Mission Point Nursing & Physical Rehabilitation Ce
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
- Location
- 1095 Medical Park Dr, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506
- CMS Provider Number
- 235366
- Inspections on file
- 21
- Latest survey
- June 25, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 5
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Mission Point Nursing & Physical Rehabilitation Ce during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
The facility did not maintain proper documentation for individual fire alarm device testing and failed to provide current records for bi-annual smoke detector sensitivity testing, as required by NFPA standards. These deficiencies were confirmed during a review of facility records and an interview with maintenance staff.
A deficiency was found when the A Hall Resident Care Supply room door did not self-close to a positive latch as required by LSC 8.7.1.3, leaving a hazardous area inadequately protected according to fire safety standards.
A corridor room door did not close to a positive latch as required, failing to resist the passage of smoke according to LSC standards. This deficiency was confirmed by observation and interview with maintenance staff and could potentially affect multiple occupants in the event of a fire.
A nurse in an LTC facility misappropriated controlled medications prescribed to two residents, diverting them for personal use. The facility's records showed discrepancies in medication destruction, with staff signing off without proper witnessing. Interviews revealed a pattern of non-compliance with medication destruction policies, leading to the nurse's ability to divert medications over time.
The facility failed to maintain professional standards when two residents' controlled medications were misappropriated by a nurse, who falsely documented their destruction. Other staff members signed off on the destruction without witnessing it, trusting the nurse's word. The issue was discovered when police found the medications at the nurse's home, leading to a review of the facility's controlled substance management practices.
A cognitively impaired resident eloped from the facility after being mistakenly allowed to exit by staff who thought he was a visitor. The resident traveled along a busy road before being found by community members and returned to the facility. The facility failed to properly assess and monitor the resident's elopement risk, and staff miscommunication contributed to the incident.
A resident was mistakenly given another resident's medications, including Dilaudid and Gabapentin, due to a mix-up by two LPNs who were unfamiliar with the facility's procedures. The error resulted in the resident becoming unresponsive and requiring ICU hospitalization. The incident was exacerbated by inadequate staff orientation and training, as well as a failure to follow medication administration guidelines.
A medication error occurred when an LPN administered another resident's medications, including opioids, to a resident, resulting in respiratory failure and hospitalization. The error happened due to a failure to verify the resident's identity, as the LPN relied on a first name match without checking further identification. The facility's medication administration policy was not followed, leading to the adverse event.
Two residents in a LTC facility did not receive appropriate care according to their needs. One resident, with a history of dementia and stroke, suffered a fall and later was found to have an undiagnosed hip fracture, with staff failing to manage his pain effectively. Another resident, post-spinal surgery, did not attend necessary follow-up appointments due to the facility's failure to schedule them, leaving spinal precautions unreviewed. These deficiencies highlight lapses in assessment, pain management, and coordination of care.
The facility was cited for not having a qualified Activity Director, leading to a deficiency in the activities program. A CNA on light duty, without prior experience in activities, was temporarily filling in as an activities aide. The facility had been without an Activities Director since mid-May 2024, and the administrator confirmed the use of a light duty CNA for resident activities.
The facility failed to ensure that five CNAs completed the required 12 hours of in-service education, with significant gaps in training across critical categories. Systemic issues in the training process were identified, including incomplete orientation and lack of oversight, despite notifications being sent to employees.
The facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the kitchen, with unlabeled and undated food items found in refrigerators and pantries, and expired yogurts. Physical facility issues included chipping paint, leaking condensate, floor cracks, and a broken dish machine gauge. The Dietary Manager and Regional Dietitian acknowledged lapses in staff adherence to labeling and maintenance protocols.
The facility failed to follow infection prevention standards, including improper labeling of wound dressings, inadequate cleaning of shared equipment, and non-compliance with enhanced barrier precautions for residents with wounds. Additionally, there was no active plan for managing Legionella in the water supply.
The facility failed to maintain an effective training program for nursing department employees, resulting in incomplete trainings in critical areas such as resident rights, abuse, and infection control. Interviews revealed a lack of oversight and accountability, with no staff member tracking training completion and new hire orientation not being conducted as expected.
The facility failed to create person-centered care plans for three residents, resulting in inadequate monitoring of anticoagulant side effects and a chronic skin condition. A resident with atrial fibrillation was prescribed Xarelto without a care plan for side effects, while another on Apixaban also lacked such a plan. Additionally, a resident with a chronic nasal lesion due to untreated skin cancer had no care plan, despite the lesion sometimes bleeding and requiring ointment. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness and documentation regarding these issues.
The facility failed to provide consistent and meaningful activities for residents, resulting in potential negative impacts on their well-being. The absence of an Activities Director and reliance on a CNA on light duty led to a lack of scheduled activities after hours and on weekends. Residents reported dissatisfaction with the lack of engagement and missed activities, and the facility's policy on activities was not being followed.
The facility failed to provide adequate staffing, resulting in prolonged wait times for assistance and unmet care needs for several residents. A resident with significant physical disabilities reported waiting over an hour for call light responses and missing scheduled showers. Another resident experienced extended wait times for incontinence care, leading to discomfort. Resident council members also reported excessive wait times, particularly during night shifts. Interviews with staff confirmed inadequate staffing levels, with CNAs overburdened by high resident-to-staff ratios.
A facility was found to have significant lapses in monitoring and maintaining proper temperatures of personal refrigerators in residents' rooms. The staff failed to consistently check and record temperatures, with multiple instances of refrigerators being kept at unsafe temperatures. The facility's policy was not followed, as evidenced by missing logs and unrecorded temperatures, posing a risk of food safety issues.
A resident with cognitive intactness and mobility issues experienced compromised dignity due to delayed responses to her call light for incontinence care. She reported waiting over an hour on multiple occasions, leading to frustration and anger. Interviews with CNAs indicated insufficient staffing levels, contributing to the delays. Observations confirmed the resident's call light was not promptly answered, despite her care plan indicating her preference for staff assistance with changing briefs.
Two residents experienced psychosocial abuse due to the facility's failure to provide an environment free from restrictions on their autonomy. A resident with a history of substance abuse was restricted from leaving the facility independently, despite being cognitively intact and having a physician's order allowing it. The facility's decision was influenced by family concerns and led to the resident feeling punished and on 'house arrest.' Another resident with dementia was restricted from smoking independently, despite a safe smoking assessment, due to a change in facility policy requiring supervision. These actions resulted in frustration and mental anguish for both residents.
A resident with type 2 diabetes did not receive their prescribed Ozempic medication due to misappropriation. The medication was delivered but not properly secured, leading to missed doses. Staff interviews revealed lapses in medication handling and security, including a propped open medication room door and missing keys.
A facility failed to update a resident's care plan, leading to potential inaccuracies in care interventions. The resident, with significant medical conditions, was unable to leave the property despite physician orders allowing it. The care plan contained conflicting information about smoking and elopement risk, and staff interviews revealed confusion about the resident's status. The unit manager admitted the care plan needed updating.
Two residents in the facility were not consistently provided with showers or bathing assistance, leading to unmet personal hygiene needs. One resident, with multiple health issues, was observed disheveled and unkempt, while another, with mobility impairments, reported not having a proper bath since admission. Staffing challenges and documentation inconsistencies contributed to the deficiency.
A resident with anxiety, depression, and dementia was left in urine for about an hour, raising concerns about skin breakdown. The resident had moisture-associated skin damage upon admission, and subsequent skin sweeps revealed further issues. Despite this, the care plan lacked a urinary toileting program or bladder training. Staff interviews highlighted a lack of awareness and communication regarding the resident's condition and necessary treatments. The facility's incontinence policy, which requires appropriate treatment based on assessments, was not followed.
A facility failed to maintain proper infection control for a resident's BiPAP equipment, leading to potential cross-contamination risks. The resident, with multiple health conditions, reported that staff did not clean or replace her CPAP/BiPAP mask as required, and observations confirmed the mask was improperly stored. Interviews revealed that nursing staff were responsible for these tasks, but they were not consistently performed, violating the facility's infection control policy.
A resident with PTSD and significant medical issues was sent to a psychiatric hospital without a trauma assessment, leading to fear and resistance to care. The facility failed to address her PTSD triggers, resulting in a deficiency in trauma-informed care.
The facility failed to ensure nursing staff competencies were evaluated appropriately, with only 12 out of 50 employees completing their annual evaluations. The DON reported poor attendance at a non-mandatory competency fair, and the NHA confirmed that many evaluations were overdue or incomplete. Additionally, new hire competency evaluations were not conducted as expected.
A facility failed to provide appropriate mental health services to a resident with spinal issues, leading to her being sent to a psychiatric hospital. The resident experienced pain and fear of falling, affecting her therapy participation. Despite no mental health diagnosis, the facility's IDT decided on psychiatric hospitalization due to perceived self-neglect, without conducting a trauma assessment or referring to mental health services. The resident reported distress during her hospital stay, indicating a lack of person-centered care.
A facility failed to follow up on pharmacy recommendations to discontinue certain medications for a resident, despite the physician's agreement. The resident, who was cognitively intact and had a history of multiple conditions, continued to have active orders for Meclizine and Dicyclomine, which were flagged for discontinuation due to their high anticholinergic load. This oversight was acknowledged by the facility's administration and nursing staff.
The facility failed to properly label, date, and store medications, with issues found in a medication room and carts. Temperature logs for a medication refrigerator were incomplete, and several medications lacked proper labeling. Additionally, a medication room door was left open due to a missing key, coinciding with a report of missing medication for a resident.
The facility failed to provide timely vaccinations to two residents, resulting in a deficiency. One resident consented to vaccines but was not offered additional pneumococcal vaccines, while another resident's records showed inconsistencies and delays in vaccine administration despite consent. The DON was unable to explain these discrepancies, indicating a lapse in the facility's vaccination procedures.
The facility failed to educate, offer, and document COVID-19 vaccinations for a resident and staff. A resident's records showed a refusal without a date, conflicting with their consent to receive the vaccine. The DON could not explain the discrepancy. Staff were not educated or offered the vaccine, and their vaccination status was not tracked, contrary to facility policy.
A resident under hospice care with severe cognitive impairment was found with a non-functioning call light, leading to potential delays in emergency response. Observations showed the call light was not consistently within reach, and staff were unaware of the issue until it was pointed out. Monthly inspections were conducted, but immediate reporting and resolution of call light problems were lacking.
A resident at risk for pressure ulcers developed ulcers on both heels due to inadequate care and failure to update the care plan. Despite being identified as at risk, the resident's care plan included only general interventions and was not updated to reflect individual needs. The resident experienced heel pain and pressure-induced deep tissue damage, with missed documentation and inappropriate treatment orders, such as the use of unna boots. Interviews revealed frequent complaints of being wet and soiled, and the resident's care plan did not adequately address the pressure wounds.
Deficient Fire Alarm System Testing and Maintenance Documentation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the fire alarm system was installed, tested, and maintained in accordance with Life Safety Code (LSC) Section 19.3.4.1, 9.6, and NFPA 72. During a review of facility records, it was found that documentation for the testing of fire alarm devices did not include individual device testing by location with a minimum pass or fail result, as required by NFPA 14.6.2.4(7). Additionally, there was no current documentation for the required bi-annual smoke detector sensitivity testing, with the last record dated 12/30/2022, which does not meet the requirements of NFPA 72 14.4.5.3. These findings were confirmed during an interview with a maintenance staff member at the time of the records review.
