Gladstone Sub-acute And Rehab Center
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Glendora, California.
- Location
- 435 E. Gladstone St, Glendora, California 91740
- CMS Provider Number
- 056118
- Inspections on file
- 53
- Latest survey
- March 13, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 47
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Gladstone Sub-acute And Rehab Center during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident with chronic respiratory failure, COPD, and Type 2 DM, who was cognitively intact but required substantial assistance with ADLs, experienced ongoing problems with a malfunctioning TV that shut off about every 20 minutes, despite being the resident’s main source of entertainment. The resident reported the issue to the Maintenance Supervisor and Social Service Director, and surveyors directly observed the TV screen going black while audio continued. Staff interviews confirmed the problem had persisted for months and had been reported at least a month earlier, but the TV was not repaired, contrary to facility policies requiring safe, operable equipment and a comfortable, homelike environment.
The facility did not provide timely discharge notifications to the ombudsman for three residents who were transferred to a hospital. In each case, the resident or their representative received the required notice on the day of transfer, but the ombudsman was notified late, sometimes several days after the event. Staff interviews and record reviews confirmed that the facility's policy required concurrent notification, but unclear procedures and staff workload led to the deficiency.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and full Medi-Cal eligibility was not readmitted to the facility for seven days after being cleared for discharge from a hospital, despite an available bed. Facility staff delayed the readmission process due to concerns about insurance verification, even though policy did not require third-party payment guarantees and the resident's bed remained vacant throughout the period.
Several residents with significant mobility impairments did not receive showers as preferred and experienced delays in morning care because only one Hoyer lift was available for use. Staff confirmed that the equipment shortage led to more bed baths, late transfers, and residents arriving late to activities, directly impacting their hygiene routines and psychosocial well-being.
A deficiency occurred when the facility did not maintain an adequate supply of heat and moisture exchange (HME) devices for all residents with tracheostomy tubes on mechanical ventilators. Only 8 HMEs were available for 14 ventilator-dependent residents, resulting in the inability to change HMEs every 24 hours as required by facility policy. The shortage persisted until new supplies arrived, affecting residents who were dependent on others for most ADLs and required ongoing respiratory support.
The facility did not display proper respiratory precaution signage for several residents presumed to have Covid-19, failed to conduct required serial Covid-19 testing for new and re-admitted residents, and allowed a staff member to begin work before confirming a negative rapid antigen test result, contrary to public health guidance and facility policy.
A resident with chronic respiratory failure and quadriplegia received multiple doses of Ativan for anxiety, but staff failed to document monitoring for side effects or anxious behaviors as required by facility policy. The lapse occurred after a new Ativan order was written and previous monitoring orders expired, resulting in a lack of oversight during the medication administration period.
A resident's diagnosis of mood disorder was not documented in the admission record, despite being prescribed Depakote for this condition and having supporting documentation in other medical records. The physician order for Depakote did not include the diagnosis, and the facility's policy requiring such documentation was not followed, resulting in incomplete information about the resident's condition and medication justification.
Two residents did not receive care plan interventions as ordered: one did not have a physician order or consistent application and monitoring of a heel splint after a fracture, and another did not receive restorative nursing services for ambulation for an entire month due to staff miscommunication. These failures occurred despite clear care plan directives and facility policy.
A resident with quadriplegia and chronic conditions was not repositioned every two hours as required, and was found double briefed with a saturated brief, contrary to facility policy. Staff confirmed these practices were not in line with protocols designed to prevent pressure injuries and maintain skin integrity.
Several residents did not receive restorative nursing services as ordered, and staff inaccurately documented that these services were provided, including instances where staff signed records for days they were not present. The Director of Nursing instructed a staff member to sign off on services that had not been given, resulting in falsified records and a lack of required care.
Several residents did not receive restorative nursing services as ordered, and staff inaccurately documented that these services were provided, including instances where staff signed records for days they were not present. These actions resulted in false entries in medical records and a lack of required care, as confirmed by staff interviews and timecard reviews.
A review of the facility's records found that 101 staff had expired N95 fit tests, with 37 staff working while wearing N95 masks with expired fit tests during a COVID-19 outbreak. The DON and ADON confirmed the lapse, and the facility could not provide a policy for annual fit testing, as required by CDC and OSHA guidelines.
A CNA turned off a resident's G-tube feed pump, a task restricted to licensed nursing staff, despite the resident's need for continuous enteral feeding due to quadriplegia. Nursing staff and the DON confirmed that CNAs are not permitted to handle G-tube pumps, as this is outside their scope of practice and could result in complications.
The facility did not have a qualified IPN overseeing the Infection Prevention and Control program during a COVID-19 outbreak, as the previous IPN's last day was prior to the outbreak and the DON, who covered the role, lacked IPN certification. This resulted in the absence of a certified individual responsible for infection control during a period of multiple COVID-19 cases among residents and staff.
A resident with significant bilateral lower extremity edema and multiple chronic conditions did not receive prescribed TED hose stockings as ordered by the physician and outlined in the care plan. Licensed nurses failed to apply, monitor, and document the use of TED hose, and staff were unable to recall when the intervention was last implemented. The resident reported ongoing pain and lack of adherence to physician orders, while staff interviews revealed confusion about documentation and assessment responsibilities.
A resident with a history of COPD, heart failure, and diabetes, who had significant pitting edema, did not receive prescribed TED hose stockings as outlined in their care plan. Staff were unable to confirm when the TED hose were last applied, and there was no documentation of their use in the medication administration record. Licensed nurses also failed to consistently assess and document the resident's edema, resulting in noncompliance with both physician orders and facility policy.
Nursing staff did not document or monitor the application of TED hose for a resident with physician orders for their use to treat leg edema. Despite the resident's medical history and need for substantial assistance, records did not show TED hose application, and staff were unable to confirm when the stockings were last used. The facility's policy required accurate documentation of treatments, which was not followed in this case.
Three residents experienced delays in the implementation of physician orders, including late administration of antibiotics for eye inflammation, delayed initiation of medication for restless leg syndrome, and late laboratory testing for blood levels. In each case, orders were not carried out promptly due to incomplete follow-through by nursing staff and lack of timely communication, resulting in delays in care and services.
Staff did not consistently perform hand hygiene when assisting multiple residents with dining and during routine interactions, including preparing food, feeding, and physical contact. Despite being aware of facility policy and the availability of ABHR, staff failed to sanitize hands between resident contacts, as confirmed by interviews and direct observation.
Surveyors found unauthorized and unlabeled food items, including a can of soda, oatmeal, and an Ensure, stored in the Sub-Acute unit medication room refrigerator. An LVN admitted to placing personal food in the refrigerator, which is designated only for properly labeled resident food. The administrator confirmed these findings, noting that the facility's infection control policy was not followed.
A resident with end-stage renal disease missed two consecutive hemodialysis sessions due to transportation issues, and the facility failed to notify the physician as required by policy. The responsible party was informed, but the lack of physician notification was confirmed by the ADON during a review of progress notes.
A resident with congestive heart failure and end-stage renal disease experienced an acute change of condition, including low oxygen saturation. The facility failed to monitor and document the resident's condition as required, leading to a hospital transfer. Interviews revealed staff did not adhere to the facility's policy on monitoring and documentation.
A resident with congestive heart failure and end-stage renal disease required a STAT chest X-ray due to increased congestion and low oxygen saturation. Despite the urgency, the X-ray was not completed as the contracted radiology company did not arrive, and the facility's policy for timely coordination of services was not followed.
A facility failed to accurately assess a resident's health status, leading to an incorrect diagnosis of seizure disorder or epilepsy in the MDS. Despite the resident's medical records not supporting this diagnosis, it was included in assessments, potentially leading to unnecessary treatments. Staff interviews confirmed the absence of documentation for the diagnosis, highlighting the importance of accurate record-keeping.
A facility failed to develop a timely comprehensive care plan for a resident prescribed Trazodone for depression. The resident, with multiple health conditions, was admitted with a physician's order for the medication, but the care plan was not initiated until two days later, contrary to the facility's policy. This delay was confirmed by staff interviews, highlighting a lapse in adhering to care planning procedures.
A facility failed to maintain complete and accurate documentation for a resident with multiple health conditions, including an infection of an internal knee prosthesis and chronic kidney disease. The resident's care records, specifically the Shower and Care Sheet Observations (SCSO), were inconsistent and lacked necessary details such as the resident's name and the presence of a cast or immobilizer. Interviews with staff confirmed that the documentation did not adhere to the facility's policy, which requires clear and accurate nursing documentation.
A resident experienced discomfort due to high room temperatures, reaching 87°F, as the air conditioning was not functioning. Despite the use of fans, the temperature remained outside the acceptable range. The resident, with a history of respiratory issues, reported feeling hot and uncomfortable, which affected their sleep. The facility's policy requires maintaining comfortable temperatures, which was not adhered to in this case.
The facility failed to maintain a sanitary environment, as staff did not adhere to hand hygiene protocols, and pest control measures were inadequate. A hospitality aide did not perform hand hygiene when entering and exiting resident rooms, and a CNA failed to change soiled gloves before handling clean linens. Additionally, flies and mosquitoes were observed in resident rooms, indicating insufficient pest control. These deficiencies could contribute to the spread of infections among residents.
A resident with multiple health issues, including hemiplegia and difficulty walking, required contact guard assistance (CGA) for ambulation. However, the facility staff were not informed of this requirement, leading to the resident walking independently and subsequently falling, resulting in a severe hip fracture. The care plan did not reflect the need for CGA, and staff did not refer to physical therapy notes, contributing to the incident.
A resident with multiple diagnoses, including hemiplegia and epilepsy, was not provided with a comprehensive care plan that addressed their assessed needs. The facility failed to incorporate Physical Therapy assessments and recommendations, such as the need for contact guard assistance (CGA) and the resident's behavior of getting up without assistance. Staff interviews confirmed the resident's independence and lack of call light use, highlighting the need for additional interventions like education and family involvement.
The facility failed to inform four residents or their representatives about their rights to formulate an advance directive (AD). The Social Service Director (SSD) did not provide or document discussions about ADs for residents with varying cognitive impairments and dependencies. Additionally, one resident's AD was not included in their medical chart, contrary to facility policy.
The facility failed to notify the physician of changes in condition for two residents. One resident with chronic respiratory failure showed signs of respiratory distress, but the physician was not informed. Another resident experienced significant weight loss, and the physician was not notified until the survey team intervened. The facility's policy required timely physician notification for such changes, which was not followed.
The facility failed to implement gradual dose reductions (GDR) and non-pharmacological interventions for several residents receiving psychotropic medications. A resident's PRN Alprazolam order exceeded the 14-day limit without documented rationale. Another resident's Trazodone GDR was not personalized, and non-pharmacological interventions were not attempted for a third resident's hallucinations. Additionally, GDRs for Depakote and Seroquel were not attempted for a fourth resident, despite the absence of contraindicating behaviors.
