Holly Springs Rehabilitation And Healthcare Center
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Holly Springs, Mississippi.
- Location
- 1315 Highway 4 East, Holly Springs, Mississippi 38635
- CMS Provider Number
- 255229
- Inspections on file
- 21
- Latest survey
- November 24, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 10
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Holly Springs Rehabilitation And Healthcare Center during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to label and store food properly, maintain kitchen cleanliness, and ensure food safety, with multiple food items left unlabeled or uncovered, dirty kitchen equipment, and improper dishwashing temperatures. Additionally, meal trays were left in resident rooms for prolonged periods, including for residents with cognitive impairment, and staff did not consistently follow hand hygiene protocols.
Surveyors found that several residents with ADL deficits or dementia did not have appropriate care plans developed or implemented, resulting in unmet hygiene and personal care needs such as long, dirty fingernails and infrequent bathing. Staff interviews confirmed that care plans were not always followed or documented, and that residents' preferences and needs were not consistently addressed.
Several residents dependent on staff for ADL care were observed with long, dirty fingernails, unshaven facial hair, and lacking regular showers or baths. Despite some residents expressing a desire for grooming and hygiene, staff did not consistently provide these services or document refusals, even when residents had cognitive impairment or significant medical conditions. Staff acknowledged the need for regular assessment and care, but the facility failed to maintain residents in a clean and well-groomed condition.
Surveyors observed multiple instances of flies and gnats in resident rooms and the kitchen, with flies landing on residents and uncovered food trays, and gnats found around food waste. Maintenance and administrative staff confirmed ongoing pest issues, damaged window screens, and a lack of a specific pest control policy, while residents with significant medical conditions were affected.
A resident with moderate cognitive impairment was left wearing visibly soiled clothing and exposed protective underwear after staff failed to address his appearance, despite being aware of the issue. Both an LPN and a CNA acknowledged the dignity concern, and the facility's policy requires prompt attention to such needs.
Surveyors found that several residents did not have their call lights within reach, limiting their ability to request assistance, and one resident was observed with a mattress that was too short, leaving his feet unsupported. Staff confirmed that call lights should always be accessible and that the mattress was not the correct size. The affected residents had a range of cognitive and medical conditions.
Several residents were found living with unclean and damaged equipment, such as wheelchairs with missing or tattered armrests, dirty footrests, broken furniture, and soiled privacy curtains. Staff interviews revealed a lack of clarity and follow-through regarding responsibility for cleaning and repairs, and facility policies for maintaining equipment were either not in place or not followed, resulting in residents not receiving a safe, clean, and homelike environment.
Staff did not follow Enhanced Barrier Precautions during high-contact care for several residents with wounds or indwelling devices. Despite clear signage and available PPE, an LPN, a wound care nurse, and a CNA provided care without wearing gowns as required by facility policy and resident orders. Staff interviews confirmed knowledge of the EBP requirements, but the necessary precautions were not taken.
A resident with a history of obesity and muscle weakness was injured due to a failure to follow her care plan, which required two-person assistance with a lift for transfers. A CNA attempted to transfer the resident without the lift, based on incorrect information, resulting in fractures to the resident's leg.
A resident requiring a two-person assist with a full body lift was improperly transferred by a CNA who acted on incorrect information, leading to fractures in the resident's right leg. Despite the care plan specifying the need for a lift, the CNA attempted a pivot transfer, resulting in the resident's injury and subsequent hospital visit.
A resident with dementia and contractures required two-person assistance for care, as outlined in her care plan. However, a CNA provided care alone, resulting in the resident falling out of bed. The facility's failure to follow the care plan led to this deficiency, as confirmed by interviews with staff and a review of the resident's medical history.
A resident with contractures and dementia fell from bed when a CNA attempted to change their brief alone, despite the care plan requiring two-person assistance. The CNA positioned the resident too close to the bed's edge, resulting in a fall. No injuries were reported, and staff interviews confirmed the need for two-person assistance.
The facility failed to prevent the misappropriation of narcotics from a medication cart. During a narcotic count, an LPN discovered that a pill in a resident's Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen prescription was replaced with Atorvastatin. An audit revealed a similar issue with another resident's narcotic card. Both residents had moderate cognitive impairments. The facility's policy on controlled substances was not followed, leading to the unauthorized replacement of narcotic medications.
Deficient Food Storage, Kitchen Sanitation, and Meal Tray Removal
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly label and store food, maintain kitchen cleanliness, and ensure food safety standards were met during multiple kitchen inspections. Observations revealed that numerous food items in the reach-in cooler and on prep tables were not labeled with open or expiration dates, and some were left uncovered. There were also open containers of seasonings, an open cup of salt, and a bag of bacon bits without dates. A box of potatoes with gnats was found on a prep table, and flies were observed in the kitchen. The return vent near the stove was heavily dust-laden, and several steam table lids and fry baskets were covered in grease and food debris. The deep fryer was reported as non-functional for months, but no maintenance request was documented. Additionally, pitchers of tea and lemonade were left out without dates, and the stove top was dirty with old grease and food buildup. Dishwashing and sanitation practices were also deficient. The low-temperature dishwasher was operating below the required temperature for effective sanitation, and dish machine logs showed missing documentation for wash and rinse temperatures over several days. During meal service, a dietary cook was observed leaving her station, touching personal items, and returning to food service without changing gloves or washing hands. The dietary manager confirmed that these actions were against facility policy and could compromise hygiene and food safety. Meal trays were left in resident rooms for extended periods, with several residents found with breakfast trays still present hours after meal service. Some residents were cognitively impaired, while others were cognitively intact. The facility did not have a policy specifying time frames for tray removal, and both the infection preventionist and administrator acknowledged that trays should be removed promptly to prevent potential illness. No foodborne illnesses were documented in the facility's infection log at the time of the survey.
