Highland Hills Post Acute
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
- Location
- 1105 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15237
- CMS Provider Number
- 395826
- Inspections on file
- 48
- Latest survey
- March 19, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 36 (1 serious)
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Highland Hills Post Acute during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
The facility failed to ensure that necessary clinical and administrative information was communicated to receiving providers when two residents were transferred to the hospital. Policy required written notice of transfer and transmission of practitioner contact details, representative information, advance directives, care plan goals, special instructions, and a discharge summary. For one resident with HTN, anxiety, and chronic respiratory failure who was transferred and did not return, and another resident with HTN, DM, and hyperlipidemia who became unresponsive during lunch and was sent to the hospital after evaluation, records lacked documentation that this required information was provided to the hospital. The ADON confirmed that essential information was not communicated for these transfers.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to obtain a physician order for a hospital transfer for a resident who became unresponsive during a meal and was later sent to the hospital at the direction of an NP and with family agreement, but without a corresponding physician transfer order in the chart. In addition, another resident with diabetes had a sliding-scale Humalog order that specified insulin doses for various blood glucose ranges but lacked any parameters for when to contact the physician for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, a deficiency confirmed by the ADON.
The facility did not ensure that nail care, including cleaning and trimming, was provided for four residents who were unable to perform this task themselves. Observations and interviews confirmed that several residents with significant medical conditions had long, unclean fingernails and reported not receiving nail care from staff, in violation of facility policy.
Three residents with limited mobility and physician orders for splints and braces did not consistently receive these prescribed devices, as documentation showed multiple days where devices were not applied or records were incomplete. Interviews confirmed the lack of consistent application, and staff acknowledged the failure to provide necessary services and equipment to maintain or improve mobility.
A resident's confidential medical information, including details about swallowing difficulties and specific care instructions, was posted above their bed without documented approval from the resident or their representative. This action was not in accordance with facility policy on safeguarding personal and medical records.
A resident with a history of stroke, hypertension, and dysphagia had a physician's order for 'No straws,' but the care plan was not updated to include this intervention. Despite the order, the resident continued to receive thin liquids through a straw, and this omission was confirmed by facility staff.
A resident with multiple medical conditions experienced repeated delays in staff response to call bell activations, with documented response times ranging from 16 to 21 minutes. Staff confirmed that the facility did not adequately accommodate the resident's call bell needs.
A resident with dementia and other medical conditions was verbally abused and possibly physically mistreated by an LPN during a transfer with a sit-to-stand lift. The LPN yelled at the resident and appeared to push her into a chair while the sling was still around her waist, actions witnessed by the ADON and a CNA. This conduct violated the resident's care plan and facility policy on abuse prevention.
A resident with dementia and a history of wandering was able to exit the facility through an unsecured emergency door without staff knowledge. The resident's care plan and elopement risk assessments were not properly updated or implemented, and staff were unaware of the resident's absence until alerted by another resident. Required incident reporting and notifications were not completed, resulting in a deficiency related to inadequate supervision and failure to prevent elopement.
The facility did not employ a full-time qualified social worker for an extended period, as confirmed by payroll records and the HR Director, resulting in noncompliance with regulatory requirements.
The facility did not provide required QAPI training to two nurse aides and an LPN, as confirmed by a review of training records and a human resources interview. This failure was in direct violation of the facility's policy to conduct QAPI education during orientation and annually.
A resident with dementia and a history of aggressive behavior physically struck another resident with severe cognitive impairment on multiple occasions. Despite care plans and interventions for behavior monitoring and redirection, staff were unable to prevent the abuse, and the facility did not ensure the victim was protected from harm, as confirmed by the DON.
The facility did not follow its policies and procedures to thoroughly investigate two separate incidents involving abuse and neglect. In one case, a resident with dementia eloped through an unsecured emergency door and was found outside, with no documentation or required notifications completed. In another case, a resident with severe cognitive impairment was physically struck by another resident in the dining room, but the incident was not properly reported or investigated according to facility policy.
Two residents with cognitive impairment experienced separate incidents of elopement and physical abuse that were not reported or investigated as required. In one case, a resident was found outside after eloping through an unsecured emergency door, and in another, a resident was struck by another resident in the dining room. Required notifications and documentation were not completed for either event.
A resident with dementia and moderately impaired cognition exited through an unsecured emergency door and was found outside by another resident, who alerted staff. The facility did not document the incident, notify the family or physician, or conduct a required investigation into the elopement and possible neglect, as confirmed by the DON.
A resident with a history of stroke, hemiplegia, and aphasia did not receive appropriate services and equipment to maintain or improve mobility. The resident was observed without a prescribed hand splint, and there were no current physician orders or care plan documentation for its use, despite recommendations from the Rehab Restorative transition program. Staff confirmed that the necessary recommendations were not processed, resulting in a failure to provide required assistance and equipment.
A resident with dementia and escalating aggressive behaviors was not provided with timely and sufficient social services to assist in transferring to a VA facility for behavioral care. After initial efforts to coordinate a transfer, there was a significant delay in follow-up, during which the resident continued to display physical and verbal aggression toward staff and other residents, requiring repeated crisis interventions.
The NHA did not ensure proper supervision for a resident at high risk for elopement, resulting in the resident leaving the facility and creating an immediate jeopardy situation. This failure was identified through review of job descriptions, facility and clinical records, and staff interviews, and was found to be inconsistent with professional standards and facility policies.
The facility did not provide timely written notification to the State agency when an Interim NHA assumed administrative duties, as confirmed by documentation and staff interviews. The DON verified that the required notification was not submitted at the time of the change, resulting in noncompliance with disclosure requirements.
Two nurse aides did not receive required training on effective communication, as confirmed by review of facility education records and a Human Resource staff interview. This failure was found to be noncompliant with state regulations regarding staff development and management.
A resident with dementia and a known elopement risk exited the facility unsupervised through a delivery door after an employee accidentally bypassed the alarm system. The resident, wearing a wander alarm, was able to leave undetected and was returned by staff after being found outside. The incident was attributed to the failure to ensure the alarm system was properly engaged and to provide adequate supervision for a resident at risk of elopement.
Two residents with significant care needs reported allegations of sexual and physical abuse by a staff member to a COTA, who immediately notified a supervisor. The facility did not recognize or investigate all allegations before allowing the accused employee to return to work, resulting in a failure to protect residents from abuse.
The facility did not follow its policies and procedures to thoroughly investigate three allegations of abuse involving two residents, including sexual and physical abuse. The accused employee was returned to work before investigations were completed, and one resident was not assessed or had their physician or family notified after the alleged incident.
A resident with multiple medical conditions and frequent incontinence reported to a COTA that an employee touched them inappropriately during incontinence care. Although the COTA reported the allegation to a supervisor, the facility did not recognize, report, or investigate the alleged sexual abuse, and the DON was made aware but no further action was taken.
The facility did not thoroughly investigate three separate abuse allegations involving two residents, including reports of inappropriate touching and physical abuse by a staff member. Required steps such as obtaining witness statements, conducting interviews, and notifying the physician and family were not completed, and the facility's own policies for abuse investigation were not followed.
The facility failed to notify a physician and family, and did not complete resident assessments after three abuse allegations involving two residents with multiple health conditions. The facility also did not conduct a thorough investigation, as required, following reports of sexual and physical abuse during care activities.
The facility failed to ensure nursing staff had the necessary competencies to care for residents with a Life Vest, placing two residents in immediate jeopardy. Staff interviews revealed a lack of training and understanding of the device's operation, including battery changes, alarm meanings, and bathing protocols. Clinical records and care plans lacked specific instructions and physician orders related to the Life Vest, impacting the health and safety of the residents.
The facility failed to include the Life Vest, a critical intervention, in the baseline care plans for two residents admitted with serious cardiac conditions. Despite the facility's policy requiring a comprehensive care plan within 48 hours of admission, the plans for these residents did not reflect the need for this life-saving device. The oversight was confirmed by the DON during an interview.