A resident with specific dietary needs due to medical conditions experienced significant weight loss because the facility failed to accommodate their preferences for meals with little to no oil. Despite the resident's repeated requests and documented preferences, the kitchen staff continued to prepare meals using oil, leading to discomfort and further health decline. The facility's dietary staff did not adequately document or address the resident's needs, violating policies on resident rights and nutritional care.
An inspection at a facility revealed expired food items in a walk-in refrigerator, including 22 apples stored beyond the recommended period and an unopened gallon of expired milk. The Dietary Services Supervisor acknowledged the risk of illness if these items were consumed by residents, highlighting a failure to adhere to the facility's food storage guidelines.
A resident in an LTC facility did not receive timely incontinence care due to a CNA waiting for the resident's roommate to finish their meal. The resident, dependent on assistance for toileting, was left confused and uninformed as the CNA did not communicate the reason for the delay. The facility's policy requires prompt response to toileting requests and clear communication, which was not followed in this case.
A resident with multiple diagnoses, including diabetes and heart failure, experienced progressive weight loss without a comprehensive care plan in place. Despite the resident's cognitive ability to make decisions and specific dietary needs, the facility failed to address their weight loss and food preferences, leading to dissatisfaction and continued weight decline. The Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed the absence of a care plan, contrary to the facility's policy requiring a person-centered approach.
A resident with edema was not provided with proper interventions as outlined in their care plan, which required elevating their arms and legs to reduce swelling. Observations showed the resident's arms were not elevated, leading to swelling. Staff interviews confirmed the importance of elevation to prevent complications, but this was not implemented, contrary to the facility's care standards.
Failure to Maintain Resident’s Primary Entertainment Device in Safe, Operable Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a safe, comfortable, and homelike environment for one resident when it did not address a malfunctioning television over an extended period. The resident, who had diagnoses including acute and chronic respiratory failure, COPD, and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, was cognitively intact and required substantial to maximal assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, toileting hygiene, personal hygiene, and oral hygiene. The resident reported that the television, which was the main source of entertainment, would shut off approximately every 20 minutes, requiring the resident to repeatedly turn it back on with the remote. The resident stated having previously informed both the Maintenance Supervisor and the Social Service Director about the problem and reported feeling frustrated by the ongoing issue. Surveyors directly observed the television malfunction when the screen went black while the audio continued, necessitating the resident to use the remote to restore the picture. During interviews, the Maintenance Supervisor acknowledged that the television screen had been turning off for the past six months and attributed the issue to a weak TV signal. The Social Service Director reported being informed by the resident about the faulty television about one month prior and stated that this concern had been relayed to the Maintenance Supervisor. Despite facility policies stating that the Maintenance Department is responsible for maintaining equipment in a safe and operable manner at all times and that residents are to be provided with a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment, the television remained unrepaired, resulting in the identified deficiency.
Failure to Timely Notify Ombudsman of Resident Discharges
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide timely notices of discharge to the ombudsman for three sampled residents who were transferred to a general acute care hospital. For one resident with severe cognitive impairment and total dependence on staff, the Notice of Proposed Transfer/Discharge (NPTD) was not faxed to the ombudsman until several days after the transfer, despite the facility's policy requiring immediate notification. The responsible party received the notice on the day of transfer, but the ombudsman was notified late, as confirmed by the Registered Nurse Supervisor during record review and interview. Another resident, who had intact cognition but required varying levels of assistance with daily activities, was transferred due to difficulty swallowing. The NPTD was provided to the resident on the day of transfer, but the ombudsman was not notified until the following day. Similarly, a third resident with metabolic encephalopathy and respiratory failure was transferred for medical treatment, and while the resident received the NPTD on the day of transfer, the ombudsman was notified two days later. In both cases, the facility's transmission logs confirmed the delays in notification to the ombudsman. Interviews with facility staff, including the DON and Medical Record Director, revealed that the facility's policy required the ombudsman to be notified at the same time as the resident or their representative, but the policy language was unclear and not consistently followed. The Medical Record Director acknowledged being responsible for faxing the NPTD but cited being busy as the reason for the delays. The facility's own policy and procedure documents confirmed that notification to the ombudsman should occur concurrently with notification to the resident or representative, and that temporary transfers to acute care are considered facility-initiated discharges.
Failure to Timely Readmit Resident After Hospital Transfer
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the timely readmission of a resident who was transferred to a general acute care hospital for further evaluation due to medical needs. The resident, who had severe cognitive impairment, hemiplegia, and bipolar disorder, was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living and lacked capacity to make decisions. After the transfer, the facility's records indicated a seven-day bed hold was in place, and the resident had the right to be readmitted to the first available bed even if the hospitalization exceeded the bed-hold period. Despite this, the facility did not readmit the resident for seven days after the resident was ready for discharge from the hospital. Documentation and interviews revealed that a bed was available during this period, but the facility's admission team delayed the readmission process due to concerns about verifying the resident's insurance eligibility, specifically related to a Medi-Cal M1 code. The admissions coordinator, DON, and administrator were all involved in the decision-making process, with instructions given to hold the readmission until insurance eligibility was confirmed, even though the resident was Medi-Cal eligible and the facility's policy did not require third-party payment guarantees for readmission. Observations confirmed that the bed previously occupied by the resident remained vacant and unassigned to any other resident during the delay. The facility's own policies and procedures indicated that residents should be readmitted to their previous room or the next available bed, regardless of insurance status, but this was not followed. The delay resulted in the resident remaining unnecessarily in the hospital, contrary to the facility's stated policies and the resident's rights.
Failure to Provide Showers and Timely Morning Care Due to Hoyer Lift Unavailability
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide activities of daily living (ADLs) related to hygiene and bathing in accordance with residents' needs and preferences for four out of five sampled residents. Multiple residents with significant physical impairments, including paraplegia, hemiplegia, quadriplegia, morbid obesity, and Parkinson's disease, were dependent on staff for transfers, personal hygiene, and dressing. These residents had intact cognitive skills and were able to express their preferences for showers over bed baths, stating that showers made them feel cleaner and more dignified. Residents reported that they were unable to receive showers as preferred due to the unavailability of a Hoyer lift, which was required for safe transfers. Staff interviews confirmed that only one Hoyer lift was operational across three nursing units during the past week, resulting in delays in morning care routines, substitution of bed baths for showers, and residents getting out of bed later than usual. This equipment shortage led to residents arriving late to scheduled activities and, in some cases, missing the start of these activities. The facility's policy required that residents be offered showers at least once weekly and upon request. However, due to the limited availability of functioning lifts, staff were unable to meet these preferences and needs, directly impacting residents' hygiene routines and psychosocial well-being. Maintenance staff confirmed that the shortage was due to a malfunctioning remote and a new lift awaiting calibration, which further contributed to the delays and substitution of care.
Inadequate Respiratory Supply for Ventilator-Dependent Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an adequate supply of heat and moisture exchange (HME) devices for all 14 residents with tracheostomy tubes who were dependent on mechanical ventilators. On 6/29/2025, there were only 8 HMEs available for 14 residents, and this shortage persisted until the supply was replenished on 7/2/2025. According to the facility's policy and procedure, HMEs are required to be changed every 24 hours or when soiled, but due to the insufficient supply, this standard was not met for any of the affected residents during the shortage period. All 14 residents involved had diagnoses including respiratory failure and were dependent on others for most activities of daily living, as well as on oxygen therapy, suctioning, tracheostomy care, and ventilator support. The Respiratory Therapist Lead and Assistant Director of Nursing both confirmed that the available supply was inadequate to meet the needs of the residents, and that the facility's policy regarding HME changes could not be followed during the shortage. The shortage was attributed to a delay in delivery from the respiratory supply vendor, despite timely ordering by facility staff.
Failure to Implement Covid-19 Precautions, Testing, and Staff Screening
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow public health nurse (PHN) guidance and its own policies for infection prevention and control during a Covid-19 outbreak. Specifically, the facility did not ensure that proper signage for novel respiratory precautions was displayed outside the rooms of residents presumed to be infected with Covid-19. Observations revealed that only one resident's room had the correct signage, while others had signage for enhanced barrier precautions (EBP), which require less stringent use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Interviews with the Infection Preventionist Nurse (IPN) and review of facility policy confirmed that novel respiratory precautions, including full PPE, were required for these residents, but were not implemented until after the surveyor's inquiry. Additionally, the facility did not adhere to the PHN's instructions to test all newly admitted and re-admitted residents for Covid-19 on days 0, 3, and 5. Instead, residents were tested only twice weekly, regardless of their admission or readmission status. This was confirmed through interviews with the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) and review of the facility's Covid-19 Mitigation Plan, which also specified the need for serial testing on the specified days. The PHN stated that the facility was expected to follow these serial testing instructions, but this was not done for the sampled residents. The facility also failed to ensure that staff completed Covid-19 rapid antigen tests (RAT) and confirmed negative results before entering patient care areas. An observation showed that a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) began their shift and entered patient care areas before their RAT result was fully developed and confirmed negative. The LVN acknowledged that the test result was unclear and that they should have waited for a definitive result before starting work. Facility policy and PHN instructions required staff to test before each shift and restrict work until a negative result was confirmed.
Failure to Monitor Psychotropic Medication Use and Side Effects
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adequately monitor a resident's use of the psychotropic medication Ativan, prescribed for anxiety. The resident, who had chronic respiratory failure and quadriplegia, was admitted with intact cognition and was dependent on staff for bathing and toileting. From 5/9/2025 to 5/23/2025, the resident received thirteen 1 mg doses of Ativan for anxiety manifested by screaming and yelling due to concerns about their health condition. However, during this period, the Medication Administration Record (MAR) did not indicate that the resident was monitored for side effects of Ativan or for the presence of anxious behaviors. Interviews with the Registered Nurse Supervisor and the Director of Nursing confirmed that monitoring for both side effects and target behaviors was not documented after a new order for Ativan was written. The previous monitoring orders had expired, and staff failed to renew them with the new prescription. The facility's policy required daily monitoring of psychotropic drug use for adverse effects and target behaviors, but this was not followed during the specified timeframe.
Failure to Document Mood Disorder Diagnosis in Resident Record
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to document a resident's diagnosis of mood disorder in the admission record, despite evidence from multiple sources indicating the presence of this condition. The resident was admitted with several diagnoses, including chronic respiratory failure and quadriplegia, but the admission record did not reflect a mood disorder. However, the Minimum Data Set assessment and medical professional progress notes indicated the resident had intact cognition and was dependent on staff for certain activities, and a psychiatrist had planned to initiate Depakote for mood disorder. The order summary report showed an active physician order for Depakote, but the order did not specify the diagnosis of mood disorder, only referencing poor impulse control manifested by screaming and yelling. During an interview, the DON confirmed that Depakote was prescribed for a mood disorder and acknowledged that the admission record should have been updated to include this diagnosis. The facility's policy required that psychotherapeutic medication orders include the diagnosis and indications for the medication, which was not followed in this case. This omission meant that the resident's current condition and the justification for the medication were not clearly documented or communicated to staff.