Failure to Develop and Implement Comprehensive Care Plans for ADL and Dementia Needs
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified deficiencies related to the development and implementation of comprehensive, person-centered care plans for multiple residents. Several residents with ADL self-care deficits, cognitive impairments, or dementia did not have care plans that addressed all their needs, or the existing care plans were not followed. For example, one resident with a diagnosis of dementia did not have a dementia care plan developed after the diagnosis was added, which was confirmed by both the MDS Coordinator and Social Services. Other residents with ADL deficits, such as those requiring assistance with bathing, personal hygiene, and nail care, were observed to have unmet hygiene needs, including long and dirty fingernails, unshaven facial hair, and infrequent bathing, despite care plans indicating the need for regular assistance. Direct observations and interviews revealed that some residents expressed dissatisfaction with their hygiene and grooming, stating they wanted their nails trimmed or to be clean-shaven, and that they had not received showers or baths as scheduled. In several cases, staff interviews confirmed that residents had not received care as outlined in their care plans, and documentation of care refusals was lacking or absent. For instance, one resident had not received a bath or nail care since admission, and there was no documentation of refusals, despite staff stating the resident refused care. Another resident, who was cognitively intact, had long, jagged fingernails and stated he wanted them cut, but there was no evidence of recent nail care. The facility's policy requires comprehensive, person-centered care plans with measurable objectives and timetables to meet residents' needs. However, the survey found that care plans were either not developed for certain conditions, such as dementia, or not implemented as written for residents dependent on staff for ADLs. Staff interviews confirmed that failure to follow care plans resulted in residents not receiving the care they deserved, and that care plans are essential for guiding staff in providing necessary care.
Failure to Provide Adequate ADL Care and Personal Hygiene
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate activities of daily living (ADL) care, including personal hygiene and grooming, for five residents who were dependent on staff assistance. Multiple observations and interviews revealed that residents had long, jagged, or dirty fingernails, unshaven facial hair, and had not received regular showers or baths. In several cases, residents expressed a desire for nail care, shaving, or bathing, and staff confirmed the need for these services. Documentation did not consistently reflect refusals of care, and in some cases, there was no record of refusals despite staff claims that residents declined care. Residents affected included individuals with varying degrees of cognitive impairment and medical conditions such as diabetes, hemiplegia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, dementia, and end stage renal disease. For example, one resident with hemiplegia and diabetes had long, jagged fingernails and stated he did not like them that way, while another resident with moderate cognitive impairment had significant facial hair and could not recall the last time he received a shower. Another resident with severe cognitive impairment was observed with facial hair and had only refused care once in the past month, despite staff statements that she often refused grooming. Staff interviews confirmed the observations and acknowledged the importance of maintaining residents' hygiene and grooming to prevent health decline and preserve dignity. The facility's policy required monthly assessment and documentation of nail care and personal hygiene, including attempts to address refusals in residents with cognitive impairment. However, the lack of consistent documentation and failure to provide necessary ADL care led to the deficiency, as residents were not maintained in a clean, well-groomed condition as required.
Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
Multiple observations revealed the presence of flies and gnats in both resident rooms and the kitchen area. Several residents were found in their rooms with flies flying over their beds, landing on their covers, and attempting to land on uncovered, leftover food trays. In the kitchen, gnats were observed flying around a cardboard box containing potatoes, and flies were seen in the prep and cook areas. The Dietary Manager noted that the box was considered garbage due to an overflowing trash can. Maintenance staff confirmed that flies had been a persistent problem for months, despite bi-monthly visits from a pest control company, and acknowledged that damaged window screens could be allowing flies to enter resident rooms. The process of replacing these screens was ongoing at the time of the survey. The Administrator confirmed that flies remained a concern in the facility, even with recent pest control visits, and admitted that no additional pest control services had been sought. It was also acknowledged that leaving meal trays in resident rooms could attract insects. Review of facility documentation revealed there was no specific pest control policy in place, and the existing environmental policy only addressed maintaining cleanliness in food service areas. Residents involved had medical conditions such as dementia, post-traumatic seizures, and amputation, and were observed to be in bed during the incidents.
Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity Due to Soiled Clothing and Exposed Undergarments
Penalty
Summary
A resident with a diagnosis of unspecified dementia and moderate cognitive impairment was observed sitting in his room wearing a visibly soiled shirt with food stains and liquids, and his pants were pulled down past his hips, exposing his protective underwear. The resident was in this state while a staff member changed his linen but did not provide any care or address his appearance. Both a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) acknowledged the resident's soiled clothing and exposed undergarments, confirming it was a dignity issue. The CNA admitted to noticing the soiled shirt after breakfast but did not return to address it due to being occupied with another resident. The facility's policy on dignity requires that each resident be cared for in a manner that promotes well-being and self-worth. The administrator stated that staff are expected to address residents' needs as soon as they are identified. Despite this, the resident's needs were not promptly met, resulting in a failure to maintain the resident's dignity as required by facility policy.
