Good Shepherd Health Care Center Of Santa Monica
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Santa Monica, California.
- Location
- 1131 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica, California 90401
- CMS Provider Number
- 555061
- Inspections on file
- 22
- Latest survey
- February 25, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 25
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Good Shepherd Health Care Center Of Santa Monica during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident in an LTC facility developed a stage 1 pressure ulcer that progressed to stage 4 due to inadequate care and failure to update care plans. Despite being at risk for skin breakdown, the facility did not implement effective interventions to address the resident's non-compliance with turning and repositioning. The care plans remained unchanged as the ulcer worsened, leading to severe tissue damage requiring debridement.
The facility failed to ensure kitchen staff were trained and competent in meeting residents' nutritional needs, particularly for those on puree diets. Staff did not follow recipes or portion sizes, serving puree scrambled eggs instead of the intended ham and potato casserole, leading to potential nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, the facility's freezer was found to be unsanitary, posing a risk of foodborne illness.
The facility failed to properly prepare and serve meals, affecting both regular and puree diets. The ham and potato casserole was not cut to the specified size and lacked garnish, while puree diet residents received dry scrambled eggs instead of the intended casserole. Additionally, puree wheat toast and raisin bran were too sticky, failing consistency tests. These deficiencies could lead to poor food intake and weight loss.
The facility failed to maintain safe food storage and preparation practices, with issues such as improper freezer temperatures, unsanitary kitchen equipment, and damaged utensils. Turkey was stored incorrectly, and various kitchen surfaces were not cleaned properly, leading to potential cross-contamination. Additionally, expired food was found in the resident's refrigerator, and staff used personal cellphones in the kitchen.
The facility failed to properly dispose of garbage by not covering a dumpster and maintaining cleanliness in the trash area, potentially attracting pests and spreading infection among residents. Interviews with staff confirmed the importance of keeping dumpsters closed and the area clean, as per facility policies and the Food Code 2017.
The facility did not submit Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data to CMS for a required quarter in 2023, missing the deadline for the first fiscal quarter. The Director of Staff and Development/Infection Preventionist Nurse stated that the corporate office failed to complete the submission properly. Facility policies require quarterly submissions, and CMS guidelines stress the importance of timely and accurate data.
The facility did not deliver mail to residents on Saturdays, as confirmed by several residents and staff. Mail delivered by the post office on weekends was held until Monday for sorting and delivery by Social Services, contrary to the facility's policy on resident rights.
The facility failed to manage pain effectively for two residents. One resident did not have a lidocaine patch removed as ordered, while another missed multiple doses of Buprenorphine due to pharmacy delays. Interviews confirmed severe pain levels and inadequate medication administration, highlighting a failure to follow physician orders and ensure timely delivery.
The facility failed to follow the prescribed puree menu and portion sizes for residents on a puree diet. Instead of serving the pureed ham and potato casserole, staff served plain pureed scrambled eggs, which lacked essential nutrients. Additionally, incorrect portion sizes were used, potentially depriving residents of necessary calories and nutrients. A resident reported issues with portion sizes, indicating insufficient food on previous occasions.
The facility failed to prepare puree foods to meet IDDSI Level 4 requirements for residents with swallowing difficulties. Observations showed that puree eggs were too dry, and puree bread and cereals were too sticky, failing the spoon tilt test. This posed a risk of aspiration and choking for residents on this diet.
The facility did not meet the required room size of 80 square feet per resident in double occupancy rooms and 100 square feet in single rooms, affecting 23 out of 24 rooms. Despite this, observations showed no issues with privacy or care, and residents reported no concerns. The facility had requested a waiver for the non-compliant rooms.
A facility failed to obtain proper consent for the use of bilateral bed siderails as a restraint for a resident with a history of falls and moderate cognitive impairment. The resident was observed with siderails up, but there was no physician order or complete consent form. Staff interviews indicated the siderails were used for mobility and repositioning, although the resident could not use them effectively. This violated the resident's rights to respect and dignity.
A facility failed to ensure a resident was free from physical restraints by using bilateral bed siderails without a physician's order. The resident, with chronic kidney disease and pressure ulcers, was observed with siderails up, despite needing assistance for daily activities and having impaired cognitive skills. Staff interviews revealed the siderails were used to prevent falls, contrary to facility policy, which requires a physician's order for such use.