A facility failed to develop a comprehensive care plan for a resident with diabetes, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure, omitting necessary instructions for a Life Vest. Despite physician orders to change the Life Vest battery daily, the care plan lacked goals and interventions for this device. The DON confirmed the care plan's incompleteness.
The facility failed to ensure that a physician conducted the initial comprehensive visit for three residents, as required. Instead, CRNPs completed the assessments for residents with various diagnoses, including high blood pressure, depression, Alzheimer's Disease, and arthritis. The Director of Nursing confirmed this lapse in compliance with regulatory standards.
The NHA and DON failed to ensure nursing staff had the necessary skills to care for residents with Life Vests, leading to an immediate jeopardy situation for two residents. Despite job descriptions outlining their responsibilities, the facility did not provide adequate training, resulting in a deficiency confirmed by staff interviews.
The facility did not conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify necessary resources for resident care, particularly failing to include Life Vests for residents with complex medical conditions. Two residents were admitted with Life Vests, but the facility's assessment did not account for the specialized care these devices require. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed this oversight.
The facility failed to accurately account for controlled substances for four residents, leading to discrepancies in medication administration records and narcotic sign-out sheets. Residents with conditions such as emphysema, lung cancer, dementia, and post-surgical pain experienced issues with medications like oxycodone and tramadol. The facility's DON and NHA confirmed these deficiencies.
The facility failed to maintain proper food storage and sanitation in the main kitchen. Observations revealed unlabeled and undated food items in the walk-in cooler, dry storage, and reach-in cooler. Additionally, the dish room had unsanitary conditions, including debris on the wall fan and walls, and a slimy substance in the ice machine. These issues were confirmed by the Dietary Manager, posing a risk of foodborne illness and cross-contamination.
The facility failed to provide a clean, safe, and homelike environment, as evidenced by corroded wheelchairs, structural damage, and inadequate washcloth supplies. Additionally, privacy curtains in two resident rooms were stained. These issues were confirmed by staff interviews, including with the Nursing Home Administrator.
The facility failed to complete MDS assessments on time for several residents due to a computer system transition that left RNACs without charting access for two weeks, resulting in a three-week delay. The DON confirmed the issue.
The facility failed to complete quarterly MDS assessments for 21 residents within the required time frame due to a transition in their computer system. The system was down for a week, and incorrect setup of RNACs delayed charting access by two weeks, causing a three-week backlog in assessments. This was confirmed by the RNAC and the DON.
The facility failed to develop comprehensive care plans for two residents with feeding tubes. One resident's care plan lacked the route of feeding tube administration, while another's lacked focus, goals, and interventions for enteral nutrition support. These deficiencies were confirmed by staff and acknowledged by facility leadership.
The facility failed to monitor and provide necessary services to prevent pressure ulcers for three residents. One resident did not have the prescribed air mattress and cushion, another had incomplete documentation of a pressure ulcer, and a third had incorrect coding and missing weekly documentation of a pressure ulcer. These deficiencies indicate lapses in following care plans and ensuring proper assessment and monitoring.
The facility failed to provide appropriate care for residents with urinary catheters, compromising their dignity and care. Two residents with indwelling catheters had uncovered bags, and one resident's catheter flushing solution was improperly stored. Another resident used an external catheter system without a physician's order, despite being able to use it independently. The Director of Nursing confirmed these lapses in care.
The facility failed to provide appropriate care for residents receiving tube feedings due to incomplete physician orders. A resident with anemia and GERD, another with hemiplegia and COPD, and a third with diabetes and dysphagia had orders lacking details such as the enteral access device and total volume of nutrition. The Registered Dietitian confirmed these deficiencies, which did not comply with the facility's Enteral Nutrition policy.
The facility failed to maintain consistent communication and accurate care planning for residents requiring dialysis. Three residents had incomplete or missing communication sheets, essential for coordinating care with the dialysis provider. Interviews confirmed these deficiencies, violating several Pennsylvania Code regulations.
The facility failed to properly store and secure medications in three medication carts and left medications unsecured at the bedside of three residents. Observations revealed multiple medications were opened and undated, and interviews with LPNs confirmed these were not dated as required. Additionally, medications were found unsecured at the bedside of residents, including an Albuterol inhaler and a bottle of TUMS. A resident with anxiety, depression, and PTSD refused to take his medication, leading to it being left unsecured in his room.
The facility failed to address repeated grievances from residents and their families over several months. Concerns included inadequate cleanliness, insufficient linens, restricted bed transfers, and staff behavior issues such as using ear buds and cell phones. Residents also reported long call bell wait times, unavailability of staff for assistance, and issues with meal service. Despite these concerns being documented, the facility did not take adequate action to resolve them.
A facility failed to provide timely notice of the Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage (NOMNC) to a resident with breast cancer, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure. The NOMNC, which should be given at least two days before the end of Medicare-covered services, was not presented before the resident's discharge. The facility intended to mail the notice to the resident's home, as confirmed by the Nursing Home Administrator.
Two residents experienced neglect due to the facility's failure to adhere to care plans and physician orders. One resident was improperly transferred without a mechanical lift, contrary to their care plan, resulting in a slip. Another resident did not receive ordered wound care for an external fixator device on multiple occasions. The DON confirmed these deficiencies, acknowledging the neglect in care.
The facility failed to provide consistent post-fall monitoring for two residents after they were assisted to the floor during transfers. Both residents' progress notes and vital signs logs lacked the required documentation for every shift over seventy-two hours, and their care plans were not updated with new interventions following the falls. Interviews with the DON and an RN confirmed these deficiencies.
The facility failed to provide appropriate respiratory care for two residents. One resident's nebulizer was not stored properly, and their care plan lacked necessary interventions. Another resident's oxygen equipment was not labeled with a date. Both deficiencies were confirmed by staff and acknowledged by the DON.
A facility failed to provide trauma-informed care to a resident with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The resident's care plan acknowledged the PTSD diagnosis but did not identify specific triggers or strategies to avoid them, which is essential to prevent re-traumatization. This deficiency was confirmed by the DON, who acknowledged the failure to identify and mitigate PTSD triggers for the resident.
The facility failed to provide sufficient nursing staff during breakfast on the Arcadia Unit, affecting the care of 28 residents over five days. Observations showed delays in meal service due to inadequate staffing, with only one LPN and varying numbers of NAs present. Staff interviews confirmed the challenges, and the DON acknowledged the deficiency in meeting residents' needs.
Failure to Communicate Essential Resident Information During Hospital Transfers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that necessary resident information was communicated to receiving health care providers during transfers for two residents. Facility policy on transfer and discharge, last reviewed on 11/1/25, required that residents or their representatives receive written notification of impending transfer or discharge and that specific information be conveyed to the receiving provider, including practitioner contact information, resident representative information, advance directives, special instructions or precautions for ongoing care, comprehensive care plan goals, and all other necessary information, including a copy of the discharge summary. The policy also required that the medical record contain the discharge summary information and identify the recipient of the summary. For one discharged resident (R1), admitted on an unspecified date with diagnoses including hypertension, anxiety, and chronic respiratory failure, the clinical record showed the resident was transferred to the hospital on 3/8/26 and did not return. There was no documented evidence that the facility communicated the resident’s care plan goals, advance directive information, specific instructions for ongoing care, resident representative information, or all information necessary to meet the resident’s specific needs to the receiving provider. For another resident (R3), admitted on an unspecified date with diagnoses of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, nursing notes documented an episode of unresponsiveness during lunch with abnormal vital signs, subsequent partial recovery, and a decision by the nurse practitioner to send the resident to the hospital with the niece’s agreement. Review of this resident’s record likewise revealed no documented evidence that the required information, including care plan goals, advance directives, instructions for ongoing care, resident representative information, and all necessary information, was communicated to the receiving provider. In an interview, the ADON confirmed the facility failed to ensure necessary information was communicated for these two residents.