Plan Of Correction
Element #1: Fire alarm devices have been recorded and tested by location to at a minimum of pass or fail by 07/09/2025 by Boynton Fire Safety Service. Bi-annual smoke detector sensitivity testing has been completed on 07/09/2025 by Boynton Fire Safety Service. Element #2: This deficient practice could potentially affect all occupants in the event of failure to the fire alarm system. Ensure fire alarm system is tested and maintenance in accordance with LSC Section 19.3.4.1, 9.6 and NFPA 72. Element #3: Nursing Home Administrator/designee has completed re-education with the Environmental Services Director on Fire Alarm System policy by the completion date. Element #4: Environmental Services Director/designee will complete audits to ensure that Fire alarm devices have been recorded and tested by location to at a minimum of pass or fail and the smoke detector sensitivity testing gets completed as required. Audits will be completed weekly for four weeks and then monthly thereafter until substantial compliance has been sustained. Results of the audits will be reported to facility QAPI committee for review and recommendations. This plan of correction will be monitored at the routine Quality Assurance (QAPI) meeting until such a time it is identified by the committee that sustained substantial compliance has been achieved.
Hazardous Area Door Failed to Self-Close and Latch
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when the A Hall Resident Care Supply room door was observed not to self-close to a positive latch as required by Life Safety Code (LSC) 8.7.1.3. This observation was made during a facility inspection and confirmed in an interview with a maintenance staff member. The lack of a self-closing, positively latching door in this hazardous area means the area was not properly protected as required for spaces containing combustible or hazardous materials, as outlined in LSC 19.3.2.1. The deficiency was specifically noted in relation to the protection of hazardous areas, which is necessary to prevent the spread of fire and smoke within the facility.
Plan Of Correction
Element #1: A Hall Resident Care Supply room door self-closer has been adjusted. The A Hall Resident Care Supply room door was checked to ensure the door self-closed to a positive latch. Element #2: This deficient practice has the potential to affect 15 occupants of the facility in the event of a fire not being contained to the hazardous area. Hazardous area doors in the facility have been checked and verified that they self-close to a positive latch. Doors that did not self-close to a positive latch were fixed at the time of the audit. Element #3: Nursing Home Administrator/designee has completed re-education with the Environmental Service Director on the Fire and Smoke Doors policy by the completion date. Element #4: Environmental Services Director/designee will complete audits on hazardous area doors to ensure they self-close to a positive latch. Audits will be completed weekly for four weeks and then monthly thereafter until substantial compliance is sustained. Results of the audits will be reported to facility QAPI committee for review and recommendations. This plan of correction will be monitored at the routine Quality Assurance (QAPI) meeting until such a time it is identified by the committee that sustained substantial compliance has been achieved. The Nursing Home Administrator is responsible for attaining and maintaining compliance.
Corridor Door Failed to Latch and Resist Smoke Passage
Penalty
Summary
During an inspection, it was observed that the corridor room door at resident room #20 did not close to a positive latch as required by Life Safety Code (LSC) 19.3.6.3.5. The door failed to meet the standard for resisting the passage of smoke, which is necessary for corridor doors in areas other than required enclosures of vertical openings, exits, or hazardous areas. The deficiency was identified through direct observation and confirmed in an interview with a maintenance staff member at the time of the inspection. The report specifies that the door in question did not provide the required positive latching hardware, which is essential for ensuring the door remains closed and can resist smoke passage. This failure was noted as a violation of the applicable regulations and could potentially affect 15 occupants in the event of a fire not being contained to the smoke compartment. No additional details about the medical history or condition of the residents in the affected room were provided in the report.
Plan Of Correction
The Nursing Home Administrator is responsible for attaining and maintaining compliance. Element #1: The corridor room door at resident room #20 has been repaired. Resident room #20 door has been checked to ensure the door closed to a positive latch. Element #2: This deficient practice could potentially affect 15 occupants of the facility in the event of a fire not being contained to the smoke compartment. Resident room doors in the facility have been checked and verified that they close to a positive latch. Any doors that did not close to a positive latch were fixed at the time of the audit. Element #3: Nursing Home Administrator/designee has completed re-education with the Environmental Services Director on the Fire and Smoke Doors policy to a positive latch by the completion date. Element #4: Environmental Services Director/designee will audit to ensure resident room doors close to a positive latch. Audits will be completed for 10 random resident rooms weekly for four weeks and then monthly thereafter until substantial compliance has been sustained. Results of the audits will be reported to facility QAPI committee for review and recommendations. This plan of correction will be monitored at the routine Quality Assurance (QAPI) meeting until such a time it is identified by the committee that sustained substantial compliance has been achieved. The Nursing Home Administrator is responsible for attaining and maintaining compliance.
Misappropriation of Resident Medications by Nurse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prevent the misappropriation of resident medications by a licensed nurse, RN M, who diverted controlled medications for personal use. This incident involved two residents, Resident #109 and Resident #110, whose medications were found in RN M's home. The local police discovered narcotic medications, including Lorazepam, Oxycodone, and Tramadol, prescribed to these residents, during an investigation at RN M's residence. The facility's records indicated discrepancies in the destruction of these medications, with RN M and other staff members signing off on the destruction without proper witnessing or verification. Interviews with staff members revealed a pattern of non-compliance with the facility's policy on medication destruction. LPN K and RN H admitted to signing off on the destruction of narcotic medications without witnessing the process, trusting RN M's word that the medications had been destroyed. This breach of protocol was not reported to management, despite the staff's awareness that it was against professional standards and facility policy. The Controlled Substance Proof-Of-Use Records showed inconsistencies, with medications marked as destroyed but later found in RN M's possession. The facility's failure to adhere to its medication destruction policy and the lack of oversight allowed RN M to misappropriate medications over an extended period. The incident highlights the vulnerability of the facility's medication management system, as the lack of proper witnessing and verification procedures enabled the diversion of controlled substances. The facility's response included suspending involved staff members and initiating re-education, but the deficiency itself stemmed from inadequate adherence to established protocols and insufficient monitoring of medication handling processes.
Misappropriation of Controlled Medications
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain professional standards of nursing care, as evidenced by the misappropriation of controlled medications involving two residents. Licensed nurses falsely documented the destruction of narcotic medications, which were later found in the possession of a registered nurse (RN M) at their home. The incident was discovered when the local police informed the Director of Nursing (DON B) about the medications found at RN M's residence, leading to a full narcotic count and pain assessments for all residents in the facility. The investigation revealed discrepancies in the Controlled Substance Proof-Of-Use Records for the affected residents. For Resident #109, records showed that Lorazepam and Tramadol tablets were falsely documented as destroyed by RN M, with LPN K witnessing the destruction without actually seeing the medications. Similarly, for Resident #110, Oxycodone tablets were falsely documented as destroyed by RN M, with RN H witnessing the destruction without verifying the medications. Both LPN K and RN H admitted to signing off on medication destruction without witnessing it, trusting RN M's word instead of following facility policy. Further observations during the survey indicated ongoing issues with the controlled substance count process. The Controlled Substance Shift Inventory record was not properly signed by both outgoing and oncoming nurses, as required. LPN L admitted to not signing the record at the start of her shift, and UM C and DON B confirmed that the process was not being followed correctly, indicating a lack of adherence to the facility's policies for controlled substance management.
Failure to Prevent Resident Elopement Due to Staff Miscommunication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prevent the elopement of a cognitively impaired resident, identified as Resident #305, who was mistakenly allowed to exit the facility by staff. On the evening of 6/13/2024, Resident #305, who had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score indicating severe cognitive impairment, was let out of the facility by an LPN who mistook him for a visitor. The resident then traveled on foot along a busy road, posing a significant risk to his safety. This incident resulted in an Immediate Jeopardy situation, as the resident was found by community members and returned to the facility by staff who were searching for him. The facility's failure to properly assess and monitor Resident #305's risk for elopement contributed to the incident. The resident's admission assessment did not identify him as at risk for elopement, despite his cognitive impairment and history of wandering behaviors. Additionally, the facility's elopement and wandering residents policy, which requires systematic monitoring and management of residents at risk for elopement, was not effectively implemented. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness and communication regarding the resident's status, leading to the mistaken assumption that he was a visitor. Further investigation revealed that the facility did not have adequate procedures in place to ensure the safety of residents at risk for elopement. The facility's admission process failed to capture critical information about the resident's elopement behaviors from the hospital, and there was a lack of coordination among staff to address potential risks. The facility's oversight in conducting daily door alarm checks also contributed to the deficiency, as several days were missed, compromising the security measures intended to prevent such incidents.
Removal Plan
- R305 was placed on a 1:1 supervision upon return to the facility.
- Employee placed on administrative leave. Upon return from administrative leave, this staff member was provided 1:1 education on the elopements and wandering residents policy.
- All newly admitted residents that have a guardian or activated DPOA were identified as being at risk for this deficient practice.
- All resident's elopement risk assessments reviewed and any identified elopement risks residents that were currently residing in the facility were reviewed to ensure appropriate interventions were in place.
- External door checks were completed by the Administrator.
- All-staff re-education was initiated.
- Education was completed to all-staff on elopement and wandering residents policy was initiated; any facility staff member and agency staff member who did not receive education will receive education prior to the start of their next shift. All facility staff and agency staff who were present at the time of the incident were immediately educated. All facility staff and agency staff have completed the necessary required education. Education is completed for all new hires prior to their next shift.
- Administrator/designee audited daily door alarms checks to ensure proper functioning of the egress and wander guard system. The audits have been conducted weekly for four weeks and then monthly for two months.
- Elopement drill has been completed.
- Director of Nursing/designee audited new admission elopement risk assessments to ensure proper interventions have been placed if a resident triggers as an elopement risk and to verify a wander guard is in place for the first 7-days if the resident has a legal decision maker. The audit has been conducted weekly for four weeks and then monthly for two months.
Medication Error Leads to Immediate Jeopardy
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents were free from significant medication errors, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy situation. On the morning of May 23, 2024, a resident, identified as R404, was mistakenly administered medications intended for another resident, R7. This error occurred when LPN WW prepped the medications and handed them to LPN XX, who then administered them to R404 instead of R7. The medications included potent drugs such as Dilaudid and Gabapentin, which led to R404 becoming unresponsive and requiring hospitalization in the ICU. The incident was compounded by a lack of proper orientation and training for the nursing staff involved. LPN WW, who had been working at the facility for just over a month, was still in her orientation phase and was paired with LPN XX, an agency nurse on his first day at the facility. Both nurses were unfamiliar with the residents and the facility's procedures, leading to the critical error. LPN WW admitted to pulling medications and having LPN XX administer them, a practice that deviated from standard medication administration protocols. The facility's failure to adhere to its own medication administration guidelines, which emphasize the Five Rights of medication administration, contributed to the error. Additionally, there was a lack of proper identification measures, such as wristbands or room identifiers, which could have prevented the mix-up. The incident highlighted significant lapses in the facility's training and orientation processes, as well as in the execution of medication administration protocols.
