Redwood Cove Healthcare Center
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Ukiah, California.
- Location
- 1162 S Dora St., Ukiah, California 95482
- CMS Provider Number
- 055853
- Inspections on file
- 24
- Latest survey
- December 2, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 20
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Redwood Cove Healthcare Center during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident with chronic medical and mental health conditions experienced repeated instances where staff entered the room and opened privacy curtains without knocking, announcing, or waiting for an invitation, despite the resident's explicit request for privacy. This led to the resident feeling anxious and unsafe, and staff education and care plan interventions addressing these needs were not consistently followed.
A CNA was found to have worked multiple shifts with an expired certification, as confirmed by certificate verification and daily nursing schedules. The DSD acknowledged the lapse, and the Administrator was unaware until notified. Facility policy required all nursing staff to maintain current licensure and certification.
Nursing staff did not document required monitoring of a resident's PICC line site for signs of infection, as ordered by the physician, due to the order being placed on the IV Administration Record instead of the MAR. This failure was identified through record review and staff interviews, and was not in accordance with facility policy or physician orders.
A resident with a history of osteomyelitis and MRSA infection did not have a dose of ordered IV daptomycin documented as administered. The MAR lacked evidence of administration, and the DON confirmed the absence of documentation, making it impossible to verify if the medication was given as required by facility policy.
The facility did not comply with federal guidelines by failing to designate a qualified Director of Food and Nutrition Services. The Dietary Manager was not certified, and the Registered Dietician was only part-time, visiting once a week. The DM lacked necessary qualifications and training, and the HR department did not provide the DM's file when requested.
The facility failed to ensure timely completion of Basic Care Plans (BCPs) within 48 hours of admission for several residents, as required by policy. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness about BCPs and their completion timeframe, leading to incomplete or delayed BCPs for residents with various medical conditions. This deficiency posed potential risks to residents' safety and care.
A resident receiving tube feeding was not properly monitored for the amount of formula administered, leading to discrepancies in expected versus actual intake. Staff were unable to calculate the correct formula amounts, and input and output (I&O) monitoring was not conducted, despite its importance for residents on tube feedings. This oversight put the resident at risk for dehydration and malnutrition.
The facility failed to follow its Medication Regimen Review policy, resulting in incomplete pharmacy reviews and unaddressed recommendations for several months. Staff were unaware of a resident's G-CSF injection, preventing a thorough medication review and risking potential drug interactions. The facility lacked a policy for G-CSF usage and did not monitor the resident for side effects, compromising safety.
The facility failed to ensure food was palatable and served at appropriate temperatures, as reported by several residents. Observations showed that food temperatures did not meet guidelines, with pureed items being served cold and with an inappropriate texture. The dietary manager and registered dietician confirmed these issues, highlighting the importance of adhering to food safety policies to prevent potential health risks.
The facility failed to ensure proper food storage and labeling, with several items lacking open and discard dates, posing a risk of food-borne illness. Observations revealed unlabeled items like cooking oil, chocolate mix, and lemon juice. Staff confirmed the importance of date-marking to prevent expired food use, highlighting a safety risk for residents.
The facility failed to maintain kitchen walls and the dishwashing sink counter, leading to potential pest entry and contamination risks. Observations revealed cracks, holes, and rust, confirmed by staff, including the Dietary Manager and Maintenance Assistant. A cockroach was seen, indicating an ongoing pest issue. Staff expressed concerns about food contamination and resident illness. The Maintenance Director and Registered Dietician acknowledged the deficiencies, highlighting the need for preventive maintenance.
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, as evidenced by the presence of cockroaches in the kitchen area. Staff confirmed this was an ongoing issue, posing a risk of contamination and illness to residents. The facility lacked a structured pest control program, and the measures in place were ineffective. Concerns were raised about the absence of a comprehensive pest control policy and the use of non-EPA registered pesticides.
The facility failed to honor resident rights, resulting in delayed call light responses, lack of usable prescription glasses, and unaddressed room change requests. Residents experienced neglect, with some left in soiled briefs and others unable to engage in daily activities due to missing glasses. Additionally, residents were not provided with necessary communication tools, such as a facility phone or translated documents, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration.
