Oaks - Athens Skilled Nursing, The
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Athens, Georgia.
- Location
- 490 Kathwood Dr, Athens, Georgia 30607
- CMS Provider Number
- 115419
- Inspections on file
- 22
- Latest survey
- February 22, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 4
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Oaks - Athens Skilled Nursing, The during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
Dietary staff did not follow the facility’s equipment cleaning policy requiring freezer elements to be kept free of frost and ice build-up. Surveyors observed two separate kitchenette countertop freezers, each with three shelves, where the middle shelf was completely covered with thick frost and ice cream cups were stored within or on the frost. During interviews, the DM confirmed the frost build-up and the storage of ice cream cups in the frost, and reported that these freezers were only cleaned and defrosted when visible frost appeared, with no established defrosting schedule.
The facility failed to maintain effective infection control, as observed in two incidents. The Maintenance Director did not change his N-95 mask after exiting a TBP room, contrary to policy. An LPN did not use PPE or perform proper hand hygiene during catheter care for a resident on EBP, and failed to clean the catheter tubing tip. These actions risked spreading infection in the facility.
The facility failed to ensure safe handling and storage of oxygen canisters and proper use of a mechanical lift. A CNA improperly handled oxygen tanks, and there was confusion about storage procedures. Additionally, a resident fell from a mechanical lift due to improper use and lack of training, highlighting deficiencies in supervision and adherence to procedures.
A facility failed to provide adequate nursing staff, resulting in delayed care for residents. One resident, post-surgery, was left in feces for 30 minutes, raising infection concerns. Another resident experienced a three-hour delay for assistance, and a third was denied bathroom access during mealtime, leading to incontinence. Staff interviews and resident council meetings confirmed ongoing issues with untimely call light responses and insufficient staffing.
A facility failed to report a significant medication error and allegations of sexual abuse within the required timeframe. A resident was given the wrong medications, resulting in harm and ICU admission. Additionally, two residents were involved in a sexual incident that was not reported promptly. These failures indicate noncompliance with reporting requirements, posing serious risks to resident safety.
A resident with a history of serious health conditions experienced harm due to a medication error at an LTC facility. The resident was given incorrect medications, leading to bradycardia and hypotension, and was admitted to the ICU. The facility failed to follow the resident's care plan, which included specific medication instructions, and did not report the error promptly, contributing to the immediate jeopardy situation.
A resident experienced harm after a registered nurse allegedly administered medications not prescribed for her, including allopurinol, amlodipine, and others, leading to bradycardia and hypotension. The resident, with a history of cerebral infarction and other conditions, was transferred to the ICU for treatment. The facility failed to follow its medication administration policy, contributing to the incident.
A resident experienced harm due to a significant medication error when a nurse administered incorrect medications, leading to hospitalization. The facility administration failed to report this incident and an allegation of sexual abuse between two residents in a timely manner, highlighting deficiencies in oversight and compliance with reporting regulations.
Improper Frost Build-Up Management in Kitchenette Freezers
Penalty
Summary
Dietary staff failed to maintain kitchenette freezers free of frost build-up as required by the facility’s policy titled “Cleaning Procedures: Major Equipment,” which states that walk-in freezers must be kept free of frost and ice build-up on a daily basis. During observation of the kitchenette serving the 500, 700, and 800 halls, surveyors noted a small countertop freezer with three shelves in which the middle shelf was fully covered with approximately one inch of frost, and ice cream cups were stored within the frost. In a separate kitchenette serving the 100, 200, 300, and 400 halls, another small countertop freezer with three shelves was observed, with the middle shelf fully covered with a thick layer of frost and ice cream cups stored on the frost. In interviews conducted at the time of each observation, the Dietary Manager confirmed the presence of frost build-up and the storage of ice cream cups within or on the frost in both freezers, and stated that these freezers were cleaned and defrosted only when visible frost was noticed, with no set schedule for defrosting. No specific residents or their medical conditions were mentioned in the report, and the deficiency centers on the condition and maintenance of the dietary equipment rather than on individual resident care events.