A resident with cognitive impairment and mobility limitations was found with an unexplained injury, but the LTC facility failed to report the incident to the state agency as required by their policy. The resident, who was non-verbal and required assistance for daily activities, was discovered hanging from the side of her bed with an open ecchymosis on her arm. The facility's failure to report the incident delayed an inspection by the Department of Public Health.
A facility failed to maintain a resident's dignity by not covering their urinary catheter drainage bag, as observed during a survey. The resident, who required maximal assistance for daily activities and had intact cognitive skills, was seen with an uncovered catheter bag in a shared room. The facility's policy required such bags to be covered to protect resident privacy, a standard confirmed by both an LVN and the DON.
A resident in an LTC facility reported missing packages and receiving opened mail, leading to feelings of anger. The facility's Social Service Director confirmed that residents did not receive mail on weekends, and the Director of Nursing was unaware of these issues. The facility's policy emphasized residents' rights to access mail and be free from misappropriation of property.
A resident with chronic kidney disease and weakness did not have a handroll applied to her right hand as ordered, despite needing moderate to maximum assistance with daily activities. Observations showed the handroll was only applied to the left hand. The RNA failed to report or document the resident's refusal to wear the right handroll, and the LVN was unaware of any refusals, risking the resident's hand becoming contracted.
A resident with an indwelling urinary catheter was at risk of infection due to improper placement of the Foley catheter bag above the bladder level, contrary to facility policy. The resident expressed concern, and both an LVN and the DON confirmed the incorrect placement, which hindered proper urine drainage.
A facility failed to provide necessary respiratory care for a resident with COPD by not ensuring a physician's order for oxygen therapy and not maintaining the humidifier as per policy. The resident was observed using an oxygen concentrator with an empty humidifier bottle, and no physician's order was found for the therapy. The DON confirmed the humidifier should be replaced weekly and as needed, and the facility's policy required a physician's order and sufficient water in the humidifier.
A facility failed to ensure proper oversight of Food and Nutrition Services when a resident with chronic kidney disease and pressure ulcers experienced significant weight loss without a comprehensive care plan. The RD provided recommendations but did not develop a care plan, citing time constraints. The DS did not act on the RD's notes or contact the physician, and the DON confirmed the DS lacked the credentials to perform RD duties. The RD's job responsibilities included reviewing care plans, which were not fulfilled, leading to the deficiency.
A resident reported feeling very cold in their room, which was observed to be below the facility's policy range for comfortable temperatures. The Maintenance Supervisor admitted to incomplete temperature logs and uncertainty about the last repair of the heating system. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that cold temperatures could make residents sick and uncomfortable.
Failure to Prevent and Manage Pressure Ulcers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate pressure ulcer care and prevention for a resident, leading to the development and progression of a pressure injury. The resident, who was admitted with conditions including paraplegia and polyneuropathy, was identified as at risk for skin breakdown due to non-compliance with turning and repositioning. Despite having a care plan in place, the facility did not implement effective interventions to address the resident's non-compliance, resulting in the development of a stage 1 pressure injury on the coccyx, which progressed to a stage 4 pressure injury within 16 days. The care plans for the resident's pressure injuries were not updated with new interventions as the condition worsened. The interventions remained the same from stage 1 through stage 4, despite the resident's refusal to comply with turning and repositioning. The facility's staff, including a Licensed Vocational Nurse, acknowledged that the care plans should have been revised with individualized interventions to address the resident's non-compliance and prevent the worsening of the pressure injury. The facility's policies and procedures required ongoing review and updating of care plans to ensure they were effective in meeting the resident's needs. However, the facility did not adhere to these policies, resulting in the resident's pressure injury progressing to a stage 4 with necrosis of muscle and bone, requiring debridement. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the care plans were not individualized or updated as required, contributing to the deficiency in care.
