Laurel Meadows Wellness & Rehabilitation
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Saint Charles, Missouri.
- Location
- 723 First Capitol Drive, Saint Charles, Missouri 63301
- CMS Provider Number
- 265783
- Inspections on file
- 15
- Latest survey
- June 4, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 0
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Laurel Meadows Wellness & Rehabilitation during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident with ALS and communication difficulties was not treated with dignity and respect by a CNA, who failed to follow the care plan's communication strategies, rushed the resident, and responded impatiently and dismissively during a meal service. The resident became upset and distressed as a result of the interaction, which did not align with facility policy on resident rights.
Two residents reported rough handling by a CNA during care, causing pain and distress. One resident with severely impaired cognition felt rushed and tearful, while another with moderately impaired cognition experienced pain during incontinence care. The DON acknowledged the CNA might have been hurried but was unaware of the issues.
The facility failed to maintain safe and comfortable temperatures on the third floor when air conditioning blower units malfunctioned. Residents, including those with hypertension and dementia, experienced discomfort due to high temperatures, with some rooms reaching 86.5 degrees Fahrenheit. The facility did not follow its policy for extreme temperatures, failing to relocate residents or monitor temperatures adequately.
The facility failed to serve correct portion sizes and menu items to residents on regular, mechanical soft, and pureed diets. Dietary staff did not use the spreadsheet menu to select appropriate serving utensils, resulting in incorrect portions and food items being served. A resident on a pureed diet received different items than those listed on the menu, highlighting a lack of adherence to dietary guidelines.
The facility failed to maintain cleanliness and proper labeling in food storage areas, leading to potential contamination. Observations revealed debris in the ice machine, unlabeled food items, and improper food handling practices during meal service. Staff interviews confirmed lapses in adherence to facility policies on sanitation and food safety.
The facility failed to provide updated pneumococcal vaccine education and options according to CDC guidelines for four residents admitted after new guidance was released. Despite having policies in place, the facility did not ensure these residents were offered the PCV20 vaccine. Interviews revealed a lack of awareness about vaccination status, and both the DON and MD expected staff to educate and offer vaccines based on guidelines.
The facility failed to inspect bed frames, mattresses, and bed rails for safety, leading to potential entrapment risks for four residents. Observations showed loose bed rails with significant gaps, and no entrapment risk assessments were documented. Despite residents reporting issues, the facility did not address these safety concerns, and the DON was unaware of the relevant regulations.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment was found with a small bruise on the pubic area, which was not reported to the administration or state agency as required. The LPN assessed the bruise but did not consider it concerning enough to report, despite facility policy mandating immediate reporting of any injury of unknown origin. The DON and administrator were unaware of the incident until informed by the state agency.
A resident with unspecified psychosis and on a daily aspirin regimen was found with a bruise of unknown origin. The bruise was discovered by an aide and reported to an LPN, who assessed it but did not notify the DON or administrator, contrary to facility policy. The DON and administrator were unaware of the bruise until informed by the state agency, highlighting a failure to investigate potential abuse.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple diagnoses experienced medication administration errors due to improper flushing of a feeding tube. The LPN failed to follow facility policy and physician orders, resulting in a 23.3% medication error rate. The resident's medications were not flushed appropriately between doses, leading to a clogged tube and missed medication.
The facility failed to maintain a meat slicer in the main kitchen, which was found to be broken and sitting in a layer of grease. The Dietary Director and Consultant Dietitian confirmed the slicer had been non-functional for years, with safety concerns due to improper blade attachment. The Administrator was unaware of the issue and cited budget constraints as a barrier to purchasing a new slicer.
Failure to Provide Dignified and Respectful Care to Resident with Communication Needs
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with ALS, who was cognitively intact but had significant communication difficulties, was not treated with dignity and respect by a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). The resident relied on a dry erase board and required extra time to communicate, as documented in the care plan. During a meal service, CNA A interacted with the resident in an impatient and dismissive manner, failing to allow adequate time for the resident to express preferences and not following established communication strategies such as asking yes/no questions or using a patient, positive approach. Video footage showed that CNA A did not introduce themselves, used a flat and later frustrated tone, and repeatedly rushed the resident, not giving them time to respond or write on the communication board. CNA A became visibly frustrated, spoke loudly, and ultimately dismissed the resident's attempts to communicate, telling the resident to "eat your food and drink your Coke" before leaving the room. The resident was left upset, continued to call for help, and was visibly distressed after the interaction. Interviews confirmed that CNA A was unfamiliar with the resident's needs and communication methods, and did not follow the care plan instructions for interacting with the resident. The resident reported feeling scared, frustrated, and disrespected by CNA A's behavior, and a family member expressed concern about CNA A working with vulnerable residents. The facility's policy required staff to treat residents with consideration, respect, and dignity, which was not upheld in this incident.
Failure to Provide Dignified and Respectful Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide care in a dignified and respectful manner for two residents, both of whom were dependent on staff for activities of daily living and had impaired cognition. Resident #5, who had severely impaired cognition and was always incontinent, reported that CNA C was rough while moving them in bed, causing pain and distress. The resident expressed feeling upset and tearful, indicating that the care provided was not in line with the facility's policy of treating residents with consideration, respect, and dignity. Similarly, Resident #4, who had moderately impaired cognition and required maximal assistance, reported that CNA C was rough during incontinence care, causing pain by grabbing the resident's arm. The resident was upset by the interaction and did not understand why CNA C was upset with them. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that CNA C might have been in a hurry, leading to unintentional roughness, but was unaware of the residents' concerns prior to the interviews.