Infection Control Deficiencies in PPE and Catheter Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective infection prevention and control program, as evidenced by multiple deficiencies observed during the survey. One incident involved the Maintenance Director (MD) who exited a Transmission Based Precautions (TBP) room without properly changing his N-95 mask, which is against the facility's policy. The MD admitted to being aware of the requirement but neglected to follow it due to being in a hurry. The Infection Preventionist (IP) confirmed that the MD was not present during the initial in-service training on PPE protocols, although subsequent training was provided. Another deficiency was observed with a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who failed to adhere to Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) while performing catheter care on a resident. The LPN did not don personal protective equipment (PPE) upon entering the resident's room, which was required due to the resident's condition and EBP status. Additionally, the LPN did not perform hand hygiene between glove changes and failed to clean the catheter tubing tip after emptying the drainage bag, as per the facility's catheter care procedure. The resident involved in the catheter care deficiency had a medical history that included sepsis due to Escherichia Coli, a urinary tract infection, and a stage 4 pressure ulcer. The Director of Health Services (DHS) and the IP both confirmed that PPE should have been used during high-contact care activities, such as catheter care, and that hand hygiene should be performed before and after glove use, as well as between glove changes. These lapses in protocol had the potential to spread infection throughout the facility, which had a census of 112 residents at the time of the survey.
Deficiencies in Oxygen Handling and Mechanical Lift Use
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a safe environment free from accident hazards related to the handling and storage of oxygen canisters. Observations revealed that a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) improperly handled oxygen tanks by dragging them across the floor and leaving a half-empty tank outside the storage closet. Interviews with staff, including a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and the Director of Nursing (DON), indicated a lack of clarity and adherence to the facility's policy on oxygen safety and storage. The CNA was not authorized to handle the tanks, and there was confusion about where to store partially used tanks, which could lead to potential safety hazards. Additionally, the facility failed to use a mechanical lift device according to its procedure and manufacturer recommendations when transferring a resident. The resident, who was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living and required a two-person mechanical lift, experienced a fall when the lift tipped over. The incident occurred because the CNA operating the lift had not been properly trained, and the second CNA did not assist with the lift operation as required. The resident was not injured, but the incident highlighted a failure to follow the established procedure for using mechanical lifts. The resident involved in the mechanical lift incident had a history of respiratory distress, cerebral vascular accident, and other medical conditions, making her dependent on staff for care. The incident report and interviews with staff confirmed that the fall was due to improper use of the lift, including not spreading the legs for balance and not locking the shower chair wheels. The lack of proper training and adherence to procedures contributed to the deficiency in providing adequate supervision and safe handling of equipment.
Staffing Deficiencies Lead to Delayed Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient nursing staff to meet the needs of residents, resulting in delayed care for three residents. Resident R251, who had undergone recent orthopedic surgery and was at risk for complications due to incontinence and decreased mobility, experienced a significant delay in receiving assistance after a laxative was administered. Despite calling for help, she was left sitting in feces for approximately 30 minutes before staff arrived to assist her. The family expressed concerns about the inadequate cleaning of her surgical wounds, leading to her being transported to a hospital for further examination. Resident R114, who required catheter and ostomy care, reported excessive wait times for assistance, including a three-hour delay in response to a call light. Observations confirmed that R114 was consistently the last to be served meals, indicating a pattern of delayed care. The resident expressed dissatisfaction with the facility's staffing levels, noting that call lights were not answered promptly and that administrative nurses did not assist with resident care. Resident R718, with moderate cognitive impairment and incontinence issues, also experienced delays in receiving care. During mealtime, the resident was denied assistance to use the bathroom, resulting in an incontinent episode. The resident council meetings and grievance logs further highlighted ongoing issues with untimely call light responses and inadequate staffing. Interviews with staff, including CNAs and LPNs, corroborated these concerns, with staff expressing frustration over being short-staffed and unable to meet residents' needs effectively.