Failure to Implement and Document Care Plan Interventions for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement care plan interventions for two residents as required by its own policies and procedures. For one resident with a history of osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and dementia, the care plan specified the use of a left heel splint and required assessment of pedal pulses every shift following a documented left calcaneus fracture. However, there was no physician order for the splint in the resident's active orders, and staff interviews revealed confusion about who was responsible for applying and removing the splint. Additionally, there was no documentation that pedal pulses were being checked as required by the care plan. For another resident with diagnoses including abnormalities of gait and mobility and dementia, the care plan and physician orders required restorative nursing services (RNS) for ambulation with a front wheel walker three times per week. Despite these orders, the resident did not receive any RNS for an entire month. Staff interviews and record reviews confirmed that the missed services were due to miscommunication between nursing, restorative nursing aides, and rehabilitation staff, resulting in the resident not being ambulated as ordered. The facility's policy on care planning states that residents have the right to receive the services and items included in their plan of care. In both cases, the facility did not follow its own care planning procedures, leading to failures in providing ordered treatments and monitoring as specified in the residents' care plans.
Failure to Reposition and Improper Briefing Practices Lead to Pressure Injury Risk
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate care and services to prevent the development of new pressure injuries for one resident with significant risk factors. The resident was admitted with diagnoses including morbid obesity, quadriplegia, and chronic respiratory failure, and was assessed as being at risk for impaired skin integrity due to factors such as immobility, incontinence, and fragile skin. The care plan specified that the resident should be kept dry and clean and repositioned at least every two hours to prevent pressure injuries. Observations and interviews revealed that staff did not consistently reposition the resident as required. On one occasion, the resident was observed lying on their back in a high Fowler's position, and after being assisted by staff, was not repositioned to either side to relieve pressure. Staff interviews confirmed that the resident was not repositioned as per protocol, and that repositioning is necessary to prevent pressure injuries, especially for residents who are dependent for mobility and incontinent. Additionally, the resident was found to be double briefed, with the inner brief saturated with urine, contrary to facility policy and staff knowledge. Both nursing and administrative staff acknowledged that double briefing is not permitted as it increases heat and moisture, contributing to skin breakdown. Facility policies reviewed did not support double briefing and emphasized the importance of regular repositioning and perineal care to maintain skin integrity.
Failure to Accurately Document and Provide Restorative Nursing Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accurately document and provide restorative nursing services (RNS) as required for several residents, resulting in incomplete or falsified records. For one resident with orders for ambulation using a front wheel walker three times per week, the RNS was not provided for an entire month despite physician orders and care plan directives. The restorative nursing assistant (RNA) later signed the resident's record for that month at the direction of the Director of Nursing (DON), even though the services had not been rendered. The RNA stated that the DON instructed them to sign the record to correct the mistake, and the RNA complied due to the DON's authority, not realizing this constituted falsification of records. Additionally, the facility failed to ensure that RNAs only documented services they actually provided. For two other residents, the RNS records were signed by an RNA on a date when the RNA was not clocked in for work, indicating that the services were not actually performed. The RNA admitted to accidentally signing and initialing the records for those dates. Similarly, for another resident, three different RNAs signed the RNS record on dates when none of them were present at work, and each acknowledged during interviews that they had made mistakes in documentation or were unsure if the services were provided. The facility's policy required accurate and timely documentation of restorative nursing services, with staff expected to document and communicate any significant resident problems or changes. However, the review of timecards, interviews with staff, and examination of medical records revealed that the facility did not follow its own procedures, resulting in inaccurate records and a lack of required restorative care for multiple residents. The DON and Assistant DON were aware of discrepancies but did not ensure that the records accurately reflected the care provided.
Failure to Accurately Document and Provide Restorative Nursing Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accurately document and provide restorative nursing services (RNS) as ordered for several residents, resulting in incomplete and inaccurate medical records. For one resident with diagnoses including gait abnormalities and dementia, there was a physician's order for ambulation assistance three times per week, but the resident did not receive any RNS for the entire month as required. Despite this, the Restorative Nursing Assistant (RNA) was instructed by the Director of Nursing (DON) to sign the treatment record for the month, resulting in documentation that falsely indicated services were provided. The RNA later stated that the DON directed them to 'fix the mistake' by signing the record, and the DON acknowledged a miscommunication between nursing, RNA, and rehabilitation staff regarding the new order. Additionally, the facility failed to ensure that documentation on the Restorative Nursing Record (RNR) accurately reflected the provision of services for other residents. One RNA signed and initialed the RNR for two residents on a date when the RNA was not clocked in for work, and two other RNAs signed for services provided to another resident on dates when they were not present in the facility. These inaccuracies were confirmed through timecard reviews and staff interviews, where the involved RNAs admitted to signing for services they did not provide, either by accident or as directed. The facility's policy required accurate and timely documentation of restorative nursing services to ensure residents received appropriate care based on their assessments and physician orders. The failures in communication, documentation, and oversight led to medical records containing false information for multiple residents, which could affect their care and outcomes. The facility's own policy emphasized the importance of accurate documentation and prompt communication of significant changes or problems to the charge nurse.
Expired N95 Fit Tests Among Staff During Outbreak
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that all staff had up-to-date N95 respirator fit tests, as required by CDC and NIOSH guidelines. A review of the facility's Fit Test Log (FTL) revealed that 101 staff members had expired N95 fit tests, with 37 of those staff actively working during a specific shift while wearing N95 masks with expired fit tests. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that they themselves had not been fit tested for the current year, and the last update to the FTL was provided to the Public Health Nurse due to a COVID-19 outbreak. The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) corroborated that 37 staff on duty were wearing N95 masks with expired fit tests. The Infection Prevention Nurse (IPN) stated that annual fit testing is necessary to ensure proper mask fit, especially in light of changes to staff members' facial structure or weight, and that expired fit tests could result in staff inhaling infectious particles during an ongoing outbreak. The facility was unable to provide a policy and procedure for annual N95 mask fit testing. Review of CDC and OSHA guidelines confirmed the requirement for annual fit testing for tight-fitting respirators, and the need for re-testing if there are changes in mask brand, model, or the employee's facial characteristics. The lack of current fit testing and absence of a policy contributed to the deficiency identified during the survey.
CNA Operated G-Tube Feed Pump Outside Scope of Practice
Penalty
Summary
Certified nursing assistant (CNA) 3 failed to work within their scope of practice by turning off a gastrostomy tube (G-tube) feed pump for a resident who had been admitted with quadriplegia and required enteral feeding via G-tube. The resident's medical records indicated intact cognition and a physician's order for continuous enteral feeding at a specified rate using a pump. During an observation, CNA 3 was seen turning off the G-tube feed pump and admitted to doing so, despite acknowledging that this task was supposed to be performed by a nurse. Interviews with licensed vocational nurses (LVN 3 and LVN 4) and the Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that CNAs were not permitted to stop G-tube feeds or operate the pump, as it was outside their scope of practice and could lead to complications such as pump malfunction or G-tube dislodgement. The facility's failure to ensure that CNA 3 worked within their legal and ethical boundaries placed the resident at risk for adverse outcomes related to improper handling of the G-tube and feeding equipment.
Failure to Designate Qualified Infection Preventionist During COVID-19 Outbreak
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to designate a qualified infection preventionist nurse (IPN) to oversee the Infection Prevention and Control program during a period when a COVID-19 outbreak was occurring. According to the facility's records, the last day the former IPN worked was 5/20/2025, and as of 5/21/2025, there was no designated IPN present. The Director of Nursing (DON) reported covering the IPN role despite not having IPN certification. The COVID-19 outbreak had been declared on 5/12/2025, and at least three COVID-19 positive cases were identified among residents and/or staff within a seven-day period. Interviews with the DON confirmed that the facility did not have a certified IPN during the outbreak, and the DON acknowledged the need for a certified IPN to monitor and prevent infections. Review of the facility's job description for the Infection Control Coordinator (ICC), also known as the IPN, indicated that this role is responsible for promoting and maintaining infection control guidelines and ensuring all infection control documentation is maintained according to federal and state requirements. The absence of a designated and qualified IPN during an active outbreak constituted a failure to implement the facility's Infection Prevention and Control program as required.
Failure to Apply and Document TED Hose Use for Edema Management
Penalty
Summary
Licensed nurses failed to follow physician orders and care plan interventions for a resident who was admitted with multiple diagnoses, including COPD, heart failure, and type II diabetes mellitus. The resident had significant bilateral lower extremity pitting edema, with a care plan and physician order in place for the application of Thrombo-Embolic Deterrent (TED) hose stockings to manage the edema. Despite these orders, staff did not consistently apply the TED hose, and there was no documentation in the medication administration record (MAR) indicating that the TED hose were being used as prescribed. Interviews and observations revealed that the resident was not wearing TED hose at the time of surveyor visits, and both the resident and staff were unable to recall when the TED hose were last applied. The resident reported that staff were not putting the TED hose on and expressed frustration that their needs and physician's orders were not being followed. Staff interviews indicated confusion regarding documentation requirements and assessment of edema, with some staff unsure how to properly assess or document the resident's condition. The care plan and physician order specifically required the use of TED hose, but this intervention was not implemented or monitored as directed. The facility's policies and procedures required that physician orders be accurately transcribed, implemented, and documented, and that care plans be person-centered and based on assessed needs. However, the lack of application, monitoring, and documentation of the TED hose for this resident resulted in the resident experiencing ongoing significant edema and pain, with staff unable to provide evidence of compliance with the prescribed interventions. The Director of Nursing confirmed the importance of following such orders and acknowledged that staff had not been recently in-serviced on edema assessment.
Failure to Implement and Document Care Plan Interventions for Edema Management
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to implement and follow the care plan for a resident with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, and type II diabetes mellitus, who was admitted with significant pitting edema in both lower extremities and the left upper extremity. The care plan, initiated in June 2024, specified that the resident should wear TED hose stockings to address the risk of fluid volume overload and reduce edema, as ordered by the physician. However, observations and interviews revealed that the resident was not wearing the prescribed TED hose, and staff were unable to confirm when they were last applied. Record reviews, including the medication administration record, did not show documentation that TED hose were being applied as ordered. Multiple staff interviews confirmed that the resident was not wearing the TED hose and that licensed nurses were not consistently assessing or documenting the resident's pitting edema. The resident reported not understanding why the TED hose were not being applied, and staff acknowledged the importance of this intervention for managing edema. The facility's policy and procedure on care planning required that comprehensive, person-centered care plans be developed and implemented based on assessed needs, and that residents receive the services and items included in their care plans. The failure to apply TED hose as ordered and to assess and document edema as required by the care plan constituted a failure to follow both physician orders and facility policy, resulting in the identified deficiency.