Failure to Maintain Safe Temperature Levels on Third Floor
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe and comfortable temperature for residents on the third floor when the blower units for the air conditioner stopped functioning. The facility did not monitor the air temperatures while waiting for the units to be replaced and did not relocate residents to areas with acceptable temperatures. This affected rooms 321 through 331, with temperatures recorded as high as 86.5 degrees Fahrenheit in some rooms. The facility's policy for extreme temperatures was not followed, as the staff did not move residents to other air-conditioned parts of the building or monitor the environment thermometers on a 24-hour basis. The Maintenance Director was aware of the issue but did not monitor the temperatures or know the acceptable temperature range. Portable air conditioning units were placed in the hallways, and fans were used in the affected rooms, but these measures were insufficient to maintain a comfortable environment. Several residents were affected by the high temperatures, including those with conditions such as hypertension, dementia, and stroke. Interviews with residents and their families revealed discomfort due to the heat, with some residents appearing flushed and disheveled. The Administrator was initially unaware of the facility's policy regarding temperature control and only began implementing it after the surveyors left.
Failure to Serve Correct Portions and Menu Items
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve the correct portion sizes and appropriate food items to residents on regular, mechanical soft, and pureed diets. Observations revealed that dietary staff did not use the dietary spreadsheet menu to select the correct serving utensils, resulting in all residents on regular and mechanical soft diets receiving a 4-ounce portion of turkey tetrazzini instead of the prescribed 6-ounce portion. Additionally, residents on a mechanical soft diet were served from the same pan as those on a regular diet, and they received regular carrots instead of diced ones. For the resident on a pureed diet, the facility did not adhere to the dietary spreadsheet menu. Instead of receiving the planned pureed turkey tetrazzini, pureed carrots, pureed bread, and pureed dessert, the resident was served pureed chicken, pureed green beans, and mashed potatoes with gravy. The resident did not receive any pureed bread or dessert, and the meal did not match the menu items that were supposed to be served. Interviews with dietary staff and the dietary director confirmed that the spreadsheet menu should guide the selection of serving utensils and ensure that residents on pureed diets receive the same food items as those on regular diets. However, the staff failed to follow these guidelines, leading to inconsistencies in meal preparation and service. The consultant dietitian also emphasized the importance of using the spreadsheet menu to ensure proper serving sizes and adherence to the menu for all therapeutic diets.
Food Safety and Sanitation Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the ice machine in a clean and sanitary condition, as evidenced by the accumulation of pink and black debris on the interior of the unit. Despite the facility's policy requiring regular cleaning, observations revealed that the ice machine had not been adequately maintained. Interviews with the Dietary Director and Consultant Dietitian confirmed that the machine should be clean to prevent bacterial growth. The facility also failed to properly label, date, and store food and beverage items, leading to potential contamination. Observations showed unlabeled and undated pitchers of liquid, improperly stored chocolate syrup and lemon juice, and expired or improperly dated meat products. The Dietary Director acknowledged that staff were responsible for cleaning and labeling, but these tasks were not consistently performed, resulting in expired and potentially unsafe food items being stored. Additionally, the facility did not adhere to safe food handling practices during meal service. Observations noted that staff did not change gloves after handling utensils and ready-to-eat food, and a staff member's nametag came into contact with food. The Dietary Director and Consultant Dietitian confirmed that proper hand hygiene and glove use were not followed, increasing the risk of cross-contamination during food preparation and service.
Failure to Provide Updated Pneumococcal Vaccine Education and Options
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide updated pneumococcal vaccine education and the option to receive the updated vaccination according to the current CDC guidelines for four residents. These residents were admitted after new guidance was released, yet the facility did not ensure they were offered the PCV20 vaccine. The facility's policy, dated 7/2016, required that all residents be assessed for eligibility and offered the pneumococcal vaccine series within thirty days of admission unless medically contraindicated or already vaccinated. However, the facility did not adhere to this policy for the residents in question. Resident #271, who was over a certain age and admitted with acute on chronic systolic heart failure and dementia, had a signed consent for immunization but no documentation of receiving the pneumococcal vaccine. Similarly, Resident #54, admitted with an intestinal obstruction, had received previous pneumococcal vaccines but was not offered the PCV20. Resident #275, admitted with a surgical site infection and emphysema, had no documentation of receiving or being offered the pneumococcal vaccine. Resident #318, admitted with fractures, had received previous pneumococcal vaccines but was not offered the PCV20. Interviews with the residents and their representatives revealed a lack of awareness about the vaccination status and offerings. The Director of Nursing and the Medical Director both expressed expectations that staff should educate and offer vaccines based on CDC guidelines and follow physician orders. However, the facility's failure to update its practices and documentation led to the deficiency in providing appropriate pneumococcal vaccination options to the residents.
Failure to Inspect Bed Rails for Entrapment Risks
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct regular inspections of bed frames, mattresses, and bed rails for safety, leading to potential entrapment risks for four residents. The facility's policy required thorough assessments and consent for the use of side rails, but these were not completed for the residents in question. Observations revealed that the bed rails were loose and had significant gaps between the rails and mattresses, which were not addressed by the facility's maintenance checks. Resident #1, who had cognitive impairments and was dependent on staff for mobility, used mobility bars that were loose and had a 3-inch gap between the rail and mattress. Despite the resident's use of these bars for bed mobility, there was no documentation of an entrapment risk assessment. Similarly, Resident #32, who was cognitively intact but required assistance for transfers, reported loose rails with a 5-6 inch gap, which had been brought to staff attention but not resolved. Resident #24, with severe cognitive and vision impairments, had bed rails that were not addressed in the care plan, and no entrapment risk assessment was documented. Resident #271, who required staff assistance for ADLs and transfers, also had a mobility bar without an entrapment risk assessment. The director of maintenance confirmed that while weekly safety checks were conducted, they did not include assessments for entrapment zones, and the DON was unaware of the regulations regarding these assessments.