Failure to Obtain Physician Orders for Hospital Transfer and Glucose Management
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to obtain appropriate physician orders related to a hospital transfer and to the management of blood glucose levels. One resident (R3), with diagnoses including hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, became unresponsive and flaccid during lunch while in a wheelchair. Vital signs at that time showed blood pressure of 88/50, heart rate 75, oxygen saturation 95%, and respirations 26, and the resident required maximum assistance of four staff to return to bed. After returning to bed, the resident became more aroused, with blood pressure 110/58, heart rate 71, respirations 21, and oxygen saturation 94%, and was able to answer questions appropriately. The nurse practitioner directed that the resident be sent to the hospital for evaluation, and the resident’s niece agreed to the transfer; however, review of the physician orders showed there was no physician order documented for the hospital transfer. The ADON confirmed that the facility failed to obtain a physician order for this transfer. A second deficiency was identified for another resident (R2), who had diagnoses including anemia, diabetes, and hypertension. Review of this resident’s physician orders showed an order for Humalog (insulin lispro) 100 units/mL to be administered subcutaneously before meals and at bedtime according to a sliding scale based on capillary blood glucose readings, with specific insulin doses corresponding to blood glucose ranges from 0 to 400 mg/dL. However, the order did not include parameters for when to contact the physician regarding hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) in relation to these capillary blood glucose checks. During interview, the ADON confirmed that the facility failed to obtain physician orders that included management parameters for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia for this resident.
Failure to Provide Required Nail Care for Dependent Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary nail care for four out of ten residents who were unable to perform this activity of daily living themselves. According to the facility's policy, nail care should include daily cleaning and regular trimming. Observations and interviews revealed that several residents had long fingernails, some with brown debris underneath, and expressed that their nails had not been cut or cleaned by staff. One resident's representative reported having to cut the resident's nails themselves due to lack of care from facility staff. These findings were confirmed during walking rounds with the Assistant Director of Nursing, who acknowledged the deficiency. The affected residents had significant medical conditions, including stroke with hemiplegia, high blood pressure, difficulty swallowing, malnutrition, muscle weakness, dementia, low back pain, Parkinson's disease, and hip fracture. Despite these conditions, which limited their ability to perform self-care, the facility did not ensure that nail care was provided as required by policy. The deficiency was identified through review of records, direct observation, and interviews with both residents and staff.
Failure to Provide Prescribed Orthotic Devices for Residents with Limited Mobility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents with limited mobility received appropriate services, equipment, and assistance to maintain or improve their mobility, as required by physician orders and facility policy. Three residents with diagnoses including stroke, high blood pressure, and hemiplegia had specific orders for the use of splints, braces, and guards to prevent contractures, maintain joint alignment, and support functional use of extremities. Documentation reviews revealed multiple instances where these devices were not applied as ordered, with records showing days marked as 'No', 'Not Applicable', or left blank, indicating the devices were not used or there was no evidence of their application. For one resident, the ankle brace was not applied on 14 out of 29 days, the palm guard on 6 days, the elbow splint on 14 days, and the hand brace on 15 days. Another resident did not have a hand splint applied on 18 out of 29 days, and during an interview, the resident stated they did not know the location of the splint. A third resident's hand splint was not applied on 14 out of 29 days, with documentation similarly marked as 'Not Applicable' or left blank. Interviews with residents and staff confirmed the lack of consistent application of prescribed orthotic devices. The Assistant Director of Nursing acknowledged that the facility failed to provide the necessary services, equipment, and assistance to maintain or improve mobility for all three residents reviewed. These findings were based on facility policy review, clinical record review, observations, and interviews.
Failure to Maintain Confidentiality of Resident Medical Information
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the confidentiality of a resident's personal and medical records as required by its own policy. During an observation, a sign was posted above a resident's bed that included specific medical information, such as the use of a specialized cup for thin water, instructions on limiting liquid intake to reduce aspiration risk, and the need for the resident to sit up while drinking. The resident's clinical record did not contain documentation indicating that the resident or their representative had approved the posting of this private health information. This was confirmed by the Assistant Director of Nursing during an interview.
Care Plan Not Updated to Reflect Physician's Order for Swallowing Precautions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to revise the care plan for one resident to accurately reflect the current physician's order and the resident's needs. The resident, who had a history of stroke, high blood pressure, and difficulty swallowing, was admitted with a physician's order specifying 'No straws.' Despite this, a concern was raised by the resident's representative that the resident was still being given thin water through a straw. Review of the resident's care plan showed that the intervention 'No straws' was not included, and this omission was confirmed by the Assistant Director of Nursing during an interview. The facility's policy requires that care plans be updated as residents' conditions or orders change, but this was not done in this case.
Failure to Timely Respond to Resident Call Bells
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accommodate the call bell needs of one resident, identified as Resident R149, who had diagnoses including hepatic encephalopathy, diabetes mellitus, and morbid obesity. On 12/16/25, an observation showed that the resident's call light was activated at 9:29 a.m. but was not responded to until 9:45 a.m., resulting in a 16-minute delay. Facility-provided call bell audit documents revealed additional delayed response times for the same resident's room, including a 21-minute response on 12/11/25 and a 20-minute response on 12/12/25. During an interview, a registered nurse confirmed that the facility did not meet the resident's call bell needs.
Failure to Prevent Verbal and Physical Abuse During Resident Transfer
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with dementia, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia was subjected to verbal and possible physical abuse by an LPN during a transfer using a sit-to-stand lift. The resident's care plan specified that, in the event of conflict, she should be placed in a calm and safe environment and allowed to vent. However, during the transfer, the LPN was observed by the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) and a CNA to be yelling at the resident, telling her to stop acting like a child, and appeared to push the resident into a chair while the sling was still around her waist. The incident was documented in the nurse's note and corroborated by witness statements. The LPN involved had received annual re-education on psychosocial needs and abuse prevention, as indicated in her personnel record. Despite this training, the LPN's actions did not align with facility policy, which states that residents have the right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The incident was reported to facility leadership, and it was determined that the facility failed to maintain an environment free of abuse for the resident, as required by state regulations.
Failure to Prevent Elopement Due to Inadequate Supervision and Door Security
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to provide adequate supervision to prevent the elopement of a resident identified as high risk for wandering. The resident, who had a diagnosis of dementia, hypertension, and insomnia, and was assessed as having moderately impaired cognition, exhibited a history of wandering and aggressive behaviors. Despite these risk factors, the resident was transferred from a secured dementia unit to a non-secured long-term care unit without documented interdisciplinary team review or updated elopement evaluation prior to the move. The care plan indicated the resident was at risk for elopement, but interventions and assessments were not consistently updated or implemented as required by facility policy. On the day of the incident, the resident was able to exit the facility through an emergency door that was not properly secured. Staff interviews and resident accounts confirmed that the door was either left unlatched or the resident was able to open it, possibly by guessing the keypad code or due to the door not being pulled shut. The resident was found outside in the parking lot, having exited the building without staff knowledge. Staff were unaware of the resident's absence until alerted by another resident, and there was no immediate staff presence in the area to prevent the elopement. Following the incident, it was revealed that there was no incident report completed, no documentation of family or physician notification, and no reportable notification to the Department of Health. The facility's policies on elopement, accidents, and care planning were not followed, as evidenced by the lack of timely assessment, care plan updates, and supervision. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility failed to provide adequate supervision, resulting in the resident's elopement and the creation of an immediate jeopardy situation.
Removal Plan
- Staff retrieved Resident R1 from the rear parking lot after being alerted by Resident R2.
- Nursing staff will be re-educated on updating the elopement care plan form immediate interventions and elopement assessment.
- All residents will be reassessed by the unit manager/designee for an elopement risk.
- All staff will be educated on elopement risk and assessments, care plans and supervision of residents by the unit manager/designee.
- A care plan with measurable goals and interventions for residents will be implemented to identify residents at risk for eloping by the unit manager/designee.
- Review and revise policies if needed to identify residents who are at risk for eloping.