Failure to Document and Apply Physician-Ordered TED Hose
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide documentation of a resident's status and care related to the application of Thrombo-Embolic Deterrent (TED) hose stockings, as required by the facility's policy and procedure for nursing documentation. Despite a physician's order for the resident to wear TED hose on both lower extremities for leg swelling/edema, nursing staff did not document when the TED hose were applied or removed. Review of the resident's medication and treatment administration records showed no indication that the TED hose were being applied as ordered. Interviews with licensed nurses and the Director of Nursing confirmed that the lack of documentation was due to the way the order was transcribed, and staff were not monitoring or recording the use of TED hose or the resident's edema status. The resident involved had a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, and type II diabetes mellitus, and required substantial assistance with dressing. Observations confirmed that the resident was not wearing TED hose at the time of the survey, and staff were unable to state when the TED hose were last applied. The facility's policy required concise, clear, and accurate documentation of treatments completed as per physician orders, but this was not followed in the case of the resident's TED hose application.
Delayed Implementation of Physician Orders and Laboratory Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that physician's orders were carried out or noted in a timely manner for three residents. In one case, an optometrist ordered antibiotic eye ointment for a resident with blepharitis, but due to a delay in clarifying the order and obtaining an alternative medication from the pharmacy, the first dose was not administered until several days after the initial order. Documentation shows that the pharmacy notified the facility that the originally ordered medication was unavailable, but the process to obtain a new order and administer the medication was not completed promptly. Another resident had a physician's order for ropinirole to treat restless leg syndrome and for laboratory tests to check magnesium, Vitamin D, and iron levels. The medication order was not carried out until the day after it was written, and the laboratory tests were not performed until three days after the order. There was no documentation that the physician was informed of the delay in laboratory testing. Interviews with nursing staff revealed a lack of follow-up and communication regarding the flagged orders, and an assumption that another nurse or LVN would complete the tasks. A third resident had multiple medication orders written, but only some were carried out on the day the order was written. The order for methocarbamol, a muscle relaxant, was not carried out until the following day. Nursing staff interviews indicated that the missed order was due to incomplete follow-through by the assigned LVN, and a lack of verification by the supervising RN. Facility policy requires timely transcription and implementation of physician orders, as well as prompt laboratory services, but these were not adhered to in the cited cases.
Failure to Ensure Proper Hand Hygiene During Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to perform appropriate hand hygiene when providing care and assistance to four of six sampled residents. Specifically, a CNA prepared and assisted with lunch trays and feeding for two residents without washing hands or using alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR). Additionally, an LVN patted the backs of two residents without performing hand hygiene before or after the interaction, and another LVN handled a resident's wheelchair and assisted another resident out of the dining area without handwashing or using ABHR. These actions were observed during routine care and resident interactions in the dining room. Interviews with the involved staff confirmed their awareness of the facility's hand hygiene policy, which requires handwashing or use of ABHR before and after resident contact. The Director of Nursing also confirmed that the expectation is for staff to sanitize hands between resident contacts and that ABHR is available throughout the facility. A review of the facility's policy indicated that hand hygiene is required before and after assisting residents with dining and when moving between residents, regardless of glove use.
Unauthorized and Unlabeled Items Found in Medication Room Refrigerator
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the Sub-Acute unit medication room refrigerator contained unauthorized and unlabeled items, including a can of Coca-Cola, a pint-sized Oatmeal Extra Thick, and an eight-ounce Ensure, none of which were labeled with a name or date. Additionally, a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) was seen retrieving a bag of food from the medication room and admitted to storing personal food there due to previous incidents of food loss in the employee refrigerator. The LVN acknowledged that staff are not permitted to place their food in the resident-designated refrigerator. The facility administrator confirmed the presence of the unauthorized and unlabeled items in the medication room refrigerator and stated that only properly labeled resident food, with name and date, is allowed in that refrigerator for up to three days. The facility's infection prevention and control policy requires maintaining a safe, sanitary environment to prevent the transmission of diseases and infections, which was not followed in this instance.
Plan Of Correction
F 880 Infection Prevention & Control How corrective actions will be accomplished for these residents found to have been affected by the deficient practice: On 4/4/25, RN Supervisor immediately removed the Coca-Cola can, one pint sized Oatmeal Extra Thick, one eight ounce ensure, and bag of food from LVN 1 from the Sub-Acute medication room refrigerator designated for resident food. On 4/4/25, RN Supervisor immediately conducted a 1:1 education for LVN 1 regarding "No Employee Food in Resident's Refrigerator." How the facility will identify other residents having the potential to be affected by the same deficient practice and what corrective action will be taken: On 4/4/25, RN Supervisor made observed SNF Medication Room Resident food refrigerator to identify if the same deficient practice occurred. No deficient practice identified and was reported to the Administrator. What measures will be put into place or what systemic changes the facility will make to ensure that the deficient practice does not recur: Beginning 4/4/25, RN Supervisor(s) provided in-service to licensed nurses and CNAs regarding resident food refrigerator use and no employee food should be placed in resident food refrigerator. In-services regarding resident food refrigerator and no employee food refrigerator completed on 4/25/25. On 4/25/25, Administrator revised "Form A of Policy No. - DS 53, Refrigerator / Freezer Temperature Log" to include DAILY checking of RESIDENT ONLY FOOD STORED IN REFRIGERATOR to be completed by licensed nurses. If deficient practice is identified, it will be corrected immediately. How the facility plans to monitor its F 880 performance to make sure that solutions are sustained: ICP will review revised Form A of Policy DS - 53 - Refrigerator / Freezer Temperature Log" monthly and report findings to the DON and/or Administrator. Findings will be brought to the attention of the QAPI Committee monthly x 3 months for further recommendations.
Failure to Notify Physician of Missed Hemodialysis
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify the physician of a resident's missed hemodialysis sessions on two consecutive days, which was a significant oversight given the resident's medical condition. The resident, who was admitted to the facility with diagnoses including congestive heart failure and end-stage renal disease, required hemodialysis. On the first day, transportation for the resident's hemodialysis did not arrive, leading to the cancellation and rescheduling of the session. The responsible party was informed, but there was no documentation indicating that the resident's physician was notified of the missed session. The following day, the resident's hemodialysis was again rescheduled due to transportation issues, and once more, the responsible party was informed, but the physician was not notified. The facility's policy requires prompt consultation with the attending physician in the event of significant changes in a resident's condition, such as a missed treatment. The Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed the oversight during a review of the resident's progress notes, which lacked documentation of physician notification for the missed hemodialysis sessions.
Failure to Monitor Resident's Acute Change of Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adequately monitor a resident's condition following an acute change of condition (ACOC). The resident, who was admitted with diagnoses including congestive heart failure and end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis, experienced episodes of low oxygen saturation, congestion, nausea, and vomiting. Despite these symptoms, the facility staff did not consistently monitor or document the resident's vital signs, particularly oxygen saturation levels, as required by the facility's policy. On the night of the incident, the resident's oxygen saturation dropped to 85%, prompting an increase in oxygen delivery, which temporarily improved the saturation level. However, the resident's condition deteriorated overnight, leading to a transfer to the hospital the following morning due to low oxygen saturation, low blood pressure, and altered consciousness. The responsible party was informed of the resident's condition and subsequent hospital transfer, but the facility staff failed to document the necessary monitoring during the night shift. Interviews with the nursing staff revealed a lack of understanding and adherence to the facility's policy on monitoring and documenting changes in a resident's condition. The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) assigned to the resident did not document the monitoring of the resident's oxygen saturation, and the Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed that the required alert charting was not completed. The facility's policy mandates documentation of a resident's condition every shift for at least 72 hours following an ACOC, which was not followed in this case.
Failure to Provide Timely X-ray Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a chest X-ray was completed for a resident as ordered by the resident's physician. The resident, who was admitted on January 7, 2025, had diagnoses including congestive heart failure and end-stage renal disease, requiring hemodialysis. On January 16, 2025, the resident's physician ordered a STAT chest X-ray due to increased congestion and low oxygen saturation levels. Despite the urgency of the order, the X-ray was not completed as the contracted radiology company did not arrive to perform the procedure. The facility's policy required that STAT orders be followed up on during the same shift, but the registered nurse on duty reported calling the radiology company three times without success. The failure to obtain the X-ray as ordered had the potential to impact the resident's medical needs. The facility's policy and procedure for laboratory, diagnostic, and radiology services indicated that such services should be coordinated and results received timely, which was not adhered to in this instance.
Inaccurate Resident Assessment Leads to Incorrect Diagnosis
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accurately assess a resident's health status according to its policy and procedure for the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Process. Specifically, the Minimum Data Sets (MDS) for a resident dated 2/28/2022, 7/7/2023, and 10/7/2024 incorrectly included a diagnosis of seizure disorder or epilepsy, which was not supported by the resident's medical records. This discrepancy was identified during a review of the resident's admission records, discharge summaries, and various medical history documents, none of which indicated a diagnosis of seizure disorder or epilepsy. The resident was initially admitted with diagnoses including epilepsy, chronic respiratory failure, and COPD. However, subsequent reviews of the resident's medical records from a general acute care hospital and long-term care skilled admission history did not support the presence of a seizure disorder or epilepsy. Despite this, the MDS continued to list these conditions as active diagnoses, which could lead to unnecessary medication and services. Interviews with facility staff, including a Licensed Vocational Nurse and the Director of Nursing, confirmed the absence of documentation supporting a seizure disorder or epilepsy diagnosis. The resident had been prescribed Keppra, a medication for seizures, but it was discontinued after a short period. The Director of Nursing emphasized the importance of accurate documentation to prevent potential risks associated with incorrect diagnoses. The facility's policy on the RAI Process and nursing documentation requires that all information recorded within the MDS must accurately reflect the resident's status at the time of assessment.
Failure to Timely Develop Comprehensive Care Plan for Antidepressant Medication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a resident-centered comprehensive care plan for a resident, as required by their policy and procedure titled 'Care Planning.' The deficiency was identified when the facility did not provide a timely care plan for the administration of Trazodone, an antidepressant medication, to a resident. The resident was admitted with multiple diagnoses, including an infection of an internal right knee prosthesis, type 2 diabetes mellitus, diabetic chronic kidney disease, and chronic kidney disease stage 3. Despite having the capacity to understand and make decisions, the resident's care plan for antidepressant medication was not initiated until two days after the physician's order was written. The facility's policy required that a care plan be created when there is a change in doctor orders or resident condition. However, the care plan for the resident was not updated on the day the physician's order was written, as confirmed by the Director of Staff Development. The care plan was only created two days later, which was not in compliance with the facility's policy. This oversight was confirmed during interviews with the registered nurse and the Director of Staff Development, who acknowledged that the care plan should have been updated promptly according to the facility's guidelines.