Inadequate Training and Sanitation in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that kitchen staff were adequately trained and competent in meeting the nutritional needs of residents, particularly those on puree diets. Observations revealed that staff did not follow the recipe for puree ham and potato casserole, instead serving puree scrambled eggs, which lacked the necessary protein and nutrients. The Dietary Supervisor confirmed that the puree scrambled eggs did not provide the same nutritional value as the intended casserole, potentially leading to weight loss among residents. Additionally, the staff used incorrect portion sizes for puree eggs, serving two ounces instead of the required three ounces, further contributing to inadequate nutrition. Interviews with staff indicated a lack of understanding and adherence to recipes and portion sizes. One staff member admitted to not preparing the puree ham and potato casserole due to some residents' dietary restrictions and preferences, but acknowledged that this decision could affect the taste and nutritional content of the food. The Dietary Supervisor had previously provided in-service training on reading spreadsheets and preparing puree food, but the staff did not follow these guidelines on the day of observation. Furthermore, the facility's freezer was found to have dust and food residue, indicating poor sanitation practices. A staff member acknowledged the presence of dirt and debris but was unaware of the potential consequences for residents. The facility's policies and procedures required routine cleaning of refrigerator equipment, but this was not adhered to, posing a risk of foodborne illness. The competency test for kitchen staff did not include questions on following menus, spreadsheets, and recipes, highlighting a gap in training and oversight.
Deficiencies in Food Preparation and Presentation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prepare and serve food in a manner that conserved flavor and appearance, as observed during a breakfast service. The ham and potato breakfast casserole, intended for residents on a regular diet, was served using a scoop instead of being cut to the specified portion size of 2 1/2 x 2 inches. It was also served in a bowl rather than on a plate, and lacked the parsley garnish that was supposed to enhance its presentation. The Dietary Supervisor noted that the presentation was unappetizing and could lead to residents not eating the meal, potentially resulting in weight loss. For residents on a puree diet, the facility did not follow the prescribed menu, which called for a puree ham and potato breakfast casserole. Instead, residents received puree scrambled eggs, which were described as too dry. The Dietary Supervisor acknowledged that the puree scrambled eggs lacked the nutritional components of the intended casserole, such as ham, potatoes, onions, and mustard, which could affect the taste and lead to poor food intake and potential weight loss. Additionally, the puree wheat toast and puree raisin bran were found to be too sticky, failing the spoon tilt test, which assesses the cohesiveness of pureed foods. The Dietary Supervisor indicated that the puree items did not meet the required consistency standards, making them unappetizing and potentially leading to poor food intake and weight loss. The facility's policies and procedures, as well as standardized recipes, were not adhered to, resulting in these deficiencies.
Deficiencies in Food Storage and Sanitation Practices
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain safe and sanitary food storage and preparation practices in the kitchen, as observed during a survey. The reach-in freezer was found to have fluctuating temperatures, ranging from 10 to 52 degrees Fahrenheit, instead of the required 0 degrees Fahrenheit, which is necessary to ensure food items remain frozen for infection control. Additionally, turkey was improperly stored on the bottom of beef without trays in between, violating the facility's policy on meat storage hierarchy, which could lead to cross-contamination. The kitchen was also found to have multiple cleanliness issues. Food preparation surfaces and kitchen equipment, including the reach-in refrigerator, ice machine, and juice machine racks, were not cleaned and sanitized properly. Observations revealed dirt, dust, and food debris on various equipment, such as the knife storage box, mixer, and scoop tray. The facility's policies and procedures were not followed, as these areas were supposed to be cleaned daily and deep cleaned weekly to prevent bacterial growth and cross-contamination. Furthermore, the facility used utensils and kitchen equipment that were damaged, including chopping boards with scratches, trays with cracks and chips, and a can opener blade with a chip. These conditions made it difficult to clean the surfaces properly, increasing the risk of bacterial growth and cross-contamination. Additionally, staff were observed using personal cellphones in the kitchen, and dented cans were stored with non-dented cans, both of which could lead to contamination. Expired yogurt and juice were also found in the resident's refrigerator, which could result in foodborne illness if consumed.