Failure to Report Medication Error and Abuse Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report a significant medication error involving a resident who was administered the wrong medications, resulting in actual harm. The resident, who had a history of cerebral infarction, aortic valve stenosis, hypertension, and hypercholesteremia, was given approximately 14 pills, including medications not prescribed to her. This error led to a change in her condition, causing bradycardia and hypotension, and necessitated her transfer to the Intensive Care Unit for higher-level care. The incident was not reported to the state agency in a timely manner, as required by the facility's policy. Additionally, the facility did not report allegations of sexual abuse within the required timeframe. Two residents were involved in an incident where one resident was found in another's room, receiving oral gratification. The facility's policy mandates that such incidents be reported to the appropriate state agency within two hours if they involve abuse or result in serious bodily injury. However, the incident was not reported until ten days later, indicating a failure to adhere to the reporting requirements. The facility's noncompliance with reporting requirements was identified as causing or having the likelihood to cause serious injury, harm, impairment, or death to residents. The failure to report these incidents promptly and appropriately highlights significant deficiencies in the facility's adherence to federal and state regulations regarding the reporting of patient abuse, neglect, and significant medication errors.
Medication Error and Care Plan Noncompliance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow a comprehensive person-centered care plan for a resident with a history of cerebral infarction, malignant neoplasm, aortic valve stenosis, hypertension, and hypercholesteremia. The care plan included specific instructions to avoid administering nitroglycerin due to severe aortic stenosis and to monitor for symptoms such as chest pain, syncope, dizziness, palpitations, or weakness. Despite these instructions, a significant medication error occurred when the resident was allegedly given the wrong medications, leading to a change in condition characterized by bradycardia and hypotension. On the day of the incident, the resident was preparing for discharge when they reported feeling unwell and having been given approximately 14 pills, including two large blue pills not typically part of their regimen. The resident's family was present and aware of the situation. The resident was subsequently sent to the emergency room and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit with a diagnosis of poisoning by beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist, which was accidental and unintentional. The resident required intravenous glucagon, fluids, and calcium to manage the adverse effects. The facility's failure to report the significant medication error promptly contributed to the immediate jeopardy situation. The error was not reported until a later date, and the facility's noncompliance with reporting requirements was identified as a contributing factor to the harm experienced by the resident. The incident highlighted deficiencies in medication administration practices and the need for adherence to established care plans to prevent similar occurrences.
Significant Medication Error Leads to Resident Harm
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident was free from significant medication errors, resulting in actual harm. On the morning of 9/14/2024, a registered nurse allegedly administered medications to a resident that were not prescribed for her. These medications included allopurinol, amlodipine, Eliquis, ferrous sulfate, Lasix, losartan, metoprolol, oxcarbazepine, potassium chloride, valsartan, and vitamin D3. The resident experienced a change in condition, specifically bradycardia and hypotension, and was subsequently transferred to the hospital's Intensive Care Unit for treatment. The resident involved had a medical history that included cerebral infarction due to embolism, malignant neoplasm of the bronchus or lung, aortic valve stenosis, hypertension, and hypercholesteremia. At the time of the incident, the resident was reported to have a Brief Interview for Mental Status score of 15, indicating no cognitive impairment, and required partial assistance with some activities of daily living. The medication error was discovered when the resident reported dizziness and headache, leading to her being sent to the emergency room. The facility's policy on medication administration was not followed, as medications were allegedly administered that were not prescribed for the resident. The error was not immediately reported, and the facility's failure to adhere to its own medication administration guidelines contributed to the incident. The registered nurse involved denied administering the wrong medications, but the resident and her family reported otherwise, leading to further investigation and confirmation of the error.
Medication Error and Reporting Failures
Penalty
Summary
The facility administration failed to ensure that a resident was free from significant medication errors, which resulted in actual harm. On 9/14/2024, a registered nurse administered incorrect medications to a resident, including allopurinol, amlodipine, Eliquis, ferrous sulfate, Lasix, losartan, metoprolol, oxcarbazepine, potassium chloride, valsartan, and vitamin D3. This error led to a change in the resident's condition, causing bradycardia and hypotension, necessitating a transfer to the hospital and admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of poisoning by beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist - accidental. The administration also failed to report the significant medication error incident in a timely manner, as required by regulations. The incident occurred during the 9:00 a.m. medication pass, but it was not reported within the mandated two-hour timeframe. This delay in reporting was acknowledged by the facility's administrator, who initially did not consider the medication error as an adverse incident that needed to be reported to the State Survey Agency (SSA). Additionally, the facility administration failed to report an allegation of sexual abuse between two residents in a timely manner. The incident occurred on 7/6/2024, but it was not reported until 7/16/2024. The Senior Nurse Consultant confirmed that the facility should have reported the incident on the day it occurred. These failures in reporting and addressing significant incidents highlight deficiencies in the facility's administration and oversight processes.