Removal Plan
- Newly hired nurses to only be assigned to follow facility nurses.
- Medication Administration Guidelines policy was reviewed by the administrator and Director of Nursing and deemed appropriate.
- Medication Administration - General Guideline to be followed at each medication pass.
- Daily schedules were reviewed by the DON and scheduler to ensure appropriate nurse orientation practice is occurring.
- Education was completed to nurses on medication administration-general guidelines; any facility staff member and agency staff member who did not receive education will receive education prior to the start of their next shift. All facility staff and agency staff who were present at the time of the incident were immediately educated. All facility staff and agency staff have completed the necessary required education. Education is completed for all new hires prior to their first shift.
- Medication administration audits began and were completed weekly x 2 weeks then monthly x 2 months to ensure the Medication Administration Guidelines were being completed.
- DON completed daily schedule audits when there was a nurse on orientation to ensure that they are scheduled with a facility nurse - ongoing.
- NHA/designee began to complete resident identifiers audits to ensure there was a picture uploaded to PCC (electronic medical records) and room is identified with the resident name once weekly x 2 weeks then monthly x 2 months.
- Results of audits have been reviewed with the QAA committee to ensure compliance and any further recommendations.
- Additional education provided on the Medication Administration - General Guidelines policy to 8 out of 21 licensed nurses, including licensed agency nurses. All licensed nurses including agency nurses will have education on the Medication Administration - General Guidelines policy completed prior to the beginning of their next shift.
Medication Error Leads to Resident Hospitalization
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to professional standards of practice for medication administration, resulting in a significant medication error involving two residents. One resident, identified as R404, was mistakenly given another resident's medications, including opioids, which led to respiratory failure and required hospitalization for life-sustaining treatment. The error occurred when LPN WW prepared medications for R7 but handed them to LPN XX, who administered them to R404 without verifying the resident's identity. The incident unfolded as LPN WW and LPN XX worked together, with LPN WW preparing medications and LPN XX administering them. LPN XX was given the medications intended for R7 and was told the resident's first name, which was the same as R404's. Without confirming the last name or checking identification, LPN XX administered the medications to R404, who had already received his own medications earlier. R404, who was cognitively intact, expressed confusion but ultimately took the medications after LPN XX insisted they were his. The facility's policy on medication administration was not followed, as the medications were not verified against the resident's identification, and the person who prepared the medications did not administer them. This breach of protocol led to R404 experiencing an overdose, requiring multiple doses of Narcan and hospitalization. The facility's failure to ensure the right resident received the right medication directly contributed to the adverse event experienced by R404.
Failure to Provide Appropriate Care and Follow-Up for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate care for two residents, resulting in significant deficiencies. Resident #27, a male with a history of dementia, stroke, and other medical conditions, experienced a fall from his wheelchair, leading to a laceration on his left eyebrow. Despite the fall, the resident did not receive a thorough assessment for potential injuries, particularly to his right hip, which was later found to have an intertrochanteric fracture of unknown origin. The resident had been complaining of increased pain in his right leg, but the facility's staff did not adequately address these complaints, leading to a delay in diagnosing the fracture. Interviews with staff revealed that the resident's pain was not properly managed, and his behaviors were misinterpreted, resulting in inadequate care. Resident #406, a female with spinal stenosis and a history of spinal surgery, did not attend follow-up appointments with her spinal surgeon as required. The Health Information Coordinator (HIC) failed to schedule these appointments, despite discharge instructions indicating the need for follow-up care. The resident had been back in the facility for approximately two weeks without seeing the spinal surgeon, and the Therapy Director confirmed that spinal precautions should remain in place until reviewed by the surgeon. The Director of Nursing confirmed that it was the HIC's responsibility to schedule these appointments, highlighting a lapse in the facility's coordination of care. These deficiencies demonstrate a failure in the facility's processes to ensure residents receive care in accordance with their needs and medical conditions. The lack of timely assessments and follow-up care for both residents resulted in prolonged pain and potential complications. The facility's staff did not adequately communicate or act upon the residents' needs, leading to significant oversights in their care.
Lack of Qualified Activity Director
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to employ a qualified Activity Director, which resulted in a deficiency related to the activities program. The deficiency was identified through observations, interviews, and record reviews. A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) on light duty was temporarily filling in as an activities aide, despite lacking prior experience in activities. The CNA reported not having attendance sheets and documented activities in the electronic medical record. The facility had been without an Activities Director since mid-May 2024, and the administrator confirmed that a light duty CNA was being used to conduct activities for the residents.
Deficiency in CNA In-Service Training Completion
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that five reviewed certified nurse assistants (CNAs) completed the required 12 hours of in-service education, which is essential for maintaining performance standards and ensuring resident safety. The Education Spreadsheet for 2024, provided by the Director of Nursing (DON), showed significant gaps in training completion across various critical categories, including abuse, compliance, infection control, quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI), resident rights, and communication. None of the five CNAs reviewed (CNA H, CNA I, CNA O, CNA P, and CNA ZZ) completed all the assigned training, with some not completing any training at all. Interviews with facility staff, including the DON and the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA), revealed systemic issues in the training process. The facility relied on computer-based training assigned during new hire orientation and annually thereafter. However, the second day of orientation, which was supposed to include these trainings, was not being completed as expected. Additionally, there was no staff member dedicated to tracking the completion of the 12-hour in-service requirement, leading to a lack of oversight. Despite notifications being sent to employees about their training assignments, the CNAs did not complete the required courses, as confirmed by interviews with CNAs X and ZZ.
Sanitation and Maintenance Deficiencies in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the kitchen, which could potentially spread foodborne illness to all residents consuming food from the kitchen. During an initial tour, several food items in the reach-in and walk-in refrigerators were found without proper labeling and dating, including salami sandwiches, lettuce and tomato slices, a pitcher of juice, macaroni noodles, BBQ pork, sour cream, and waffle fries. The Dietary Manager acknowledged that staff are supposed to label and date leftover foods but admitted to having to constantly remind them to do so. Additionally, expired yogurts and improperly stored food items were found in the A and B side pantries, with the Regional Dietitian stating that staff should check these units daily and follow expiration guidelines. Further observations revealed physical facility issues, including gray chipping paint inside a metal drawer for clean utensil scoops, leaking condensate from the overhead ventilation system, cracks and open pits on the floor near the three-compartment sink, and a broken temperature gauge on the dish machine. The Regional Dietitian confirmed the presence of debris accumulation and the use of a thermometer to check the dish machine's temperature. These findings indicate a lack of adherence to the 2017 FDA Food Code and the facility's own food storage policy, which requires proper labeling, dating, and maintenance of physical facilities.
Infection Control Deficiencies in LTC Facility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to infection prevention standards, as evidenced by multiple observations and interviews. One resident, identified as R7, had a wound dressing on his right elbow that was not labeled or dated, which is against the facility's protocol for infection control. The dressing was observed on multiple occasions without proper labeling, and staff acknowledged the oversight. Additionally, a soiled elbow pad with blood was found on the floor of R7's room, which was not addressed by the staff, posing a risk of infection. Another issue was the improper handling of resident-shared equipment. An LPN was observed using a vital sign machine on a resident without cleaning it afterward, despite the facility's policy requiring disinfection after each use. The LPN did not have disinfectant wipes readily available, and there was confusion about where to store them, indicating a lapse in infection control practices. The facility also failed to implement enhanced barrier precautions for residents with wounds or indwelling medical devices. For instance, Resident #23, who required such precautions, was assisted by staff who did not don the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) during high-contact care activities. This non-compliance with enhanced barrier precautions was confirmed through interviews with staff and observations of care practices. Additionally, the facility lacked an active plan for managing Legionella and other pathogens in the water supply, as there was no regular sampling or team meetings to review the water management plan.
Deficiency in Staff Training Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective training program for its nursing department employees, which included essential trainings in areas such as resident rights, abuse, neglect, exploitation, quality assurance, infection control, compliance and ethics, and communication. The Education Spreadsheet 2024 revealed significant gaps in training completion, with numerous employees lacking recorded completion dates across various training categories. Specifically, 10 employees had not completed abuse training, 15 had not completed compliance training, 12 had not completed infection control training, 23 had not completed QAPI training, 18 had not completed resident rights training, and 13 had not completed communication training. Interviews with the Director of Nursing (DON) and the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) revealed that there was no staff member assigned to track the completion of required trainings, and the expected in-person facility training during new hire orientation was not being completed as planned. Additionally, several Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) had not completed their assigned required trainings, with some not completing any trainings at all. Despite being notified by email about the trainings, the staff did not complete them, indicating a lack of oversight and accountability in the training process.
Failure to Develop Person-Centered Care Plans for Anticoagulant Monitoring and Skin Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop person-centered care plans for three residents, leading to inadequate monitoring of anticoagulant medication side effects and a known skin condition. Resident #34, diagnosed with dementia, atrial fibrillation, and cerebral infarction, was prescribed Xarelto for atrial fibrillation but lacked a care plan to monitor for bleeding or bruising, which are potential side effects of the medication. Similarly, Resident #49, with a history of atrial fibrillation and deep vein thrombosis, was prescribed Apixaban but also did not have a care plan addressing the monitoring of anticoagulant side effects, despite the physician's order to do so. Resident #6, who had a chronic lesion on her nose due to untreated skin cancer, did not have a care plan addressing the lesion, which sometimes bleeds. The lesion was noted during an observation, and interviews with staff revealed a lack of awareness and documentation regarding the condition. The resident's guardian had declined further treatment, and the lesion was managed with antibiotic ointment when it bled. The Director of Nursing acknowledged the need for a care plan and orders to monitor the wound, but these were not in place at the time of the survey.
Inadequate Activity Program for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide consistent, meaningful, and person-centered activities for six residents, leading to potential negative impacts on their well-being. The report highlights that the facility did not have an Activities Director since mid-May 2024, and activities were being managed by a CNA on light duty, who lacked experience in activities. This resulted in a lack of scheduled activities after 4:00 PM, on weekends, and no outings for the months of May, June, and July 2024. Additionally, there were no individualized activities observed during the survey period, and scheduled activities were often canceled without replacements. Resident #11, a male with diagnoses including dementia and major depressive disorder, reported staying in his room most of the time due to a lack of activities that interested him, such as woodworking or building model cars. He also mentioned that the facility did not provide him with books or magazines, and he expressed a desire for outdoor activities like fishing. Resident #12, a female with cognitive communication deficit and other health issues, reported that a scheduled Bingo game was not conducted by staff, and another resident had to run it. She expressed interest in activities like coloring and playing games, but these were not consistently provided. Resident #17, a male with multiple health issues, reported that there were no activities staff after 4:00 PM or on weekends, and the facility had not replaced the activities aides who were let go due to budget cuts. Resident #40, a female with Alzheimer's disease, also reported that activities were not being conducted as scheduled. Resident #406 had no care plan for activities, and no Recreation Assessment was completed. Resident #34, with dementia and major depressive disorder, expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of engagement in activities and reported missing scheduled activities due to lack of reminders. The facility's policy on activities was not being followed, as it stated that activities should support residents' physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being, which was not observed during the survey.