Improper Disposal of Garbage and Refuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly dispose of garbage and refuse by not ensuring that one of the two black dumpsters was completely covered and by not maintaining the cleanliness of the surrounding area. During an observation, it was noted that the dumpster was overflowing with trash and not fully closed, which could potentially attract pests and spread infection among the 46 residents of the facility. Interviews with the Dietary Supervisor and Maintenance Supervisor confirmed that the dumpster should always be closed and not overflowing, as this could attract pests and lead to foodborne illnesses. The facility's policies and procedures, as well as the Food Code 2017, require that garbage and trash cans be inspected daily to ensure no debris is on the ground and that lids are closed. The Maintenance Supervisor acknowledged that the trash area should be cleaned daily, but it was not done on the day of the observation. The failure to maintain the cleanliness of the trash area and ensure dumpsters are properly covered and not overflowing is a direct violation of these guidelines, posing a risk of attracting rodents and potentially causing illness among residents.
Failure to Submit PBJ Data for Required Quarter
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to submit their Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for one of the required quarters in 2023. Specifically, the facility did not submit the PBJ data for the first fiscal quarter, which was due on February 14, 2024. This deficiency was identified through a review of the facility's Certification and Survey Provider Enhanced Reporting system (CASPER), which showed no PBJ data submission from October 1, 2023, to December 1, 2023. Additionally, a review of the CMS Staffing Data Report confirmed the absence of data submission for the quarter. During an interview, the Director of Staff and Development/Infection Preventionist Nurse (DSD/IP) revealed that the PBJ reporting for the first quarter of 2024 was supposed to be completed by the facility's corporate office but was not done properly and was not submitted to CMS. The facility's policy and procedure documents indicated that direct staffing information should be submitted to the CMS payroll-based journal system at least once a quarter, with specific deadlines outlined. The CMS PBJ Policy Manual also emphasized the importance of timely and accurate data submission, noting that noncompliance could lead to enforcement actions by CMS.
Failure to Deliver Mail on Saturdays
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents had reasonable access to their mail, as evidenced by the lack of mail delivery on Saturdays. During a resident council meeting, several residents, including Residents 11, 30, 33, and 41, confirmed that they did not receive mail on Saturdays. Resident 33 specifically mentioned that Social Services delivered mail only from Monday through Friday. The Social Services Director (SSD) corroborated this, stating that mail delivered by the post office on weekends was held until Monday for sorting and delivery. The Director of Nursing (DON) also confirmed that mail delivery occurred only on weekdays. This practice was contrary to the facility's policy on resident rights, which indicated that residents have the right to communication and access to services both inside and outside the facility.
Deficient Pain Management for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to manage pain effectively for two residents, Resident 12 and Resident 42, as observed through various deficiencies in medication administration. For Resident 12, the facility did not adhere to the physician's order to remove a lidocaine patch after 12 hours of application. The patch was applied at 9:22 AM and was supposed to be removed by 9 PM the same day, but it was not removed until 9:36 PM. This oversight was confirmed during an interview with the Director of Nursing, who acknowledged that the physician's order was not followed, resulting in inadequate pain management for Resident 12. Resident 42 experienced multiple instances where the prescribed pain medication, Buprenorphine HCI, was not administered as ordered. The resident missed a total of 45 doses over several periods in November and December due to the medication not being available on hand and delays in pharmacy delivery. Interviews with the resident and nursing staff revealed that the resident experienced severe pain levels, reaching 10/10, when the medication was not administered. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the pharmacy was expected to deliver medications promptly and that the nursing staff should have followed up to ensure the availability of the pain medication. The facility's policy on administering pain medications requires staff to administer medications as ordered and to report any adverse consequences. However, the failure to follow these procedures resulted in inadequate pain control for both residents. The deficiencies in pain management were identified through observations, interviews, and record reviews, highlighting the facility's failure to adhere to physician orders and ensure timely medication delivery.