Latest citations in Georgia
The facility failed to follow its abuse investigation policy when responding to an allegation that a male resident wandered into a female shared room, allegedly sat on a resident’s bed, inappropriately touched her leg, stared at another resident, and opened the bathroom door to watch a third resident brushing her teeth. The allegation was reported by a cognitively intact resident and involved residents with varying levels of cognitive impairment. The investigation, conducted by the Administrator and former DON, relied only on interviews with a RN and a CNA, did not obtain required written, signed, and dated witness statements, and did not include interviews with other residents to assess their sense of safety. Despite these omissions and incomplete documentation, the facility’s final report concluded the allegation was unsubstantiated.
A resident with protein calorie malnutrition and a terminal prognosis was admitted on hospice with corresponding physician orders and a care plan, but hospice services were not coded on either the admission or quarterly MDS assessments. The MDS Coordinator and two MDS LPNs confirmed that, despite the resident receiving hospice care, Section O of both MDS assessments incorrectly indicated the resident was not on hospice, which the Administrator and DON acknowledged resulted in inaccurate MDS data.
Surveyors found that PTAC unit filters in two resident rooms on one hallway were not maintained free of visible grey, fuzzy debris, despite facility policy requiring regular inspection and cleaning or replacement at least every three months. Across multiple observations on different days, the condition of the dirty filters remained unchanged. The Maintenance Director reported he is responsible for monthly cleaning and checks, including spot checks and inspections in construction areas, and did not dispute the observed dust accumulation when shown. The Administrator confirmed that maintenance staff are responsible for monthly PTAC filter cleaning as part of preventative maintenance and acknowledged that this issue could negatively affect residents’ health and well-being.
A resident with intact cognition and known skin integrity risks reported being left on a bedpan for an extended period and not being adequately cleaned by a CNA. The following shift, another CNA found the resident on soiled linens with a blister on the left upper thigh but did not report this new skin issue to the charge nurse or DON. Subsequent documentation showed development of an open area on the thigh associated with pain, and later NP evaluation identified a larger wound requiring sharp excisional debridement. These events show failure to provide adequate incontinent care and to promptly assess and report a new wound, contrary to the facility’s abuse/neglect prevention policy and CNA responsibilities.
A cognitively intact resident with skin-related diagnoses reported delayed and inadequate incontinent care after using a bedpan, describing prolonged waits for staff response and feeling not properly cleaned by a CNA. The next morning, another CNA found feces-soiled linen and a blister on the resident’s left upper thigh, later documented as a new open area. The resident texted the Administrator stating that a CNA had left feces on her and that she had developed a painful blister, but the Administrator did not report this allegation of neglect to the State Survey Agency as required by facility policy.
A resident with lymphedema and identified risk for pressure ulcers developed a new open wound on the upper thigh, documented by a NP with specific wound measurements. Although the existing care plan included interventions to observe and document skin changes, the care plan was not updated to include this new wound. The Wound Care Nurse and the resident confirmed the wound location, while the MDS Coordinator reported not receiving recent weekly wound reports and only recently learning of the wound. The MDS Coordinator confirmed that the care plan had not been revised in real time as required by facility procedures, resulting in a failure to implement care plan interventions for the newly developed pressure ulcer.
The facility did not complete a required Georgia Criminal History Check System (GCHEXS) fingerprint background check for a CNA, as identified during review of ten employee files with a census of eighty residents. The facility’s abuse-prevention policy required criminal background checks for all employment candidates, but there was no documentation of a fingerprint records check for this CNA. The HR manager, who is responsible for background and fingerprint checks and maintaining employee files, confirmed that the GCHEXS fingerprint check had not been conducted, resulting in a deficiency under F-Tag 600.