Inconsistent Documentation of Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure complete and accurate documentation for a resident, which had the potential to impact the resident's care and treatment. The resident was admitted with several diagnoses, including an infection of an internal right knee prosthesis, type 2 diabetes mellitus, diabetic chronic kidney disease, and chronic kidney disease stage 3. During a review of the resident's records, inconsistencies were found in the documentation of the resident's care, specifically in the Shower and Care Sheet Observations (SCSO). The records did not consistently include the resident's name, details of the care provided, or the presence of a cast or immobilizer on the right lower extremity. Interviews with facility staff, including a registered nurse, the administrator, and the director of staff development, revealed that the documentation did not adhere to the facility's policy and procedure, which requires nursing documentation to be concise, clear, pertinent, and accurate. The staff acknowledged that the documentation was inconsistent and did not meet the facility's standards. The facility's policy indicated that certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are responsible for documenting the care provided, either manually or electronically, but this was not consistently followed in the case of the resident in question.
Failure to Maintain Comfortable Room Temperature
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a comfortable temperature level in the room of a resident, resulting in discomfort and potential health risks. During an observation and interview, the Maintenance Supervisor noted that the room temperature was 87 degrees Fahrenheit, which is above the normal range of 71 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The air conditioning was not functioning, and fans were placed in the rooms as a temporary measure, but the temperatures remained outside the acceptable range. The Director of Nursing was aware of the air conditioning issue but not of the residents' discomfort. The affected resident, who has a history of acute respiratory failure with hypoxia, dependence on a respiratory ventilator, and a tracheostomy, reported feeling hot and uncomfortable for the past two weeks. The resident stated that the ventilator exacerbated the heat, causing sweating and difficulty sleeping. The facility's policy emphasizes providing a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment, which includes maintaining comfortable temperatures. However, the failure to address the air conditioning issue led to a breach of this policy.
Infection Control Deficiencies in Hand Hygiene and Pest Control
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a sanitary environment to prevent the spread of infections among residents. Hospitality Aide 1 did not perform hand hygiene as per the facility's policy when entering and exiting the rooms of Residents 3, 7, and 8. This aide also failed to sanitize hands after touching Resident 3's bed control. During an interview, HA 1 acknowledged the importance of hand hygiene to prevent contamination and infection spread. Certified Nursing Assistant 5 did not remove soiled gloves or perform hand hygiene between residents and before handling clean linens. Resident 6 reported observing CNA 5 touching clean linens with soiled gloves after caring for another resident. This lack of proper glove use and hand hygiene could contribute to cross-contamination and infection spread among residents. The facility also failed to prevent flies and mosquitoes from entering the rooms of Residents 2, 5, and 6. Resident 5 reported seeing flies in the room during breakfast, and Resident 6 noted flies entering through open doors. CNA 4 confirmed seeing flies enter the facility and expressed concerns about their presence, especially for residents with wounds and tubes. The Infection Prevention Nurse and Director of Nursing acknowledged the importance of pest control as part of infection prevention, noting that a ripped window screen in Resident 2's room allowed mosquitoes to enter.
Failure to Provide Adequate Supervision and Assistance Leads to Resident Fall
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate care and services to prevent a fall for a resident who required contact guard assistance (CGA) with ambulation. The resident, who had been admitted with diagnoses including hemiplegia, gout, difficulty in walking, generalized muscle weakness, and epilepsy, was assessed by a physical therapist as needing CGA for safety during ambulation. However, the staff assigned to care for the resident, including CNAs and LVNs, were not made aware of this requirement by the physical therapist. On the night of the incident, the resident fell while walking from the closet to the bed, resulting in a severe injury. The resident experienced extreme pain in the right groin area and was subsequently transferred to a hospital where a fracture in the right femoral neck was diagnosed. The resident underwent a partial right hip arthroplasty and was hospitalized for 20 days. Interviews with staff revealed that they were unaware of the resident's need for assistance and had observed the resident walking independently, which was contrary to the physical therapist's assessment. The facility's failure to communicate the resident's need for CGA and to update the care plan with this information contributed to the fall. The care plan did not reflect the physical therapist's assessment, and staff did not refer to the physical therapy notes. The facility's policy on fall management emphasized the importance of implementing interventions based on assessments, but this was not followed in the case of the resident, leading to the deficiency.
Failure to Implement Comprehensive Care Plan for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan for a resident, identified as Resident 1, which addressed their individual assessed needs. The care plan did not incorporate the assessments and recommendations from Physical Therapy 1 (PT 1) and did not address the resident's behavior of getting up without calling for assistance, as required by the facility's Policy and Procedure on Care Planning. This oversight had the potential to result in unmet individualized needs and inconsistent provision of treatment and services for the resident. Resident 1 was admitted with diagnoses including hemiplegia, gout, difficulty in walking, generalized muscle weakness, and epilepsy. The Physical Therapy Evaluation indicated that Resident 1 felt unsteady when standing or walking and was at risk for falls, requiring contact guard assistance (CGA) with transfers and gait on level surfaces. Despite these assessments, the care plan only included general interventions such as explaining the call system and maintaining a hazard-free environment, without specific measures to address the resident's refusal to use the call light and their need for CGA. Interviews with facility staff, including a Licensed Vocational Nurse, a Certified Nursing Assistant, and the Director of Rehabilitation, confirmed that Resident 1 was independent and did not use the call light, often getting up independently. The care plan was not updated to reflect the PT assessment or the resident's behavior, and staff acknowledged the need for additional interventions such as education on the risks and benefits of calling for assistance, involving the resident's family, and implementing a toileting program. The Director of Nursing also confirmed the need for these interventions and a possible room change closer to the nurse's station.
Failure to Inform Residents of Advance Directive Rights
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect the rights of four residents by not informing them or their representatives about the right to formulate an advance directive (AD). For Resident 18, the Social Service Director (SSD) did not provide the resident's responsible party (RP) with information about making an AD, despite the resident being severely impaired in cognitive skills and dependent on staff for daily activities. Similarly, Resident 29's SSD did not document discussions with the resident's RP about the right to formulate an AD, even though the resident had no cognitive impairments and required supervision for personal care. Resident 36, who was severely impaired in cognitive skills and dependent on staff, also did not receive information about formulating an AD from the SSD. The SSD admitted that the information pamphlet provided to residents did not include details about the facility's policies on implementing ADs. Additionally, Resident 49's AD was not included in their medical chart, despite the SSD acknowledging the existence of the AD and the facility's policy requiring it to be part of the medical record. The facility's policy and procedure on advance directives, revised in September 2023, mandates that residents be informed of their rights to make medical decisions and formulate ADs upon admission. However, the SSD failed to ensure that this information was communicated and documented for the residents involved, leading to potential issues in decision-making for care and treatment.
Failure to Notify Physician of Changes in Resident Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify the physician of a change in condition for two residents, leading to potential physical declines. For Resident 19, who had chronic respiratory failure and was dependent on a respiratory ventilator, the facility did not inform the physician when the resident exhibited mild work of breathing, with vital signs indicating a change in condition. The resident's oxygen saturation was below the normal range, and the heart rate was elevated, yet there was no documentation of physician notification, which was required by the facility's policy. Resident 40 experienced a significant weight loss of 12.06% over six months, which was not communicated to the physician in a timely manner. The resident had multiple diagnoses, including type 2 diabetes and heart failure, and required supervision with eating. Despite the interdisciplinary team's recommendation for a physician review of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy due to inadequate energy intake, the physician was only informed after the survey team highlighted the issue. The facility's policy required timely notification of the physician for significant changes in a resident's condition, including weight loss of five pounds or more within 30 days. However, the facility did not adhere to this policy for both residents, failing to ensure that the physician was informed of critical changes that could impact the residents' health and well-being.
Failure to Implement GDR and Non-Pharmacological Interventions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that four residents did not receive unnecessary psychotropic medications. For Resident 90, the facility did not limit the PRN Alprazolam order to 14 days as per the facility's policy. The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) acknowledged that the physician did not document a rationale for extending the PRN order beyond 14 days. This oversight could lead to the unnecessary administration of psychotropic medication. Resident 49's case involved a failure to document a personalized rationale for not attempting a Gradual Dose Reduction (GDR) of Trazodone. The prescriber disagreed with the pharmacist's recommendation for a GDR, citing a generic reason that was not specific to Resident 49's condition. The ADON confirmed that the documented reason was not applicable to Resident 49, who was not a danger to himself or others. For Resident 84, the facility did not attempt a GDR for Risperdal or try non-pharmacological interventions for hallucinations. The ADON admitted that the facility should have attempted these interventions. Similarly, for Resident 69, the facility did not attempt GDRs for Depakote and Seroquel, despite the absence of documented behaviors that would contraindicate such attempts. The ADON stated that the facility was transitioning to a new psychiatrist, which delayed the GDR attempts, contrary to the facility's policy.
Failure to Accommodate Resident's Dietary Preferences
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to its policy and procedures regarding the dietary preferences of a resident, identified as Resident 40, which led to significant weight loss and potential physical decline. Resident 40, who was admitted with multiple diagnoses including type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart failure, and gastro-esophageal reflux disease, had specific dietary preferences and restrictions due to the absence of a gallbladder. These preferences included avoiding greasy foods and consuming meals with little to no oil, as greasy foods caused diarrhea and discomfort for the resident. Despite these documented preferences, the facility did not consistently provide meals that met Resident 40's needs. The resident's dietary records indicated a preference for hamburgers cooked without oil and fried eggs prepared in a non-stick pan without grease. However, the facility's kitchen staff continued to prepare meals using oil, and the resident's requests for alternative cooking methods were not accommodated. Interviews with the resident revealed frustration and a sense of being unheard, as the resident repeatedly communicated these preferences to the staff without resolution. The facility's failure to accommodate Resident 40's dietary needs was further compounded by the lack of documentation and follow-through by the registered dietician and dietary staff. The resident experienced a weight loss of 12.6% over six months, falling below the goal weight range. The dietary staff, including the cook and dietary supervisor, acknowledged the resident's requests but did not implement the necessary changes to the meal preparation process. This oversight was a direct violation of the facility's policies on resident rights and nutritional care, which emphasize the importance of respecting and accommodating individual dietary preferences.