- Door will be monitored by staff stationed at the door until vendor arrives to verify functioning of the door and residents are unable to exit.
- Facility will review the incidents at an ad hoc QAPI (Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement) meeting.
- New admissions, change in condition or any new behavior will be monitored by the DON/designee to ensure elopement assessments are completed and care plans updated as required.
- Maintenance/designee will audit the doors are secure.
- Findings of audits will be submitted through facility QAPI program.
- Vendor will check that everything is functioning on the door, the magnetic lock and the keypad to the door itself.
- The door alarm will be set to alarm instantly instead of a delay.
- Deliveries will be changed to the front door.
- Code will be changed to an eight-digit number instead of four digits.
- All staff will be educated on risk, assessments, care plan, and supervision and verified with signatures.
- In-person interviews will be conducted of all staff to confirm education and understanding.
- Residents identified as elopement risks will be identified, including new residents at risk for elopement within the dementia secured unit.
- Policy will be reviewed and revised by the Director of Nursing to identify residents who are at risk for eloping.
- Door monitor by staff will be in place.
- Ad Hoc QAPI will be held.
- Audit tool for new admissions, change in condition or any new behavior will be used to ensure elopement assessments are completed and care plans updated as required and reviewed at the QAPI meeting.
- Audit by maintenance will be completed on the doors being secure and reviewed at the QAPI meetings.
Failure to Employ Full-Time Qualified Social Worker
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to employ a full-time qualified social worker for the period between 7/27/25 and 9/2/25, as confirmed by payroll documentation and an interview with the Human Resources Director. Payroll records showed that the previous social worker's last day was 7/27/25, and the new social worker did not begin employment until 9/2/25. This gap in employment was acknowledged by the Human Resources Director, indicating that the facility did not have a full-time qualified social worker on staff during this timeframe, as required by regulations for facilities with more than 120 beds.
Failure to Provide QAPI Training to Staff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide mandatory training on its Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program to three out of five reviewed staff members, specifically two nurse aides and one LPN. According to the facility's own assessment, staff training on QAPI is required during general orientation upon hire, annually, and as needed. However, a review of training records revealed that these three employees did not receive the required QAPI education. This deficiency was confirmed during a telephonic interview with a human resources employee, who acknowledged the lapse in training documentation for the affected staff members.
Failure to Protect Resident from Abuse by Aggressive Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect a resident from abuse by another resident with a history of aggressive behaviors. Resident R1, who had diagnoses including dementia and moderately impaired cognition, was identified in the care plan as requiring behavior monitoring due to frustration and aggression. Despite interventions such as diversional conversation and redirection, Resident R1 was involved in multiple incidents of physical aggression. On one occasion, Resident R1 entered another resident's room, refused to leave, and physically struck the resident and a staff member who attempted to intervene. On a separate occasion, Resident R1 was observed holding Resident R3 by the arm and striking her in the back with a closed fist while in the dining room. Staff intervened and separated the residents, and no injury was observed on Resident R3. Resident R3, who also had dementia with severely impaired cognition, was the victim in these incidents. The facility's policy required protection of residents from abuse by anyone, including other residents, and emphasized monitoring and intervention for those with behavioral issues. Documentation and staff interviews confirmed that the facility did not ensure Resident R3 was free from abuse by Resident R1, as required by policy and regulation. The Director of Nursing acknowledged the failure to protect the resident from abuse.
Failure to Investigate and Report Abuse and Neglect Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement its written policies and procedures to ensure a complete and thorough investigation of two separate allegations of abuse involving two residents. In the first incident, a resident with moderately impaired cognition and diagnoses including dementia and insomnia was found outside the facility in the parking lot near a fire hydrant after eloping through an emergency door that was not locked. Documentation of the event, including notification to the family and physician, was missing from the clinical record, and the facility did not investigate the elopement or report it as required by policy. Staff and resident interviews confirmed the resident's exit through the emergency door, which was used for supply deliveries and was not secured at the time. In the second incident, another resident with severely impaired cognition and multiple diagnoses, including dementia and muscle weakness, was physically struck in the back by the first resident while in the dining room. Staff witnessed the event and completed two witness statements, but the physical abuse was not reported as required, and the facility did not follow its written policies and procedures for investigating abuse. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility failed to ensure a complete and thorough investigation in both cases.
Failure to Report and Investigate Suspected Abuse and Neglect
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report and investigate two separate incidents involving suspected abuse and neglect for two residents. In the first incident, a resident with moderately impaired cognition, dementia, and insomnia was found outside in the parking lot near a fire hydrant after eloping from the facility through an emergency door that was not locked. The event was discovered by another resident, who alerted staff. There was no documentation of the event in the clinical record, and required notifications to the family and physician were not completed. The facility did not investigate the elopement or the possibility of neglect, nor did it report the incident as required by policy. In the second incident, a resident with severely impaired cognition, dementia, muscle weakness, and coronary artery disease was physically struck in the back by another resident while attempting to walk past with a walker. Staff witnessed the event and completed witness statements, but the physical abuse was not reported as required. The Director of Nursing confirmed that both the elopement and the resident-to-resident abuse incidents were not reported according to regulatory requirements.
Failure to Investigate and Report Resident Elopement
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct a thorough investigation and proper reporting following an elopement incident involving a resident with dementia and moderately impaired cognition. The resident, who had diagnoses including high blood pressure, dementia, and insomnia, was found outside in the parking lot near a fire hydrant after exiting through an emergency door that was not locked. The event was discovered by another resident, who alerted staff after noticing the door was open and the resident was outside. Staff interviews confirmed that the door was used for deliveries and was not secured at the time, allowing the resident to leave the building unsupervised. Review of the clinical record revealed that there was no documentation of the elopement event, nor was there evidence of required notifications to the resident's family or physician. Additionally, the facility did not initiate or complete an investigation into the incident or the possibility of neglect, as required by facility policy. The Director of Nursing confirmed that no investigation was conducted, and the event was not reported to the appropriate agencies, constituting a failure to respond appropriately to an alleged violation.
Failure to Provide and Document Assistive Device Use for Resident with Limited Mobility
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with a history of stroke, hemiplegia, and aphasia, who was admitted to the facility, did not receive appropriate services and equipment to maintain or improve mobility. The resident was observed in bed without a hand splint, although a hand splint was present in the bedside stand. The resident had previously been discharged from therapy to a Rehab Restorative transition program, which recommended the use of a right resting hand splint during the evening and removal in the morning. However, a review of the resident's current physician orders and care plan revealed no documentation or orders for the use of the right resting hand splint. Staff interviews confirmed that the recommendations from the Rehab Restorative Transition Program were not processed, and there was a failure in the facility's process for transitioning residents from rehab to the long-term care unit. This resulted in the resident not receiving the necessary equipment and assistance as outlined in facility policy and the resident's care needs.
Failure to Provide Timely Social Services for Behavioral Transfer
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient and timely medically-related social services to assist a resident with behavioral issues in transferring to a Veterans Affairs (VA) facility for a behavioral bed. The resident, who had diagnoses including high blood pressure, dementia, and insomnia, exhibited a pattern of aggressive and combative behaviors, including physical aggression toward other residents and staff, verbal abuse, and attempts to take items from other residents. Documentation shows that the resident was moved from a secured dementia unit to a non-secured LTC unit, after which the frequency and severity of behavioral incidents increased, resulting in multiple episodes of aggression and threats to staff and other residents. Despite the escalating behaviors and repeated incidents, there was a significant delay in the facility's social services department actively pursuing a transfer to the VA for specialized behavioral care. Initial efforts to contact the VA and initiate a transfer were documented, but after the departure of the original social worker, there was a nearly three-month gap before further transfer efforts resumed. During this period, the resident continued to display aggressive behaviors, including physical altercations and threats involving staff and other residents, and required multiple interventions from crisis services and law enforcement. The deficiency was identified based on the lack of timely and consistent social services intervention to facilitate the resident's transfer to a more appropriate behavioral care setting, as evidenced by the prolonged delay in follow-up and coordination with the VA. This failure to provide adequate social services support contributed to ongoing behavioral incidents and did not help the resident achieve the highest possible quality of life, as required by regulatory standards.