Failure to Ensure Call Light Accessibility and Adequate Mattress Size
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that multiple residents did not have their call lights within reach, limiting their ability to request assistance. For example, one resident was found in bed with the call light hanging behind the bed and inaccessible on several occasions throughout the day. The resident confirmed she could not reach the call light, and the CNA responsible acknowledged forgetting to attach it to the resident's pillow, as required by facility practice. The DON confirmed that staff are expected to ensure call lights are always accessible to residents. Other residents were also observed with call lights out of reach, including one sitting in a recliner with the call light tangled on the floor, and another lying in bed with the call light on the floor and not visible. Staff interviews confirmed that call lights should be within reach for safety and that all staff are responsible for ensuring accessibility. Residents affected had varying cognitive statuses, with some being cognitively intact and others having moderate to severe cognitive impairment. Additionally, one resident was repeatedly observed lying in bed with his feet hanging off the end of a mattress that was too short, with no support for his feet. The DON confirmed that the mattress was not the correct size and acknowledged the need for a mattress extender. The residents involved had medical histories including alcoholic polyneuropathy, repeated falls, schizophrenia, unspecified dementia, and other reduction deformities of the brain.
Failure to Maintain Safe, Clean, and Homelike Environment for Residents
Penalty
Summary
Multiple residents were observed to be living in conditions that did not meet standards for a safe, clean, and homelike environment. One resident was found sitting in a wheelchair with 95% of the vinyl missing from the right armrest, tattered left armrest, and a frame and wheel spokes covered in a thick, gray substance. The resident was unsure why the wheelchair was in this condition or when it would be cleaned. The facility's Administrator confirmed the wheelchair was dirty and in disrepair, and did not know which staff member was responsible for cleaning wheelchairs. The DON stated that wheelchairs were supposed to be cleaned during the night shift, and the Maintenance Director was unaware of the damage, stating that staff should have reported it for repair. Another resident's motorized wheelchair footrests were covered with dirt and crumbs, and the resident reported it had not been cleaned in approximately six months. The Housekeeping Manager confirmed the wheelchair was dirty and that CNAs were responsible for cleaning wheelchairs. Additional deficiencies were observed in resident rooms. One resident's room contained a dresser with a missing drawer, exposing the contents, and several flies were present. Another resident's privacy curtain had eight circular dark brown stains, and the Housekeeping Supervisor confirmed it needed to be changed. A different resident's room had a chair with a broken armrest hanging down, exposing a screw, which the Maintenance Director confirmed could cause injury and should have been reported for repair. The Maintenance Director also confirmed the broken dresser drawer and stated that nurses and aides were responsible for reporting such concerns for repair. The Housekeeping Supervisor stated that housekeepers were expected to check privacy curtains for cleanliness and condition during daily cleaning. Facility policy review revealed a statement of resident rights to safe, decent, and clean conditions, and a policy requiring immediate removal of stained curtains. However, the facility did not have a specific policy in place for maintaining equipment. Staff interviews indicated that daily rounds were supposed to be conducted to report repair concerns, but these processes were not effectively implemented, resulting in multiple residents experiencing unclean, unsafe, or non-homelike living conditions.
Failure to Adhere to Enhanced Barrier Precautions During Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to adhere to Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) during high-contact care activities for multiple residents with indwelling medical devices or wounds. Observations revealed that an LPN administered medications through a PEG tube to a resident with an active EBP order without wearing a gown, despite signage on the door and the nurse's acknowledgment of the requirement. Similarly, a wound care nurse and a CNA provided wound care and assistance with a sit-to-stand lift for another resident with a chronic wound, also under EBP, without donning gowns as instructed by posted signage. In another instance, a wound care nurse performed PEG site care for a resident with moderate cognitive impairment and an EBP order, again without using the required gown and gloves, even though PPE was readily available nearby. Record reviews confirmed that all affected residents had current orders for EBP due to the presence of wounds or indwelling devices, and facility policy required the use of gowns and gloves during high-contact care activities for these residents. Staff interviews further confirmed awareness of the EBP requirements and the purpose of PPE use, yet the required precautions were not followed during the observed care activities.
Failure to Follow Care Plan Results in Resident Injury
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement a comprehensive care plan for a resident requiring two-person assistance with a lift during transfers, resulting in an injury. The resident, who had an Activities of Daily Living (ADL) self-care performance deficit related to weakness, was supposed to be transferred using a full body lift with an extra-large sling by two staff members. However, on the day of the incident, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) attempted to transfer the resident without the lift, based on incorrect information from another CNA. This action was contrary to the resident's care plan, which specified the need for a total lift for all transfers. As a result of the improper transfer, the resident complained of pain and was sent to the hospital, where x-rays confirmed fractures to her right leg. The resident, who had a history of obesity and generalized muscle weakness, was diagnosed with minimally displaced fractures of the distal tibia and fibula. The incident highlights a failure in adhering to the care plan, as the CNA did not verify the resident's transfer requirements and relied on incorrect information, leading to the resident's injury.
Inadequate Transfer Assistance Leads to Resident Injury
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate assistance during a transfer for a dependent resident, leading to an injury. The incident involved a resident who required a two-person assist with a full body lift for transfers, as outlined in her care plan. On the day of the incident, CNA #2, who was assigned to the resident, requested help from CNA #1 to transfer the resident back to bed. Despite CNA #2 bringing a Hoyer lift into the room, CNA #1 proceeded to transfer the resident without the lift, based on incorrect information from another aide that the resident could pivot for transfers. During the transfer, the resident's right leg was injured, resulting in pain and a subsequent hospital visit where x-rays confirmed fractures to her right leg. The resident, who had a history of obesity and generalized muscle weakness, was unable to pivot as CNA #1 attempted to transfer her, causing her foot to drag on the ground. This improper handling led to the resident's leg being injured during the transfer process. The facility's investigation revealed that CNA #1 acted on incorrect information and did not follow the care plan that required a full body lift for the resident. Both CNAs involved were from a staffing agency, and CNA #1 has not returned to work at the facility following the incident. The resident's care plan clearly indicated the need for a two-person assist with a full body lift, which was not adhered to, resulting in the resident's injury.