The facility failed to maintain a safe and sanitary environment, with inadequate hand hygiene practices, unsanitary conditions, and insufficient pest control measures. Observations revealed dirty and damaged areas, insects, and a lack of adherence to infection control policies. Staff interviews highlighted a lack of awareness and understanding of infection prevention measures.
The facility exhibited significant deficiencies in its infection control program, with observations of unsanitary conditions such as dirty carpeting, cracked surfaces, and cross-contamination risks in utility and laundry areas. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness and procedures for addressing these issues, and there was no monitoring of vaccination rates or hand hygiene compliance. The infection preventionist acknowledged the absence of established goals for hand hygiene, and multiple instances of staff failing to perform hand hygiene were observed.
The facility did not ensure residents had access to State Survey Agency contact information necessary for filing complaints. During a Resident Council Meeting, residents reported not knowing how to file a complaint or where to find the contact information. An LPN incorrectly identified the Ombudsman posting as the State Agency contact information. The actual contact information was found on a small paper at the end of a hallway, away from resident activities, making it difficult for residents to access.
The facility did not make the most recent State Survey results readily accessible to residents and their families. Residents were unaware of where to find the survey results, and an outdated binder was observed in a hallway. The Administrator had given the current survey binder to a family and later found it in his office, requiring residents to request it for review.
A resident experienced a significant weight loss of 19.8 pounds over five months, but the facility failed to notify the physician. Despite the resident's diagnoses of essential hypertension, dysphagia, and anxiety, and the acknowledgment by staff and the Medical Director of the need for physician notification, there was no documentation of such action. The facility's policy on weight changes was not provided, highlighting a potential procedural gap.
Two residents in an LTC facility were found without usable prescription glasses, impacting their ability to perform daily activities and enjoy leisure activities. Staff failed to ensure the residents had their glasses during meals and activities, and the need for glasses was not documented in care plans or communicated in reports. The facility's policy on sensory impairments was not followed, leading to a lack of corrective action for the residents' vision needs.
A facility failed to properly label insulin pens with resident information, leading to potential risks. An LPN administered insulin to two residents using pens labeled incorrectly on the cap or storage bag instead of the shaft. The DON confirmed the labeling error. Observations showed three more pens improperly labeled on a medication cart. The ISMP's best practices for labeling were not followed, posing risks of exposure to infectious agents and incorrect insulin administration.
The facility failed to provide a plant-based menu for residents on vegan diets, relying instead on existing food items without nutritional information. Staff, including the Dietary Manager and Registered Dietician, acknowledged the absence of a plant-based menu and its importance in ensuring adequate nutrition. The facility's policy did not address plant-based menus, leading to potential nutritional deficiencies for vegan residents.
Failure to Honor Resident Privacy and Dignity During Room Entry
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to treat a resident with dignity and respect by entering the resident's room without announcing themselves or being invited in. The resident, who had a diagnosis of Chronic Venous Hypertension with an ulcer and Chronic Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), had an intact cognitive status as indicated by a BIMS score of 14. The resident's care plan identified risks for decreased psychosocial well-being, emotional distress, and ineffective coping skills, with interventions to encourage expression of emotions and to observe for signs of distress. Despite these documented needs, staff repeatedly entered the resident's room and opened the privacy curtain without knocking, announcing, or waiting for an invitation, even after the resident specifically requested that staff wait for permission to enter. The resident reported feeling anxious and unsafe due to these actions, particularly as he occupied the bed farthest from the door and could be using the commode when staff entered unannounced. Interviews confirmed that staff were educated to knock and announce themselves before entering, and that specific resident requests should be communicated during shift reports. However, the resident's request for privacy and control over room entry was not consistently honored, resulting in ongoing distress and a lack of privacy for the resident.
CNA Worked with Expired Certification
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) maintained a current and active certificate in accordance with state laws. A review of nine CNA certificate verifications revealed that one CNA's certificate had expired, yet the CNA continued to be scheduled and worked multiple shifts with the expired certification. The Director of Staff Development acknowledged that the CNA had been working without a valid certificate, and the daily nursing schedules confirmed the CNA worked several shifts during the period when the certificate was expired. The Administrator stated he was unaware of the expired certification until it was brought to his attention. Facility policy required all nursing staff to meet competency requirements as defined by state law.