Surveyors found that four of six resident shower rooms were not kept free of hazards or adequately cleaned. On one floor, razors were on the floor, dirty gloves and a comb were on a shower bed, floors were stained, an opened gallon of bath soap and a bottle of chemical-resistant spray were present, and a razor and hair clippers were in a bag on the floor along with a shower cap and toothbrush. On other floors, surveyors observed multiple opened containers of skin and hair cleaner, conditioner, and skin ointment, along with a strong urine odor. Unit managers and the Environmental Senior Director stated that CNAs were responsible for cleaning after each resident and that environmental services cleaned shower rooms daily, and acknowledged that items should not be left on the floor and that product containers should be closed.
Surveyors found that staff did not follow standard and transmission-based precautions when handling ice on two floors. On one floor, the ice scoop cover on top of the ice machine had visible black specks near the end of the scoop used to dispense ice. On another floor, the ice scoop was observed submerged in ice and water inside the cooler used to serve residents, despite the unit manager acknowledging that the scoop should not be left in the cooler. The Maintenance Director reported that maintenance cleaned and checked ice machines regularly, while nursing staff were responsible for cleaning scoops and covers. The SDC/Infection Control nurse stated that all staff had been in-serviced on hand hygiene and ice scoop protocol, including that scoops should be stored in a holder after use and never left in the ice.
A resident with multiple serious conditions, moderate cognitive impairment, and total dependence for ADLs was placed in bed with side rails intended to assist with positioning, despite the MDS indicating no bed rail use. Facility records showed no evidence of safe rail spacing or regular inspection of the bed and rails. The assigned CNA, who came on duty late in the evening, last saw the resident around the start of the shift and did not check on him again for several hours, relying on the resident to use a call light. In the early morning, the CNA and an RN found the resident partially out of bed, entrapped in the half side rail, requiring multiple staff to free and reposition him. The resident was unresponsive except for moaning, with altered mental status and respiratory failure documented by EMS and the ER, and later expired at the hospital. The facility’s failure to provide required monitoring and to ensure safe side rail use resulted in neglect and Immediate Jeopardy.
Failure to Thoroughly Investigate Allegation of Sexual Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to conduct a thorough investigation of an allegation of sexual abuse in accordance with its policy titled “Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation or Misappropriation-Reporting and Investigating.” The policy required that all allegations be thoroughly investigated, including reviewing documentation and evidence, interviewing any witnesses, interviewing staff on all shifts who had contact with the resident, and completely documenting the investigation, with written, signed, and dated witness statements. A facility-reported incident documented that a male resident was wandering into a female three-bed room, allegedly inappropriately touching one resident, staring at another for a length of time, and then opening the bathroom door and staring at a third female resident while she was brushing her teeth. The allegation was initially reported by a cognitively intact resident (BIMS score 15) and involved another resident with moderate cognitive impairment (BIMS score 8) and a resident with severe cognitive impairment (BIMS score 99). The Administrator reported that the investigation of this incident was conducted by the former DON and herself after the allegation was reported by a RN. She stated that this was not the first time the alleged male resident had wandered into other residents’ rooms and described the allegation as the male resident entering a resident’s room, sitting on the resident’s bed, and allegedly touching the resident’s leg. Staff interviews for the investigation were limited to the RN and a CNA, and the Administrator acknowledged that no written witness statements were obtained, contrary to facility policy. She also confirmed that no additional residents were interviewed to assess their sense of safety following the incident. The facility’s final investigation report concluded that the allegation was unsubstantiated, despite the lack of comprehensive interviews, written statements, and full documentation required by the facility’s abuse investigation policy.
Failure to Accurately Code Hospice Services on MDS Assessment
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure accurate completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) for a resident receiving hospice services. The facility’s policy on Certification of Accuracy of the MDS requires that appropriate health professionals correctly document residents’ medical, functional, and psychosocial problems using the Resident Assessment Instrument. The resident in question was admitted with diagnoses including protein calorie malnutrition and had a care plan dated 01/09/2026 indicating a terminal prognosis and admission to hospice, with a goal to honor advance directives and provide comfort with dignity. Physician’s orders dated 12/09/2025 also included an order to admit the resident to hospice. Despite this, review of the admission MDS and a subsequent quarterly MDS showed that hospice services were not coded in Section O (Special Treatments, Procedures and Programs), even though both assessments documented a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of five, indicating severely impaired cognition. Interviews with the MDS Coordinator and two MDS LPNs confirmed that the resident had been on hospice since admission and that both the admission and quarterly MDS assessments were incorrectly coded as not on hospice. The MDS Coordinator acknowledged that the MDS should present an accurate clinical picture for a given period and stated that this was a clerical error, resulting in CMS not receiving correct hospice coding for the resident. The Administrator and DON stated their expectation that MDS assessments accurately reflect residents’ services and confirmed that failure to code hospice in the MDS results in an inaccurate reflection of the data.