Failure to Report Injury of Unknown Origin
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report an injury of unknown origin for a resident, which is a requirement for reporting to the state survey agency. The incident involved a resident with a diagnosis of unspecified psychosis and severe cognitive impairment, who was found to have a small bruise on the pubic area during peri care. The bruise was noted by a CNA and assessed by an LPN, who did not report it to the Director of Nursing (DON) or the administrator, as required by the facility's policy. The LPN assessed the bruise, which was pale bluish gray and about the size of a dime, and determined it was not concerning enough to report, as it appeared older and the resident had no recollection of any incident causing it. The LPN informed the resident's guardian and primary care provider but failed to notify the facility's administration. The facility's policy mandates that any injury of unknown origin, regardless of size or presumed age, should be reported immediately to the administration and the state agency. The DON and the administrator were unaware of the bruise until informed by the state agency. Both expressed that the LPN should have reported the bruise immediately, as any bruise of unknown origin could potentially indicate abuse and requires immediate investigation and reporting. The facility's policy requires such incidents to be reported within two hours if there are concerns related to possible abuse or neglect.
Failure to Investigate Bruise of Unknown Origin
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to thoroughly investigate a bruise of unknown origin found on a resident, which was identified during a review of 18 sampled residents. The resident, who had a legal guardian, was diagnosed with unspecified psychosis and was on a daily aspirin regimen. The bruise was discovered by a certified nurse aide during peri care and reported to an LPN, who noted the bruise was pale bluish gray, about the size of a dime, and located on the pubis. The LPN assessed the bruise, informed the resident's guardian and primary care provider, but did not notify the Director of Nursing (DON) or the administrator. The facility's policy on abuse prevention requires that any suspicious bruising or incidents of potential abuse be promptly reported to the DON and administrator, and that an investigation be initiated immediately. However, the LPN did not report the bruise to the administration, as they did not consider it concerning due to its size and appearance. The DON and administrator were unaware of the bruise until informed by the state agency. Both stated that any bruise, regardless of size or presumed age, should be reported and investigated as a potential sign of abuse. The deficiency was identified when the state agency brought the incident to the attention of the facility's administration. The facility's policy mandates that all injuries of unknown origin be reported and investigated to determine if there are concerns for intentional abuse. The failure to report and investigate the bruise as per the facility's policy led to the deficiency being cited by the surveyors.
Medication Administration Errors via Feeding Tube
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper administration of medications via a feeding tube for a resident, resulting in a medication error rate of 23.3%. The resident, who had a feeding tube, was administered medications without appropriate flushing between each medication, contrary to the facility's policy. The policy required flushing with at least 15 mL of water before and after each medication to prevent interactions and clumping, but this was not followed during the observed medication pass. The resident involved had severe cognitive impairment and multiple diagnoses, including anemia, Parkinson's disease, malnutrition, depression, and psychotic disorder. The resident was on high-risk medications, including antipsychotics, antidepressants, and opioids, and was dependent on a gastrostomy tube for medication and nutrition. The physician's orders specified that medications should be crushed and administered through the g-tube with a 20 mL water flush before and after each medication, which was not adhered to by the staff. During the medication administration, the LPN prepared the medications by dissolving them in water but failed to flush the tube between medications, leading to a clogged tube. The LPN also forgot to administer one of the prescribed medications and did not flush the tube after the last medication before reconnecting the feeding tube. Interviews with the LPN, the resident's alternate care physician, and the Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility's policies and physician orders were not followed, contributing to the medication errors.
Failure to Maintain Essential Kitchen Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain and repair essential food preparation equipment in the main kitchen, specifically a meat slicer. Observations revealed that the meat slicer was covered with a vinyl/plastic cover and sat in a layer of yellowish grease or liquid, indicating a possible oil leak. Interviews with the Dietary Director and Consultant Dietitian confirmed that the meat slicer had been broken for a couple of years and had not been used much since the COVID-19 pandemic. The Dietary Director, who has been in her role since September 2023, stated that the slicer was unsafe to use because the blade did not attach properly, and she had been unable to find replacement parts. The Administrator was unaware of the slicer's unsafe condition and expressed a desire to purchase a new slicer, but budget constraints were a limiting factor.
Latest citations in Missouri
Staff failed to protect a cognitively intact, independent resident from sexual abuse when a CNA repeatedly entered the resident’s room when the roommate was absent or asleep, hugged the resident, and kissed the resident on the mouth without the resident’s initiation or encouragement. A housekeeper observed the CNA return to the resident’s room, then saw the CNA and the resident in a full hug with the CNA kissing the resident on the mouth through a partially open door, and reported the incident. The resident later reported that these contacts were inappropriate and made the resident uncomfortable, while the CNA admitted to hugging the resident but denied kissing and believed hugging was not inappropriate, despite the facility’s abuse policy defining sexual abuse as any non-consensual sexual contact and requiring immediate reporting of abuse allegations.
Staff failed to report an allegation of sexual abuse to state authorities within the required two-hour timeframe after a cognitively intact resident with multiple psychiatric diagnoses reported being forced to touch another resident’s genitals in a dining room. A CNA observed the contact and notified an LPN, who separated the residents and obtained conflicting accounts, including a statement from the alleged victim that the act was forced. The facility’s investigation documented the allegation but did not show timely notification to the Department of Health and Senior Services, and state records confirmed the report was not made until more than 24 hours later. In interviews, the administrator stated the event was viewed as consensual and linked to the residents’ prior sexual history, while the LPN reported having informed the administrator the same day that the resident said the act was forced.
A resident with Alzheimer’s disease, severe cognitive impairment, and identified elopement risk was housed on a secured unit but was able to leave the building unnoticed when a floor tech exited through a coded door without ensuring it closed and no one followed. Staff last observed the resident near the nurses’ station and dining room, and when a CMT attempted to pass medications later, the resident could not be found, triggering a Code Pink and search. Multiple staff reported that the door alarm did not sound that night and that the door could be opened by pushing on it for several seconds or by using a code without an alarm. The facility’s investigation determined the door between the rehab and secured units was not securely closed after staff use, allowing the resident to elope and later be found in the community by EMS and transported to the ER without documented injury.