Failure to Supervise High-Risk Resident Resulting in Elopement and Immediate Jeopardy
Penalty
Summary
The Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) failed to effectively manage the facility to ensure that proper supervision was provided for residents identified as high risk for elopement. This failure resulted in a resident elopement, which created an immediate jeopardy situation. The NHA's job description required directing the day-to-day functions of the facility in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations to assure the highest degree of quality care. However, based on a review of the job description, facility and clinical records, and staff interviews, it was determined that the facility did not provide adequate supervision as required for high-risk residents. This deficiency led to a breach in the fundamental principles of treatment and care, and the facility did not ensure that residents received care in accordance with professional standards of practice and facility policies.
Failure to Notify State Agency of Change in Administrator
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify the State agency in writing of a change in the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) at the time the change occurred. Documentation showed that the Interim NHA assumed responsibility effective 9/5/25, as indicated in the facility's password agreement document. During interviews, the Director of Nursing confirmed that the previous NHA was on leave and that the Interim NHA was acting as administrator. It was also confirmed that the required written notification to the State agency regarding this administrative change was not provided at the time of the change, which did not meet regulatory requirements.
Failure to Provide Effective Communication Training to Direct Care Staff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide required training on effective communication for two of five direct care staff members, specifically Nurse Aide Employee E15 and Nurse Aide Employee E5. Review of facility education documents and training records showed that these two staff members did not receive education on effective communication as mandated. This deficiency was confirmed during a telephonic interview with a Human Resource employee, who acknowledged the lack of training for the identified staff members. The findings reference violations of 28 Pa Code: 201.14 (a), 201.18 (b)(1), and 201.20 (a)(6)(d), which pertain to the responsibility of the licensee, management, and staff development requirements.
Failure to Prevent Elopement Due to Inadequate Supervision and Door Alarm Bypass
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident identified as a wander and elopement risk exited the facility unsupervised. The resident, who had a diagnosis of unspecified dementia and mood disturbance, was assessed as moderately cognitively impaired with a BIMS score of 9 and had a documented elopement risk score of 9. Despite being equipped with a wander alarm, the resident was able to leave the facility through a delivery door that was equipped with magnetic locks and an alarm system. The incident took place when the delivery door was left open and the alarm system was not engaged due to an employee accidentally entering a bypass code upon exiting. This allowed the resident to leave the building undetected. The resident was observed outside the facility by staff and was returned after being gone for approximately 14 minutes. At the time of the incident, the resident was appropriately dressed for the weather and was assessed for injury or emotional trauma upon return, with no concerns noted. Interviews and documentation confirmed that the last employee to use the door was a maintenance assistant, and only three staff members had access to the codes for the door, one of which allowed for bypassing the alarm system. The failure to ensure the alarm was properly engaged and to provide adequate supervision for a resident at risk for elopement resulted in the resident leaving the facility without staff knowledge.
Failure to Protect Residents from Abuse Due to Incomplete Investigation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents were protected from abuse, as evidenced by its handling of three separate allegations involving two residents. Both residents had significant care needs, including frequent incontinence and assistance with daily hygiene, grooming, and dressing. One resident reported to a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) that an employee, while assisting with incontinence care, touched her inappropriately and that she did not want him to assist her further. The other resident reported that the same employee opened her house dress without reason, looked at her, and ran his hand up and down her body, causing her fear. Additionally, the first resident reported that the employee pushed and shoved the second resident during a transfer to bed. All incidents were reported to a supervisor immediately by the COTA. Despite these reports, the facility did not recognize the allegations as sexual and physical abuse and failed to initiate or complete investigations into the incidents before allowing the accused employee to return to work. The employee was initially suspended but was brought back to work after receiving education, without the completion of the required investigations. It was only after several days that the facility realized not all allegations had been investigated, leading to the employee's suspension again. This failure to follow policy and ensure a thorough investigation before allowing the employee to have resident contact resulted in the facility not protecting residents from potential abuse.
Failure to Investigate and Respond to Abuse Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement its written policies and procedures to ensure a complete and thorough investigation of three allegations of abuse involving two residents. Specifically, after two residents reported allegations of sexual and physical abuse by an employee to a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, the facility did not recognize or investigate the reported sexual abuse on the date it was reported. Documentation shows that the employee accused of abuse was suspended but returned to work the following day after receiving education, without a completed investigation into the allegations. Additionally, the facility did not assess one of the residents after the alleged abuse, nor did it notify the resident's physician or family as required. The clinical record lacked evidence of a physician assessment following the abuse allegation. These failures were confirmed by the Nursing Home Administrator, who acknowledged that the facility did not follow its own policies and procedures for investigating abuse allegations.
Failure to Report and Investigate Alleged Sexual Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report and investigate an allegation of sexual abuse involving a resident who required assistance with daily hygiene and incontinence care. The resident, who had diagnoses including high blood pressure, depression, and arthritis, and was frequently incontinent, reported to a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) that an employee assisting with incontinence care touched them inappropriately and that they did not want that employee to assist them further. The COTA immediately reported the incident to a supervisor. Despite the facility's policy requiring all allegations of abuse to be reported and investigated, the facility did not recognize, report, or investigate the allegation of sexual abuse. The Director of Nursing was made aware of the allegation on the same day it was reported, but no investigation was conducted, and the incident was not reported to the appropriate authorities. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the facility was unable to provide documentation of an investigation or reporting for this incident.
Failure to Investigate Abuse Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct a thorough investigation into three separate allegations of abuse involving two residents. According to the facility's own policy, all reports of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or misappropriation are to be reported to appropriate agencies and thoroughly investigated, with findings documented and reported. However, documentation revealed that when one resident reported to a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) that an employee had inappropriately touched them during incontinence care, the facility did not recognize or investigate this as an allegation of sexual abuse. Additionally, another resident reported to the same COTA that the same employee had opened their house dress without reason, looked at them, and ran his hand up and down their body, which was not thoroughly investigated. The roommate of this resident also reported that the employee pushed and shoved the resident during a transfer, but again, no thorough investigation was conducted. The review found that no witness statements or interviews of staff or residents were completed for these allegations. Furthermore, there was no documented assessment of one resident after the abuse allegation was made, and neither the physician nor the family was notified. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the investigations were incomplete and did not meet the facility's policy requirements. These failures were cited under multiple Pennsylvania Codes related to management, resident rights, and nursing services.
Failure to Notify, Assess, and Investigate After Abuse Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly respond to three abuse allegations involving two residents. In each case, the facility did not notify the physician or the residents' families after the allegations were made. Additionally, the facility did not complete a resident assessment following the abuse reports. The incidents included allegations of sexual and physical abuse during incontinence care and transfers, as reported by the residents to a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, who then informed a supervisor. Despite these reports, the facility did not recognize or investigate the allegations as required. The clinical records for both residents showed relevant diagnoses, including depression, heart failure, diabetes, and frequent incontinence, with care plans indicating the need for assistance with daily activities. Documentation revealed that no thorough investigation was conducted, as there were no witness statements or interviews with staff or residents. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the abuse investigations were incomplete and that required notifications and assessments were not performed for the affected residents.