Failure to Maintain Clean PTAC Unit Filters in Resident Rooms
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency related to the facility’s failure to maintain Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) unit filters in a safe, clean condition in two resident rooms on the Sapphire Hallway. The facility’s written policy titled "Instructions" requires that air filters be removed and inspected for cleanliness, washed or replaced if dirty, and at a minimum replaced or thoroughly cleaned every three months. During multiple observations in one room on 3/22/2026, 3/24/2026, and 3/25/2026, the PTAC unit filter was noted to have visible grey, fuzzy debris accumulation, with no change in condition across all three observations. Similar repeated observations on those same dates in another room showed the PTAC unit filter also contained visible grey, fuzzy debris accumulation that remained unchanged. In an interview, the Maintenance Director stated he is responsible for cleaning and checking the PTAC filters monthly, including conducting monthly checks and random inspections in areas where construction is occurring, and confirmed that the maintenance department is responsible for ensuring filters are clean and functioning properly. He also stated that expectations include spot checks of PTAC units. However, during an observation of one of the affected rooms in his presence, dust accumulation was again observed on the PTAC unit filter, and he did not dispute the finding. In a separate interview, the Administrator stated that the maintenance department is responsible for cleaning PTAC filters, which are supposed to be cleaned monthly, and that her expectation is for preventative maintenance to be completed monthly and as needed, noting that a potential negative outcome is the impact on residents’ health and well-being.
Neglect of Incontinent Care and Delayed Wound Reporting Leading to Thigh Wound
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to prevent neglect and to assess and provide timely wound and incontinent care to a cognitively intact resident with known skin integrity risks. The resident, who had diagnoses including a disorder of the skin and subcutaneous tissue and lymphedema, was care planned as being at risk for pressure ulcer development and skin integrity issues, with interventions directing staff to observe, document, and report any changes in skin status. On a night shift, the resident reported being left on a bedpan for approximately an hour and a half. When the CNA on that shift (CNA BB) assisted with post-toileting care, the resident told her she did not feel adequately cleaned; CNA BB did not recheck or further clean the resident and left the room. The next morning, the resident reported burning in the left upper thigh and informed another CNA (CNA EE) that she had not been cleaned well. During morning care, CNA EE found the pad under the resident soiled with feces and wet with urine and observed a blister on the resident’s left upper thigh, but did not report the new blister to the charge nurse or DON. A subsequent Skin Wound Note documented a new open area on the left posterior thigh with the resident reporting pain while sitting on the bedpan. Later, an NP wound care consult documented that the thigh wound had been present for approximately two weeks per nursing report and measured 3.5 cm x 4.0 cm x 0.2 cm, requiring sharp excisional debridement to remove necrotic tissue and decrease bacterial burden. On observation by the surveyor with the Wound Care Nurse, the left upper thigh area was open to air, shiny pink and granular, about the size of a half dollar. These findings demonstrate that the facility did not follow its abuse/neglect prevention policy and CNA job responsibilities to provide necessary care and to report changes in condition, resulting in neglect of incontinent care and delayed wound assessment and treatment for this resident.