Failure to Implement Two-Person Assistance Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement the care plan for a dependent resident, resulting in a deficiency. The care plan for the resident, who had a self-care deficit and required total assistance by two persons for incontinent care, was not followed. On a specific date, a CNA entered the resident's room alone to provide care, despite the care plan's requirement for two-person assistance. This action led to the resident falling out of bed, as confirmed by interviews with the RN Supervisor, ADON, and CNA involved. The resident had contractures and was unable to assist in her own care, necessitating the two-person assistance outlined in her care plan. The resident's medical history included unspecified dementia, a need for assistance with personal care, and contractures in multiple areas. The MDS Coordinator confirmed that the care plans were designed to address the individualized needs of residents and that the CNA did not adhere to the care plan. The incident highlights a failure to follow established protocols, which were in place to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of residents with significant care needs.
Failure to Provide Two-Person Assistance Leads to Resident Fall
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate supervision and assistance to prevent a fall for a dependent resident requiring two-person assistance. The incident involved a resident with contractures and a diagnosis of unspecified dementia, who was assessed as needing assistance with personal care. On the day of the incident, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) attempted to change the resident's brief alone, despite the care plan indicating the need for two-person assistance. During the process, the resident was positioned too close to the edge of the bed, resulting in a fall to the floor. Fortunately, no injuries were observed at the time of the incident. Interviews with facility staff, including the Registered Nurse (RN) Supervisor and the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON), confirmed that the resident required two-person assistance due to contractures. The CNA involved admitted to not paying attention to the resident's position on the bed and acknowledged the requirement for another person to assist. The CNA attempted to prevent the fall by supporting the resident's head and called for help immediately after the incident. The facility's policy on fall prevention emphasizes the need for specific interventions based on fall risk assessments, which were not adhered to in this case.
Misappropriation of Narcotics in Medication Cart
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prevent the misappropriation of narcotics from one of its medication carts. During a routine narcotic count at shift change, two LPNs discovered that a pill in a narcotic card for a resident's Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen prescription appeared different from the others. Upon further inspection, it was found that the pill had been replaced with a different medication, Atorvastatin, and the slot was sealed with tape. A subsequent audit revealed a similar issue with another resident's narcotic card, where a Norco tablet had been replaced with an Atorvastatin pill. The investigation revealed that the misappropriation involved two residents, both of whom had moderate cognitive impairments. One resident had a history of a skull injury and convulsions, while the other had dementia and an anxiety disorder. The facility's policy on controlled substances, which mandates compliance with laws and regulations regarding handling and documentation, was not adhered to, leading to the unauthorized replacement of narcotic medications with non-narcotic pills.
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A resident with hemiplegia, hemiparesis, and cognitive impairment had a care plan directing staff to apply and remove a right ankle splint at specific times each day and to provide passive stretching to prevent decline in ROM. Observation found the splint not in use and lying on a chair, and the resident was unsure when it was last applied. A PTA reported the resident had developed foot drop and that the splint could no longer be applied without additional therapy, attributing this to the splint not being used daily as ordered. The DON confirmed that staff failed to follow the established care plan for splint application and ROM management.
A resident with hemiplegia and hemiparesis after a cerebral infarction, and severe cognitive impairment (BIMS 5), had physician and therapy orders for right-hand and right-ankle splinting with passive ROM to manage contractures and maintain ROM. Surveyors observed a foot splint lying unused and the resident’s right hand contracted into a fist without a hand roll. The resident could not recall when the foot splint was last applied and reported never having a hand roll. An LPN was unaware of the need for the splint and confirmed no hand roll was in use. Records showed the hand splint order was discontinued at the responsible party’s request due to pain, but OT was not notified and no alternative such as a hand roll was initiated. PT had documented improved ankle ROM and recommended a PODUS boot, while a PTA later reported the resident had developed foot drop related to the ankle splint not being applied as ordered. The DON confirmed that daily ankle splint orders existed and that the hand splint was discontinued without alternative interventions to prevent contracture.
The facility failed to protect resident narcotic medications from misappropriation when an LPN handed over a medication cart’s narcotic keys to an RN without performing required narcotic counts before and after the transfer, and the cart was later found unlocked in the nurses’ station. During the subsequent shift change count, staff discovered multiple missing doses of oxycodone-acetaminophen and hydrocodone-acetaminophen prescribed PRN for pain to four residents with conditions including dementia, COPD, dysphagia, and diabetic neuropathy. Review of individual controlled drug logs showed corrected balances to account for the missing tablets, confirming that controlled substances were unaccounted for during the period of unsecured cart access and improper key control.
Two ambulatory residents with dementia, severe cognitive deficits, and known wandering behavior, each wearing a wander guard bracelet, were able to exit through a unit door when a visitor held it open, despite the door alarm sounding and prior observations that they frequently walked together and approached doors. An LPN responded to the alarm and, along with other staff, initiated a search when the residents could not be found on the unit; staff ultimately located the residents across a four-lane highway and returned them to the building without injury. The incident occurred despite facility policies requiring use of a security system for residents unable to protect themselves from harm by wandering, and staff and leadership acknowledged that the residents had a history of walking the halls together and going to doors, and that increased monitoring and restricting visitor access to door codes could have prevented the elopement.
