Riverside Heights Healthcare Center, Llc
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Riverside, California.
- Location
- 8951 Granite Hill Drive, Riverside, California 92509
- CMS Provider Number
- 555884
- Inspections on file
- 17
- Latest survey
- June 24, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 13
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Riverside Heights Healthcare Center, Llc during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident receiving Risperdal for schizophrenia and depression was repeatedly observed with a facial chewing motion, a sign of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Despite ongoing EPS monitoring and an AIMS assessment indicating no abnormal movements, staff failed to recognize or document the symptom. Both a CNA and an LVN observed the motion but did not identify it as EPS, and the DON later confirmed the symptom as EPS, noting that nursing should have recognized it.
A resident with chronic respiratory failure and other complex conditions was not provided with oxygen as ordered by the physician when their oxygen saturation dropped below the specified threshold. The resident was found in a common area without oxygen, displaying restlessness and an oxygen saturation of 80%, and no portable oxygen was available. Both an LVN and the DON confirmed that the physician's order was not followed, and facility policy for oxygen therapy was not adhered to.
A resident with multiple cardiac conditions received an antihypertensive medication on four occasions when their systolic blood pressure was below the physician-ordered hold parameter. Nursing staff did not follow the prescribed BP threshold for holding the medication, as confirmed by the DON and documented in the MAR.
A medication error rate of 8% was observed when an LVN failed to follow manufacturer instructions for administering prefilled insulin pens to two residents with diabetes. The LVN did not hold the dose knob in place for the required 5 seconds after injection, as confirmed by the DON and the facility's policy, resulting in improper administration of prescribed insulin doses.
A medication refrigerator containing vaccines, insulin, and other injectables was repeatedly found to be stored below the required temperature range, with logs showing frequent readings under 36°F and occasional missing documentation. Nursing staff and the DON confirmed that temperatures were not consistently maintained or documented as required by both manufacturer instructions and facility policy.
Kitchen staff used expired chlorine test strips to test the sanitizing solution in the dishwashing machine. Both dietary staff and the RD confirmed that expired strips should not have been used, as this prevented accurate verification of sanitizer concentration, contrary to facility policy.
Nursing staff did not consistently follow infection control protocols for oxygen therapy and glucometer disinfection. A resident's oxygen cannula was not changed or stored according to policy, and two residents had their blood glucose checked with a shared glucometer that was not disinfected per manufacturer instructions. Staff interviews revealed a lack of understanding of required procedures, and facility policies were not followed, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
The facility failed to adhere to its policies for oxygen therapy for two residents with COPD. One resident's oxygen saturation was documented only once per day instead of every shift, and another resident's oxygen levels were not monitored every shift as ordered. The facility's administrator confirmed that staff should document oxygen levels per physician orders.
A resident with multiple pressure ulcers was found with a tightly fitted sheet over their low air loss mattress, contrary to best practices and facility training. Staff interviews confirmed that fitted sheets should not be used on these mattresses, and the presence of the fitted sheet was a mistake.
The facility failed to conduct outbreak testing as directed by the CDC when a resident tested positive for COVID-19. Despite having policies in place, the facility tested residents and staff weekly instead of following the CDC's recommended testing schedule. The resident involved had severe cognitive impairment and multiple active diagnoses.
Failure to Identify and Respond to EPS in Resident on Antipsychotic Medication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to identify and respond to adverse effects of psychotropic medication in one resident who was administered Risperdal, an antipsychotic medication. The resident, who had diagnoses including schizophrenia and depression, was observed on two separate occasions exhibiting a facial chewing motion while in the dining room. Despite these visible symptoms, the resident's medical record indicated that EPS (extrapyramidal symptoms) monitoring was documented as negative for all shifts during the same period, and an AIMS assessment earlier in the month also reported no abnormal involuntary movements. Interviews with the assigned CNA and LVN confirmed that both observed the facial chewing motion but were unaware that it was a sign of EPS. The DON also observed the symptom and identified it as EPS, stating that nursing staff should have been able to assess these signs and symptoms. The facility's policy required documentation of adverse reactions and monitoring for psychotropic drug complications, but this was not effectively implemented for this resident.
Failure to Follow Physician's Order for Oxygen Administration
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate respiratory care and treatment for a resident with chronic respiratory failure and other significant diagnoses, including Huntington's disease, dementia, and a history of seizures. The physician's order specified that oxygen should be administered at 2-3 liters per minute via nasal cannula or face mask if the resident's oxygen saturation fell below 92%. On one occasion, the resident was observed in his room receiving oxygen at the prescribed rate. However, on another occasion, the resident was found in the activity room without oxygen, appeared restless, and had an oxygen saturation of 80%. No portable oxygen tank was available at that time. When the low oxygen saturation was identified, an LVN confirmed that the resident should have been on oxygen per the physician's order and returned the resident to his room to administer oxygen. The DON also acknowledged that the resident should have been on oxygen in the activity room to maintain the required oxygen saturation. The facility's policy on oxygen therapy requires that oxygen be administered as ordered by the physician and that residents be monitored for signs of oxygen deprivation, but these procedures were not followed in this instance.