Facility staff did not fully develop or implement a comprehensive water management program to control Legionella and other waterborne pathogens. Although a written policy and an undated Water Management Plan existed, they lacked key elements such as a documented water management team, evidence of monthly monitoring review, documentation of baseline or annual Legionella testing, and specific guidance for identified high-risk areas like dead legs and unused bathrooms. Water temperature, pH, chlorine, and total dissolved solids were checked intermittently in random rooms without clearly identifying locations or consistently including all high-risk areas. The maintenance director reported flushing lines frequently but documenting checks only biweekly and not testing for Legionella, and was unfamiliar with the specific high-risk areas in the plan. Leadership, including the Regional Administrator, owner, and administrator, demonstrated limited knowledge of who performed Legionella testing, how the plan should be implemented, and the specific risk areas, control measures, and corrective actions required.
Staff failed to follow the facility’s emergency transfer/discharge policy when they discharged a resident to a local hospital for safety reasons and refused to allow the resident to return. The resident had been in the facility less than 24 hours, refused care, and made threats that scared staff, leading the administrator to authorize an immediate emergency discharge. Documentation included a progress note and an Immediate Discharge Notice listing the hospital as the discharge location for resident and staff safety, despite the administrator acknowledging that a hospital is not an appropriate discharge location. These actions resulted in the resident being discharged to a hospital without an appropriate emergency discharge notice that ensured the transfer met the resident’s needs/preferences and prepared the resident for a safe transfer/discharge.
A resident with significant GI history, chronic anemia, and recurrent constipation had physician orders and facility protocols requiring close bowel movement (BM) monitoring and a stepwise bowel regimen, as well as multiple medications for GI conditions, constipation, and other comorbidities. Staff failed to consistently document BMs, did not implement ordered bowel interventions when BMs were absent for several consecutive days, and delayed notifying the physician until the resident had gone multiple days without a BM and developed coffee‑ground emesis, leading to hospital evaluation where fecal impaction and stercoral colitis were documented. The care plan was not updated to reflect increased BM monitoring after a prior hospitalization for constipation/impaction, and the TAR showed missed documentation of ordered BM checks. In addition, the MAR showed repeated refusals of numerous medications throughout the month, including GI, cardiac, constipation, and psychiatric drugs, yet there was no documentation that the physician was notified of these frequent refusals, despite facility policy requiring reporting of medication refusals.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to keep call lights within reach for two residents, despite a policy requiring accessible call lights and frequent checks for those unable to use them. One resident, with multiple medical conditions, an above‑knee amputation, moderate cognitive impairment, and a history of numerous falls, was repeatedly observed asleep in a wheelchair by the bed with the call light on the floor or under the bed, and the care plan did not address the resident’s falls or related interventions. Another resident with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, contractures of all extremities, and hospice care needs was observed lying in bed with the call light at the foot of the bed or under the bed, out of reach, even though the care plan specified the call light should be within reach. Staff, including an LPN, a CNA, the Administrator, and the DON, all stated that call lights should always be within reach for all residents, and that frequent rounding was expected when residents could not use the call light, confirming that practice did not align with stated expectations.
A non-verbal resident with severely impaired cognition and total dependence for ADLs was seated in a WC with an arm looped around the WC handle when a CNA/restorative aide repeatedly attempted to reposition the arm to the front. Despite the resident’s non-verbal refusals and resistance, the aide pried the resident’s fingers from the WC wheel, grabbed the arm, and forcefully jerked it forward, causing the resident’s body to lurch and nearly fall from the chair. Video review showed the aide tugging and pulling on the arm multiple times as the resident refused further assistance, and a staff witness reported the aide was yelling and grabbing at the resident while the resident fought to get free. The resident later stated staff were rough and that he/she was afraid. These actions, inconsistent with the resident’s care plan and the facility’s abuse policy, resulted in a finding that the resident was subjected to physical abuse.
Two residents with significant risk factors for skin breakdown did not receive consistent, accurately documented wound care. One resident with multiple comorbidities and existing pressure-related wounds had no skin or wound interventions on the care plan, lacked an EMR order for a newly identified ankle wound, and had numerous missed or undocumented treatments for buttocks, hip, and ankle wounds, including barrier creams and Medi Honey applications. Another high-risk resident with a low Braden score had no skin-related care plan, an ankle wound that was reported as healed while MAR/TAR entries continued, weekly skin checks documented as normal despite an active ankle dressing, and a right ankle wound that went unreported in shift report until surveyors observed an outdated dressing; subsequent documentation by the wound specialist and facility conflicted on the wound’s type and measurements. The DON later confirmed expectations that staff follow wound policies, enter and document orders and refusals in the EMR, and update care plans, which were not met in these cases.
The facility failed to implement and document effective fall interventions for a resident with an above‑knee amputation, lower extremity impairment, and a history of multiple witnessed and unwitnessed falls related to attempting independent transfers. Although the care plan noted general assistance needs, it did not address the repeated falls or specify individualized fall‑prevention measures, and fall investigations recorded no new interventions despite ongoing events. Surveyors observed the resident in a wheelchair by the bed multiple times with the call light out of reach on the floor. In addition, the facility did not complete a required smoking safety assessment for a resident with Huntington’s disease, weakness, and moderately impaired cognition, even though this resident was observed smoking outside and facility policy required a smoking assessment at admission to determine needed supervision.