Failure to Document and Monitor PICC Line Site as Ordered
Penalty
Summary
Nursing staff failed to carry out a physician's order for a resident who had a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC line) in place for the treatment of acute osteomyelitis and a Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) infection. The physician's order required monitoring the PICC line insertion site every shift for signs and symptoms of infection, including redness, drainage, and pain, and to alert the physician if any signs of infection were noted. However, a review of the resident's IV Administration Record showed that from 3/28/25 to 4/11/25, there was no documentation by licensed nurses that the PICC line site was monitored as ordered. Interviews with the Director of Nursing (DON) and the Infection Preventionist (IP) nurse revealed that the monitoring order was placed on the IV Administration Record instead of the Medication Administration Record (MAR), which led to the nursing staff not completing the required documentation. The facility's policy on preventing intravenous catheter-related infections also required observation and documentation of the insertion site every shift. The lack of documentation indicated that the monitoring was not performed as required by both physician order and facility policy.
Failure to Document IV Antibiotic Administration
Penalty
Summary
A resident with acute osteomyelitis of the right tibia and fibula and a MRSA infection was admitted to the facility and had a physician's order for daptomycin-sodium chloride IV solution to be administered every evening for a left lower extremity wound infection. On April 5, 2025, the Medication Administration Record (MAR) did not indicate that the ordered dose of the IV antibiotic was administered. Progress notes for the same date stated that the resident was currently receiving an IV antibiotic, but there was no documentation confirming the administration of the specific dose as required. During an interview, the DON confirmed that the missing documentation on the MAR made it difficult to verify whether the IV antibiotic had been given. The facility's policy requires that medications be administered as prescribed and that the person administering the medication records the administration on the MAR/eMAR immediately after giving the medication. The policy also states that the MAR/eMAR should be reviewed at the end of each medication pass to ensure all necessary doses are documented, and that no staff should leave duty without recording medication administration. In this instance, the required documentation was not completed, resulting in a significant medication error.
Non-compliance in Food and Nutrition Services Staffing
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a qualified individual was designated as the Director of Food and Nutrition Services, as required by federal guidelines. The Dietary Manager (DM) was not a Certified Dietary Manager and did not meet the qualifications outlined in the facility's job description, which required graduation from an approved Dietary Manager's course. The Registered Dietician (RD) was not employed full-time and only visited the facility once a week, which did not provide the DM with consistent in-services and training. Interviews revealed that the DM lacked the necessary certifications and training, including not being a graduate of a Dietetic Technician Training Program or a College Degree Program with major studies in food or nutrition. The RD confirmed her status as a contractual staff member, not a full-time employee. Additionally, the Human Resources Department failed to provide a copy of the DM's file when requested, further indicating a lack of compliance with the required standards for staffing in the food and nutrition services department.
Failure to Complete Basic Care Plans Timely
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that staff were aware of the Basic Care Plan (BCP) requirements and its completion timeframe, which should be within 48 hours of a resident's admission. This deficiency was identified through interviews and record reviews, revealing that staff members were either unaware of what a BCP was or did not know the timeframe for its completion. This lack of awareness among staff members, including Licensed Staff G, F, and T, as well as the Social Services Director and Director of Nursing, contributed to the failure in completing BCPs timely for several residents. The report highlights that the BCP was not completed for one resident and was completed late for seven other residents. These residents had various medical conditions, including hyperlipidemia, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dysphagia, depression, schizoaffective disorder, muscle weakness, dementia, and anxiety. The BCPs for these residents were either incomplete or completed well past the 48-hour requirement, with some sections left blank or completed on different dates, indicating a lack of timely and coordinated care planning. The facility's policy and procedure, revised in December 2022, clearly stated that a baseline plan of care should be developed within 48 hours of admission. However, the failure to adhere to this policy resulted in potential risks to residents' safety and the possibility of them not receiving the necessary care. Interviews with staff and directors confirmed the importance of BCPs in ensuring safe and adequate care, yet the facility did not follow its own policy, leading to the identified deficiencies.