Failure to Follow Puree Menu and Portion Sizes
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to the prescribed puree menu for residents on a puree diet, as observed on December 28, 2024. Instead of serving the pureed ham and potato casserole as indicated in the nutritional spreadsheet, staff served plain pureed scrambled eggs. The Dietary Supervisor confirmed that the puree scrambled eggs did not provide the same nutritional value as the casserole, lacking essential ingredients like ham, potatoes, onions, and mustard. This deviation from the menu could potentially lead to inadequate protein and carbohydrate intake for residents on a puree diet. Additionally, the facility did not follow the correct portion sizes for puree scrambled eggs. Staff used a #16 scoop, which measures 2 ounces, instead of the #12 scoop, which measures 3 ounces, as specified in the spreadsheet. This resulted in smaller portion sizes than required, potentially depriving residents of the necessary calories and nutrients. Resident 21, who was on a renal, no added salt, consistent carbohydrate diet, and required double portions for breakfast, reported issues with portion sizes, indicating that he received insufficient food on previous occasions. The facility's policies and procedures, including those for food preparation, standardized recipes, and portion control, were not followed. The policies clearly outlined the need for using approved recipes and specific portion control equipment to ensure residents receive the correct portion sizes. The failure to adhere to these guidelines and the menu specifications could lead to malnutrition and weight loss among residents, as they may not receive the necessary nutrients and calories.
Failure to Provide Properly Prepared Puree Diet
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prepare foods in a form designed to meet individual needs for residents on a puree diet, specifically those requiring IDDSI Level 4 consistency. Observations revealed that puree eggs were too dry, and both puree bread and puree bran cereals were too sticky, failing the spoon tilt test, which is used to assess the stickiness and cohesiveness of food. This deficiency was identified during a review of the facility's daily menu and through direct observation and testing by the Dietary Supervisor, who confirmed that the food did not meet the required smooth, pudding-like consistency necessary for residents with swallowing difficulties. The facility's policies and procedures, as well as the diet manual, specify that pureed foods should be smooth, free of lumps, and not sticky, aligning with IDDSI Level 4 requirements. However, the food items served did not adhere to these guidelines, posing a risk of aspiration and choking for residents on this diet. The deficiency was noted for 8 out of 46 residents on the puree/IDDSI Level 4 diet, highlighting a significant lapse in ensuring the safety and nutritional adequacy of meals provided to residents with specific dietary needs.
Deficiency in Room Size Requirements
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to meet the regulatory requirement of providing at least 80 square feet per resident in double occupancy rooms and 100 square feet in single occupancy rooms. Out of 24 resident rooms, 23 did not meet the required space per resident, with most rooms providing only 69.35 square feet per resident. One room even accommodated three residents, offering only 50.25 square feet per resident. This deficiency was identified through a review of the facility's room waiver letter and client accommodations analysis form, which confirmed the inadequate space allocation. Despite the deficiency, observations during the annual recertification survey indicated no noted concerns with privacy, nursing care, or safety for the residents. Residents interviewed, including those residing in rooms with waivers, denied having any issues with the care received. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility had requested a continuation of the waiver for the rooms that did not meet the size requirements. The facility's policy, reviewed earlier in the year, stated that bedrooms should measure at least 80 square feet per resident in double rooms and 100 square feet in single rooms.
Failure to Obtain Consent for Siderail Use as Restraint
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident was free from physical restraint by not completing the necessary consent for the use of bilateral bed siderails. The resident, who had a history of falls and was moderately cognitively impaired, was observed with bilateral siderails up on multiple occasions. Despite the siderails being used to prevent falls, there was no physician order for their use, and the consent form in the resident's chart was incomplete, lacking the resident's name and date of signing. Interviews with staff, including CNAs and the Director of Nursing, revealed that the siderails were intended for mobility and repositioning, although the resident was unable to use them for these purposes due to limited upper extremity strength. The facility's policy required consent for the use of siderails as restraints, which was not properly obtained in this case, leading to a violation of the resident's rights to be treated with respect and dignity.
Improper Use of Bed Siderails as Restraints
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident was free from physical restraints by not having a physician's order for the use of bilateral bed siderails. The resident, who was admitted with chronic kidney disease and pressure ulcers, was observed on multiple occasions with the siderails up, despite having moderately impaired cognitive skills and requiring moderate assistance for activities of daily living. The facility's policy stated that siderails are considered restraints if used to limit a resident's freedom of movement without a physician's order. Interviews with staff, including CNAs and an LVN, revealed that the siderails were used to prevent the resident from falling, despite the resident's inability to use them for mobility or repositioning due to lack of upper extremity strength. The Director of Nursing confirmed that siderails should not be used as restraints without a physician's order and consent. The facility's policy emphasized that siderails should only be used as mobility aids and not as restraints unless necessary for medical symptoms, highlighting the deficiency in following proper procedures for siderail use.