Inadequate Staffing Leads to Delayed Care and Unmet Needs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient staffing to meet the needs of several residents, resulting in prolonged wait times for assistance and unmet care needs. Resident #2, who has significant physical disabilities, reported waiting over an hour for staff to respond to call lights and missing scheduled showers due to staffing shortages. Similarly, Resident #15, who is dependent on a wheelchair and has severe obesity, experienced extended wait times for incontinence care, leading to discomfort and frustration. These issues were corroborated by observations and interviews with staff, who confirmed that staffing levels were inadequate to meet the residents' needs. Resident #17 and other members of the resident council also reported excessive wait times for call lights to be answered, particularly during night shifts. The resident council minutes from several months highlighted ongoing concerns about staffing levels and call light response times, with specific mentions of inadequate staffing on certain shifts. Interviews with CNAs and the Director of Nursing revealed that staffing levels were often below the required numbers, with CNAs being overburdened with high resident-to-staff ratios, leading to delays in care provision. Additional issues were noted with Resident #304 and Resident #406, who both reported being left in soiled conditions for extended periods due to insufficient staff availability. Resident #406, who requires significant assistance due to spinal issues, had not received a proper shower or bath for weeks. Interviews with staff indicated that the facility did not use agency staff for CNAs, further exacerbating the staffing shortages. The facility's assessment revealed a high number of residents requiring assistance with daily activities, yet the staffing did not reflect the acuity and needs of the residents, contributing to the deficiencies observed.
Failure to Maintain Proper Refrigerator Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility was found to have significant lapses in monitoring and maintaining the proper temperatures of personal refrigerators in residents' rooms. During observations, it was noted that there were no visible temperature logs in the rooms, and the staff did not consistently monitor the refrigerators. In one instance, a refrigerator was found with a thermometer reading 46 degrees, indicating a failure to maintain the required temperature. The staff, including a Dietary Aide, admitted to not consistently checking the refrigerators, and there were significant gaps in the documentation of temperature checks. The facility's policy requires daily checks and recording of temperatures, but these were not consistently followed, as evidenced by missing logs and unrecorded temperatures. The facility's records showed repeated failures to maintain the required temperatures, with multiple instances of refrigerators being recorded at temperatures above the safe threshold of 41 degrees. The logs from May, June, and July 2024 showed significant lapses in monitoring, with many instances of missed checks and recorded temperatures that were too high. The staff's failure to maintain proper records and the lack of consistent checks on the refrigerators posed a risk of food safety issues, as the facility's policy was not adhered to. The facility's staff, including the Dietary Manager, acknowledged the lapses in maintaining the refrigerators and the lack of consistent checks, which could potentially lead to food safety issues.
Resident Dignity Compromised Due to Delayed Incontinence Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the dignity of a resident, identified as Resident #15, who was cognitively intact and had diagnoses including muscle weakness, dependence on a wheelchair, and morbid obesity. The deficiency was identified through observations, interviews, and record reviews. Resident #15 reported multiple instances of having to wait for extended periods, sometimes over an hour, for her call light to be answered when she required incontinence care. This delay in response led to the resident sitting in a wet and soiled brief, causing feelings of frustration and anger. The resident documented specific dates when these delays occurred, highlighting the ongoing nature of the issue. Interviews with Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) revealed that staffing levels were insufficient to meet the needs of the residents, with one CNA reporting an assignment of about 14 residents per shift. Observations confirmed that Resident #15's call light was not promptly answered, with one instance where the call light was on for about 10 minutes before being addressed. The resident's care plan indicated her preference to use bariatric disposable briefs and notify staff when she needed to be changed, yet the facility's failure to respond promptly to her needs compromised her dignity and well-being.
Facility Fails to Provide Abuse-Free Environment for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide an environment free from psychosocial abuse for two residents, resulting in feelings of frustration, mental anguish, and a loss of autonomy. Resident #2, who is cognitively intact and has a history of substance abuse, was restricted from leaving the facility independently due to safety concerns. Despite having a physician's order allowing therapeutic leave of absence and independent smoking, the facility placed a wander guard on his wheelchair and revoked his leave privileges. This decision was influenced by the resident's family and provider's concerns about his safety and substance abuse history. The resident expressed feelings of being on 'house arrest' and reported that he was being punished by not being allowed to leave the facility. Resident #2's situation was further complicated by the facility's communication with his family, who were pursuing guardianship. The facility's interdisciplinary team decided to revoke his leave privileges due to safety concerns and alleged illicit drug use. Despite being his own medical decision-maker, Resident #2 was informed that leaving the facility would be considered against medical advice (AMA), and he would not be allowed to return. The facility also began the process of involuntary discharge, which added to the resident's distress and feelings of being trapped. Resident #36, who has dementia and other medical conditions, was also restricted from smoking independently despite having a safe smoking assessment that allowed it. The facility changed the rules, requiring him to be accompanied by a responsible person, even though he had been smoking independently for 18 months. The resident's guardian had given permission for him to sign himself out to smoke, but the facility imposed additional restrictions, citing safety concerns. This change in policy led to the resident feeling blocked from going outside, contributing to his frustration and loss of autonomy.
Misappropriation of Resident's Diabetes Medication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prevent the misappropriation of medications for Resident #36, who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and was cognitively intact. The resident's diabetes medication, Ozempic, was not administered as prescribed, resulting in missed doses on multiple occasions. The medication was supposed to be delivered and administered weekly, but records indicated missed doses on 4/23/24, 4/30/24, 5/2/24, and 5/9/24. This failure led to a delay in the treatment of the resident's diabetes. The issue began when the pharmacy delivered a tote of medications on 5/1/24, which included Resident #36's Ozempic. LPN R verified the delivery but mistakenly left the medication in the tote when transferring it to another hall. RN MM, who was informed of the delivery, did not have time to put away all the medications and later denied seeing the Ozempic. During an investigation, UM W found the empty box of Ozempic in the B hall medication room, indicating that the syringes were missing. Further interviews revealed that the B hall medication room door was propped open for several hours on the day of the delivery, and there were issues with missing keys. Despite the delivery being verified by LPN R, the medication was not properly secured, leading to its misappropriation. Resident #36 confirmed missing several doses of the medication and stated that no authorization was given for its use by others.
Failure to Revise Resident Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to revise the care plan for a resident, resulting in the potential for inaccurate care interventions. The resident, who had diagnoses including acquired absence of both legs above the knee and paraplegia, was cognitively intact with a BIMS score of 13/15. Despite having physician orders allowing therapeutic leave of absence and independent smoking, the resident reported being unable to leave the property and having a tracker on their power wheelchair. The care plan included conflicting information, such as the resident's ability to smoke independently and the use of a nicotine patch for smoking cessation, as well as the presence of a wander guard related to behavioral symptoms. The facility's records showed inconsistencies in the resident's elopement risk assessment and inclusion in the elopement book, which was not updated to reflect the resident's current status. Interviews with staff revealed confusion about the resident's elopement risk and smoking status, with some staff indicating the resident should be in the elopement book while others stated the resident was not an elopement risk. The unit manager acknowledged that the care plan contained conflicting information and needed updating, highlighting the facility's failure to maintain accurate and current care plans for the resident.
Failure to Provide Consistent Bathing Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to consistently provide showers and bathing assistance to two residents, resulting in unmet personal hygiene needs. Resident #27, a male with multiple diagnoses including dementia and stroke, was observed on two occasions appearing disheveled, with uncombed hair and an untrimmed beard. His care plan indicated a preference for morning showers twice a week, but observations suggested these were not being consistently provided. Resident #406, a female with spinal stenosis and other mobility impairments, reported not having received a shower or full bed bath since her admission. Despite being cognitively intact, she expressed that it was very important for her to choose her bathing method. Observations and interviews revealed her hair was unkempt and had not been washed for 4-6 weeks. She was dependent on staff for bathing assistance, yet reported only minimal washing had been done. Interviews with staff, including CNAs and hospice aides, highlighted issues with staffing levels and documentation practices. CNA N reported being responsible for 15 residents and often working alone, which impacted her ability to complete all tasks, including showers. The facility's policy required documentation of bathing and refusals in the medical record, but inconsistencies in practice were noted, contributing to the deficiency in care.
Inadequate Incontinence Care for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate incontinence care for Resident #304, who was admitted with diagnoses of anxiety, depression, and dementia. The resident was cognitively intact and expressed concerns about being left in urine for about an hour, which she feared could lead to skin breakdown. Upon admission, the resident had moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) to her buttocks and groin area, and subsequent weekly skin sweeps revealed an open area and rash/excoriation. Despite these findings, the resident's care plan did not include a urinary toileting program or bladder training to address her frequent incontinence. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of awareness and communication regarding the resident's skin condition and necessary treatments. The Unit Manager was unaware of the open area noted in a skin sweep, and the LPN who conducted the sweep could not recall if a treatment was initiated. The resident's care plan failed to address incontinence care adequately, and no treatment was ordered for the MASD upon admission. Additionally, the Therapy Director confirmed that therapy did not assist with the resident's bladder incontinence or staff training. The facility's incontinence policy mandates appropriate treatment and services based on comprehensive assessments, which were not provided in this case.
Inadequate Infection Control for BiPAP Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection control practices for a resident using a BiPAP machine, leading to a potential risk of cross-contamination and transmission of disease. The resident, who had diagnoses including heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and asthma, reported that staff did not clean her CPAP/BiPAP mask after use and did not replace the mask as required. Observations confirmed that the mask was left on the nightstand without a barrier or bag, contrary to the facility's protocol. The resident also reported having to ask staff to fill the distilled water tank and that her sister assisted her in changing the tubing, indicating a lack of adherence to the care plan and orders. Interviews with the Unit Manager revealed that the responsibility for cleaning the CPAP/BiPAP mask and filling the water reservoir lay with the nursing staff, who were expected to perform these tasks daily. However, the resident's reports and observations indicated that these tasks were not consistently performed. The facility's policy required daily cleaning of the mask with an approved disinfecting solution and proper storage in a mesh bag or approved container, which was not followed. This lack of compliance with established procedures for respiratory equipment maintenance resulted in a deficiency in infection control practices.
Failure to Provide Trauma-Informed Care for Resident with PTSD
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to identify and address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) triggers for a resident, leading to a deficiency in trauma-informed care. The resident, who had a history of trauma and pertinent medical diagnoses including spinal stenosis and lumbar vertebra fractures, was sent to a psychiatric hospital in another state. During her stay, she experienced significant fear due to the behavior of a male resident in the adjacent room, which exacerbated her anxiety and fear of harm. This situation was not adequately addressed by the facility, as they did not conduct a trauma assessment or develop a care plan to mitigate these triggers. Interviews with facility staff revealed a lack of appropriate actions to support the resident's mental health needs. The Social Service Director admitted to not completing a trauma assessment before or after the resident's psychiatric hospitalization. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that the facility did not explore alternative, less restrictive services before sending the resident to a psychiatric hospital for declining care. The resident's ex-husband and roommate provided insights into her history of trauma and behaviors, which were not sufficiently considered in her care plan. The resident's fear and resistance to care were further compounded by her physical condition, including numbness and weakness in her extremities, which made her reluctant to participate in therapy and care activities. Despite being cognitively intact, the resident's needs were not met, leading to a decline in her physical condition, including the reopening of a surgical wound and the development of an open area on her bottom. The facility's failure to provide trauma-informed care and address the resident's PTSD triggers resulted in a deficiency that could potentially lead to re-traumatization.