Failure to Monitor Tube Feeding and I&O for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to periodically evaluate the amount of feeding being administered to Resident 265, who was receiving nutrition through a tube feeding. Observations revealed discrepancies in the amount of formula that should have been administered versus what was actually left in the feeding bag. For instance, during a 12-hour period, Resident 265 should have received 720 ml of formula, but there was over 500 ml left in the bag, indicating a significant shortfall in the administered amount. Licensed nurses were unable to calculate or verify the correct amount of formula that should have been administered, highlighting a lack of knowledge and monitoring. Additionally, the facility did not monitor Resident 265's input and output (I&O), which is crucial for evaluating fluid and electrolyte balance. Despite the presence of a dehydration care plan that directed staff to monitor I&O, this was not done, as confirmed by interviews with various staff members. The Registered Dietician and other staff acknowledged the importance of I&O monitoring for residents on tube feedings, yet it was not implemented for Resident 265, potentially putting the resident at risk for dehydration, malnutrition, and fluid imbalance. Interviews with staff, including the Nurse Consultant and Medical Director, confirmed that I&O monitoring should be a standard practice for residents on tube feedings, regardless of a physician's order. However, the facility's policy on I&O monitoring was not provided, and there was a lack of adherence to the policy on enteral tube feeding, which requires recording average fluid intake. This oversight in monitoring and evaluating tube feeding administration led to the deficiency identified in the report.
Failure in Medication Regimen Review and Staff Knowledge
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to its Medication Regimen Review (MRR) policy and procedure, resulting in significant deficiencies. The Director of Nursing (DON) was unable to provide complete pharmacy review documents for several months, specifically from September 2023 to March 2024. During this period, pharmacy recommendations were not forwarded to any facility physician, leaving them in a 'holding pattern.' This lack of communication and documentation meant that no actions were taken on pharmacy recommendations, potentially leading to unmanaged polypharmacy and lack of follow-up on dose reduction recommendations. Additionally, the facility did not ensure that staff were knowledgeable about a glycoprotein-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) injection, which was being administered to a resident, Resident 14, weekly. The G-CSF injection was not listed on Resident 14's current medications, and the pharmacist was not notified of its administration. This oversight prevented the pharmacist from conducting a thorough and accurate MRR, which could have identified potential drug interactions and side effects. Interviews with licensed staff revealed a lack of understanding of the medication's purpose and potential side effects, further compromising the resident's safety. The facility also lacked a policy and procedure for G-CSF medication usage, and there was no documentation indicating that Resident 14 was being monitored for side effects or adverse effects while receiving the injections. The consultant pharmacist and medical director both emphasized the importance of notifying the pharmacist about all medications a resident is receiving, regardless of whether they are administered within the facility or externally. This coordination of care is crucial for ensuring resident safety and effective medication management.
Deficiency in Food Temperature and Palatability
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food was palatable and served at appropriate temperatures according to resident preferences. Observations and interviews revealed that four out of five sampled residents reported that hot foods were served cold and lacked taste, with vegetables being overcooked and mushy. Additionally, the food temperature was not taken prior to serving to one resident, which could lead to potential safety hazards such as burns. The dietary manager and registered dietician confirmed that the food temperatures did not meet the guidelines, with pureed eggs and pancakes being served at temperatures below the recommended levels. The dietary manager noted that the texture of the pureed food was thick and pasty, which was not appropriate, and attributed this to the possible addition of thickener by the cook. The registered dietician emphasized the importance of checking food temperatures to prevent accidents and ensure the food is safe and palatable for residents. The facility's policy and procedure for food preparation and service, revised in November 2022, outlined specific temperature requirements for food safety, which were not adhered to in this instance. The dietary manager acknowledged that the test tray food temperatures were inappropriate and did not meet the guidelines, which could lead to food-borne illnesses and residents not consuming the food, potentially resulting in weight loss or malnutrition.