Expired Food Items Found in Facility Refrigerator
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to proper food storage and handling protocols, as evidenced by the presence of expired food items in the walk-in refrigerator. During an inspection, a Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS) identified 22 red apples that had been stored beyond the recommended one-month period according to the facility's Suggested Refrigerated Storage Guideline. Although the apples appeared visually acceptable, the DSS acknowledged the potential risk of internal spoilage and the possibility of causing illness if consumed by residents. Additionally, the inspection revealed an unopened gallon of whole milk that had expired. The DSS confirmed that the milk should not have been in the refrigerator and recognized the risk of illness if it were accidentally served to residents. The facility's policy on food receiving and storage emphasized the importance of rotating perishable foods using the first in-first out method, which was not followed in this instance.
Failure to Provide Timely Incontinence Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the right to a dignified existence for Resident 95 by not accommodating their needs for timely incontinence care. On June 10, 2024, Resident 95 requested assistance for incontinence care, but the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 1 did not attend to the request promptly. The delay was due to CNA 1 waiting for Resident 95's roommate to finish their meal before providing care, which was not communicated to Resident 95, leaving them confused and uninformed. Resident 95, who was admitted with multiple diagnoses including heart failure, morbid obesity, and anxiety disorder, was dependent on assistance for toileting and bathing. The care plan for Resident 95 indicated the need for timely incontinence care to prevent discomfort and potential urinary tract infections. However, during the observation, CNA 1 left the room to gather supplies and did not return promptly, leading to a second call light activation by Resident 95. Licensed Vocational Nurse 2 (LVN 2) had to intervene and call CNA 1 back to the room. Interviews with CNA 1, CNA 2, and the Director of Staff Development (DSD) revealed that the facility had a practice of avoiding incontinence care during mealtimes to maintain infection control and protect the dignity of other residents. However, it was acknowledged that urine incontinence care could be provided sooner and should be communicated to the resident. The facility's policy emphasized the importance of explaining procedures to residents and promptly responding to requests for toileting assistance, which was not adhered to in this instance.
Failure to Develop Comprehensive Care Plan for Resident with Weight Loss
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a comprehensive care plan for a resident, identified as Resident 40, who experienced progressive weight loss. Despite having multiple diagnoses, including type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic neuropathy, heart failure, and gastro-esophageal reflux disease, the resident did not have a care plan addressing their weight loss. The resident's Minimum Data Set indicated intact cognitive skills and a need for supervision with eating. However, the facility did not create a care plan to address the resident's dietary needs and preferences, which included a controlled carbohydrate, no added salt, low-fat diet with chopped meats and double protein. Interviews and observations revealed that the resident expressed dissatisfaction with the food provided, stating that greasy foods caused diarrhea and that staff were not attentive to their food preferences. The resident's weight records showed a significant decline over six months, yet the Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed the absence of a care plan to address this issue. The facility's policy required a person-centered care plan developed by an interdisciplinary team, but this was not implemented for Resident 40, leading to the deficiency.
Failure to Elevate Resident's Extremities for Edema Management
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate interventions for a resident with edema, as outlined in the resident's care plan. The care plan specified that the resident's arms and legs should be elevated to reduce swelling, but during an observation, the resident was found lying in bed with their arms flat on the mattress and not elevated. The resident's fingers and forearms were noted to be swollen, indicating that the care plan was not being followed. Interviews with facility staff, including a Licensed Vocational Nurse and a Treatment Nurse, confirmed that the resident had edema and that the standard intervention was to keep the resident's arms and legs elevated with pillows. The staff acknowledged that failing to do so increased the risk of blood clots and skin breakdown. The facility's policy and procedure on care standards emphasized the necessity of providing care in accordance with a comprehensive assessment and plan of care, which was not adhered to in this case.
Latest citations in California
Two residents with dementia, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder, both with moderately impaired cognition and needing moderate ADL assistance, were found unclothed together in one resident's bed. One resident later stated she did not want sexual activity and did not consent, while the other resident could not recall the encounter. An LVN reported that both residents verbally consented at the time but acknowledged no assessment had been done to determine their capacity to consent to sexual activity. The DON identified the incident as sexual abuse and confirmed that allowing sexual activity without prior capacity assessment was inconsistent with facility policy and that the resident was not protected from sexual abuse.
Two residents with dementia, schizoaffective disorder, major depressive disorder, and moderately impaired cognition, both needing moderate assistance with ADLs, were found unclothed together in one resident’s bed. The resident later stated she did not consent to sexual contact, while the other resident did not recall any sexual activity. An LVN documented the incident and acknowledged it constituted sexual abuse that should have been reported immediately to the abuse coordinator and appropriate agencies, but did not report it. The administrator, who serves as the abuse coordinator, stated she relies on staff to notify her immediately of such allegations so they can be reported to CDPH, law enforcement, and the Ombudsman, but this did not occur, resulting in the allegation not being reported as required.
A resident with Parkinson’s disease, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis reported being punched in the face by another resident, resulting in facial bruising. The resident’s MDS showed intact cognition, and a change in condition evaluation documented the assault; however, the MD was not notified until more than a day later. The care plan directed licensed nurses to assess the resident’s body, and staff observed a purplish bruise on the right lower eyelid/orbital area, but this was not documented in the progress notes. Required every-shift monitoring for 72 hours after the change in condition was not documented on multiple day shifts. The DON confirmed lack of awareness of the bruise and acknowledged missing documentation and monitoring, despite facility policies requiring immediate provider notification and complete, accurate charting of changes in condition.
A nurse left a medication cart unlocked and unattended in the hallway while administering insulin to a resident with diabetes, cardiac, and post-surgical conditions. The cart was out of the nurse's direct line of sight, contrary to facility policy requiring medication carts to be locked when not in use. The DON confirmed that medications should be secured to prevent unauthorized access.
A resident’s legal representative requested copies of the resident’s medical records through a faxed request from a law office’s third-party service, but the records were not provided within the required timeframe. The MRD confirmed receiving the request and stated he had forwarded the documents to the DON for review over a month earlier and had not received them back to release. Upon review of federal requirements for record access, the ADON acknowledged that the facility did not comply with the regulation requiring provision of copies within two working days of request.
Two CNAs violated privacy and confidentiality requirements when one CNA used a personal cell phone to record and photograph two residents during a perceived altercation and then sent the video to another CNA. The residents, who had significant medical conditions including paraplegia, seizures, dysphagia, and severe cognitive impairment, were dependent on staff for ADLs. The second CNA reported that a family member later took her phone without permission, accessed the contents, and transmitted the videos and photos to facility leadership. Facility staff, including an LVN, the DSD, and the administrator, stated that HIPAA rules and facility policies prohibit staff from recording residents on personal devices and allow resident photographs only with consent and for medical purposes as part of the chart, and that the facility’s "Stop and Watch" process requires observation and reporting, not filming.
A resident with a stage 4 sacrococcygeal PI, Parkinson’s disease, hypertension, moderate cognitive impairment, and high assistance needs was not provided care consistent with the facility’s pressure injury prevention policy. Although the care plan included daily wound treatment and use of a LAL mattress, it lacked an individualized repositioning schedule and did not document education or reminders about repositioning. Facility documentation showed only that the resident was assisted to roll each shift, with no evidence of q2h turning in bed or of how often incontinence briefs were checked and changed. After the resident refused Foley catheter reinsertion, the IDT did not identify incontinence as a risk factor or add new wound-protective or moisture-preventive interventions, and the subsequent care plan for non-compliance omitted such measures. The TXN and DON confirmed that repositioning and protection of the wound from incontinence were not clearly implemented or reflected in the care plan, despite policy requirements.
A resident with Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairment, and significant assistance needs for mobility and toileting experienced two early-morning falls resulting in head injuries. After the first fall, the IDT documented potential interventions such as a bed alarm and floor mat but did not identify the cause of the fall, did not obtain a physician order for the floor mat, and did not ensure the care plan addressed supervision or bed alarm function. Before and after the falls, the care plan lacked interventions for supervision despite poor safety awareness and failure to use the call light, and the second fall occurred when the resident slid from bed while reaching for a snack bag placed on the bedside table. IDT follow-up documentation for the second fall was incomplete, and staff acknowledged that fall causes were not identified and resident-centered interventions were not fully implemented.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple neurological diagnoses was dependent on staff for hygiene and mobility. During an IDT meeting, the resident’s family member communicated specific care preferences, but facility staff did not develop or update a comprehensive person-centered care plan to include these preferences. Review of care plans over several months showed no documentation of the communicated preferences, despite facility policy requiring the IDT to create a measurable, time-framed care plan based on assessed needs and expressed preferences.
A resident with COPD and severely impaired cognition, dependent on staff for all ADLs and mobility, had a physician order for continuous supplemental O2 at a fixed rate of 2 L/min. During observations, the resident was found receiving O2 at 3 L/min. An LVN recognized the discrepancy and reported it to an RN supervisor, but there was no documentation of any clinical rationale for the increased flow, no physician notification, and no order change. The care plan directed staff to administer O2 as ordered, and facility policy required verification of the order, documentation of flow rate and rationale, and appropriate reporting, which were not followed.
Failure to Protect Cognitively Impaired Resident From Sexual Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a resident was free from sexual abuse when two cognitively impaired residents were found unclothed together in one resident's bed without prior assessment of their capacity to consent to sexual activity. One resident had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder, with documentation of fluctuating capacity to understand and make decisions and a Minimum Data Set (MDS) indicating moderately impaired cognition and a need for moderate assistance with ADLs. During an interview at her bedside, this resident stated she did not want to engage in sexual activity and did not consent to sexual contact with the other resident. The second resident involved also had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder, with an MDS showing moderately impaired cognition and a need for moderate assistance with ADLs. In an interview, he stated he liked women and liked to socialize with women but could not recall whether he engaged in sexual activity with the first resident. An LVN reported observing both residents unclothed in the first resident's bed and stated that, at the time of the incident, both residents verbally consented to sexual activity, but she was not aware of any assessment having been performed to determine either resident's capacity to consent. The DON stated the incident was considered sexual abuse, that it was not the facility's practice to allow sexual activity without appropriate assessment, and that the facility failed to ensure the resident was protected from sexual abuse, contrary to the facility's abuse prevention policy.
Failure to Report Alleged Sexual Abuse Between Cognitively Impaired Residents
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to report an allegation of sexual abuse between two residents to the State Survey Agency, Ombudsman, and local law enforcement as required by federal regulations and the facility’s own abuse reporting policy. A nurse documented that one resident (Resident 2) and another resident (Resident 4) were found unclothed together in Resident 2’s bed, and the nurse acknowledged that this situation constituted sexual abuse and should have been reported immediately to the abuse coordinator and appropriate agencies, but she did not report the incident. The facility’s policy stated that all staff are mandated reporters and must notify appropriate authorities within two hours of becoming aware of abuse and immediately notify the Abuse Prevention Coordinator and their supervisor. Resident 2 had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, major depressive disorder, fluctuating capacity to understand and make decisions, and moderately impaired cognition, and required moderate assistance with ADLs. During an interview at her bedside, Resident 2 stated she did not consent to sexual contact with Resident 4. Resident 4 also had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, major depressive disorder, moderately impaired cognition, and required moderate assistance with ADLs, and stated he did not recall engaging in sexual activity with any residents. The Administrator, who served as the abuse coordinator, stated she was responsible for reporting all abuse allegations to CDPH, law enforcement, and the Ombudsman, and that staff were responsible for notifying her immediately of sexual abuse allegations so they could be reported and investigated. The failure of staff to notify the Administrator and report the incident resulted in the sexual abuse allegation not being reported as required, causing a delay in an onsite investigation by CDPH.