Deficiency in Nursing Staff Competency Evaluations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that nursing staff were evaluated for appropriate competencies and skill sets, which could potentially impact the residents' ability to maintain their highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. The Director of Nursing (DON) reported that a competency fair was held for nursing employees, but attendance was not mandatory, resulting in poor participation. Additionally, the facility lacked a dedicated staff development role, leaving the responsibility to the DON. A review of an untitled spreadsheet revealed that out of 50 nursing department employees, only 12 had completed their annual competency evaluations for 2024, while the remaining 38 were either overdue or incomplete. The Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) confirmed that annual competencies and performance reviews were expected to be completed, but many were found to be overdue, missing, or incomplete. Furthermore, new hire competency evaluations, which were supposed to be completed on the second day of orientation, were not being conducted as expected. This lack of adherence to competency evaluation protocols highlights a significant deficiency in ensuring that nursing staff possess the necessary skills to provide optimal care for residents.
Failure to Provide Appropriate Mental Health Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate mental health treatment and services for a resident, resulting in the resident being sent to a psychiatric hospital, which caused psychosocial distress and fear. The resident, who had a history of spinal stenosis, lumbar vertebra fractures, and recent spinal surgery, was admitted for subacute rehabilitation. Despite having no documented mental health diagnoses, the resident was sent to a psychiatric hospital due to perceived self-neglect and risk to herself and others, as determined by the facility's interdisciplinary team (IDT). The resident experienced significant pain and fear of falling, which affected her participation in therapy and care. She was resistant to therapy due to numbness in her extremities and fear of falling, which was documented by therapy staff. The resident's surgical wound began to open, and she developed an infection due to declining incontinence care and basic hygiene. Despite these issues, the facility did not conduct a trauma assessment or refer the resident to mental health services before deciding on psychiatric hospitalization. Interviews with facility staff revealed that the resident was not approached for mental health support, and the social service director did not contact the contracted mental health provider for evaluation. The decision to send the resident to a psychiatric hospital was based on the IDT's assessment of self-harm through self-neglect, without exploring less restrictive alternatives. The resident reported feeling fearful and distressed during her stay at the psychiatric hospital, highlighting the facility's failure to provide necessary behavioral health care services in a person-centered manner.
Failure to Follow Pharmacy Recommendations for Medication Discontinuation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure follow-up on pharmacy recommendations for a resident, leading to a deficiency in medication management. The resident, who was cognitively intact and had a history of type 2 diabetes, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, was admitted with PRN orders for Meclizine and Dicyclomine. These medications were flagged by the pharmacist for discontinuation due to their high anticholinergic load and potential inappropriateness for older adults, as per the Beer's List. The physician agreed with the pharmacist's recommendation to discontinue these medications. Despite the agreement to discontinue, a review of the resident's current physician orders revealed that the medications were still active several months later. This oversight was confirmed by the Nursing Home Administrator and the Director of Nursing, who acknowledged that the discontinuation of the medications was missed and only addressed on the day of the interview. The facility's Medication Regimen Review Policy mandates that staff act upon all recommendations, highlighting a lapse in adherence to established procedures.
Medication Storage and Labeling Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly label, date, and store medications in one of two medication rooms and both medication carts, which could potentially decrease the efficacy of medications and lead to their compromise or misappropriation. During an observation, it was found that the refrigerator in the B hall medication room, which contained multiple resident medications and vaccinations, had missing temperature records for daytime monitoring and almost no monitoring at night. The Unit Manager reported that the night shift nurse was responsible for monitoring the refrigerator temperatures, but the logs were not being checked regularly, prompting the relocation of the binder with the logs to the nurses' station. Additionally, during a medication storage observation, several issues were identified, including stock OTC medications with worn-off expiration dates, an Anoro Ellipta inhaler without an open date, and another inhaler without a resident name, drug name, label, or open date. A loose pill was also found in the A hall medication cart, with the LPN unable to identify it or its intended recipient. Furthermore, the B hall medication room door was found propped open for several hours due to a missing key, which coincided with a report of missing medication for a resident. The Environmental Service Manager confirmed that extra keys had to be made because the previous unit manager had not returned her keys.
Deficiency in Timely Vaccination Administration
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure timely vaccination for two residents, leading to a deficiency in their immunization program. Resident #6, who had consented to all vaccines on December 2, 2022, was not offered additional pneumococcal vaccines despite being eligible. The Director of Nursing (DON) B acknowledged this oversight and had only recently audited residents' records for pneumococcal vaccination status, indicating a lapse in the vaccination tracking process. Resident #27's records showed inconsistencies, as the resident had consented to receive influenza and pneumonia vaccines on December 7, 2023, but the records inaccurately indicated a refusal without documentation of declination. Furthermore, the pneumococcal vaccine was delayed until June 25, 2024, despite the earlier consent. The DON was unable to explain these discrepancies, highlighting a failure in the facility's vaccination administration and documentation procedures.
Failure to Educate, Offer, and Document COVID-19 Vaccinations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to consistently educate, offer, and administer COVID-19 vaccines to residents and staff, as well as maintain valid declination documentation in the medical records. Specifically, for one resident, there was a discrepancy between the immunization record, which indicated a refusal of the COVID-19 vaccine without a recorded date, and a vaccine consent form that showed the resident's desire to receive the vaccine. The Director of Nursing (DON) was unable to explain this inconsistency or provide documentation of declination. Additionally, the facility did not ensure that staff were educated about or offered the COVID-19 vaccination, nor did it track the vaccination status of its staff. Interviews with the DON and the Infection Preventionist (IP) revealed a lack of familiarity with the process for tracking staff vaccinations and a cessation of offering the COVID-19 vaccine to staff. The facility's policy stated that COVID-19 vaccinations should be offered to healthcare personnel per CDC guidelines, and any declined vaccinations should be documented in the human resources file, which was not being followed.
Failure to Ensure Operable Call Light for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a working call system was available and within reach for a resident, identified as Resident #5, who was under hospice care and severely cognitively impaired. During an observation, the resident was found lying in bed with emesis on her arm, bed, floor, and fall mat, and her call light was not functioning. The unit manager was unaware of the resident's condition and the malfunctioning call light until it was brought to her attention by the surveyor. The call light was subsequently replaced with a working one. Further observations revealed that the resident's call light was not consistently within reach, as it was found under the bed and at the foot of the bed on separate occasions. Interviews with the Environmental Services Manager and the Unit Manager indicated that monthly inspections of call lights were conducted, but there was a lack of immediate reporting and resolution of call light issues. The facility's policy required staff to ensure call lights were within reach during each interaction and to report any problems immediately, which was not adhered to in this case.
Failure to Prevent Pressure Ulcers in Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate care to prevent the development of pressure ulcers in a resident, resulting in the development of pressure ulcers on both heels. The resident, who was admitted with diagnoses including weakness, difficulty walking, and prediabetes, was identified as being at risk for pressure ulcers. Despite this, the resident's care plan included only general pressure interventions and was not updated to reflect the resident's individual status. The resident's practitioner noted heel pain and the presence of a blood blister on the left heel, indicating pressure-induced deep tissue damage. The resident's physical therapy notes also indicated a decline in participation due to bilateral foot pain. The facility's documentation and treatment administration records revealed several missed opportunities to document and implement prescribed treatments, such as floating the resident's heels off surfaces. Additionally, the use of unna boots, which are not indicated for pressure wounds on the heels, was ordered, further indicating a lack of appropriate care. Interviews with facility staff revealed that the resident frequently complained of being wet and soiled, and the Director of Nursing confirmed that the resident did not have any wounds upon admission. However, the resident's care plan and treatment records did not adequately address the identified pressure wounds, contributing to the development of pressure ulcers.
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The facility failed to implement its abuse prohibition policy and to ensure immediate reporting of suspected abuse, misappropriation, and injury of unknown origin. A resident with dementia and insomnia reported receiving diphenhydramine for several weeks from a nurse despite having only a one-time order, while an LPN and the supply clerk observed missing diphenhydramine stock and expressed concern it was being given without orders but did not report this to the administrator. Another cognitively intact resident with anxiety reported that two video games were missing and believed they were stolen, but the allegation was only shared with an unidentified staff member and was never reported to the administrator or state agency. In a separate case, a severely cognitively impaired resident was found with a large right forearm bruise of unknown origin that was first noted on a prior shift, not immediately reported to leadership, and subsequently reported to the state agency outside the required 2-hour timeframe.
The facility failed to timely and accurately report multiple allegations of abuse, neglect, and mistreatment to the State Agency. In one case, a resident with dementia and a history of falls sustained a hip fracture after being struck by a medication cart; a CNA who witnessed the event reported to administration that an LPN had pushed the cart recklessly, but her concerns were not investigated or reported as potential mistreatment. In another case, a resident with dementia and insomnia reported receiving diphenhydramine for sleep from a male nurse despite having only a one-time order, and an LPN reported concerns that a nurse was giving diphenhydramine without orders after finding opened bottles in the memory care medication room, yet this allegation was not reported. In a third case, a cognitively impaired resident alleged that a night-shift nurse grabbed and twisted her arm during incontinence care, with a bruise observed by an LPN; although the administrator was notified that morning, the incident was reported to the state more than two hours after the allegation and with an inaccurately late discovery time documented in the reporting system.
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to thoroughly investigate two separate allegations of potential abuse and mistreatment. In one case, a resident with dementia and a known fall risk sustained a hip fracture after contact with a medication cart; documentation and multiple staff interviews conflicted about who witnessed the event and whether the cart struck the resident, yet the administrator relied primarily on an LPN’s account, conducted only a brief inquiry, and did not interview all identified witnesses. In the second case, a resident with vascular dementia reported receiving diphenhydramine for sleep from a male nurse despite having no order, and an LPN described finding opened and replaced bottles of diphenhydramine in the memory care medication room and statements suggesting it was being used to make residents sleep, but the facility’s investigation did not include interviewing this LPN and no incident report was submitted to the state agency.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment, bowel and bladder incontinence, and identified risks for falls and impaired skin integrity requested a brief change via call light. An activity assistant answered, turned off the call light, and left without providing care or notifying nursing staff. For over 30 minutes no staff returned, and when a CNA later entered only to deliver a meal tray, the resident was found with a soiled brief, visibly soiled linens, and dried stool on the buttocks, appearing distressed and repeatedly calling out about her diaper. The CNA, who had not been informed of the earlier request, then provided incontinence care. These events occurred despite facility policies requiring timely incontinence care and that call lights remain on until the resident’s request is met.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment, dementia, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and profound hearing loss had care plans directing staff to use calm, individualized communication and behavioral approaches, allow time, avoid rushing, and re-approach when she became combative or refused care. Over the course of a night, multiple CNAs reported that she repeatedly refused incontinence care and became combative when approached, leading them to back off and re-approach later. Despite this history and the care plan guidance, an LPN and CNA later entered her room while she was half-asleep, pulled back her covers, and proceeded to change her wet brief as she tried to hit and kick; the LPN held her hands/arms while the CNA completed the change. The next day, staff observed that the resident was frightened, reported that a male staff member had grabbed her arm, and noted bruising on her forearm. These actions did not follow the resident’s behavior management and communication interventions and resulted in agitation, distress, resistance to care, and bruising.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and a history of combative behavior repeatedly refused incontinence care and became physically aggressive when staff attempted to change a saturated brief. An LPN briefly held the resident’s arms to prevent being struck while a CNA completed the brief change, after which the resident allowed care. The next day, the resident reported that a male staff member had grabbed her arm, and an LPN observed bruising and fear but did not document these findings. Neither the pattern of care refusals and combativeness nor the subsequent bruising and related complaint were recorded in the EMR, despite facility policies requiring documentation of such behaviors and events, resulting in an incomplete and inaccurate medical record.