A cognitively impaired resident with dementia, agitation, and a history of wandering was previously assessed by the IDT as not being at risk for elopement and did not have elopement precautions in place. On one occasion, a visitor exited through the front door without realizing the resident followed outside, and staff later discovered the resident alone on the front porch after being missing for several minutes. An LPN and CNA participated in locating and returning the resident, and the incident revealed that supervision and elopement risk assessment were insufficient for this resident.
A resident with Type 2 DM and moderately impaired cognition had two unstageable heel DTIs documented on the MDS and physician orders for treatment to both heels, but the comprehensive care plan did not include any problem, goals, or interventions related to these pressure injuries. LPNs responsible for MDS and care plan completion acknowledged the omission and stated that although they periodically audit by comparing orders to the care plan, this situation was missed. The DON reported she expected the wound care nurse to update the care plan with new wound treatment orders, while an RN stated she could update interventions but had not been trained to create a new focused care plan and was unaware it was her responsibility to add the DTI treatment orders to the care plan.
A controlled substance prescribed for a cognitively intact resident with a left femur fracture was delivered and signed for by an LPN but was not entered on the narcotic accountability record or narcotic box package count and was later found to be missing. One LPN reported receiving the blister pack of thirty Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen 10-325 mg tablets from another LPN, placing it on the nurses’ station, and leaving the area, while both LPNs stated they were in the medication room as the medication remained unattended. The DON and Administrator confirmed that staff failed to secure the controlled medication as required by facility policy and that the missing tablets could not be located.
Surveyors found that staff failed to properly secure and store medications for two residents. For one resident, an LPN received a delivery of Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen, passed it to another LPN, and the controlled medication was left unattended at the nurses’ station instead of being immediately locked and entered into the narcotic count, after which it could not be located. For another resident, two bottles of Lorazepam oral concentrate, documented on the narcotic record and labeled to be protected from light and refrigerated, were observed stored in a locked medication cart rather than in the designated medication refrigerator, even though staff acknowledged knowing the manufacturer’s refrigeration requirement.
A resident with hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction was transferred by facility van to a psychiatric hospital for evaluation and was later determined by the facility to be discharged due to aggressive behavior and threats, with staff stating they could not meet the resident’s needs. The Administrator and Social Services Director communicated with the psychiatric facility and the resident’s family about finding alternative placement and informed the family the resident would not be allowed to return, but no formal involuntary discharge notice or written appeal rights were provided, and no physician discharge order was documented, contrary to facility policies requiring a completed transfer form and written notice of transfer/discharge with appeal information.
The facility did not adequately investigate, address, or resolve repeated grievances about food quality and temperature raised through Resident Council meetings. Over several months, residents reported that weekend meals were bad, food was consistently cold, beverages lacked sufficient ice, and breakfast items were hard or unpalatable. While limited steps such as using temperature-holding containers, sending trays out faster, and in-servicing dietary staff were noted, there was no documented monitoring, follow-up, or evaluation of effectiveness. Cognitively intact residents continued to report cold, poor-tasting food, and staff, including the Dietary Manager and Social Services, acknowledged awareness of the complaints without evidence of thorough follow-up or resolution.
Failure to Implement Care Plan for Ankle Splint and ROM Management
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement a comprehensive, person-centered care plan for contracture management and splinting to prevent decline in range of motion for one resident. The facility’s policy on prevention of decline in range of motion required that, based on the comprehensive assessment, the facility provide interventions, exercises, and/or therapy to maintain or improve ROM. The resident’s care plan, initiated on 8/1/25, identified an ADL self-care performance deficit related to stroke, hemiplegia, and immobility, placing the resident at risk for functional decline. The care plan interventions directed staff to apply a splint to the right ankle after breakfast, provide passive stretch to the right ankle after applying the splint, remove the splint at lunchtime, reapply the splint after supper with passive stretch, and remove the splint at bedtime. On observation, the resident’s ankle splint was not in use and was found lying in a chair in the resident’s room, and the resident was unsure when the splint was last applied. The PTA reported that the resident had developed foot drop and that the ankle splint could no longer be placed without additional therapy, confirming this was related to the splint not being applied daily as ordered. The DON stated that the care plan was used to inform staff how to care for the resident and verified that staff failed to follow the care plan when they did not apply the ankle splint. Record review showed the resident was admitted with hemiplegia and hemiparesis following a cerebral infarction affecting the right dominant side, and an MDS assessment indicated a BIMS score of 5, reflecting cognitive impairment at the time of the deficiency.