Failure to Report Injury of Unknown Source
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to its policy regarding the reporting of an injury of unknown source for a resident, leading to a delay in an onsite inspection by the Department of Public Health. The resident, who was non-verbal and required assistance for daily activities, was found with an open ecchymosis on her outer right arm after being discovered hanging from the side of her bed. The incident was unwitnessed, and the resident was unable to explain how she ended up in that position. The resident had a history of chronic kidney disease and pressure ulcers and was moderately impaired cognitively, requiring moderate assistance from staff for activities of daily living. Despite the presence of an unexplained injury, the facility did not report the incident to the State Agency as required by their policy. Interviews with staff, including a Licensed Vocational Nurse and a Certified Nursing Assistant, confirmed that the resident could not move independently and required staff assistance for repositioning and feeding. The facility's policy on investigating injuries and abuse prevention mandates reporting such incidents to the state agency and other relevant authorities within 24 hours. However, the Director of Nursing acknowledged that the incident was not reported, which is a violation of the facility's procedures. This oversight had the potential to place residents at further risk for injuries due to the lack of timely investigation and intervention.
Failure to Cover Urinary Catheter Bag Compromises Resident Dignity
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect the privacy and dignity of a resident by not ensuring that the resident's indwelling urinary catheter drainage bag was covered. This deficiency was observed during a survey when Resident 97 was seen with an uncovered foley catheter drainage bag while sharing a room with another resident. The lack of a privacy cover for the catheter bag was noted during an observation on December 27, 2024, at 6:34 p.m. Resident 97 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses including acute kidney failure and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The resident's cognitive skills for daily decisions were intact, and they required maximal assistance for activities of daily living. The facility's policy on dignity, dated January 31, 2024, explicitly stated that urinary catheter bags should be covered to maintain resident dignity. Interviews with the LVN and the DON confirmed that the absence of a privacy cover was a violation of the resident's privacy and dignity.
Failure to Deliver Resident Mail and Packages
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to allow a resident to retain his personal possessions, specifically his mail and packages, which led to the resident feeling angry. The resident, who had been in the facility for eight months, reported missing two packages, one of which was a Christmas gift from a friend. The resident was able to show a photo indicating the package was delivered to the nurse's station, but he did not receive it. Additionally, the resident mentioned receiving opened mail approximately three months ago and not receiving mail on weekends. The resident's medical records indicated he had intact cognition and the capacity to make decisions. Interviews with facility staff revealed that the Social Service Director (SSD) was responsible for sorting and delivering mail, but residents did not receive mail on weekends due to staff not wanting to be responsible for business office mail. The SSD acknowledged that residents should receive their mail unopened and on weekends, and that failure to do so could cause residents to feel sad and angry. The Director of Nursing (DON) was unaware of the issues with mail delivery and acknowledged that such failures could lead to resident frustration and sadness. The facility's policy on resident rights emphasized the right to be free from misappropriation of property and to have access to mail.
Failure to Apply Handroll to Resident's Right Hand
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to apply a handroll to the right hand of Resident 43, who was readmitted with diagnoses including weakness and chronic kidney disease. The resident's Minimum Data Set indicated a need for moderate to maximum assistance with various activities of daily living. An order summary report specified that bilateral handrolls should be applied for 4-6 hours per day as tolerated. However, observations on multiple occasions revealed that the handroll was consistently applied only to the left hand, not the right. Resident 43 expressed a desire to have the handroll applied to the right hand to prevent it from becoming contracted like the left hand. The Restorative Nurse Assistant (RNA) admitted to not applying the right handroll consistently and failing to report or document the resident's refusal to wear it. The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) was unaware of any refusals and acknowledged the risk of the resident's hand becoming contracted if the handroll was not used as ordered. The facility's job description for the RNA emphasized the importance of implementing restorative care and accurately documenting activities, which was not adhered to in this case.