Two residents experienced development and worsening of coccyx and heel pressure ulcers due to the facility’s failure to implement and document ordered preventive and treatment interventions. One resident with severe cognitive impairment and mobility dependence had MASD, a non-blanchable heel, and orders for Triad paste and heel boots that were never documented as applied, no pressure-reducing surfaces or turning program on the MDS, and no skin notes for several days until an LPN discovered an undocumented coccyx ulcer under a foam dressing; later wound assessment showed an unstageable coccyx ulcer and a heel DTI acquired in the facility. Another resident admitted with a small coccyx open area and DVT had an order for barrier cream and a skin risk care plan, but there was no documentation of barrier cream use, the care plan was not updated when a stage 2 ulcer was identified, and multiple subsequent wound treatment orders (Triad paste, oil emulsion/alginate, Manuka Honey, Santyl, Dakin’s) were administered less frequently than prescribed, with delayed initial wound assessment and progression to a larger stage 3 coccyx ulcer requiring hospital transfer. The facility’s own wound and skin management policy requiring routine preventive care, daily CNA skin checks, and nurse skin assessments on bath days was not consistently followed as evidenced by missing documentation and treatment gaps.
Multiple cognitively impaired, high fall-risk residents experienced recurrent falls and serious injuries when staff failed to provide adequate supervision, safe transfers, and proper equipment use. One resident with dementia and prior hip fracture had several unwitnessed falls in the bedroom and near the nurses’ station, with investigations limited to adding non-skid strips, a fall mat, and low bed positioning rather than addressing recent illness, weakness, or sedation, and some interventions were not added to the care plan. Another resident with dementia, stroke, AFIB, and frequent falls, assessed by hospital PT as needing two-person assist, was care planned for only one-person contact guard and was repeatedly observed ambulating independently with an unsteady gait while staff did not assist or redirect; falls with head trauma and intracranial hemorrhage occurred, and staff held inconsistent understandings of required assistance and were not consistently interviewed after the events. Additional residents were pushed in wheelchairs without footrests, causing their feet to drag, despite available footrests and facility expectations, and one severely cognitively impaired resident’s fall investigation and care plan update regarding bed height were delayed and documented after discharge, with incomplete root-cause analysis.
A resident with morbid obesity, moderate cognitive impairment, and dependence on staff for toileting hygiene fell from a bariatric bed during incontinence care when staff did not ensure the resident was centered in the bed or adequately supervised while turning. The resident reported being instructed to cross one leg over the other and turn, then sliding off the bed when they flung their leg over, with only one staff member actively changing them. Facility records and CNA interviews showed the resident was close to the bed’s edge, staff positioning was inadequate, and required witness statements were not obtained in accordance with the facility’s fall reduction policy.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple medical conditions was transferred to a hospital in the afternoon for behavioral symptoms, as documented in nursing progress and discharge notes. However, the March MAR shows that an LPN documented administration of bedtime doses of magnesium oxide, metoprolol tartrate, and Seroquel later that evening, within the facility’s established bedtime medication window, even though the resident was no longer in the building. The DON confirmed the discrepancy between the transfer documentation and the recorded medication administration, indicating that medications were charted as given after the resident had been discharged.
Failure to Implement Abuse Policy and Immediately Report Suspected Abuse, Misappropriation, and Injury of Unknown Origin
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure staff implemented the abuse prohibition policy and procedures, resulting in multiple incidents of potential abuse, neglect, and misappropriation not being reported immediately to the abuse coordinator/administrator. For one resident with vascular dementia and insomnia, the record showed only a single one-time order for diphenhydramine 25 mg (two tablets) by mouth, with no ongoing order. Despite this, the resident reported that a male nurse had been giving him diphenhydramine for at least a few weeks to help him sleep, and that another nurse later told him the medication was not recommended for people with dementia because it could worsen cognitive skills. The resident stated he did not want any more of the medication because he did not want his memory to worsen. Staff interviews further described concerns that diphenhydramine was being administered without a physician’s order and that these concerns were not reported as required. One LPN reported she was concerned another LPN was giving residents in the memory care unit diphenhydramine without orders, after a male resident repeatedly requested the medication and stated that “the other nurse” gave it to him. The same LPN found an opened bottle of diphenhydramine in the memory care medication room, noted that a significant amount was missing while no residents on that unit had orders for it, and reported that the other LPN had commented, “We’ll be ok tonight. I made sure everyone is going to sleep tonight.” She removed the open bottle, but a new bottle appeared the following night. She then instructed the supply clerk to stop stocking diphenhydramine in that medication room due to her concern that it was being given without orders. Neither the LPN nor the supply clerk reported these concerns to the administrator, despite the facility’s abuse policy requiring immediate reporting of suspected abuse or adverse events. The deficiency also includes failure to report an allegation of misappropriation of resident property and failure to immediately report an injury of unknown origin. A cognitively intact resident with generalized anxiety disorder reported that two video games valued at $160 were missing and believed they had been stolen. He stated he told an unidentified staff member, who responded that the games were not on his inventory list and would not be replaced. The resident did not report the issue to the administrator because he believed nothing could be done, and the administrator later confirmed that staff had never informed him of this allegation and that it was never reported to the state agency or investigated. In a separate incident, a resident with severe cognitive impairment, dementia, bipolar disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder was found to have a large bruise of unknown origin on the right forearm, extending from the wrist to the top of the forearm and covering most of the dorsal surface. The former DON learned of the bruise only after seeing it documented in CNA alert charting the day after it was first identified, and an incident report indicated the bruise was first noted on night shift the previous day. The CNA reported that she was told about the bruise by off‑going staff the following morning and then alerted the DON. The provider documented a new right dorsal forearm bruise of unknown mechanism, and the facility-reported incident was not submitted to the state agency within the required 2-hour timeframe, despite the facility’s policy requiring immediate reporting of suspected abuse, neglect, misappropriation, and adverse events.
Failure to Timely and Accurately Report Allegations of Abuse, Neglect, and Mistreatment
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to timely and accurately report allegations of abuse, neglect, or mistreatment to the State Agency for three residents. For one resident with dementia and a history of falls, staff documentation showed that a nurse pushing a medication cart collided with the resident, causing a fall and an acute right femoral neck fracture. A post-fall evaluation identified environmental factors, specifically that a cart pushed in the hall tripped the resident, and listed a CNA as a witness who later denied being present. Another CNA, who was not listed as a witness, reported she actually witnessed the event and described the nurse rapidly approaching from behind with the cart, appearing not to have control of it, and striking the back of the resident’s leg, causing the fall. This CNA stated she promptly called and texted the administrator and later spoke with the administrator and former DON, telling them she believed the resident was injured due to the nurse’s reckless actions, but she was never interviewed and her concerns were disregarded. The administrator reported he understood the event as the resident being startled and backing into the cart, did not view it as concerning, and did not report or further investigate the situation as potential mistreatment. No facility-reported incident related to this event was found in the State Agency database. The second component of the deficiency concerns an allegation that a nurse was giving diphenhydramine to residents on a memory care unit without physician orders. A resident with vascular dementia and insomnia reported that a male nurse had been giving him diphenhydramine for at least a few weeks to help him sleep, and that another nurse later told him the medication was not recommended for people with dementia because it could worsen cognition. Review of physician orders showed only a one-time order for diphenhydramine for this resident, with no ongoing orders. Another LPN reported she was concerned that a male LPN was giving residents diphenhydramine without orders after a male resident repeatedly requested it and stated another nurse gave it to him, and after she found an opened bottle of diphenhydramine in the memory care medication room with no corresponding resident orders. She also reported that the male LPN had commented that he had made sure everyone would sleep that night. She removed the open bottle and later found a new bottle stocked, then asked the supply clerk to stop stocking it, but did not report her concerns to the administrator because she felt she lacked proof. The administrator later acknowledged awareness of a general concern about diphenhydramine in the medication room but denied being told that a specific nurse was allegedly using it to make residents sleep, and the State Agency database showed no facility-reported incident for this allegation at the time of review. The third component involves an allegation of staff-to-resident abuse that was not reported to the State Agency within the required two-hour timeframe and was inaccurately documented as to the time of discovery. A resident with severe cognitive impairment, multiple chronic conditions, and a history of falls and anxiety told her assigned LPN early in the morning that a night-shift nurse had grabbed and twisted her arm while a CNA provided incontinence care, despite her saying she was not wet. The LPN observed a bruise on the resident’s left arm, described the resident as frightened and not usually afraid, and reported that she notified the administrator immediately by phone and was instructed to monitor the bruise while the administrator would report the allegation and handle the investigation. An incident report documented the resident’s allegation, the observed bruise, and stated that nursing immediately reported to the administrator and that a report was filed with the state. However, the MI-FRI system showed the incident was submitted later that morning, more than two hours after the allegation was made, and recorded the discovery time as significantly later than when the LPN stated she first learned of it. The administrator confirmed he was notified of the allegation that morning, acknowledged that abuse allegations should be reported within two hours, and stated there were issues with the reporting system but could not provide a record of when he first attempted to submit the report.