Failure to Protect a Resident From Non-Consensual Sexual Contact by CNA
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to protect a cognitively intact resident from sexual abuse when a CNA engaged in non-consensual physical contact. The resident’s quarterly MDS showed the resident was cognitively intact and care plan indicated independence with ADLs. On the morning in question, a housekeeper observed the CNA go to the nurses’ station from the direction of the resident’s room, look around, then quickly return to the resident’s room. When the housekeeper approached to clean the room, the door was slightly open; after a quiet knock and looking in, the housekeeper saw the CNA and the resident in a full hug, with the CNA kissing the resident on the mouth. The housekeeper then reported this observation to another housekeeper, who in turn reported it to the administrator. The facility’s abuse and neglect policy defined sexual abuse as non-consensual sexual contact of any type with a resident and required immediate reporting of all abuse allegations to the administrator. In a written statement, the CNA acknowledged going to the resident’s room and hugging the resident, claiming it was to comfort the resident, and denied kissing the resident, stating that hugging residents was not considered inappropriate. In contrast, the resident documented and later stated in interviews that the CNA had repeatedly come into the room when the roommate was absent or asleep to hug and kiss the resident, that these actions were not initiated or encouraged by the resident, and that the resident felt uncomfortable and did not want to be kissed. The resident also reported not disclosing these incidents earlier due to concern about how the CNA might treat the resident and the resident’s friends.
Failure to Timely Report Allegation of Sexual Abuse to State Authorities
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to report an allegation of sexual abuse to the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) within the required two-hour timeframe. The facility’s abuse, neglect, exploitation, and misappropriation prevention program, revised April 2021, states staff will identify and investigate all possible incidents of abuse, neglect, mistreatment, or misappropriation of resident property and report any allegations within timeframes required by federal requirements. Resident #1, assessed as cognitively intact on a quarterly MDS dated 2/12/26, had diagnoses including schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder. On 3/29/26, CNA A reported to LPN B that Resident #1 was seen touching Resident #2’s privates in the main dining room; CNA A separated the residents, and LPN B interviewed both residents. Resident #1 stated Resident #2 forced him/her to touch his/her privates, while Resident #2 denied the allegation. The facility’s investigation, dated 3/30/26, documented that Resident #1 reported assisting Resident #2 in playing with his/her privates but stated he/she was forced to assist. The investigation record did not show that facility staff contacted DHSS within the required two-hour timeframe after the allegation was reported. Review of the DHSS database confirmed that the facility did not report the allegation of sexual abuse until more than 24 hours after Resident #1 made the allegation. During interviews, the administrator stated he/she would have reported within two hours if the act was not consensual and claimed he/she was not informed that Resident #1 said he/she was forced until 3/30/26, characterizing the situation as involving residents with a past sexual history who were upset because they were caught. However, LPN B stated that on 3/29/26 at 10:12 A.M. he/she called the administrator and explained in detail that Resident #1 said he/she was forced into the sexual act, and that the administrator responded that the residents had a sexual history, so it was okay.
Failure to Secure Door and Supervise Wanderer Resulting in Elopement
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure a secured unit door was properly secured and supervised, allowing an at-risk resident to exit the building unnoticed. The resident had Alzheimer’s disease, an anxiety disorder, hearing loss, and was assessed as severely cognitively impaired on the MDS. An Elopement Risk Evaluation identified the resident as ambulatory, wandering aimlessly, and at risk for elopement, and the care plan documented that the resident was on a secured unit with impaired cognitive function. Despite this, the resident was last seen around the nurses’ station and dining room in the early evening and was not continuously monitored in a way that prevented unsupervised access to an exit door. On the evening of the incident, staff reported seeing the resident around 8:00–8:10 p.m. near the nurses’ station and dining room. A CMT later attempted to pass medications to the resident at approximately 8:30 p.m. and discovered the resident was not in their room, prompting a Code Pink and an internal search of the unit and facility. Staff, including the CMT and CNA, reported that the door alarm did not sound the night the resident left, and that previously the door could be opened by pushing on it for several seconds, or by using a code, without an alarm sounding. The Administrator and DON stated that prior to the elopement, the doors were configured so that pushing and holding the bar for 15–20 seconds would open the door and trigger an alarm, but staff did not hear an alarm at the time of the incident. A floor tech working on the secured unit acknowledged exiting through the coded door between the rehab and secured units during the relevant time frame and not checking whether anyone was following or whether the door clicked shut behind them, despite prior training to watch the door for residents attempting to leave. The facility’s investigation concluded that the entry door to the facility was not securely closed after staff exited the unit, creating an opportunity for unauthorized egress, and determined that the resident exited through the door between the rehab and secured unit. The resident was later found by EMS approximately 1.5 miles from the facility, wandering and only alert to self, and was transported to the hospital, where no injuries were documented. The nurse practitioner noted the resident was a wanderer, fairly new to the facility, and expected staff to check on the resident every one to two hours.
Incomplete Legionella Water Management and Monitoring Program
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to develop and implement complete policies and procedures for inspection, testing, and maintenance of the facility’s water systems to inhibit the growth of waterborne pathogens, including Legionella. CMS guidance (QSO-17-30) requires certified healthcare facilities to have water management policies and procedures, including a facility risk assessment, a water management program aligned with ASHRAE standards and CDC toolkit, specified testing protocols with acceptable ranges and documentation of results and corrective actions, and compliance with applicable regulations. The facility’s Legionella Infection policy, dated 03/05/20, stated these requirements but the actual implementation and supporting documents did not meet them. Review of the facility’s Water Management Plan showed it included a risk assessment that identified several high-risk areas, such as dead legs in specific rooms and departments, empty resident room bathrooms, and low-rise floor sinks in housekeeping closets. The plan stated that environmental testing would be conducted if there was difficulty maintaining water systems within control limits or if a healthcare-associated Legionella case occurred, and it instructed staff to perform baseline Legionella testing at four specified sites. However, the plan lacked a list of designated water management team members, documentation of monthly review of scheduled monitoring, documentation of baseline or annual Legionella testing, and specific guidance related to the identified high-risk areas. The facility’s Infection Prevention and Control Program, dated 04/10/19, did not contain information related to Legionella. Record review of the Resident Room Water Temperature and Checklist for a three-month period showed staff tested water temperatures in random resident rooms on both wings and also tested water pH, chlorine, and total dissolved solids, but did not indicate the testing locations or include results for all identified high-risk areas. In interviews, the maintenance director reported flushing resident room water lines almost daily but only documenting water checks every two weeks, testing pH and chlorine every two weeks, and not testing for Legionella; the director was familiar with the water management plan only generally and was not familiar with the specific high-risk areas. The Regional Administrator stated the facility should have annual Legionella testing but did not know who conducted it. The owner indicated that corporate maintained a template Water Management Policy but that the facility administrator was responsible for developing and implementing a facility-specific plan. The administrator stated the water management plan should include how water is tested monthly, believed Legionella testing was only done if there was suspicion or a positive case, had not updated the plan since an earlier review, did not document the water management team membership, had not discussed the plan with the maintenance director, and was not familiar with specific risk areas, control measures, or corrective actions.