Failure to Implement ROM and Splinting Orders Resulting in Contractures and Foot Drop
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide ordered range of motion (ROM) and splinting interventions to prevent decline in ROM for a resident with hemiplegia and hemiparesis following a cerebral infarction affecting the right dominant side. The resident was admitted with these diagnoses and had physician orders and therapy recommendations for contracture management and splinting. An OT evaluation documented decreased ROM in the right upper extremity and recommended a resting hand splint and a restorative splint and brace program, with a subsequent OT evaluation recommending continuation of the contracture management and splinting program. A physician order directed staff to apply a right-hand splint after breakfast, provide passive stretch to the right elbow, wrist, and hand once daily, and remove the splint before dinner. Another physician order required application of a right ankle splint after breakfast and after supper with passive stretching following application. The facility’s own policy stated that residents without limited ROM should not experience a reduction in ROM unless clinically unavoidable. During observation, surveyors noted a foot splint lying unused in the resident’s chair and the resident’s right hand contracted into a fist without a hand roll in place. The resident reported not knowing when the foot splint was last applied and stated she had never had a hand roll. An LPN stated she did not know why the splint was in the room, believed the resident was not required to wear it, and confirmed the resident did not have a hand roll. Record review showed the right-hand splint order was discontinued at the responsible party’s request due to pain, but the OT reported she had not been notified of this discontinuation and stated a hand roll should have been initiated when the splint was stopped; she further stated the resident’s hand was now contracted into a fist. A PT discharge summary documented improved right ankle ROM with therapy and recommended a PODUS boot daily for up to five hours, while a PTA later reported the resident had developed foot drop and that the ankle splint could no longer be applied without additional therapy, confirming this was related to the splint not being applied daily as ordered. The DON verified that there were physician orders for daily ankle splinting and acknowledged that the right-hand splint was discontinued without alternative interventions to prevent contracture. The resident’s MDS showed a BIMS score of 5, indicating severe cognitive impairment.
Failure to Secure Narcotic Medications and Maintain Key Control
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to protect resident medications from misappropriation on one of four medication carts, resulting in missing controlled substances for four residents. The facility’s abuse, neglect, and exploitation policy defines misappropriation of resident property as the deliberate misplacement, exploitation, or wrongful use of a resident’s belongings or money without the resident’s consent. On a specific date, during the 7:00 PM shift change narcotic count, staff identified that multiple doses of Percocet and Norco (hydrocodone-acetaminophen) were missing from the narcotic box on a single medication cart. Prior to this discovery, the assigned LPN had confirmed that the narcotic count was correct earlier in the day. The events leading to the deficiency included the LPN giving her medication cart narcotic keys to an RN while she left the area to perform a urine specimen collection. The LPN did not complete a narcotic count before or after transferring the keys, which was not in accordance with facility expectations for key control and chain of custody. When the LPN returned, she observed the medication cart in the nurses’ station and unlocked. The RN later confirmed that she had moved the cart into the nurses’ station but denied administering any medications during the time she had possession of the keys. During the subsequent 7:00 PM narcotic count, discrepancies were identified, and a search of the cart and nurses’ station did not locate the missing medications. Record review showed that four residents’ controlled medication logs required corrections to reflect missing tablets. One resident with dementia had an order for oxycodone-acetaminophen 5-325 mg every 12 hours as needed for pain; the narcotic log initially showed a remaining balance of 20 tablets after a documented administration, but was later corrected to 16 tablets to account for four missing tablets. A second resident with COPD had an order for oxycodone-acetaminophen 10-325 mg every eight hours as needed; the log was corrected from a remaining balance of five tablets to four, indicating one missing tablet. A third resident with dysphagia had an order for hydrocodone-acetaminophen 5-325 mg every 24 hours as needed; the log showed two tablets on hand after the resident returned from pass with no administrations documented, and was later corrected to zero, indicating two missing tablets. A fourth resident with type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic neuropathy had an order for hydrocodone-acetaminophen 7.5-325 mg every six hours as needed; the log was corrected from a remaining balance of eight tablets to seven, indicating one missing tablet. These discrepancies, combined with the unsecured cart and improper key transfer without counts, led to the determination that resident medications were not protected from misappropriation.
Failure to Prevent Elopement of Two Cognitively Impaired Wanderers
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide adequate supervision and prevent elopement for two residents with known wandering and elopement risk. Both residents were ambulatory, frequently walked throughout the facility together, and were known to staff as wanderers. Each resident had a diagnosis of dementia with severe cognitive deficits documented on their MDS assessments, and both had Wander/elopement alarms (wander guard bracelets) in place and used daily. The facility’s elopement/wandering policy stated that residents who are incapable of adequately protecting themselves and unable to determine when they are at risk for harm by wandering out of the facility should be placed on the resident security system to ensure safety. On the day of the incident, video surveillance later reviewed by the Administrator showed that a visitor entered an exit door on the B Unit at approximately 6:20 PM. The two residents at risk for elopement approached the door, and the visitor held the door open, allowing them to walk out of the building. The residents were wearing wander guard bracelets, and when they exited, the door alarm sounded. A nurse responded immediately to the alarm, exited the facility, and went down the walkway but did not see the residents. Staff were then alerted that the residents were missing, and a facility-wide search was initiated. Staff interviews and the facility’s documentation confirmed that the residents had previously been observed walking together throughout the facility and approaching doors, including the exit door involved in the incident. The Administrator reported that review of the video showed the two residents had approached the same door together two or three times prior to the elopement event. Despite their known patterns of wandering, severe cognitive impairment, and prior door-approach behavior, the residents were able to exit the facility unnoticed and unsupervised when the visitor held the door open. Staff ultimately located the residents across a four-lane high-capacity highway approximately 528 feet from the exit door and returned them to the facility, where body audits and assessments documented no injuries and intermittent confusion. The State Agency determined that the facility’s failure to provide adequate supervision to prevent the elopement of these residents, who had exhibited exit-seeking behaviors, placed them and other residents at risk for wandering and elopement in a situation likely to cause serious injury, harm, impairment, or death and cited the facility at F689 with Immediate Jeopardy and Substandard Quality of Care. The residents’ medical records and elopement reports documented that both were confused, had impaired memory, and were identified as wanderers. One resident had a BIMS score of 3 and the other a BIMS score of 0, both indicating severe cognitive deficits. Progress notes and elopement reports recorded that staff were notified when the residents were not on the unit and could not be located, that all staff were engaged in searching, and that the residents were ultimately found outside and assisted back into the building. Interviews with CNAs and an LPN described hearing a Code W called, running outside, and seeing the residents across the street after they had crossed the four-lane highway. The DON acknowledged that the residents were always walking in the facility, often together, and that they had wandered to doors and looked out, and agreed that increased monitoring and not allowing visitors to have door codes could have prevented the residents from leaving the building.