Failure to Thoroughly Investigate Potential Abuse and Misuse of Medication
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to identify and thoroughly investigate potential abuse in two separate situations involving two residents. For the first resident, who had dementia with anxiety and was care planned as being at risk for fall-related injury due to poor safety awareness, the resident sustained a right femoral neck fracture after contact with a medication cart. Facility documentation in the fall report and post-fall evaluation stated that a nurse pushing a medication cart collided with the resident, that the fall was witnessed, and that the cart pushed in the hall tripped the resident. The post-fall evaluation listed a CNA as a staff/witness present and a laundry aide as the primary assistant interviewed for the three hours prior to the fall, and identified environmental factors as the root cause. However, interviews revealed discrepancies and incomplete investigation. The CNA listed as a witness reported she was not present at the time of the fall and only saw the resident later that evening, contradicting the post-fall documentation. The laundry aide reported she was in the hallway at the time of the fall, saw the resident walking next to a CNA, and observed the LPN, the medication cart, and the CNA all together when the resident fell, but stated she did not know if the cart hit the resident and that she was never interviewed by the administrator about what she saw. A former CNA reported she directly witnessed the fall, describing that she was pushing another resident in a wheelchair while the injured resident walked beside her, and that an LPN approached rapidly from behind with the medication cart, appeared not to have control of it, and that the cart struck the back of the resident’s leg, causing the fall. This CNA also reported she had told the administrator and DON by phone that she believed the resident was injured due to the LPN’s reckless actions, but that her concerns were disregarded and she was never interviewed. The LPN involved stated that both she and the resident were in motion and that the resident backed into the cart, causing loss of balance and a fall, and confirmed the resident’s hip fracture. The administrator’s written summary reflected only the LPN’s account, characterizing the event as an accident and documenting that the resident backed up and clipped the corner of the cart. In interview, the administrator described his investigation as brief, stated that when an LPN calls and tells him exactly what happened there was little need for further investigation, and could not confirm speaking to other witnesses such as the laundry aide. He acknowledged that the CNA had mentioned a concern that the nurse may not have accurately reported what happened but did not elaborate or explore whether any earlier interaction might have contributed to the incident. These actions and omissions demonstrate that the facility did not conduct a thorough investigation into a potential abuse or mistreatment situation involving a fall with major injury. The second situation involved an allegation of improper administration of diphenhydramine to residents without physician orders. One resident with vascular dementia, moderate cognitive impairment, and a history of insomnia reported that a male nurse had been giving him diphenhydramine for at least a few weeks to help him sleep, and that another nurse later told him the medication was not recommended for people with dementia because it could worsen cognitive skills. The resident stated he had used the medication nightly before admission but now did not want anything that could make his memory worse. A nurse practitioner confirmed that none of the residents on the memory care unit had orders for diphenhydramine and that its use in dementia patients increased fall risk and had a sedating effect. An LPN reported concerns that another LPN was giving residents diphenhydramine without physician orders. She stated that a male resident repeatedly requested the medication and told her that another nurse gave it to him, and that she found an opened bottle of diphenhydramine in the memory care medication room with a significant amount missing despite no residents having orders for it. She also reported that the other LPN told her he had made sure everyone was going to sleep that night, and that after she removed the open bottle, a new bottle appeared the following night. She did not report this to the administrator at the time because she felt she lacked proof. The administrator later stated he was aware of an allegation of misuse of diphenhydramine and that an investigation was underway, but the soft file showed only 9 of 27 licensed nurses had been interviewed and there was no record that this LPN, who had direct knowledge of the concern, was interviewed. The administrator stated that the LPN had expressed only general concerns about finding diphenhydramine in the medication room and denied that she had reported an allegation that another nurse was giving it to residents without orders to make them sleep. Review of the state agency’s facility-reported incidents database showed that no investigation related to the accusation of a nurse giving residents diphenhydramine without an order had been submitted. These facts show the facility did not fully identify, investigate, and report an allegation of potential abuse and misuse of medication as required by its abuse prohibition policy.
Failure to Provide Timely Incontinence Care and Proper Call Light Response
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide timely incontinence care and to appropriately respond to a resident’s call light request. The resident was a female with multiple diagnoses including heart failure, PTSD, bipolar disorder, dementia, anxiety, obstructive lung disease, arthritis, a history of falls, and hearing loss, and had a BIMS score of 5 indicating severe cognitive impairment. Her MDS indicated she was frequently incontinent of urine and always incontinent of bowel, and her care plans identified risks for falls and impaired skin integrity, with interventions to remind her to use the call light and to complete hygiene care expeditiously. On the survey date at 11:02 AM, the resident was observed in bed with her call light activated. An activity assistant responded, and the resident requested a brief change. The assistant turned off the call light without providing care and left to find nursing staff, but did not locate anyone or communicate the resident’s request. At 11:32 AM, the resident was still in bed and no staff had returned to provide the requested brief change, 30 minutes after the call light had been answered and deactivated. The activity assistant later confirmed she had not yet found staff or informed nursing of the resident’s need. At 11:44 AM, a CNA entered only to deliver the lunch tray and was not aware of the earlier request. At that time, the resident removed a soiled brief and threw it on the floor; she was incontinent of bowel, with visibly soiled linens and dried bowel movement on both buttocks that required additional soaking and washing to remove. The resident appeared distressed, moved frequently in bed, repeatedly said “diaper,” and stated that her “butt hurts,” and became agitated and aggressive during care. The interim DON stated that staff should leave the call light on if the need cannot be immediately addressed. Facility policies on routine resident care and call lights required timely incontinence care and that call lights remain on until the resident’s request is met, which was not followed in this incident.
Failure to Honor Dementia Resident’s Refusal and Use Individualized Behavior Approaches During Incontinence Care
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide care that maintained the highest practicable physical and mental well-being for a resident with dementia, cognitive deficits, and behavioral symptoms. The resident was an elderly female with multiple diagnoses including heart failure, insomnia, PTSD, bipolar disorder, dementia, anxiety, obstructive lung disease, arthritis, a history of falls, and hearing loss. Her MDS showed a BIMS score of 5, indicating severe cognitive impairment. Her care plans identified impaired communication related to hearing loss, impaired cognition related to dementia, and potential for mood fluctuations related to bipolar disorder, major depression, anxiety, and dementia. The care plans directed staff to use specific communication techniques, allow adequate time to respond, avoid rushing, use simple words and cues, limit choices, use task segmentation, and approach her in a calm, quiet manner with appropriate body language. In the period leading up to the incident, multiple CNAs reported that the resident had a history of being combative and resistant to incontinence care, sometimes attempting to hit, kick, or swing at staff when approached. Staff who were familiar with her reported that when she refused care or became combative, they would give her space, re-approach later, or have a different caregiver attempt care, and that her reactions were influenced by how staff approached her. On the evening and night in question, CNAs reported that the resident repeatedly refused incontinence care and became combative when they attempted to change her brief. One CNA stated that she informed the oncoming shift CNA and an LPN that the resident had refused care and that her brief had not been changed during the evening due to these refusals. That CNA reported that the LPN stated the resident had to be changed regardless of whether she wanted to be. Later during the night shift, an LPN and a CNA entered the resident’s room around 3:00 AM to attempt incontinence care. The LPN reported that the resident was “half-asleep” when they began to change her wet brief. According to the CNA, when the LPN pulled back the covers, the resident began trying to hit and kick. The LPN held the resident’s hands or arms to prevent being struck while the CNA changed the resident’s wet brief. The CNA reported that after a few moments the resident stopped resisting and allowed the care to be completed. Subsequently, the day-shift LPN observed that the resident was frightened, reported that a male staff member had grabbed her arm, and noted a bruise on the resident’s left arm. Another CNA later observed oval-shaped bruising on one of the resident’s forearms. Staff interviews and the facility’s behavior management policy emphasized that behaviors should be recognized as communication, that causes and triggers such as fatigue and sensory deficits should be considered, and that individualized, non-pharmacological interventions and behavior management strategies should be used. Despite existing care plan interventions and policy expectations, staff proceeded with incontinence care while the resident was half-asleep and actively resisting, and the LPN physically held her arms, leading to the resident’s agitation, distress, resistance to care, and bruising. The facility’s behavior management policy stated that behaviors are a form of communication and that staff should attempt to identify causes and triggers, including fatigue, lack of sleep, and sensory deficits such as hearing loss. The policy also required the IDT to implement care plans with specific non-pharmacological interventions and behavior management strategies for residents with dementia or mental illness. In this case, the resident’s known history of combative behavior, her severe cognitive impairment, profound hearing loss, and the time of night were all relevant factors. Nonetheless, staff actions during the incident did not align with the care plan directives to avoid rushing, to use calm approaches, and to re-approach later when the resident was resistant. Instead, the decision to proceed with incontinence care while the resident was half-asleep and combative, and to physically hold her arms, directly contributed to the resident’s distress and the observed bruising on her arm. The deficiency is further supported by staff accounts that the resident’s behaviors could often be managed by giving her space, re-approaching at a later time, or using different caregivers, and that she was not good at communicating her needs vocally and had impaired hearing. The day-shift LPN described the resident as usually not afraid, but on this occasion she was frightened and requested that the LPN not allow the male nurse into her room, stating he had grabbed her arm. The assistant director of nursing and social worker both acknowledged the resident’s history of combative behaviors and resistance to care, and that these behaviors were related to her mental health diagnoses and dementia. The combination of proceeding with care despite active resistance, failing to fully utilize the individualized behavioral and communication strategies in the care plan, and physically restraining the resident’s arms during care constituted the failure to provide appropriate treatment and services to a resident with dementia, resulting in agitation, distress, resistance to care, and bruising.
Failure to Document Resident Care Refusals, Combative Behaviors, and Resulting Bruising
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to maintain a complete and accurate medical record for one resident with significant cognitive and behavioral issues. The resident was an elderly female with diagnoses including heart failure, insomnia, PTSD, bipolar disorder, dementia, anxiety, obstructive lung disease, arthritis, a history of falls, and hearing loss. An MDS assessment showed a BIMS score of 5/15, indicating severe cognitive impairment. On the night in question, a CNA reported that the resident repeatedly refused incontinence care and became combative when staff attempted to change her brief, which had not been changed since around dinner time the prior evening due to her refusals and combative behavior. During the early morning hours, the CNA and an LPN entered the resident’s room to again attempt incontinence care. According to the CNA, when the LPN pulled back the covers, the resident tried to hit and kick. The LPN held the resident’s hands so staff would not be struck while the CNA changed the resident’s wet brief. After a short time, the resident stopped resisting and allowed care to be completed. The LPN later confirmed that he had been notified by CNAs that the resident was combative and refusing care, that he went to assist with incontinence care, that the resident was “half-asleep” when they began, and that he held her hands/arms briefly to prevent being hit. He acknowledged that he did not document the pattern of incontinence care refusals or the combative behaviors in the electronic medical record. The following day, the resident told her assigned day-shift LPN not to let the male LPN into her room because he had grabbed her arm. The day-shift LPN observed a bruise on the resident’s left arm and described the resident as frightened and not usually afraid. She reported that the administrator directed her to monitor the bruise, but she did not document the bruise or her observations because she was unsure what the administrator wanted her to do. The unit manager, ADON, and social worker all reported that the resident had a history of combative behaviors and resistance to care, and they each stated that refusals of care and combative behaviors should be documented by CNAs and nursing staff in the electronic medical record. Review of the resident’s progress notes showed no documentation of care refusals or combativeness on the relevant dates, despite facility policies requiring complete documentation of behaviors, refusals, and deviations from standard care. This lack of documentation resulted in an incomplete and inaccurate medical record for the resident. Facility policies on Behavior Management and Documentation Expectations required staff to document behaviors, including new and escalating behaviors, and all pertinent information related to events, resident condition, and deviations from standard treatment in the medical record. The policies specified that staff should use the electronic medical record system to record behaviors and the effectiveness of interventions, and that all facts and pertinent information related to events and resident condition must be documented. In this case, the repeated refusals of incontinence care, the resident’s combative behavior, the use of physical holding during care, and the subsequent observation of bruising and fear were not documented in the resident’s record, contrary to these policies. This omission formed the basis of the cited deficiency for failing to ensure a complete and accurate medical record.