Improper Emergency Discharge to Hospital and Refusal to Readmit Resident
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to provide an appropriate emergency discharge notice and improperly discharged a resident to a hospital while refusing the resident’s return. The facility’s policy on making an emergency transfer or discharge, revised April 2007, directed staff to only make an emergency discharge when it is in the best interest of residents and to follow specific procedures, including notifying the attending physician and receiving facility, preparing the resident and a transfer form, notifying the representative and family, and assisting with transportation. Record review showed the resident was admitted on 3/3/26 and discharged to the hospital the same day, with a progress note the following day documenting an emergency discharge effective immediately to the local hospital for safety reasons. An Immediate Discharge Notice dated 3/3/26 listed the local hospital as the discharge location for resident and staff safety. In an interview, the administrator stated the resident had been in the building less than 24 hours, had refused care, made threats, and scared staff, and that an emergency discharge to the hospital was done that day; the administrator acknowledged that a hospital is not a discharge location but stated the facility would not take the resident back for the safety of staff and other residents. These actions and documentation show that staff used the hospital as the discharge location and refused readmission, contrary to the facility’s own emergency transfer/discharge policy and without providing an appropriate emergency discharge notice that ensured the transfer/discharge met the resident’s needs and preferences and prepared the resident for a safe transfer/discharge.
Failure to Monitor Bowel Function and Report Repeated Medication Refusals
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide treatment and care according to physician orders, facility bowel protocol, and the resident’s care needs, specifically related to bowel monitoring, constipation management, and medication refusals. The facility’s own Medication Monitoring policy required licensed nurses to report refusals of medications and to identify interventions on the care plan for systematic monitoring of high‑risk medications. The Bowel Protocol required routine monitoring and documentation of bowel movements (BMs), use of a stepwise regimen (milk of magnesia on day three without a BM, bisacodyl suppository on day four, and fleet enema on day five), and prompt provider notification of significant changes such as impaction. For one resident with significant GI history and prior constipation/impaction, staff did not consistently document BMs, did not follow the bowel protocol when BMs were absent for multiple days, and did not notify the physician in a timely manner. The resident had a history of chronic GI blood loss, recurrent constipation, large stool burden, and prior fecal impaction. In mid‑November, the resident was hospitalized for anemia, GI bleeding, and severe constipation with a large fecal impaction, during which a disimpaction was performed and the physician recommended keeping a record of BMs. After return, facility bowel elimination records showed multiple gaps in documentation and prolonged periods without recorded BMs. In early December, there were days with no documentation and no recorded BMs, and staff did not document physician notification or administration of bowel interventions from several consecutive days without BMs. Later in December, the record again showed multiple consecutive days with no BMs documented; staff did not administer bowel interventions until the sixth day and did not document physician notification until that time. A nurse’s note on that day described the resident having no BM for five to six days, vomiting coffee‑ground emesis, and being sent to the hospital, where hospital records documented stercoral colitis, fecal impaction, and a moderate to large amount of stool throughout the colon. Despite the resident’s history and the physician’s expectation for close monitoring, the February Treatment Administration Record showed an active order to monitor BMs daily with a requirement that the resident have a BM every other day and to give a Dulcolax suppository if no BM every other day, yet nursing staff failed to document monitoring on multiple shifts. The resident’s care plan did not reflect the increased BM monitoring ordered after the hospitalization for constipation/impaction. Interviews with RNs, LPNs, CNAs, the MDS coordinator, ADON, DON, and the physician showed inconsistent understanding and implementation of the bowel protocol and monitoring orders; staff acknowledged that monitoring had not been consistent and that the system for tracking BMs was not effective. The deficiency also includes failure to notify the physician of multiple medication refusals for this resident. Throughout February, the MAR showed repeated refusals of numerous ordered medications, including baclofen, bisacodyl, Carafate, Colace, Dexilant, ferrous sulfate, folic acid, metoprolol, Miralax, pravastatin, Remeron, and Senna‑S, often refused more than ten times in the month. The facility’s Medication Monitoring policy required nurses to report refusals of medications to the physician, but the medical record contained no documentation of physician notification regarding these repeated refusals. Nursing staff and the MDS coordinator acknowledged that the resident refused medications and that they used nursing judgment about when to notify the physician, but several staff did not know how many refusals should trigger notification, and some believed the physician was aware without recalling specific contacts or documentation. The physician stated that he knew the resident sometimes refused medications but was not aware of the high frequency of refusals in February and stated he wanted to know when refusals occurred so often. Overall, the actions and inactions leading to the deficiency included failure to consistently document and monitor BMs per order and protocol, failure to implement ordered bowel interventions when BMs were absent for multiple days, failure to update the care plan to reflect increased bowel monitoring after hospitalization for constipation/impaction, and failure to notify the physician of frequent medication refusals as required by facility policy. These failures occurred despite the resident’s known history of GI bleeding, recurrent constipation, fecal impaction, and prior hospitalizations for GI issues and constipation.