Improper Food Storage and Labeling Practices
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper food storage and labeling practices, leading to unsafe and unsanitary conditions. During observations, it was noted that several food items in the refrigerator, freezer, and dry pantry were not marked with open and discard dates. Items such as cooking oil, chocolate mix, lemon juice, teriyaki sauce, veggie burgers, baking soda, peanut butter, and chicken bouillon were found without discard dates. The Dietary Manager and Dietary Aides confirmed that these items should have been labeled with open and discard dates to prevent the use of expired food, which poses a risk of food-borne illness. Interviews with the Dietary Manager, Dietary Aides, and a Registered Dietician highlighted the importance of date-marking food items to ensure resident safety. The lack of proper labeling could lead to the accidental ingestion of expired food, increasing the risk of illnesses such as diarrhea, salmonella, and listeria. The facility's policy for food storage and labeling was requested but not provided, indicating a potential gap in adherence to food safety protocols.
Kitchen Maintenance Deficiencies and Pest Control Issues
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the kitchen walls and dishwashing sink counter in good repair, as observed during rounds. Cracks and holes were noted in the walls underneath the dishwashing sink and near the dish sanitizing machine, with a rusty dishwashing sink counter also observed. These conditions were confirmed by the Dietary Manager, who acknowledged the potential for pests and cockroaches to enter through these openings, posing a safety and infection control issue. The presence of a cockroach was noted during the inspection, indicating an ongoing pest problem. Further observations and interviews with staff, including Dietary Aide 2 and the Maintenance Assistant, corroborated the findings of holes and cracks in the kitchen walls and a rusty dishwashing sink counter. Staff expressed concerns about the potential for pests to contaminate food and utensils, leading to gastrointestinal illnesses among residents. The Maintenance Assistant recommended replacing the entire dishwashing sink due to its rusted condition, highlighting the need for immediate attention to these deficiencies. The Maintenance Director and Registered Dietician also confirmed awareness of the issues, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the kitchen environment free from structural damage and rust to prevent cross-contamination and ensure resident safety. The facility's policy and procedure for maintenance services, revised in 2008, indicated that the Maintenance Director was responsible for scheduling preventive maintenance, suggesting a lapse in adherence to these guidelines.
Facility Lacks Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, as evidenced by the presence of cockroaches in the kitchen area. During observations and interviews, a cockroach was seen crawling underneath the dishwashing sink, and the Dietary Manager confirmed this was not the first occurrence. The Dietary Manager and other staff members acknowledged that the presence of cockroaches in the kitchen was an ongoing issue, posing a risk of contamination and illness to residents. Interviews with various staff members, including the Maintenance Assistant and Maintenance Director, revealed that the facility had been using pesticides and traps to address the cockroach problem. However, these measures were not effective in eliminating the issue. The Maintenance Director admitted that the facility did not have a structured pest control program or schedule for treatments between monthly visits from a pest control company. Additionally, there was uncertainty about whether the pesticides used were EPA registered. The Registered Dietician and Nurse Consultant expressed concerns about the lack of a pest control program and policy. The Administrator confirmed the use of a cockroach spray that was EPA exempt, but did not provide further details on the effectiveness or safety of the product. The absence of a comprehensive pest control program and policy contributed to the ongoing presence of cockroaches in the kitchen, raising concerns about potential health risks to residents.
Deficiencies in Resident Rights and Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to honor the resident rights of 13 sampled residents, leading to significant deficiencies in care and dignity. Ten residents reported excessive call light response times, with delays of up to two hours, resulting in delayed care and loss of dignity. Observations noted staff, including licensed nurses and unlicensed staff, ignoring call lights and failing to assist residents promptly. This neglect led to residents being left in soiled briefs, increasing the risk of incontinence-related issues and psychosocial harm. Interviews with residents and staff confirmed the lack of timely response, and the facility's policy on call light response was not being monitored or enforced. Two residents were not provided with usable prescription glasses, impacting their ability to engage in daily activities and leading to feelings of neglect and vulnerability. Observations showed residents without glasses, unable to read or watch television, and staff failed to address the issue despite being informed. The care plans for these residents did not reflect their need for eyeglasses, and there was no documentation of efforts to repair or replace the broken glasses. The facility's policy on sensory impairments was not followed, contributing to the residents' sense of being unimportant. Additional deficiencies included a resident not being informed about a requested room change, leading to feelings of being ignored, and another resident not being provided with a facility phone for private calls, resulting in isolation and depression. Two residents had their urinary catheter drainage bags uncovered, violating their dignity. Furthermore, a resident was not provided with translated documents or translator services, hindering their ability to make informed healthcare decisions. These failures highlight a systemic issue in respecting and addressing resident rights, leading to potential psychosocial harm and miscommunication.