Lack of Staff Competency in Life Vest Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that nursing staff had the specific competencies and skill sets necessary to provide care for residents with a Life Vest, a wearable defibrillator designed to protect residents from sudden cardiac death. This deficiency placed two residents in immediate jeopardy, impacting their health and safety. The report highlights that the facility did not provide adequate training or education to the nursing staff regarding the operation and care of the Life Vest, as evidenced by multiple staff interviews where employees expressed unfamiliarity with the device and its alarms. Resident R1 was admitted to the facility with a Life Vest, as indicated in the discharge form from the hospital. However, upon review of the clinical records and care plans, there were no specific instructions or physician orders related to the care and monitoring of the Life Vest. Interviews with various nursing staff members revealed a lack of training and understanding of the Life Vest's operation, including battery changes, alarm meanings, and bathing protocols. This lack of knowledge was consistent across several staff members, including registered nurses and nursing assistants, who were responsible for the care of Resident R1. Similarly, Resident R2 was also admitted with a Life Vest, but the facility again failed to provide the necessary training and education to the staff. The clinical records for Resident R2 also lacked specific physician orders and care plans related to the Life Vest. Interviews with nursing assistants caring for Resident R2 further confirmed the absence of training and understanding of the device. The facility's failure to ensure that nursing staff had the appropriate competencies and skill sets necessary to care for residents with a Life Vest resulted in immediate jeopardy for both residents.
Removal Plan
- Educate all clinical staff on the care and operation of Life Vests, including alarms, electrical shock dangers, battery care, garment laundering, monitoring and placement, skin integrity checks, and special needs for bathing.
- Clinical staff will complete competencies, pre and posttests.
- Obtain physician orders and ensure implementation for Resident R1, and R2.
- Develop a resident-centered comprehensive care plan outlining the care of Resident R1 related to the Life Vest.
- Update Resident R2's comprehensive care plan outlining the care related to the Life Vest.
- Obtain additional physician orders for the implementation of the Life Vest and ensure the orders are complete.
- Educate clinical staff on updates and policies related to specialty equipment.
- Educate Admission Staff on updates and policies related to specialty equipment.
- Update Resident R1's physician's orders and care plan.
- Update Resident R2's physician's orders and care plan.
- Review/develop and update the policy related to specialty equipment.
- Review/develop policy and procedure related to the admission of residents with anticipated equipment.
- Audit 100 percent of residents for Life Vests placement, operation, battery backup, and associated documentation daily for one week, weekly thereafter for three weeks, and monthly thereafter with reporting through QAPI.
- Conduct random competency audits of two clinical staff per shift that have assignment with Life Vest residents daily for one week, weekly thereafter for three weeks, and monthly thereafter with reporting through QAPI.
- Review the education plan by QAPI and further recommendations.
Failure to Include Life Vest in Baseline Care Plans
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a baseline care plan that included necessary interventions for two residents who were admitted with specific medical needs. The baseline care plan, which should have been developed within 48 hours of admission according to the facility's policy, did not include the presence of a Life Vest for either resident. The Life Vest is a wearable defibrillator designed to protect residents from sudden cardiac death, and its omission from the care plan indicates a lack of comprehensive planning for the residents' care. Resident R1 was admitted with diagnoses of diabetes, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure, yet their baseline care plan did not reflect the need for a Life Vest. Similarly, Resident R2, who was admitted with high blood pressure, heart failure, and diabetes, also had a baseline care plan that failed to include the Life Vest. The Director of Nursing confirmed the oversight during an interview, acknowledging the facility's failure to provide effective and person-centered care planning for these residents.
Incomplete Care Plan for Resident's Life Vest
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a comprehensive, person-centered care plan for a resident, identified as Resident R1, which included necessary instructions for the use of a Life Vest. Resident R1 was admitted with diagnoses of diabetes, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure. Despite physician orders on March 5, 2025, to change the battery for a Life Vest daily, the care plan dated February 8, 2025, did not include goals and interventions related to the Life Vest. This deficiency was confirmed during an interview with the Director of Nursing, who acknowledged the incomplete care plan for Resident R1's needs.
Failure to Ensure Physician Conducted Initial Comprehensive Visits
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a physician completed the initial comprehensive visit for three residents, identified as R3, R4, and R5. The clinical records for these residents indicated that their initial comprehensive assessments were conducted by Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners (CRNPs) rather than a physician, as required. Resident R3 was admitted with diagnoses including high blood pressure, depression, and muscle weakness, and their assessment was completed by CRNP Employee E12. Resident R4, diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, muscle weakness, and restlessness, had their assessment completed by CRNP Employee E13. Resident R5, with diagnoses of depression, urine retention, and arthritis, also had their assessment completed by CRNP Employee E12. During an interview, the Director of Nursing confirmed the facility's failure to comply with the requirement for a physician to conduct the initial comprehensive visit. This deficiency was identified through a review of clinical records and staff interviews, highlighting a lapse in adherence to regulatory standards. The report cites specific Pennsylvania Code regulations that were not met, emphasizing the responsibility of the licensee and the provision of nursing services.
Failure to Ensure Staff Competency with Life Vests
Penalty
Summary
The Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) and the Director of Nursing (DON) failed to ensure that nursing staff possessed the necessary competencies and skills to care for residents equipped with a Life Vest, a wearable defibrillator designed to prevent sudden cardiac death. This deficiency was identified through a review of job descriptions, clinical records, and staff interviews. The job descriptions for both the NHA and DON, dated 11/1/24, outlined their responsibilities to manage the facility and oversee resident care in compliance with relevant standards and regulations. However, the facility's failure to provide adequate training and ensure staff competency in handling Life Vests resulted in an immediate jeopardy situation for two residents, identified as R1 and R2. During an interview, both the NHA and DON acknowledged their failure to manage the facility effectively in this regard.
Facility Fails to Include Life Vests in Assessment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct and document a comprehensive facility-wide assessment to determine the necessary resources for resident care, both during regular operations and emergencies. This deficiency was identified through a review of clinical records, staff interviews, and the facility's assessment documentation. Specifically, the facility's assessment did not include the use of Life Vests, which are critical for residents with complex medical conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart failure. This oversight was evident in the cases of two residents who were admitted with Life Vests, yet the facility's assessment did not account for the specialized care and management these devices require. Resident R1 was admitted with a Life Vest following a hospital discharge, as indicated in the correspondence between the facility and the hospital. The resident's Minimum Data Set (MDS) documented diagnoses of diabetes, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure. Similarly, Resident R2 was admitted with a Life Vest, with physician orders confirming its use. The facility's failure to include Life Vests in their assessment highlights a gap in identifying and planning for the specific needs of their resident population. The Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged this deficiency, confirming that the facility's assessment did not adequately identify the resources necessary for the care of residents with Life Vests.
Controlled Substance Accountability Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accurately account for controlled substances for four residents, leading to a deficiency in pharmaceutical services. Resident R1, who was admitted with emphysema and lung cancer, had discrepancies in the administration of oxycodone ER and oxycodone 5 mg. The facility was unable to provide the narcotic sign-out sheets for these medications, and there were inconsistencies in the Medication Administration Record (MAR) and pharmacy shipping manifests. Resident R2, diagnosed with dementia, a history of stroke, and osteoarthritis, had issues with tramadol administration. The Controlled Drug Record showed additional doses signed out without corresponding documentation of administration. There were also instances where doses were signed out on multiple records for the same administration time, indicating a lack of proper tracking and documentation. Resident R3, with COPD and hemiplegia, and Resident R4, who had a knee replacement, also experienced similar issues with controlled substances. For Resident R3, additional doses of Norco were signed out without documentation of administration. Resident R4's records showed discrepancies in the number of oxycodone tablets signed out versus what was documented in the MAR. The facility's Director of Nursing and Nursing Home Administrator confirmed these deficiencies during interviews.
Improper Food Storage and Sanitation in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to proper food storage and sanitation practices in the main kitchen, as observed during a survey. In the walk-in cooler, ground beef was found thawing on the second shelf, and deli turkey and bag salad mix were stored without dates. In the dry storage area, a metal bowl of raisin bran was uncovered and unlabeled, and various items such as liquid butter, oatmeal cream pies, and [NAME] buddies were stored without dates. The reach-in cooler contained American cheese, boiled eggs, and hot dogs, all lacking labels or dates. Additionally, the dish room was found to have unsanitary conditions, including a wall fan and walls with brown debris and an ice machine with a brown, slimy substance. These observations were confirmed by the Dietary Manager, indicating a failure to maintain sanitary conditions and proper food storage, which could lead to foodborne illness and cross-contamination.