Failure to Implement Ordered Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Treatment for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to implement ordered pressure ulcer prevention and treatment interventions, resulting in the development and worsening of pressure ulcers in two residents. One resident was re-admitted with diagnoses including cervical spine surgery, diabetes, and metabolic encephalopathy. An admission skin assessment documented no ulcers or skin treatments, but a subsequent assessment identified MASD in the groin and scrotum, a non-blanchable and discolored left heel, and an order for protective heel boots and Triad paste to the coccyx. There was no documentation that the Triad paste or heel boots were ever applied. The resident’s MDS later showed severe cognitive impairment, extensive assistance needs for mobility, and one unstageable DTI, with no pressure-reducing bed or chair and no turning/repositioning program documented. A care plan for risk of skin breakdown was initiated with interventions such as floating heels, pressure-reducing mattress and cushion, and assistance with turning and repositioning, but there were no progress notes or skin assessments for this resident’s skin from mid-December until late December. On a later date, an LPN discovered a foam dressing on the resident’s coccyx during incontinence care and, upon removal, observed an area with eschar and additional open areas along the bilateral buttock region at the tailbone. There were no measurements or detailed descriptions of these wounds at that time, and a treatment order for Manuka Honey to the coccyx was documented as being administered only twice despite being ordered three times weekly. The LPN who found the dressing stated they had not known of any wound prior to that and confirmed there were no prior notes or treatment orders for the coccyx. The DON confirmed there were no skin assessments or treatment orders for the coccyx until that date and that this lack of documentation was not consistent with facility protocol. Another LPN later admitted to having applied the foam patch to the coccyx two days earlier after noticing an ulcer, but stated they became too busy and failed to chart the finding or notify the physician, acknowledging this was not in line with protocol. An initial wound care note several days later documented an unstageable coccyx pressure ulcer with extensive eschar and a DTI on the left heel, and an RN confirmed these pressure ulcers were acquired in the facility and that there had been a delay in prevention and treatment. The second resident admitted with multiple diagnoses including osteoarthritis of the left knee and DVT. Shortly after admission, an RN documented a dime-sized open area on the coccyx, and an order was written for barrier cream as needed after incontinence care, along with a care plan for risk of skin breakdown that included frequent turning and repositioning, use of barrier cream, and pressure-reducing surfaces. There was no documentation that the barrier cream was applied to the coccyx wound. The resident’s MDS later indicated intact cognition, extensive assistance needs for mobility, and one stage 2 pressure ulcer, but the care plan was not revised to reflect actual skin breakdown. No additional progress notes or assessments for the coccyx ulcer were documented until nine days after admission, when a specific Triad paste treatment was ordered. MAR review showed that this treatment was given only three times instead of the prescribed six times over three days, and the order was then discontinued. Subsequent treatment orders for this resident’s coccyx ulcer were repeatedly changed, including orders for oil emulsion and alginate dressings three times weekly and Triad paste to the periwound area, but MARs showed that these treatments were administered less frequently than ordered before being discontinued. An initial wound care note two weeks after admission documented a stage 3 coccyx wound with necrotic tissue and specific measurements. Later, a Manuka Honey and alginate regimen three times weekly was ordered, but again MARs showed missed treatments. A subsequent daily Santyl and alginate regimen was documented as administered on most but not all ordered days, with no PRN treatments documented, and then changed to a Dakin’s solution plus Santyl and alginate regimen. A later wound care note documented a larger stage 3 coccyx pressure ulcer with increased dimensions and depth, and the resident was transferred to the hospital for worsening of the pressure ulcer. An RN acknowledged that the resident admitted with a small open area on the coccyx that progressed to a larger stage 3 ulcer, confirmed that no skin treatments were documented until nine days after admission, and noted gaps in the MAR where ordered treatments were not administered. The facility’s Wound and Skin Management Policy required prevention of avoidable pressure ulcers, necessary treatment and services, routine preventive care including turning, pressure reduction devices, good skin care, and daily CNA skin assessments with prompt reporting of new breakdowns, as well as nurse validation and skin assessment on bath/shower days, which were not consistently carried out as documented in these cases.
Failure to Prevent Falls, Ensure Safe Transfers, and Conduct Adequate Fall Investigations
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to prevent avoidable falls, to provide adequate supervision, and to conduct thorough root-cause analyses for multiple residents with known fall risks and cognitive impairment. One resident with vascular dementia, severe cognitive impairment, unsteadiness, and a history of hip fracture experienced several falls in his room and near the nurses’ station. Documentation showed he was found face down with his shoulder pinned under a roommate’s bed after returning from a cystoscopy with a Foley catheter and recent gross bleeding, and later was admitted to the hospital for sepsis, UTI, metabolic encephalopathy, rhabdomyolysis, and COVID. Subsequent falls included being found on the floor in front of his bed with shoes on and later on the floor next to a roommate’s bed with a laceration and a right hip fracture. The facility’s fall investigations repeatedly cited environmental changes such as adding non-skid strips, a fall mat, and low bed position, but did not address underlying causes such as recent illness, weakness, sedation, or his pattern of recurrent falls in the bedroom. The DON acknowledged that increased supervision or more frequent checks would have been more appropriate, and non-skid strips were not consistently added to the care plan. Another resident with dementia, frequent falls, stroke, syncope, AFIB, and severe cognitive impairment had multiple falls and head injuries, including a posterior head hematoma and later a subdural and subarachnoid hemorrhage. On admission, the baseline care plan required a two-person pivot transfer, and hospital PT had assessed the resident as needing maximum two-person assist for transfers and ambulation. However, the care plan was later documented as requiring only contact guard assist by one person for ambulation without devices, and staff interviews revealed inconsistent understanding of what “contact guard” meant, with some staff treating it as stand-by assist with no hands-on contact. The resident was observed independently ambulating in the room and hall with very unsteady gait, repeatedly pacing and grabbing side rails and carts, while staff did not attempt to assist or redirect. Falls occurred during care by a private home health aide and later when the resident independently transferred and fell in the doorway, with staff reporting that the resident frequently ambulated independently when staff were occupied. The facility’s interventions focused on adding a floor mat and low bed, while the root-cause documentation cited poor safety awareness, restlessness, and misunderstanding of limitations, and there was a delay in IDT follow-up documentation and incomplete provision of witness statements. Additional deficiencies involved unsafe wheelchair use and incomplete fall investigation for other residents. One cognitively impaired resident who required partial to moderate assistance for ADLs and used a walker was observed being pushed in a wheelchair without footrests, with the CNA stating there were not enough footrests, despite the regional PT showing multiple totes full of footrests and stating CNAs could obtain them without therapy assistance; the DON confirmed the expectation that footrests be used when pushing residents. Another resident with dementia, repeated falls, and dependence for ADLs was also pushed in a wheelchair with feet dragging on the floor and no footrests, with the CNA again citing a shortage of footrests. A further resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple medical conditions had a fall where she was found on the floor next to the bed with the bed not in the lowest position and the call light within reach but not used; the root cause was documented as possibly rolling out of bed. A later fall for this resident resulted in significant facial and head injuries, but the investigation note and care plan intervention of keeping the bed in the lowest position were created after the resident had already been discharged to the hospital, and the facility’s investigation documentation lacked timely, complete root-cause analysis and contemporaneous care plan updates. Across these cases, the survey findings describe repeated failures to align care and supervision with residents’ assessed needs and documented care plans, inconsistent or delayed fall investigations, and reliance on protective environmental measures that did not address the actual causes of recurrent falls. Residents with high fall risk, severe cognitive impairment, and documented need for significant assistance were allowed to ambulate independently or be transported unsafely in wheelchairs without footrests, and staff interviews revealed confusion about required levels of assistance and lack of follow-up questioning of key witnesses after serious falls. The facility did not consistently incorporate identified risks such as recent illness, sedation, restlessness, and poor safety awareness into individualized, effective fall-prevention interventions or into the care plans in a timely manner.
Failure to Safely Position and Supervise Resident During Incontinence Care Resulting in Fall
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide safe positioning assistance and adequate supervision during incontinence care, resulting in a fall from bed for resident R103. R103, who resides in a bariatric bed and reported being unable to walk or stand but able to move about in bed, stated that they fell out of bed a few days prior while staff were providing incontinence care one side at a time. R103 described being instructed to cross one leg over the other and turn, and reported that they did not realize how close they were to the edge of the bed; when they flung their leg over, they slid off the bed onto the floor. R103 reported that only one staff member was changing them at the time, and that a mechanical lift plus three staff were needed to return them to bed. Record review showed that R103 had diagnoses including acute respiratory failure with hypoxia, morbid obesity, and age-related physical debility, with a Minimum Data Set documenting moderate cognitive impairment and dependence on staff for toileting hygiene. A nurse progress note documented that on the morning of the fall, the CNA reported the resident had rolled out of bed during care, and the nurse found the resident on the floor on their left side with the bed in a low position. The fall incident report similarly recorded that the resident rolled out of bed during care and that, per CNA F’s statement, the resident was asked to turn onto their side and continued rolling, inadvertently rolling out of bed. The root cause analysis documented that the interdisciplinary team determined the resident was not positioned in the center of the bed when staff entered to complete care rounds, and that both CNAs were attempting to reposition the resident to the center of the bed when the resident rolled out of bed. Interviews with CNAs involved revealed inconsistencies and gaps in supervision and positioning practices. CNA G stated that despite the resident’s size, the resident was very mobile and considered a two-person assist for safety, and reported that they were in the process of changing the resident when the fall occurred. CNA G initially claimed that both CNAs were on opposite sides of the bed such that there was no room for the resident to fall, but later said they did not know where CNA F was positioned and then stated they did not remember. CNA F reported that the resident was somewhat close to the edge of the bed, not centered, and that during turning for incontinence care the resident threw their top leg over the other and fell off the bed on the opposite side, while CNA G was at the foot of the bed rather than at the center on the opposite side. The Director of Nursing confirmed that witness statements from the CNAs were not obtained as required by the facility’s fall reduction policy and acknowledged that if staff had been positioned close to the bed and used a draw sheet to move the resident to the middle of the bed prior to care, the fall could have been prevented.
Inaccurate MAR Documentation for Medications After Resident Transfer
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to maintain an accurate medical record regarding medication administration for a resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple diagnoses, including acute respiratory failure with hypoxia, hypertension, and bipolar disorder. The resident was admitted in late September and discharged in early March. On the day of discharge, nursing documentation shows that the resident was transferred to a local hospital in the mid-afternoon due to behavioral symptoms, with a discharge note at 3:33 PM and a nursing progress note at 3:38 PM confirming that EMTs responded to a 911 call, the resident’s guardian consented to transfer, and the physician and DON were notified. The resident was transported to the hospital via stretcher and was no longer in the facility after that time. Despite the resident’s transfer out of the building that afternoon, the March Medication Administration Record (MAR) documented that bedtime doses of magnesium oxide 400 mg BID for hypomagnesemia, metoprolol tartrate 100 mg BID for tachycardia, and Seroquel 25 mg BID for bipolar disorder were administered by an LPN at bedtime that same day. The LPN assigned to the second shift stated that bedtime medications were to be given at 9 PM, with a one-hour window before or after, but could not recall whether the resident was in the building around that time. The DON confirmed that the facility’s bedtime medication administration window was between 7 PM and 10 PM and, upon reviewing the MAR and progress notes, questioned how the medications could have been administered when the resident had already been transferred to the hospital, indicating that someone documented administration of medications after the resident had been discharged from the facility.
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