Facility Fails to Maintain Sanitary Environment and Infection Control
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe and sanitary environment for residents, as evidenced by multiple observations of unsanitary conditions and inadequate infection control practices. Hand hygiene was not consistently offered to residents before meals, and the facility's hand hygiene policy and procedure were not followed during medication administration. Additionally, cross-contamination risks were identified in linen storage and laundry processing areas, with insects observed in the clean utility room and other areas of the facility. The facility's housekeeping and maintenance practices were inadequate, with numerous areas observed to be dirty, stained, and in disrepair. The housekeeping closet, shower rooms, and utility rooms were found to have black and gray residues, insects, and unlabeled personal care items. The facility's pest control measures were insufficient, with no formal monitoring process or policy in place to address pest infestations. The facility's maintenance log was not effectively used, resulting in unresolved repair requests and unaddressed issues such as cracked wheelchair armrests and damaged flooring. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of awareness and understanding of infection prevention and control measures. The facility's infection preventionist did not have established goals for hand hygiene compliance and was unaware of environmental risks in laundry processing. The facility's policies and procedures for maintaining a homelike environment and handling soiled laundry were not adhered to, contributing to the unsanitary conditions observed throughout the facility.
Inadequate Infection Control and Maintenance in LTC Facility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective infection control program, as evidenced by numerous observations of unsanitary conditions and cross-contamination risks. Dirty and stained carpeting, broken floor surfaces, cracked wheelchair armrests, exposed wall plaster, rust, and chipped paint were observed in patient care areas. These conditions were noted in various locations, including resident rooms, hallways, and utility rooms. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of awareness regarding the infection prevention concerns associated with these issues, and there was no evidence of a systematic process for reporting and addressing maintenance needs. Cross-contamination risks were also identified in the laundry processing and storage areas, clean utility room, and resident ice storage room. Observations included the presence of insects, such as cockroaches, and gray particulate matter on surfaces that were supposed to be clean. The facility lacked a formal pest control policy and procedure, and there was no monitoring process to track insect sightings or pest control measures. Staff interviews indicated a lack of knowledge about proper cleaning procedures and the use of approved cleaning solutions. The facility did not monitor vaccination rates of staff and residents or hand hygiene compliance. The infection preventionist admitted to not having established goals for hand hygiene compliance and was unaware of the facility's compliance rate. Observations showed multiple instances where staff failed to perform hand hygiene before and after resident contact, and there was no formal infection control committee to review and support the infection control program. The lack of monitoring and oversight in these areas posed a significant risk for cross-contamination and infection among residents.
Failure to Provide Accessible State Agency Contact Information
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents were aware of and had access to State Survey Agency contact information, which is necessary for filing complaints. During a Resident Council Meeting, several residents expressed that they did not know how to file a complaint with the State Agency or where to find the contact information. An interview and observation with a Licensed Nurse (LN F) revealed that the nurse mistakenly pointed to the Ombudsman posting when asked about the State Agency contact information. Further investigation showed that the State Agency contact information was posted on a small paper at the end of a hallway, away from resident activities, and not easily accessible or visible to residents. LN F acknowledged that residents typically contacted the Ombudsman and were unaware of the State Agency information.
Failure to Provide Accessible Survey Results
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to post the results of the most recent State Survey in a location that was readily accessible to residents, family members, and/or legal representatives. During a Resident Council Meeting, several residents expressed that they did not know where to access the survey results. An observation revealed that an outdated binder labeled 'Survey Results' was placed in a hallway, but it only contained information from 2012 to 2016. The Administrator admitted that the binder with the most recent survey results, dated 2019, was given to a family for review and was later found in the Administrator's office. The Administrator stated that residents or their family members had to request the binder from him to view the survey results.