Improper Foley Catheter Placement Leads to Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility staff failed to provide appropriate treatment and services to prevent urinary tract infections for a resident with an indwelling urinary catheter. The resident, admitted with acute kidney failure and benign prostatic hyperplasia, required maximal assistance for activities of daily living and had intact cognitive skills. A physician had ordered monitoring of the resident's Foley catheter every shift. However, during an observation, the resident's Foley catheter was found hanging on a moveable bedside rail above the level of the bladder, with the tubing twisted and urine not flowing into the drainage bag. The resident expressed concern about the catheter's placement, fearing it might be pulled out. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) confirmed the improper placement of the Foley catheter bag, noting it was too high and not allowing urine to drain properly. The Director of Nursing (DON) also acknowledged that the drainage bag should be positioned below the bladder to prevent infection. The facility's policy on catheter care clearly stated that the urinary drainage bag must be positioned lower than the bladder to prevent backflow of urine, which was not adhered to in this instance.
Failure to Ensure Physician's Order and Maintain Humidifier for Oxygen Therapy
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary respiratory care services for a resident by not ensuring a physician's order was in place for oxygen therapy and not maintaining the resident's humidifier according to the facility's policy. The resident, who had been admitted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), atrial fibrillation, and chronic kidney disease, was observed using an oxygen concentrator at 2 liters per minute with a nasal cannula and humidifier. However, the humidifier bottle was found empty, and there was no physician's order for the oxygen therapy, which was confirmed by a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) during an observation. The Director of Nursing (DON) stated that the humidifier should be replaced weekly and as needed, and that an empty humidifier would not provide the necessary humidification. The facility's policy on oxygen therapy required verification of a physician's order and ensuring the humidifier had enough water to bubble as oxygen flowed through. The lack of a physician's order and the empty humidifier bottle indicated a failure to adhere to these protocols, potentially compromising the resident's respiratory care.
Inadequate Oversight of Nutrition Services Leads to Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure adequate oversight of the Food and Nutrition Services by qualified personnel, specifically when the Registered Dietitian (RD) did not conduct a comprehensive care plan for a resident who experienced significant weight loss. The resident, who had chronic kidney disease and pressure ulcers, was readmitted to the facility and later experienced a 7-pound weight loss over 30 days. Despite the RD providing recommendations to increase nutritional supplements and consider an appetite stimulant, a care plan was not developed for the resident. The RD stated that care plans were typically developed by the nursing staff and Dietary Supervisor (DS) based on the RD's notes, but the RD did not personally develop a care plan due to time constraints. The DS confirmed that she did not develop a care plan based on the RD's notes nor did she contact the resident's physician for further recommendations. The Director of Nursing (DON) clarified that while nursing could develop care plans according to the RD's notes, the DS did not have the credentials to perform the roles and responsibilities of an RD. The facility's job description for the RD indicated responsibilities for reviewing and assessing nutritional risk reviews and care plans. However, the RD did not fulfill these responsibilities, leading to a lack of comprehensive care planning for the resident. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' guidelines emphasize the importance of collaboration in developing nutrition intervention goals and monitoring progress, which was not adequately followed in this case.
Failure to Maintain Safe and Comfortable Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain comfortable and safe temperatures for Resident 44, who was readmitted with diagnoses including renal dialysis and essential hypertension. The Minimum Data Set indicated that Resident 44 had intact cognition and the capacity to make decisions. During an observation and interview, Resident 44 reported feeling very cold in his room, especially in the morning, which made him uncomfortable and reluctant to get up for breakfast. The thermostat in Resident 44's room was observed to be set at 70 degrees, which is below the facility's policy range of 71 to 81 degrees for comfortable and safe temperatures. The Maintenance Supervisor (MS) acknowledged that the resident room temperature logs were incomplete, with the last recorded temperature check on December 4, 2024. During a subsequent observation, room temperatures were recorded at 70 degrees, except for one room at 24 degrees. The MS admitted to not remembering the last time the air-conditioning and heating systems were repaired. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that staff could adjust the thermostat settings and acknowledged that excessively cold temperatures could lead to residents becoming sick and uncomfortable. The facility's policy emphasized providing a homelike environment with person-centered care, including maintaining comfortable temperatures, which was not adhered to in this instance.
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.
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