Removal Plan
- Conducted a facility search.
- Notified police of missing residents.
- Director of Nursing interviewed staff and residents.
- Notified the Medical Director and residents’ families.
- Administrator and Director of Nursing checked the wander guard system and facility doors to ensure proper functioning.
- Returned Resident #1 and Resident #2 to the facility.
- Completed an incident report.
- Completed an emergency Quality Assurance meeting.
- Initiated in-service training for all staff on the elopement policy, including a quiz to validate comprehension, and required staff (including contract staff) to complete the in-service before working their next scheduled shift, with Administrator monitoring compliance.
- Responded immediately to the door alarm by sending staff outside to locate residents and notifying additional staff to assist with the search.
- Reviewed video surveillance and confirmed a visitor held the door open allowing residents to exit.
- Held an emergency Quality Assurance meeting with the Medical Director, Director of Nursing, Administrator, Regional Director, involved staff, and Infection Preventionist.
- Changed the main entry door code.
- Verified entrance door signage was in place instructing not to allow residents to exit unaccompanied.
- Identified residents at risk for elopement and ensured elopement bracelets/transmitters were functional and doors were locking appropriately.
- Reviewed care plans for residents at risk for elopement.
- Completed body audits on Resident #1 and Resident #2.
- Conducted audits verifying resident location, elopement risk, and wander guard bracelet function.
- Medical Records updated care profiles of residents at risk for wandering.
- Assistant Administrator began audits of all doors for function and security.
- Provided in-services on elopement policy and procedure, Resident Rights, and incident and accident reporting.
- Conducted elopement drills on each shift.
- Implemented monitoring systems to sustain compliance.
- Director of Nursing to monitor wander guard system checks three times weekly for four weeks or until substantial compliance is attained.
- Director of Nursing to monitor resident behavior for elopement attempts via incident reports, observations, and communications weekly for four weeks or until substantial compliance is attained.
- Quality Assurance Committee to meet for four weeks to review compliance with the plan of action, then continue routine Quality Assurance monitoring if no further concerns are noted.
- Administrator to hold follow-up Quality Assurance meetings monthly for two months then quarterly thereafter to ensure sustained compliance.
- Updated entry screening kiosk to include an additional reminder and attestation to ensure resident safety, requiring visitors to agree that no resident comes in or out with them and triggering a staff alert if the visitor refuses.
- Administration spoke directly with the visitor to confirm visitor policies and procedures.
Elopement of Cognitively Impaired Resident Due to Inadequate Supervision
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate supervision to prevent a cognitively impaired resident with a history of wandering from exiting the building unattended. The resident had diagnoses including dementia with agitation and a BIMS score of three, indicating severe cognitive impairment. The resident had been readmitted from a geriatric psychiatric hospitalization and was known by the DON to have a history of wandering. Despite this, the interdisciplinary team had previously determined that the resident was not at risk for elopement, and no elopement interventions such as a wander guard were in place at the time of the incident. On the day of the event, a visitor observed the resident standing near the front door and exited the facility without realizing the resident followed him outside. Staff later became aware that the resident was missing, and an LPN assisted in locating the resident. A CNA ultimately found the resident outside on the front porch and returned the resident to the facility, with the investigation determining the resident had been outside unattended for approximately five minutes. Staff interviews confirmed that the resident ambulated in the halls and had not previously attempted to exit the building, and that the resident was only reassessed and provided with a wander guard after the incident.
Failure to Care Plan for Pressure Injuries and Treatment Orders
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a comprehensive person-centered care plan for a resident with pressure injuries. The facility’s undated Care Plan Policy and Procedure stated that each resident’s care plan would remain current and inform staff of needs, strengths, goals, and approaches, and that a comprehensive person-centered care plan would be completed as needed. Record review showed that the resident was admitted with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with ketoacidosis without coma and, per the Discharge MDS with an ARD of 1/19/26, had a BIMS score of 12 indicating moderately impaired cognition. Section M of the MDS documented two unstageable pressure injuries presenting as deep tissue injuries (DTIs). Physician orders dated 12/10/25 directed treatment to right and left DTI pressure ulcers. Despite these documented DTIs and treatment orders, review of the resident’s comprehensive care plan revealed no care plan addressing the DTIs on the left and right heels, which was inconsistent with the physician orders. During interviews, two LPNs responsible for MDS and care plan completion confirmed that the care plan did not include the DTIs and stated that care plans are developed based on the MDS and physician orders, and that audits comparing orders to care plans are done periodically but this had been missed. The DON stated her expectation that the wound care nurse update the care plan with new wound care treatment orders. An RN reported she could update care plan interventions but had not been trained to develop a new focused care plan and had not added the physician’s DTI treatment orders to the care plan, and she was not aware it was her responsibility to do so.