Failure to Follow Blood Pressure Parameters for Antihypertensive Medication Administration
Penalty
Summary
Nursing staff failed to follow physician-ordered blood pressure (BP) parameters for the administration of metoprolol succinate ER in one resident with a history of hypertension, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and atrial fibrillation. The resident's care plan specifically indicated the need to hold the antihypertensive medication if the systolic BP (SBP) was below 110 mmHg. Despite this, the medication was administered on four separate occasions in April 2025 when the resident's SBP was below the prescribed threshold, as documented in the Medication Administration Record (MAR). The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed during interviews and record reviews that the medication should not have been given under these circumstances and acknowledged that staff did not adhere to the hold parameters. Facility policy also required nurses to follow precautionary instructions on prescription labels, including parameters. Manufacturer's prescribing information for metoprolol succinate ER lists hypotension as a common adverse reaction, further underscoring the importance of following such parameters.
Medication Error Rate Exceeds 5% Due to Improper Insulin Pen Administration
Penalty
Summary
A medication error rate of 8% was identified during a medication administration observation, with two errors occurring out of 25 opportunities. The errors involved a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) administering prefilled insulin pens (Humalog and Lispro) to two residents with diabetes. In both cases, the LVN failed to hold the dose knob of the insulin pen in place for at least 5 seconds after injection, as required by the manufacturer's instructions. Instead, the LVN pressed and immediately released the dose knob, which could have resulted in the residents not receiving the full prescribed dose of insulin. The medical records for both residents showed active physician orders for subcutaneous insulin administration before meals. During interviews, the LVN acknowledged not being aware of the requirement to hold the dose knob for 5 seconds. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed, after reviewing the manufacturer's instructions, that the correct procedure was not followed during the observed medication passes. The facility's policy on subcutaneous medication administration also indicated that medication should be injected slowly.
Failure to Maintain Proper Medication Refrigerator Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that refrigerated medications and biologicals were stored at temperatures in accordance with both facility policy and manufacturer specifications. During an observation at a nursing station, a medication refrigerator was found to contain various medications, including vaccines, insulin, and other injectables, which require storage between 36°F and 46°F. Review of the refrigerator temperature logs from January to June 2025 revealed multiple instances where the temperature fell below the required range, with readings as low as 25°F on one occasion and frequent readings of 34°F and 35°F on numerous days and shifts. Nursing staff and the DON confirmed that the expected practice was to monitor and document refrigerator temperatures at the start of each shift and to take corrective action if temperatures were out of range. Interviews with nursing staff indicated that when the refrigerator temperature was found to be out of range, staff were expected to adjust the thermostat and recheck the temperature after a short interval. If the temperature did not return to the acceptable range, maintenance was to be notified. However, the logs showed repeated failures to maintain the correct temperature, and there were also instances of missing temperature documentation. The DON acknowledged these lapses and confirmed that the facility's policy required strict adherence to temperature monitoring and documentation protocols. Manufacturer instructions for all medications stored in the refrigerator, including Afluria, Latanoprost, Ozempic, Retacrit, Semglee, and Tubersol PPD, specified storage within the 36°F to 46°F range. The facility's own policy also required medications needing refrigeration to be kept within this range. The repeated failure to maintain proper storage temperatures and to consistently document temperature readings constituted a deficiency in the facility's medication management practices.
Expired Chlorine Test Strips Used for Dishwasher Sanitization
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure safe storage, preparation, and distribution of food when kitchen staff used expired chlorine test strips to check the sanitizing solution in the dishwashing machine. During an observation, a dietary aide was seen using test strips that had expired on May 1, 2025, to test the dishwasher's chlorine level. Both the dietary aide and the dietary supervisor confirmed that the test strips were expired and should not have been used. The registered dietician also stated that expired test strips would prevent staff from accurately determining if the sanitizing solution was at the correct concentration. The facility's policy required the use of manufacturer-recommended test strips to verify appropriate sanitizing levels.