Facility Fails to Maintain Clean and Homelike Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a clean, safe, comfortable, and homelike environment for several residents, as evidenced by the condition of seven resident wheelchairs, which were observed to be corroded with dried food substances and grime. Additionally, structural issues were noted, including a continuous gouge in the wall of the Arcadia Dining Room and Resident R144's room. The facility also failed to maintain an adequate supply of washcloths for staff use on two of four units, as observed when a nurse aide was unable to find a washcloth for a resident's shower. The laundry room was found to be lacking clean washcloths, with the emergency linen storage area missing washcloths, and the District Manager of Housekeeping confirmed that washcloths were on back order. Furthermore, the facility did not ensure that privacy curtains were clean and sanitary in two resident rooms, as evidenced by visible brown stains on the room dividing curtains facing Residents R81 and R124. These deficiencies were confirmed through staff interviews, including with a Registered Nurse Supervisor and the Nursing Home Administrator, who acknowledged the facility's failure to provide a clean, safe, comfortable, and homelike environment. The report cites violations of specific Pennsylvania Code regulations related to the responsibility of the licensee and management.
Delayed MDS Assessments Due to System Transition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to complete comprehensive Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments within the required time frame for six out of ten residents reviewed. According to the Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) User's Manual, an admission MDS assessment must be completed no later than 14 calendar days following admission, and an annual MDS assessment must be completed no later than the Assessment Reference Date (ARD) plus 14 calendar days. However, the review revealed that the MDS assessments for Residents R2, R91, R107, R132, R256, and R259 were not completed within these time frames. The delay in completing the MDS assessments was attributed to a transition in the facility's computer system, which was down for a week. Additionally, the Registered Nurse Assessment Coordinators (RNACs) were incorrectly set up in the new system, resulting in a lack of access to charting for two weeks. This led to the facility being approximately three weeks behind in completing the assessments. The Director of Nursing confirmed the failure to complete the assessments within the required time frame during an interview.
Delayed Completion of MDS Assessments Due to System Transition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments were completed within the required time frame for 21 out of 38 residents reviewed. According to the Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) User's Manual, quarterly MDS assessments must be completed no later than 14 calendar days after the Assessment Reference Date (ARD). However, the review conducted on December 10, 2024, revealed that the MDS assessments for these residents were not completed by their respective due dates, which ranged from November 16, 2024, to December 9, 2024. The delay in completing the assessments was attributed to a transition in the facility's computer system when they switched companies. The Registered Nurse Assessment Coordinator (RNAC) reported that the system was down for a week, and when it was restored, the RNACs were incorrectly set up, preventing them from charting. It took two weeks to resolve the access issues, resulting in the facility being approximately three weeks behind on completing the assessments. This was confirmed by the Director of Nursing during an interview.
Failure to Implement Comprehensive Care Plans for Residents with Feeding Tubes
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement comprehensive care plans for two residents, leading to deficiencies in meeting their care needs. Resident R139, who re-entered the facility with diagnoses including anemia, GERD, and anxiety, had a feeding tube as indicated in their MDS. However, the care plan for Resident R139 did not include the route of feeding tube administration, despite physician orders and medication administration records indicating specific enteral feeding instructions. Similarly, Resident R143, admitted with conditions such as hemiplegia, COPD, and hydrocephalus, also had a feeding tube. The care plan for Resident R143 lacked focus, goals, and interventions for enteral nutrition support, even though physician orders and medication records specified the feeding regimen. These omissions were confirmed by the Registered Dietician and acknowledged by the Nursing Home Administrator and Director of Nursing, indicating a failure to develop and implement comprehensive care plans for these residents.
Failure to Prevent and Monitor Pressure Ulcers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents were properly monitored, assessed, and received necessary services to prevent the development or worsening of pressure ulcers for three residents. Resident R140, who was at moderate risk for pressure ulcers, did not have the prescribed air mattress on their bed and was not seated on the appropriate Vicare cushion in their wheelchair. This discrepancy was noted during observations and confirmed by staff interviews, indicating a lapse in following the care plan designed to prevent pressure ulcers. Resident R150 was admitted with a right ischial wound and a coccyx pressure ulcer, but there was no documentation of the wound's measurements upon admission. This lack of documentation suggests that the facility did not fully assess the resident's condition, which is crucial for monitoring and treatment. The facility's records also failed to accurately reflect the resident's pressure ulcer status, as indicated by the Pressure Sore List. Resident R152 was admitted with a coccyx pressure injury, but the Minimum Data Set (MDS) was incorrectly coded, failing to indicate the presence of a pressure ulcer. Furthermore, there was no weekly documentation of the pressure ulcer from 11/10/24 through 12/7/24, as confirmed by the Director of Nursing. This oversight in documentation and assessment highlights a failure in the facility's processes to ensure proper care and monitoring of pressure ulcers, as required by their policies.
Deficiencies in Urinary Catheter Care and Documentation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate treatment and services for residents with urinary catheters, compromising their dignity and care. Resident R12, who has anemia, obstructive uropathy, and anxiety, was observed with an uncovered catheter bag, contrary to the care plan that required a privacy cover. Similarly, Resident R97, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, atrial fibrillation, and high blood pressure, also had an uncovered catheter bag. Additionally, the acetic acid solution used for flushing R97's catheter was improperly stored and undated, which was confirmed by RN Employee E4 and E8. The Director of Nursing acknowledged the facility's failure to ensure proper treatment for these residents. Resident R65, with anemia, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety, was using a Pure Wick external catheter system without a physician's order, despite being able to use it independently. The resident expressed satisfaction with the system, which was introduced by a nurse and supported by instructional materials. However, the Director of Nursing confirmed the absence of orders for the Pure Wick system, indicating a lapse in ensuring appropriate treatment and services for this resident.
Deficiencies in Enteral Nutrition Orders for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate care and services to residents receiving tube feedings, as evidenced by deficiencies in the physician orders for three residents. Resident R139, who was re-admitted with diagnoses including anemia and GERD, had a physician order for enteral nutrition that did not specify the enteral access device being used. Similarly, Resident R143, admitted with conditions such as hemiplegia and COPD, had an order that failed to indicate the total volume of enteral nutrition to be administered over a 16-hour period and did not specify the enteral access device. Resident R259, with diagnoses including diabetes and dysphagia, also had a physician order lacking the specification of the enteral access device. The Registered Dietitian confirmed these deficiencies during an interview, acknowledging that the orders for enteral nutrition were incomplete and did not meet the facility's policy requirements. The facility's policy on Enteral Nutrition mandates that orders must include details such as the enteral nutrition product, delivery site, specific enteral access device, administration method, volume and rate of administration, and instructions for flushing. The failure to include these details in the physician orders resulted in the facility not providing the appropriate care and services to the residents receiving tube feedings.
Inconsistent Dialysis Communication and Care Planning
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure consistent communication and accurate care planning for residents requiring dialysis services. Specifically, the facility did not maintain complete communication forms for three residents, identified as R14, R33, and R48, who were dependent on renal dialysis. The facility's policy required agreements with contracted End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) facilities to include all aspects of resident care management, including information exchange. However, the clinical records for these residents showed multiple instances of incomplete or missing communication sheets, which are essential for coordinating care between the facility and the dialysis provider. Resident R14 had nine incomplete communication sheets, while Resident R33 had two incomplete forms and three missing communication sheets. Similarly, Resident R48 had four incomplete communication sheets. Interviews with the Director of Nursing and a Unit Manager confirmed the deficiencies in maintaining consistent dialysis communication. These lapses were in violation of several Pennsylvania Code regulations related to the responsibility of the licensee, resident care policies, management, and nursing services.