Failure to Assess, Notify, and Monitor Resident After Facial Trauma
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to follow professional standards of nursing practice in assessing and monitoring a resident after a reported change of condition related to facial trauma. The resident was admitted with Parkinson’s disease, age-related osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis, and had intact cognitive skills for daily decision-making per a recent MDS. On the evening of 3/26/2026, a Change in Condition Evaluation documented that another resident hit this resident on the nose and both cheeks. The evaluation showed that the attending physician was not notified until 10 p.m. on 3/27/2026, approximately 26.5 hours after the reported incident, and the physician’s recommendation was to monitor the resident’s nose and cheeks for any changes and pain. The resident’s care plan, initiated on 3/26/2026, documented the report that another resident hit him on the nose and both cheeks and included an intervention for licensed nurses to check and assess the resident’s body. In an interview, the resident described that the other resident came into the room, stood on the left side of the bed, and punched him in the face. A photograph taken two days after the alleged incident showed a purplish-blue bruise on the right lower orbital area, although the resident declined to provide a copy of the picture. A CNA later reported observing a purple bruise on the resident’s right lower eyelid on 3/27/2026, described as extending from the inner to the middle lower eyelid and about the size of the tip of her fifth digit. During record review and interviews, an LVN stated that on 3/27/2026 the resident’s right lower eyelid had a dime-sized purplish bruise, but there was no documentation of this bruise in the progress notes. The LVN also stated that the resident should have been monitored every shift for 72 hours after the change of condition, yet there was no documented evidence of monitoring on the 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shifts on 3/27/2026, 3/28/2026, and 3/29/2026. The DON reported not being made aware of the right eyelid bruise, confirmed that the resident should have been monitored every shift for at least 72 hours following the change of condition, and acknowledged there was no confirmed documentation of monitoring on the identified shifts. Facility policies required immediate physician consultation for significant changes in condition and complete, accurate documentation of changes and services provided, but the facility failed to identify, document, and monitor the resident’s change of condition in accordance with these policies.
Plan Of Correction
Facility Response Submission of the Plan of Correction does not constitute admission or agreement by the Provider of the truth of the facts alleged or conclusion set forth in this statement of deficiencies. The Plan of Correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provision of Federal and State laws. This Plan of Correction constitutes the facility's credible allegation of compliance Corrective Action On 4/7/2026 Resident 1 was reassessed by LVN 3 and no skin issue was identified. On 4/7/2026 LVN 3 received one-on-one in-service by DON regarding importance of documenting details about resident's change of condition and monitoring every shift for 72 hours. Identification of other residents and corrective action On 4/8/2026 DON and/or designee reviewed audits provided by medical records for all change of condition in month of April to ensure proper documentation and monitoring are in place. No other deficient practice noted. Measures to prevent recurrence On 4/7/2026 LVN 3 received one-on-one in-service by DON regarding importance of documenting details about resident's change of condition and monitoring every shift for 72 hours. On 4/8/2026 Licensed nurses received in-service by DON regarding importance of documenting details about resident's change of condition and monitoring every shift for 72 hours. Monitoring and incorporation into the QA system HID will audit change of conditions using Change of Condition Audit form daily Monday-Friday and will report any finding during daily stand-up meeting Monday-Friday on-going. DON or designee will review change of conditions from prior day during daily clinical meetings (Monday -Friday) on going to ensure the nurse notified the attending physician regarding resident's significant change of condition and documented. Any deficient finding will be reported to DON and/or administrator for further corrective action/recommendation. Any trend of deficient finding(s) will be documented on Change of Condition Audit Form and will be reviewed during the monthly QA meeting for further review and/or recommendation(s). Administrator who will then report to the Quality Assurance (QA) team during monthly Quality Assurance (QA)/Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) for further evaluation/recommendation and to provide feedback and program modification if needed x3 months or until compliant. Date Corrective action to be completed: 4/8/2026
Medication Cart Left Unlocked During Medication Pass
Penalty
Summary
During a medication pass for a resident with a history of surgical aftercare, cardiac arrest, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, a licensed nurse prepared and administered Novolog insulin using a pen-injector. The nurse left the medication cart unlocked and unattended in the hallway, approximately two feet outside the resident's bedroom doorway, while administering the injection inside the room. The cart was out of the nurse's direct line of sight during this time. The nurse acknowledged that the cart was left unlocked and should have been secured when not in direct view. Facility policy and procedure documents reviewed indicated that medication carts must be kept closed and locked when out of sight of the medication nurse or aide, and that compartments containing drugs and biologicals are to be locked when not in use. The Director of Nursing confirmed that medications should be locked and secured to prevent unauthorized access by unlicensed staff and residents. The failure to lock the medication cart during the medication pass was observed and confirmed through interviews and record review.
Plan Of Correction
From 4/4/2025 through 4/7/2025, the DON, DSD, and ADSD completed 1:1 inservices with licensed staff regarding the facility policy and procedure titled Storage of Medications. Medication carts must be kept locked when unattended. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will monitor medication carts being locked when unattended 3 times a week for 2 weeks. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will monitor medication carts being locked when unattended 2 times a week for 2 weeks. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will monitor medication carts being locked when unattended 1 time a week for 2 weeks. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will random monitor medication carts being locked when unattended for 1 month. System effectiveness will be evaluated during the facility's monthly Quality Assurance Performance Improvement Committee meetings for three (3) months.
Failure to Timely Provide Resident Medical Records Upon Request
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide timely access to medical records as required under 42 CFR 483.10(g)(2) for one resident. The resident’s face sheet showed an admission date of November 18, 2025, with multiple diagnoses, but no additional clinical details were provided. A legal representative’s office faxed an initial request for the resident’s medical records on February 26, 2026. As of March 26, 2026, the legal representative’s staff reported that the office had not yet received the requested records from the facility. On April 2, 2026, the Medical Record Director (MRD) confirmed documentation that a third-party service for the law office had requested the resident’s medical records on February 26, 2026. The MRD stated he had submitted the requested documents to the Director of Nursing (DON) for review over a month prior but had not received them back to proceed with releasing the records. During a concurrent interview and record review, the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) reviewed the State Operations Manual Appendix PP guidance on residents’ rights to access personal and medical records, which requires that copies be provided within two working days of request. The ADON acknowledged that this regulatory requirement was not followed by the facility.
Plan Of Correction
F0573 Right to Access/Purchase Copies of Records What corrective action(s) will be accomplished for those Residents found to have been affected by the deficient practice? Medical Records Director (MRD) released medical records for Resident 1 as requested by the legal representative (Legal Staff) on April 21, 2026. How will other individuals with the potential to be affected by this deficient practice be identified and protected? No other Resident was identified to have been effected by the deficient practice. What systemic changes will be implemented to ensure that the deficient practice does not recur? The Quality Assurance Committee met on April 14, 2026 to review the Policy and Procedure which was then forwarded to the Knolls West Post Acute legal team for further evaluation. Revision of the policy will be discussed and approved by the Quality Assurance Committee to ensure the facility meets all Federal and State Regulations. F0573 Right to Access/Purchase Copies of Records (CONT.)The Administrator and the Medical Records Director (MRD) are responsible for informing the requesting party for the demand for payment for the requested medical documentation being provided and until payment is received the facility will hold the chart copies.How corrective action(s) will be monitored to ensure solutions are being achieved and sustainedThe Resident's Responsible Party will be notified upon receipt of the Medical Records Request and review in the presence of the facility representative. Records will be provided if it does not pertain to any legal matters after payment is received. The Administrator and/or Designee is responsible for reporting to the Quality Assurance Committee on a monthly basis and monitoring to ensure that corrective action is implemented and evaluated for its effectiveness. The same will be reviewed on a quarterly basis to the Quality Assurance Committee meeting x 3 quarters or until 100% compliance is achieved and sustained.Date of CompletionApril 23, 2026
Unauthorized Resident Recording and Disclosure Violating Privacy and Confidentiality
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves a failure to protect residents’ privacy and confidentiality when a CNA used a personal cell phone to record and photograph two residents without their knowledge or consent, and then shared that content with another CNA. One resident had paraplegia, depression, muscle weakness, dorsalgia, and polyneuropathy, was cognitively intact, and dependent on staff for ADLs. The other resident had diagnoses including seizures, dysphagia, acute kidney dysfunction, and muscle weakness, was able to make needs known but could not make medical decisions, had severely impaired decision-making, and was also dependent on staff for ADLs. Both residents were therefore in a position of dependence on staff for care at the time of the incident. According to CNA 2, on a specific date she recorded a video of the two residents because one resident started an altercation with the other. She stated she recorded the incident for “evidence” and to show CNA 1, acknowledging that recording residents was not part of facility policy and that she should not have recorded or taken photographs of them. CNA 1 confirmed that she received the video on her personal cell phone from CNA 2 and stated that the recording was made for “safety purposes” due to a situation that was perceived as potentially escalating to physical aggression. CNA 1 reported that she did not share or post the video on social media or distribute it to others, but that a family member took her phone without permission and accessed its contents. CNA 1 further stated that this family member sent the video and pictures of the two residents to the facility, and that she notified the facility that her phone had been taken but did not disclose that it contained videos or photographs of the residents because she was unaware that the family member had accessed or distributed them. The DSD reported receiving a text message from an unknown number containing approximately two videos and an undetermined number of photographs of the two residents, along with the names of CNA 1 and CNA 2. The DSD, LVN 2, and the Administrator each stated that staff were required to follow HIPAA regulations, that staff were not permitted to record or possess videos or photographs of residents on personal devices, and that any photographs of residents required consent and had to be for medical purposes as part of the medical record. Facility policies on confidentiality, residents’ rights, and dignity stated that unauthorized release, access, or disclosure of resident information, including video or audio, was prohibited and that staff must protect resident privacy and treat residents with dignity and respect. The videos received by the DSD did not show an altercation between the residents, and staff interviews confirmed that filming residents was not part of the facility’s “Stop and Watch” process, which instead required observation, intervention, and reporting of changes in condition or behaviors to nursing staff.