Failure to Report Allegation of Neglect to State Survey Agency
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to timely report an allegation of neglect to the State Survey Agency (SSA) as required by its own abuse and neglect reporting policy. The facility’s policy, dated 1/2025, states that any complaint, allegation, observation, or suspicion of resident neglect must be immediately communicated to the Abuse Coordinator and promptly investigated and documented, and that all alleged violations involving mistreatment, abuse, or neglect will be thoroughly investigated under the direction of the Administrator in accordance with state and federal law. Despite this, the Administrator acknowledged that an allegation of neglect reported by a resident was not reported to the SSA. The resident involved was cognitively intact, with a BIMS score of 15, and had diagnoses including a disorder of the skin and subcutaneous tissue and lymphedema. The resident reported that during a night shift she requested assistance for incontinent care after using a bedpan and experienced multiple delays before a CNA assisted her. She stated that when the CNA finally provided care, she did not feel adequately cleaned, and the CNA did not verify cleanliness before leaving. The next morning, another CNA found soiled linen with feces and a blister on the resident’s left upper thigh, which the resident reported as burning. A subsequent skin/wound note documented a new open area on the left posterior thigh. The resident texted the Administrator describing that a CNA had left feces on her and that she had developed a painful blister. The Administrator confirmed receiving this text but did not report the allegation of neglect to the SSA, despite being aware it should have been reported.
Failure to Update and Implement Care Plan for Newly Developed Pressure Ulcer
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a failure to implement and update the care plan for a newly developed pressure ulcer for one resident. The facility’s policy "RAI Care Planning Management" requires a comprehensive, accurate assessment and real-time modification of the care plan when changes occur. The resident was admitted with diagnoses including a disorder of the skin and subcutaneous tissue and lymphedema. A recent MDS quarterly assessment showed the resident was cognitively intact (BIMS 15), at risk for pressure ulcer development, and had no unhealed pressure ulcers at that time. The existing care plan, dated 6/6/2024, identified potential for pressure ulcer development and skin integrity issues related to immobility and lymphedema, with interventions to observe, document, and report changes in skin status, including wound size, stage, and signs of infection. Subsequently, a NP wound report documented a new open wound on the resident’s thigh that had been present for approximately two weeks, with specific measurements recorded. During observation and interview, the Wound Care Nurse and the resident confirmed the wound was on the left upper thigh, which differed from the NP report that referenced the right thigh. The MDS Coordinator reported she previously received weekly wound sheets from the Wound Care Nurse but had not received one in about a month, and that the DON was now responsible for emailing the weekly wound report. She verified that the last wound report she received did not include this resident and stated that new wounds should be discussed in the morning management meeting and the care plan updated in real time. The MDS Coordinator confirmed she only recently became aware of the upper left thigh wound and that the resident’s care plan had not been updated to reflect this new wound, resulting in a failure to implement care plan interventions for the newly developed pressure ulcer.
Failure to Complete Required GCHEXS Fingerprint Check for CNA
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a Georgia Criminal History Check System (GCHEXS) fingerprint check was conducted for one CNA among ten employee files reviewed, despite a census of eighty residents and a written policy requiring criminal background checks for all employment candidates. The policy titled "Freedom of Abuse Abuse Prevention Fast Alert" dated 1/2025 states that, as part of pre-employment screening, all candidates must authorize a criminal background check for conviction of crimes. During record review with the Human Resources Manager (HRM), there was no documentation of a fingerprint records check for CNA BB, and the HRM confirmed that this CNA did not have a GCHEXS fingerprint check conducted. The HRM also stated that she is responsible for background checks, fingerprint checks, reference checks, and maintaining employee files. This failure to complete the required fingerprint background check for CNA BB resulted in noncompliance cited under F-Tag 600. No resident-specific medical histories, conditions, or direct resident care events were described in the report related to this deficiency.
Failure to Maintain Safe and Clean Conditions in Multiple Resident Shower Rooms
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency related to accident hazards and inadequate environmental controls in multiple resident shower rooms. On the 4th floor, observation with the Unit Manager showed four razors on the floor, dirty gloves and a dirty comb on a shower bed, stained/dirty floors, an opened gallon bottle of complete bath soap, and a bottle of chemical resistant spray in the shower room. A razor and hair clippers were found in a black bag on the floor, and a shower cap and toothbrush were lying on the floor. The 4th floor Unit Manager stated that CNAs were supposed to clean up before showering residents and acknowledged that the items found should not be on the floor. The Environmental Senior Director reported that shower rooms were cleaned daily, with responsibilities including cleaning high-touch areas, sweeping and mopping floors, removing linen, and cleaning the area, and stated there had been no complaints about showers not being cleaned. On the 3rd floor, observation with the Unit Manager revealed an open bottle of skin and hair cleaner, an open bottle of conditioner, and an open bottle of skin ointment in the resident shower room. The 3rd floor Unit Manager stated that items in the shower room should be closed and that CNAs were to clean after each resident. On the 2nd floor, observation with the Unit Manager revealed two opened gallon containers of skin and hair cleaner and a strong urine odor in the shower room. The 2nd floor Unit Manager stated that the soap should have a top on it and that CNAs were responsible for cleaning after each resident. These observations and interviews showed that four of six resident shower rooms were not maintained free of hazards and were not cleaned as expected by facility staff, creating the potential for injury and spread of infection as stated in the report.