Unsecured Controlled Medication Left Unattended and Lost
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prevent misappropriation of resident property when a controlled substance prescribed for a resident was left unattended and subsequently went missing. Facility policies on abuse and neglect defined misappropriation of resident property to include missing prescription medications or diversion of resident medications, including controlled substances, and the Medication-Controlled Substances policy required that only authorized licensed nursing and pharmacy personnel have access to controlled medications, that all controlled substances be stored in a locked cabinet or compartment, and that accurate accountability of all controlled drugs be maintained. Despite these policies, a pharmacy courier delivered thirty Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen 10-325 mg tablets for a resident with a left femur fracture, and the medication was signed for by an LPN but was not signed onto the narcotic accountability record, was not documented on the narcotic box package count, and could not be located. The resident, who was cognitively intact with a BIMS score of 15 and had a physician’s order for Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen, was later informed that the tablets delivered had been lost. Interviews revealed that one LPN received the blister pack of thirty Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen tablets from another LPN and placed it on the nurses’ station before leaving the area, leaving the controlled medication unattended. Both LPNs reported being in the medication room while the medication remained unattended at the nurses’ station. The DON reported being notified that the medication was missing and that an investigation confirmed the medication could not be located and had been left unattended, and the Administrator confirmed staff failed to ensure controlled medications were secured and accessible only to authorized personnel and that the facility was unable to determine the location of the missing medication.
Failure to Secure Controlled Drugs and Follow Refrigerated Storage Requirements
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to store and secure medications, including controlled substances, in accordance with professional standards and manufacturer instructions. For Resident #1, who was admitted with a left femur fracture and was cognitively intact with a BIMS score of 15, the physician ordered Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen 10-325 mg tablets. A facility investigation documented that a pharmacy courier delivered 30 tablets of this controlled medication, which were received and signed for by an LPN but were never documented in the narcotic count system and were later unable to be located. One LPN reported that after receiving the Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen from another LPN, she left the medication unattended at the nurses’ station while she completed other tasks instead of immediately securing it in the locked medication cart. The LPN who initially received the medication from the courier confirmed that the controlled medication had not been immediately secured in the locked cart following delivery. For Resident #3, who was admitted with heart disease and had a BIMS score of 10 indicating moderately impaired cognition, the physician ordered Lorazepam (Ativan) oral concentrate. The narcotic record showed that two containers of Lorazepam were signed into the narcotic record on the date of admission. Manufacturer prescribing information for the Lorazepam oral concentrate specified that it must be protected from light and stored refrigerated at 36–46°F. During a controlled drug count, surveyors observed that two bottles of Lorazepam oral concentrate for this resident were stored in the locked medication cart rather than in a refrigerator, despite the label instructions requiring refrigeration. One LPN confirmed the manufacturer’s storage instructions on the label but was unsure why the medication had not been refrigerated, and another LPN acknowledged awareness that the medication required refrigeration but confirmed it had been stored in the medication cart instead of the designated medication refrigerator.
Failure to Provide Required Involuntary Discharge Notice and Appeal Rights
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide required written notice of an involuntary discharge, including appeal rights, and to obtain a physician’s discharge order before refusing readmission of a resident following a hospital transfer. Facility policy titled “Transfer Form” stated that it is the policy of the facility to provide a completed and accurate transfer form to residents transferred or discharged from the facility, and the policy titled “Appealing a Transfer or Discharge Notice” stated that residents have the right to appeal transfer or discharge notices and, upon notice of transfer or discharge, will be provided with a statement of their right to appeal. Record review showed that the resident, admitted with hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction, left the facility by facility van to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital for evaluation. Progress notes dated several days after the transfer documented that the resident had been discharged from the facility due to aggressive behavior and that, per conversation with the psychiatric hospital, the Administrator and Social Services Director would assist in finding alternative placement and home health if needed. Documentation further indicated that, due to threats made, the facility stated it was unable to meet the resident’s needs and communicated with the resident’s family that the resident would not be allowed to return. During interview, the Administrator confirmed that neither the resident nor the family was provided a formal involuntary discharge notice or information on appeal rights and that no physician order for discharge could be located, acknowledging that the formal notice, appeal rights, and physician order should have been obtained prior to discharge.
Failure to Investigate and Resolve Ongoing Food-Related Grievances
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that grievances voiced through the Resident Council regarding food quality and temperature were thoroughly investigated, addressed, and resolved. Resident Council minutes over multiple months documented repeated complaints that weekend food was "bad," tasted sweet, and that food was cold by the time it reached residents. Additional concerns included insufficient ice in water and tea, hard breakfast biscuits and toast, and cold grits. Although the facility’s grievance policy stated that residents and families could voice grievances without reprisal and that the facility would make prompt efforts to resolve grievances, there was no documentation that the initial complaint about weekend food quality was addressed, and subsequent complaints continued without evidence of thorough investigation or resolution. Resident Council Department Response Forms showed limited actions, such as placing food in containers to maintain temperature, conducting an in‑service for dietary staff, sending food out faster, and instructing staff to pass trays promptly, but there was no documentation of monitoring, follow‑up, or evaluation of whether these measures were effective. Residents interviewed, all cognitively intact per their MDS BIMS scores, consistently reported that the food remained cold and did not taste good, with one resident noting that staff would reheat food only if requested. The Dietary Manager acknowledged awareness of the complaints and stated he had spoken with weekend staff and made changes like replacing tray carts and providing guidance on food preparation, but confirmed there was no documentation of ongoing monitoring or additional interventions. Social Services and the Administrator both acknowledged awareness of the complaints and that additional follow‑up and resolution efforts should have occurred, yet no evidence of such follow‑up was present in the records.
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