Plan Of Correction
This Plan of Correction is the facility's credible allegation of compliance. Preparation and/or execution of this plan of correction does not constitute admission or agreement by the provider of the truth or facts alleged, or conclusions set forth in the statement of deficiencies. The plan of correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provisions of federal and state law. F0583 Personal Privacy/Confidentiality of Records How corrective action(s) will be accomplished for those residents found to have been affected by the deficient practice: Corrective actions were immediately implemented for Resident 1 and Resident 2 upon identification of the deficient practice. The facility initiated an investigation on 03/23/2026 and conducted immediate interviews with staff and residents utilizing structured interview tools to assess scope, impact, and additional potential concerns. Interviews confirmed the incident was isolated and no additional residents reported privacy violations or concerns. The staff members involved were removed from duty immediately. Following completion of the investigation, both employees were terminated in accordance with facility policy due to violation of resident rights, HIPAA, and facility confidentiality policies. Both employees completed formal Declarations and Attestations of Deletion of Unauthorized Recordings, confirming removal of all recordings and non-distribution of content. Documentation includes: Ashley Zelaya, CNA – Declaration executed 03/30/2026 at 9:21 AM, attesting deletion of all recordings and acknowledgment of policy violation Leslie Bram Reyes, CNA – Declaration executed 03/26/2026 at 10:42 AM, attesting deletion of all recordings and acknowledgment of policy violation Residents and/or responsible parties were notified. Social Services completed assessments with no identified psychosocial harm. All corrective actions were completed by 03/26/2026. How the facility identifies other residents having the potential to be affected by the same deficient practice and what corrective action will be taken. A facility-wide audit was initiated on 03/25/2026 using the Briarcrest Comprehensive Privacy, Recording, and Resident Rights Audit Tool. The audit included direct observation, staff interviews, and resident interviews to evaluate compliance with privacy practices, personal device use, and HIPAA requirements. Interviews were conducted using standardized staff and resident interview tools to ensure consistency and thoroughness in data collection. Findings from the audit confirmed that no additional residents were affected by the deficient practice and no additional incidents of unauthorized recording or disclosure were identified. Staff were immediately re-educated by Director and staff development on HIPAA Privacy Rule requirements, the facility's prohibition on personal device recordings, and the appropriate use of the Stop and Watch process for reporting changes in resident conditions. This corrective action was completed by 03/27/2026. What measures will be put into place or what systemic changes will the facility make to ensure that the deficient practice does not recur. The facility implemented systemic changes to prevent recurrence of the deficient practice by reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized recordings and strengthening staff accountability related to resident privacy and confidentiality. Staff completed mandatory re-training by the Director of Staff Development on Resident Rights, HIPAA, and Privacy/Confidentiality requirements. Staff were required to re-acknowledge facility policies related to confidentiality and personal device use. The facility implemented routine supervisory rounding to monitor compliance with personal device restrictions. In addition, the facility installed visible signage at the receptionist area clearly articulates that video recording is strictly prohibited inside resident rooms and in any facility areas where residents are present. The facility also posted signage throughout the entire facility, in both English and Spanish, indicating that video recording is not allowed to ensure clear communication to staff, visitors, and all individuals entering the facility. Privacy and HIPAA compliance were further integrated into new employee orientation, annual competencies, and ongoing in-service education. The Director of Staff Development completed initial re-education by 03/27/2026, and staff completed required training by 04/05/2026. How the facility plans to monitor its performance to make sure that solutions are sustained. To ensure sustained compliance, the facility incorporated privacy and confidentiality monitoring into its Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program. The facility implemented an ongoing monitoring system beginning on 03/25/2026 utilizing the established audit tool, which confirmed that no additional residents were affected, and no further incidents occurred during the initial audit period. The facility will continue monitoring through weekly audits for four consecutive weeks, followed by monthly audits for three months. These audits will include direct observation of staff practices, verification of compliance with personal device policies, and evaluation of adherence to HIPAA and privacy requirements. Audit findings will be documented using standardized tools and reviewed by the Director of Nursing, with results reported to the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Committee for analysis and trending. If any issues are identified, immediate corrective action will be implemented, including re-education and progressive discipline as appropriate. If no trends or repeat deficiencies are identified after the monitoring period, the facility will discontinue routine auditing and remove the issue from active QAPI monitoring. Dates when corrective action will be completed. 4/17/2026
Failure to Implement Repositioning and Moisture Management for Stage 4 Pressure Injury
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide care and services to prevent deterioration of a stage 4 sacrococcygeal pressure injury in accordance with its own pressure injury prevention policy. The resident had a documented stage 4 PI of the sacral region, Parkinson’s disease, hypertension, moderate cognitive impairment, and required substantial/maximal assistance with toileting hygiene, rolling, and transfers. A Braden Scale score of 16 identified the resident as at risk for pressure injury. The Skilled Evaluation Nurse note indicated a pressure-reducing device for the bed but did not indicate that the resident was to be turned and repositioned every two hours. The resident’s care plan for the stage 4 sacrococcyx PI included cleansing with normal saline, applying Santyl ointment, and covering with dry and foam dressings daily, as well as providing pressure relief and a low air loss mattress to support body alignment and position. However, the care plan did not include an individualized repositioning schedule or education and reminders about the importance of repositioning. Documentation from the facility’s records showed that the resident was assisted to roll left and right every shift, but there was no documentation that the resident was turned and repositioned every two hours while in bed, nor was there documentation of the frequency of incontinence brief checks and changes after each episode. After the resident refused reinsertion of a Foley catheter, nursing progress notes documented the refusal but the IDT wound management conference record did not identify incontinence as a risk factor affecting healing of the stage 4 PI and did not document any new recommendations following the catheter refusal. A subsequent care plan addressing the resident’s potential for worsening condition related to non-compliance with Foley catheter reinsertion did not include wound protective measures or moisture-preventive interventions. During interviews, the treatment nurse acknowledged uncertainty about how often the resident was turned/repositioned or how frequently incontinence briefs were checked and changed, and confirmed that the care plan did not include measures to ensure turning at least every two hours or effective measures to protect the sacrococcyx PI. The DON stated that staff were supposed to ensure turning at least every two hours and protection of the wound dressing from incontinence, and that the IDT did not address this risk, so the care plan was not revised, despite facility policy requiring prompt cleaning after incontinence, use of barrier products, individualized repositioning schedules, and ongoing review of interventions for effectiveness.
Failure to Identify Fall Causes and Implement Supervision and Safety Interventions
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s failure to keep the environment free from accident hazards and to provide adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents for a resident with significant fall risk. The resident had diagnoses including stage 4 sacral pressure ulcer, Parkinson’s disease, and hypertension, and was assessed as moderately cognitively impaired, with poor decision-making and a need for assistance with toileting, transfers, and ambulation. On one occasion, the resident was found on the floor at approximately 4:05 AM with a right forehead laceration requiring transfer to an acute care hospital for suturing. Following this first fall, the IDT Fall Management Follow-Up record listed interventions such as a medication regimen review, bed in lowest position, landing floor mat, and bed alarm, but there was no documented evidence identifying the cause of the fall. The resident’s care plan addressing strength and safety awareness deficits did not include supervision for safety despite poor safety awareness and not remembering to use the call light. The care plan for the actual fall with minor injury did not include ensuring that the bed alarm was functioning. Additionally, physician orders from 9/10/2025 to 1/29/2026 did not contain an order for a floor mat, despite this intervention being recommended in the IDT record. A second fall occurred at around 4:10 AM when the resident was again found on the floor next to the bed, holding a snack bag. The resident, described as alert but forgetful, stated that she had been trying to reach a snack bag on the bedside table and slid down from the bed, and redness was observed on the left side of the forehead after reportedly hitting the bedside table. The IDT Fall Management Follow-Up record for this second fall was incomplete, with no checked interventions. Interviews with the MDS nurse and DON confirmed that the IDT records should have identified the causes of the falls, that frequent monitoring and supervision were not care planned despite the resident’s cognitive impairment and poor safety awareness, and that the recommended floor mat was never ordered or applied, contrary to the facility’s own policies on assessing falls and developing comprehensive person-centered care plans.
Failure to Incorporate Resident Care Preferences Into Person-Centered Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a failure to develop a comprehensive person-centered care plan that incorporated a resident’s specific care preferences. The resident was readmitted on 8/31/2025 with multiple diagnoses, including metabolic encephalopathy, Alzheimer’s disease, blindness in the right eye, a history of TIA, and cerebral infarction without residual deficits. An MDS dated 10/30/2025 documented that the resident’s cognition was severely impaired and that the resident was dependent on staff for oral hygiene, toileting hygiene, personal hygiene, and movement. On 3/17/2026, the IDT met with a family member, who communicated specific care preferences for the resident. During interviews, the SSD and DSD confirmed that the family member had provided detailed care preferences at the 3/17/2026 IDT meeting, but a review of the resident’s care plans from 8/31/2025 to 3/31/2026 showed no documented care plan addressing those preferences. The DSD stated that a care plan should have been developed to reflect the resident’s care preferences, that it is the MDS nurse’s responsibility to develop the care plan, and that the absence of such a care plan could result in the preferences not being honored. The Administrator stated that the care plan is essential as it is used by staff as a guide to understand and implement the resident’s plan of care. The facility’s policy on Comprehensive Person-Centered Care Plans required the IDT to develop a comprehensive person-centered care plan with measurable objectives and time frames to meet identified needs, which was not done in this case.
Failure to Administer Oxygen Therapy as Ordered
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to administer oxygen therapy as ordered by the physician for a resident with COPD. The resident was admitted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and had severely impaired cognition, requiring total staff assistance for all ADLs and mobility. A physician’s order dated 3/27/2026 directed that the resident receive continuous supplemental oxygen at a fixed rate of 2 L/min, with no indication that staff could adjust the flow rate. The resident’s care plan for altered respiratory status related to COPD instructed staff to administer oxygen as ordered. On 3/31/2026, during observations at the bedside at 8:45 a.m. and 9:40 a.m., the resident was noted to be receiving oxygen at 3 L/min, which did not match the physician’s order. An LVN reported that the resident was on 3 L/min when he checked vital signs that morning and stated this was not the ordered rate; he said he reported this to the previous shift’s RN supervisor but was unsure what action was taken. Another RN supervisor confirmed there was no documentation in the record to support an increased flow rate or any notification to the physician about the change from 2 L/min to 3 L/min, and reiterated that the order was for a fixed rate of 2 L/min. During a concurrent observation and interview, the prior RN supervisor acknowledged the resident was on 3 L/min and that the flow rate needed to be corrected to match the order. The facility’s oxygen administration policy required staff to verify a physician order, document the flow rate and rationale, and report information per professional standards, which was not followed in this instance.
Trusted data from CMS and state health departments
Every citation, penalty and Plan of Correction is sourced from public CMS records (latest release May 27, 2026) and official state health department websites — never guesswork.
Trusted by long-term care providers and associations.