Improper Ice Scoop Handling and Storage Breaches Infection Control Protocol
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s infection prevention and control program related to improper handling and storage of ice scoops on two of four floors. On the 4th floor, observation of the ice scoop and scoop cover showed black specks near the end of the scoop used to put ice in cups, and the scoop cover was located on top of the ice machine. The 4th floor Unit Manager stated that kitchen staff cleaned the scoops once a week and acknowledged that the scoop should be clean. On the 3rd floor, observation of the ice chest/cooler used to serve residents revealed the ice scoop submerged in ice and water. The 3rd floor Unit Manager later confirmed that the ice scoop was not supposed to be left in the cooler. The Maintenance Director reported that maintenance staff were responsible for cleaning the ice machines, which were checked weekly and monthly, while nursing staff were responsible for cleaning the ice scoops and covers. The Staff Development Coordinator/Infection Control staff stated that all staff had been trained in infection control procedures, including hand hygiene and handling of the ice scoop and holder, and that staff had been educated that the ice scoop should be placed in the scoop holder after use and never left in the ice. Documentation in the maintenance logbook showed monthly checks and cleaning of all four ice machines, and the ice machine cleaning log showed that the ice machines on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors and in the kitchen had been cleaned on specific dates. Staff training records indicated that an in-service on handwashing and ice scoop protocol had been provided for all staff.
Neglect Related to Inadequate Supervision and Unsafe Side Rail Use Leading to Entrapment
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to protect a resident from neglect related to inadequate supervision and oversight of side rail use, resulting in entrapment. Facility policies on Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation required protections to prevent neglect, defined as failure to provide goods and services necessary to avoid physical harm, pain, mental anguish, or emotional distress. The policy on Proper Use of Bed Rails required a person-centered approach, attempts at alternatives before bed rail use, and ensuring correct installation, use, and maintenance of bed rails, including attention to entrapment risk. For this resident, the Medicare 5-day MDS indicated moderate cognitive impairment (BIMS score of 8), total dependence on staff for all ADLs, and documented that bed rails were not used, while an admission assessment documented side rails were placed to assist with movement in bed. Facility records showed no evidence that safe rail spacing and regular inspection of side rails and beds had been completed. The resident had multiple serious medical diagnoses, including acute and subacute infective endocarditis, end stage renal disease, hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction, bacteremia, and cervical disc degeneration, and was dependent on staff for all ADLs. Nursing staff last observed the resident at 12:46 am when a sponge bath was provided; there was no documented monitoring or ADL assistance between 12:46 am and 4:30 am. The assigned CNA reported coming on duty at 11:00 pm, seeing the resident up with the bed in a low position, placing the call light in the resident’s hands, and not seeing or checking the resident again until approximately 4:30–5:00 am, stating that the resident did not press the call light during that time. Around 5:00 am, the CNA requested help from the RN, reporting that the resident needed assistance. The RN found the resident with the lower part of his body hanging off the bed and the upper body still on the bed, with his elbow wedged into the half side rail, requiring three staff to reposition him back into bed. The RN stated the resident, who was quadriplegic, was no longer as alert as when put to bed, did not respond to sternal rubs, had open but unfocused eyes, and was not verbally interactive. The CNA described finding the resident on his knees, all the way out of bed, with one hand tangled in the side rail, and noted that he was moaning but not talking after being returned to bed. Progress notes documented that EMS was called for evaluation and treatment due to the resident’s condition, and hospital ER records indicated he arrived with altered mental status and respiratory failure, agonal respirations, and a GCS of 3. The facility’s Maintenance Director stated bedrails had been checked the prior year but could not provide proof, and requested documentation of safe rail spacing and regular inspection was not provided.
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