Failure to Notify Physician of Significant Weight Loss
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify the physician of a significant weight loss experienced by a resident, identified as Resident 25. The resident, who was admitted with diagnoses including essential hypertension, dysphagia, and anxiety, experienced a weight loss of 19.8 pounds over five months, equating to a 16.5% reduction in body weight. Despite this significant change, there was no documentation indicating that the physician was informed, which is a requirement for managing such health changes. Interviews with various staff members, including licensed and unlicensed personnel, confirmed that the weight loss was significant and should have been reported to the physician to prevent further health deterioration. The Medical Director and the Director of Nursing both acknowledged the significance of the weight loss and the necessity of notifying the physician. The absence of a documented notification to the physician was verified by a nurse consultant. The facility's policy and procedure for handling weight changes were requested but not provided, indicating a potential gap in protocol adherence or documentation. This oversight had the potential to compromise the resident's medical status further, as the physician was not given the opportunity to assess and address the underlying causes of the weight loss.
Failure to Provide Usable Prescription Glasses for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that two residents, Resident 16 and Resident 200, had usable prescription glasses, which impacted their ability to perform activities of daily living and engage in activities that brought them joy. Resident 16 was observed without glasses, with her eyeglass case containing a pair of frames missing a lens. She reported difficulty reading and doing needlework, experiencing headaches when attempting these activities without proper eyewear. Similarly, Resident 200 was found without glasses and unable to see the television, expressing a desire for her glasses to be able to watch TV and eat properly. Unlicensed staff members were observed serving meals to the residents without ensuring they had their glasses, which was part of their responsibility. The staff was unaware of the residents' needs for glasses, as this information was not included in the morning report. The Social Services Manager and other staff members were not informed about the broken glasses, leading to a lack of follow-up and repair. The care plans for both residents did not reflect their need for eyeglasses, and there was no documentation of their glasses in the inventory lists. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that the care plans were not individualized to address the residents' vision impairments. The facility's policy on sensory impairments was not followed, as staff failed to optimize the residents' ability to see by ensuring they had corrective lenses.
Improper Labeling of Insulin Pens in LTC Facility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly label insulin pens with resident information, which is a violation of accepted professional principles for drug labeling. During an observation, a Licensed Nurse (LN G) administered insulin to two residents using insulin pens that were not labeled correctly. The insulin pens were obtained from the Emergency Medication Supply (E Kit) and were either labeled on the cap or the outer plastic storage bag instead of the shaft, which is the correct location for labeling. This improper labeling was confirmed by the Director of Nursing (DON), who acknowledged that the labels should have been placed on the shaft of the insulin pens. Further observations revealed that three insulin pens on the Medication Cart for Hallway Two were also improperly labeled. One pen was labeled on the outer plastic storage bag, another with a sticker on the cap, and the third with a black marker on the cap. The Institute for Safe Medical Practices (ISMP) has established best practices for labeling, which include featuring two forms of patient identification, proper storage condition information, drug ID information, and expiration date. The facility's failure to adhere to these practices had the potential to expose residents to infectious agents and cause serious adverse effects if insulin was administered incorrectly.
Lack of Plant-Based Menu for Vegan Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a plant-based menu, which is necessary to meet the nutritional needs of residents on vegan diets. During an observation and interview, the Dietary Manager (DM) admitted that the facility did not have a plant-based menu and relied on existing food items to substitute for vegan meals. The DM found a Ziploc bag labeled 'Veggie burger' in the freezer, which lacked information on dietary content, such as calories or protein. This lack of information raised concerns about ensuring adequate nutrition for residents on vegan diets. The DM acknowledged the importance of having a plant-based menu to prevent malnutrition and ensure residents receive adequate proteins and nutrients. Interviews with various staff members, including Dietary Aides and the Registered Dietician (RD), confirmed the absence of a plant-based menu. They emphasized the importance of having such a menu to ensure residents on vegan diets receive adequate nutrition, including micronutrients and protein. The facility's policy and procedure on menus, revised in 2017, indicated that menus should meet residents' nutritional needs and provide a variety of foods. However, there was no specific policy or procedure addressing plant-based menus, highlighting a gap in the facility's ability to cater to residents with specific dietary requirements.
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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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