were expected to be entered and followed for diabetic residents. The facility also failed to provide appropriate toileting supervision and skin monitoring for a resident with multiple diagnoses including obstructive hydrocephalus, heart failure, COPD, type 2 diabetes, atrial fibrillation, dementia, and a history of TIA. The resident’s MDS showed moderately impaired cognition and dependence for toileting and transfers. The care plan identified the resident as at risk for altered skin integrity and directed toileting assistance of two staff members with transfer devices, along with daily observation of skin condition and reporting of abnormalities. Survey observation showed the resident left sitting on a commode for an extended period while staff were not present, and the resident stated they were done but remained on the commode until staff were found. During the commode episode, the surveyor observed an open slit between the resident’s buttocks in the crease, and the resident moaned in pain when the area was wiped. The CNA stated the open area had been seen the prior week and that all staff should know about it because barrier cream was to be applied each time the resident used the bathroom, but the CNA had not reported the skin issue to nursing staff. Nursing staff and the DON stated they were not aware of the open area, and the DON stated the CNA should have reported the skin concern right away. The DON also stated staff were expected to check on the resident periodically while on the commode and document attempts, but no documentation of prolonged commode use or related interventions was found.
Penalty
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