Failure to Follow Infection Control Protocols for Oxygen Therapy and Glucometer Disinfection
Penalty
Summary
Nursing staff failed to implement proper infection prevention and control practices for three residents. For one resident receiving oxygen therapy, the nasal cannula was not changed every seven days as required by both physician order and facility policy. The cannula in use was labeled with another resident's name and an outdated date, and an additional cannula attached to a portable oxygen tank was not dated or stored in a plastic bag, leaving it exposed to the environment. Staff interviews confirmed uncertainty about the required frequency for changing the cannula and improper storage practices, despite clear facility policies mandating weekly changes, labeling, and sanitary storage. Additionally, two residents who required blood glucose monitoring were exposed to improper disinfection practices with a shared glucometer. A nurse was observed wiping the glucometer with a Sani-Cloth disposable wipe but did not adhere to the manufacturer's specified contact time, which requires the surface to remain wet for two minutes to ensure effective disinfection. The nurse was unaware of the meaning of 'contact time' and did not follow the instructions on the wipe label. The infection preventionist and DON both acknowledged that staff were expected to follow the manufacturer's instructions for disinfection but confirmed that the observed practice did not meet these requirements. Facility policy for both oxygen therapy and blood glucose monitoring clearly outlined the necessary infection control steps, including equipment change intervals, labeling, storage, and disinfection procedures. However, observations and staff interviews revealed that these protocols were not consistently followed, resulting in a failure to prevent potential cross-contamination and infection among the affected residents.
Failure to Monitor Oxygen Therapy as Ordered
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide respiratory care and treatment in accordance with its policies and procedures for two residents who were receiving oxygen therapy. Resident 1, who has a medical history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), anxiety disorder, and paranoid schizophrenia, was ordered to receive continuous oxygen at 2-3 liters per minute via nasal cannula or face mask for oxygen saturation below 92%. The physician's orders specified that oxygen saturation should be documented every shift, especially if oxygen is delivered at 3 liters per minute or above, requiring a humidifier. However, the facility only documented Resident 1's oxygen saturation once per day instead of every shift as ordered. Resident 4, who has COPD exacerbation, status asthmaticus, depression, anxiety, and periodic psychosis, was also not monitored according to the physician's orders. The orders indicated that oxygen should be used at 2-3 liters per minute for oxygen saturation below 88%, with monitoring every shift. If oxygen is delivered at 3 liters per minute or above, a humidifier must be applied. Despite these orders, the facility only documented Resident 4's oxygen saturation on specific days, failing to monitor it every shift as required. During interviews, the facility's administrator acknowledged that staff should be documenting oxygen levels per physician orders. The facility's policy on oxygen therapy, revised in November 2017, requires documentation of administration in the medication administration record and oxygen saturation levels per physician order. The lack of adherence to these policies and procedures resulted in the potential for ineffective oxygen therapy and respiratory distress for the residents involved.
Improper Use of Low Air Loss Mattress for Resident with Pressure Ulcers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper use of a low air loss mattress for a resident with multiple pressure ulcers. Resident #42, who was admitted on 04/08/2020, had diagnoses including pressure-induced deep tissue damage and multiple pressure ulcers. The resident's care plan, revised on 10/16/2023, included the use of a low air loss mattress as an intervention to manage and prevent pressure ulcers. However, during an observation on 04/02/2024, the resident was found with a tightly fitted sheet over the low air loss mattress, contrary to best practices and facility training. Interviews with various staff members, including the Medical Director, Registered Nurse #1, the Director of Staff Development (DSD), and the Director of Nursing, confirmed that fitted sheets should not be used on low air loss mattresses. The DSD stated that staff were trained to use only draw sheets and chux on these mattresses, and the presence of a fitted sheet was a mistake. The Administrator's opinion was noted as irrelevant. The deficiency was further supported by a review of an in-service sign-in sheet dated 08/01/2023, which indicated that staff were instructed on the correct use of low air loss mattresses.
Failure to Conduct Proper Outbreak Testing for COVID-19
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct outbreak testing as directed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when a resident tested positive for COVID-19. The facility's policy on infection prevention and control, as well as specific policies on resident and employee COVID-19 testing, were reviewed and found to be in alignment with CDC guidelines. However, the facility did not follow these guidelines when a resident tested positive for COVID-19. The CDC recommends testing all residents and healthcare personnel identified as close contacts or on the affected units immediately (but not earlier than 24 hours after exposure) and then again at 48-hour intervals if the initial tests are negative. Instead, the facility tested residents and staff weekly, which did not comply with the CDC's recommended testing frequency. Resident #119, who had severe cognitive impairment and multiple active diagnoses, tested positive for COVID-19 on 01/09/2024 after being readmitted to the facility. The Infection Preventionist (IP) and Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility conducted weekly testing for residents and staff on 01/09/2024, 01/16/2024, and 01/23/2024, rather than following the CDC's recommended testing schedule. The Administrator acknowledged that staff were expected to follow regulations, but the facility's actions did not align with the CDC's guidelines for outbreak testing, leading to the identified deficiency.
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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