Failure to Keep Call Lights Within Reach for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to reasonably accommodate residents’ needs and preferences by not ensuring call lights were within reach, contrary to its own “Answering the Call Light” policy. That policy required staff to keep call lights within easy reach for residents in bed or confined to a chair and to frequently check residents unable to use the call light. Despite this, surveyors observed multiple instances where residents’ call lights were out of reach or on the floor, and staff interviews confirmed that the expectation was for call lights to be accessible at all times when residents were in their rooms. One resident had diagnoses including type 2 diabetes, acute kidney failure, and an above-knee amputation, with cognition changing from intact on admission to moderately impaired on a subsequent MDS. The resident’s care plan addressed admission for LTC, need for assistance with bed/chair mobility, transfers, and locomotion, and use of a wheelchair with safety reminders, but did not address the resident’s multiple falls or any fall interventions. Facility event reports documented numerous falls, both witnessed and unwitnessed, over a three‑month period. During several observations on different days and times, this resident was seen asleep in a wheelchair by the bed, with the call light out of reach—on the ground on the opposite side of the bed or under the bed—despite staff acknowledging the resident fell frequently and liked to sleep in the wheelchair. Another resident had diagnoses including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, was unable to communicate, and had all four extremities contracted. The care plan identified risk for dehydration and increased pain due to contractures, skin integrity issues, and hospice care, with specific interventions to keep the call light within reach and remind the resident to call for assistance. However, during multiple observations, this resident was lying in bed with the call light positioned at the foot of the bed or on the floor under the bed, out of reach. Staff, including an LPN and a CNA, stated that call lights should be within reach for all residents regardless of cognitive status and that frequent rounding was expected if a resident could not use the call light. The Administrator and DON also stated they expected call lights to be in reach for all residents at all times and specifically for residents with frequent falls, underscoring that the observed conditions did not meet facility expectations or policy.
Resident Physically Abused During Forceful Arm Repositioning
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to protect a resident from physical abuse and to honor the resident’s right to be free from the willful infliction of physical harm. The facility’s abuse policy defined abuse as the willful infliction of injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation, or punishment resulting in physical harm, pain, or mental anguish, and required staff training in abuse prevention and sensitivity to residents’ rights and needs. The policy also required that all incidents, allegations, or suspicions of abuse be documented and investigated. Despite these policies, a staff member, identified as Restorative Aide/CNA E, used excessive force while attempting to reposition a resident’s arm, in a manner inconsistent with the resident’s care plan and the facility’s abuse prevention standards. The resident involved had severely impaired cognition, unclear speech, and was non-verbal, with dependence on staff for all ADLs, and weighed 213 lbs. The resident’s care plan identified impaired communication and decision-making, with approaches that included explaining procedures prior to tasks, providing cues and reorientation, offering simple choices, and using alternative communication methods as needed. On observation, the resident was seated in a wheelchair at the nurse’s desk with his/her arm positioned on the back of the wheelchair and looped around the handlebar. Restorative Aide/CNA E stood to the right of the resident and repeatedly attempted to move the resident’s right arm forward. The resident responded with non-verbal refusals, moving the arm away and then propelling slightly forward to grasp the wheelchair wheel. Despite these non-verbal refusals, Restorative Aide/CNA E pried the resident’s fingers off the wheelchair wheel, grabbed the resident’s right arm with one hand while placing the other hand behind the triceps area, and forcefully jerked the arm forward. This action caused the resident’s seated body to lurch forward to the point that the resident nearly fell out of the wheelchair onto the tile floor. A subsequent observation showed the aide wiping the resident’s hands with a washcloth that had a red substance on it. Shortly afterward, the resident, when interviewed, stated that staff were rough and that he/she was afraid. Review of security camera footage with facility leadership showed the aide tugging and pulling on the resident’s arm in a forward motion multiple times, with the resident refusing further assistance and the aide becoming more aggressive. A laundry assistant also reported seeing the aide yelling and grabbing at the resident, with the resident resisting and fighting to get the aide off, and believed the incident affected the resident’s behavior afterward. These observed and documented actions constituted the use of excessive force and physical abuse toward the resident. Additional interviews further described the context of the incident. Restorative Aide/CNA E stated that the resident liked to sit with the arm behind the chair and claimed to be repositioning the arm at the resident’s request, acknowledging that the resident’s hand was locked on the wheelchair wheel and that the aide moved it off. The aide reported the resident complained of arm pain and that a red substance seen on the arm was ketchup from lunch, and did not believe the handling was rough. In contrast, an LPN who had cared for the resident for three months stated the resident commonly rested the arm behind the wheelchair, had never required arm repositioning for that posture, and had not complained of arm pain in that position. Facility leadership, after viewing the video, agreed that the staff member used excessive force and that the aide should have stopped and re-approached the resident instead of continuing to pull and tug on the arm in the face of resistance. These facts collectively demonstrate that the resident’s right to be free from physical abuse was not upheld.
Failure to Provide Consistent Wound Care and Accurate Skin Assessment Documentation
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide consistent wound treatments, timely and accurate wound orders, and accurate skin assessments for two residents with wounds. For one resident with multiple comorbidities including open right foot wound, coccyx pressure ulcer, stroke, hemiplegia, dysphagia, severe protein-calorie malnutrition, seizures, and peripheral vascular disease, the care plan in use during the survey contained no problems, goals, or interventions related to skin or wound prevention, despite these conditions. A readmission skin observation documented no abnormalities, but shortly afterward an NP note identified a new open area to the right ankle and ordered cleansing and Medi Honey treatment. The corresponding physician orders reflected Medi Honey treatment to the right buttocks, but there was no EMR order for the right ankle wound treatment on the MAR/TAR. Multiple subsequent skin observation reports and wound doctor notes documented MASD and a stage 3 right hip pressure injury with specific measurements and treatment orders, yet the documentation of wound locations was sometimes incomplete or inconsistent. Medication and treatment administration records for this resident showed numerous missed or undocumented wound care treatments. The December and January MAR/TARs reflected missed opportunities for Medi Honey and right hip dressing changes, including refusals without required progress notes and missed treatments without explanation. In February, barrier cream and zinc oxide orders for the peri area and buttocks were documented as missed in all or many opportunities, and wound treatments to the right buttocks, right hip, and right ankle were missed multiple times without progress notes. A new ankle wound was noted by the DON, with an NP confirming the resident did not need hospital evaluation and suggesting continuation of the wound doctor’s plan, and later documentation described a right ankle/foot stage 2 ulcer with specific measurements. However, the EMR showed missed treatments for the ankle wound and the facility’s wound report later listed multiple MASD sites (right buttocks, coccyx, groin) with onset dates and durations, indicating these wounds were not present on admission but had remained open for extended periods. For a second resident with morbid obesity, bipolar disorder, and intellectual disability, the annual MDS showed no skin concerns, and the care plan in use during the survey contained no skin-related problems, goals, or preventive interventions, despite a Braden score of 11 indicating high risk for pressure injury. Physician orders included offloading pressure areas on the heels and elevating extremities every shift, as well as an order to cleanse the right lateral ankle and apply a foam dressing every three days. Wound specialist notes indicated the resident was not seen on two occasions, once due to being away with family and once because the DON reported the right ankle wound as healed. Weekly skin observation reports in March documented no skin abnormalities, yet the March MAR/TAR showed ongoing documentation of right ankle dressing changes and refusals. On observation, the resident had a foam dressing on the right ankle dated several weeks earlier, and the LPN acknowledged the outdated dressing, stated night shift was scheduled to change it, and then discovered in the EMR that the resident was listed as refusing care over a prolonged period, although the LPN was unaware of the wound and it had not been mentioned in shift report. The wound measured 2 cm by 2 cm at that time, and the DON later described discoloration to the left heel and stated he could not make clinical decisions on staging without the wound doctor. A wound specialist note that same day identified a new stage 2 pressure injury over the right ankle with specific measurements and treatment orders, while the facility’s wound report listed the same area as an abrasion with different initial measurements, demonstrating inaccurate and inconsistent documentation of the wound’s status and type. The DON stated that nursing staff were expected to follow facility policies, that weekly assessments were completed but not ordered, and that staff were prompted in the EMR scheduler. The DON explained that shift nurses were expected to enter treatment orders or provide them to the DON to enter, that nurses were expected to document progress notes when residents declined treatments, and that the medical doctor should be notified of new hospital wound treatment recommendations. The DON also stated that care plans should be updated within 24–48 hours to reflect new changes and that staff should attempt a second approach or allow time before documenting a refusal. Despite these expectations and the facility’s wound management policy requiring Braden assessments, daily or weekly skin checks based on risk, accurate wound differentiation and documentation, and consistent use of wound protocols, the records for both residents showed failures to consistently administer ordered treatments, failures to enter and maintain accurate wound treatment orders in the EMR, and failures to accurately document skin assessments and wound characteristics needed for appropriate follow-up and monitoring.
Failure to Implement Fall Interventions and Complete Smoking Safety Assessment
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to maintain an accident‑hazard‑free environment and to provide adequate supervision and interventions to prevent accidents, specifically falls and unsafe smoking. For one resident with lower extremity impairment, an above‑knee amputation, diabetes, and acute kidney failure, the admission MDS showed a need for partial to moderate assistance with transfers and use of a wheelchair. The resident’s care plan addressed general needs for assistance with bed/chair mobility, transfers, and locomotion, and noted the need for monitoring to prevent falls, but it did not address the resident’s actual history of multiple falls or specify any individualized fall interventions. Facility event reports documented numerous falls over several months, including unwitnessed and witnessed falls in the bathroom and room, often related to the resident attempting independent transfers from wheelchair to toilet or from bed to wheelchair without assistance. Fall investigations dated across this period identified root causes such as the resident leaving the dining area and attempting to transfer independently in a common bathroom, and attempting to get out of bed and into a wheelchair without assistance despite having an amputated leg. These investigations documented that the resident was encouraged or educated to ask for help or call for assistance, but no new interventions were recorded following these events. Observations by surveyors showed the resident seated in a wheelchair by the bed with eyes closed on multiple occasions, with the call light not in reach and at times on the floor on the opposite side of the bed. The Director of Therapy stated the resident was receiving PT, OT, and speech therapy and recommended a wedge (tilt‑in‑space) wheelchair with foot pedals, more frequent rounding, and ensuring the call light was in reach, and expected these interventions to be reflected on the care plan. An LPN and facility leadership acknowledged the resident had frequent falls and that interventions, including those tried such as frequent rounding and ensuring call light access, should have been documented on the care plan. The deficiency also includes failure to assess another resident for smoking safety. This resident had diagnoses including Huntington’s disease and weakness, with moderately impaired cognition documented on the admission MDS. Review of the electronic medical record showed no smoking assessment, despite the facility’s smoking policy requiring assessment at admission and at least quarterly or with significant change to determine needed assistance and supervision. Surveyor observations documented this resident smoking outside on more than one occasion. An LPN, the Administrator, and the DON all stated that a smoking assessment should have been completed upon admission to ensure the resident’s safety while smoking, but no such assessment was found in the record.
Trusted data from CMS and state health departments
Every citation, penalty and Plan of Correction is sourced from public CMS records (latest release May 27, 2026) and official state health department websites — never guesswork.
Trusted by long-term care providers and associations.