Medication Storage and Security Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly store and secure medications in three of six medication carts and left medications unsecured at the bedside of three residents. During observations, it was noted that multiple medications, including insulin, B12 injections, nasal sprays, and inhalers, were opened and undated in the LTC medication carts and the Grand Heritage cart. Interviews with LPNs confirmed that these medications were not dated as required by the facility's policy. Additionally, medications were found unsecured at the bedside of three residents, including an Albuterol inhaler and a bottle of TUMS, which were confirmed by an RN to be improperly stored. Resident R110, who has a history of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, was involved in an incident where medications were left unsecured in his room. The progress notes indicated that the resident refused to take his medication and hid it under a towel on his bed, leading to the medication being left unsecured. The Director of Nursing confirmed these findings, acknowledging the failure to store medications properly and securely in the facility.
Failure to Address Resident Grievances and Concerns
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to address repetitive grievances and concerns voiced by residents and their families during resident council meetings and through individual grievances over a period of four months. The grievances included issues such as inadequate cleanliness and appearance of the Arcadia unit, insufficient availability of linens and washcloths, and restrictions on the number of transfers in or out of bed per shift. Additionally, residents expressed concerns about the lack of a policy for microwaving foods, long call bell wait times, and the unavailability of staff to provide assistance, particularly with obtaining ice and water. Further concerns were raised about staff behavior, including the use of ear buds and cell phones, which residents felt hindered communication and care. Residents reported feeling like an inconvenience to staff, who were perceived as unresponsive and unwilling to assist unless specifically assigned to a resident. The grievances also highlighted issues with meal service, such as late delivery of meal trays due to staff disagreements, and the lack of a microwave to heat meals. Despite these repeated concerns being documented in resident council meetings and grievance logs, the facility did not take adequate action to resolve them, as confirmed by the Nursing Home Administrator.
Failure to Provide Timely NOMNC Notice
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide timely notice of the Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage (NOMNC) for a resident, identified as Closed Resident Record CR1. According to the Code of Federal Regulations, the NOMNC, Form CMS-10123, must be given to all Medicare beneficiaries at least two days before the end of a Medicare-covered Part A stay or when all Part B therapies are ending. The NOMNC informs beneficiaries of their right to an expedited review by a Quality Improvement Organization. The resident, who was admitted with diagnoses including breast cancer, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure, was discharged to home before the NOMNC was presented. The facility planned to mail the NOMNC to the resident's home address, which was confirmed during an interview with the Nursing Home Administrator. This oversight was identified in one of three sampled resident records.
Neglect of Residents Due to Failure in Adhering to Care Plans
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents were free from neglect, as evidenced by two incidents involving Residents R67 and R106. Resident R67, who was ordered to be transferred using a mechanical lift, was instead assisted by a Nurse Aide (NA) to transfer without the lift, based on the resident's claim of improved mobility. This resulted in the resident slipping and being lowered to the floor, although no injuries were reported. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that the transfer order had not been updated to reflect the resident's therapy progress, leading to the neglect of the resident's care plan. Resident R106, who had a displaced bimalleolar fracture and required pin care for an external fixator device, did not receive the ordered wound care on multiple occasions. The Treatment Administration Record (TAR) showed that pin care was not documented as completed on several shifts, and the resident alleged that care was missed on the night shift. The DON confirmed that the facility failed to provide the necessary wound care as ordered, resulting in neglect of the resident's medical needs. Both incidents highlight the facility's failure to adhere to care plans and physician orders, leading to neglect of the residents' needs. The facility's policies on abuse prohibition and safe resident handling were not followed, resulting in the neglect of Residents R67 and R106. The DON acknowledged these failures during interviews, confirming the deficiencies in the care provided to these residents.
Inconsistent Post-Fall Monitoring for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure consistent post-fall monitoring for two residents, R15 and R79, following incidents where they were assisted to the floor during transfers. Resident R15, who had a history of diabetes, renal insufficiency, and obstructive uropathy, was lowered to the floor by a nurse aide during a transfer to the toilet. Despite the incident being documented, the progress notes and vital signs log did not include the required post-fall monitoring for every shift over seventy-two hours. Additionally, the resident's care plan was not updated with new interventions following the fall. Similarly, Resident R79, who had renal insufficiency, anemia, and peripheral vascular disease, experienced a fall when his legs gave out during a transfer. Although the incident was noted, the facility failed to document the necessary post-fall monitoring in the progress notes and vital signs log for every shift over seventy-two hours. The care plan for Resident R79 also lacked updated interventions related to the fall. Interviews with the Director of Nursing and a Registered Nurse confirmed these deficiencies in post-fall monitoring for both residents.
Inadequate Respiratory Care for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate respiratory care for two residents, R39 and R121, as observed during a survey. Resident R39, who was admitted with diagnoses including anemia, stroke, and high blood pressure, had a physician's order for albuterol sulfate nebulization as needed for wheezing. However, the resident's care plan did not include goals and interventions for the nebulizer medication and respiratory concerns. Additionally, the nebulizer was observed not being stored in a plastic bag as required by the facility's policy. Resident R121, diagnosed with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and COPD, had a physician's order for continuous oxygen at 2 liters per minute via nasal cannula. During the survey, it was noted that the nasal cannula and humidifier bottle were not labeled with a date as required. Both the RN and LPN confirmed these deficiencies during interviews. The Director of Nursing acknowledged the facility's failure to provide appropriate respiratory care for these residents.
Failure to Provide Trauma-Informed Care for Resident with PTSD
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide trauma-informed care to a resident identified as a trauma survivor, specifically a resident diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The resident's care plan, dated June 5, 2024, acknowledged the PTSD diagnosis but did not identify specific triggers or strategies to avoid them, which is essential to prevent re-traumatization. This deficiency was confirmed during an interview with the Director of Nursing on December 10, 2024, who acknowledged the facility's failure to identify and mitigate PTSD triggers for the resident. The facility's policy on comprehensive, person-centered care plans, last reviewed on November 1, 2024, requires the development and implementation of care plans that meet residents' physical, psychosocial, and functional needs, which was not adhered to in this case.
Inadequate Staffing During Breakfast Observations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient nursing staff to meet the needs of residents during breakfast meal observations on the Arcadia Unit over a five-day period. The facility's policy indicated that staffing should be sufficient to meet the cognitive and physical needs of residents, including those with dementia or Alzheimer's. However, observations revealed that the staffing levels were inadequate, with only one LPN and varying numbers of NAs assigned to 28 residents. This resulted in delays in meal service, with food carts arriving but not being served promptly, and residents waiting to be assisted into the dining room. Interviews with staff indicated that the process was slower due to insufficient staffing, and agency staff unfamiliar with the unit further contributed to the delays. The deficiency was observed consistently over the five days, with staff interviews confirming the challenges faced due to inadequate staffing. On some days, only one regular NA was present, which slowed down the process of getting residents out of bed and into the dining room. The Director of Nursing confirmed the facility's failure to provide sufficient nursing staff to ensure the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of the residents during these meal observations. The report cites specific Pennsylvania codes related to the responsibility of the licensee, management, resident care policies, and nursing services, indicating non-compliance with these regulations.
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A resident with dementia, psychotic disturbance, mood disturbance, and anxiety, residing on a locked unit with a wander guard, was able to leave the secured area by closely following a housekeeper through coded double doors and out a side door without being noticed. Staff did not check for residents before and after exiting the unit, and the resident left the premises, traveled into the community, and purchased food and a drink before being located by local police and returned without injury. The facility’s elopement policy required monitoring for missing residents and initiation of emergency procedures, but these measures were only implemented after the resident was discovered missing and an elopement alarm was activated.
Surveyors observed that dietary staff did not follow the facility’s personal hygiene policy requiring hair restraints, as two dietary employees worked over uncovered food on the tray line with uncovered mustaches. In the same food preparation area, equipment including a large mixer with an uncovered bowl, a Robot-coupe mixer, and a blender were stored and used beneath window frames with peeling paint, and a nearby window blind had dried food debris along its length. Another window frame above a storage rack of meal trays also had peeling paint, demonstrating unsanitary food storage and preparation conditions.
Surveyors determined that the facility failed to provide required written notices of transfers and discharges to multiple residents and/or their representatives, and did not notify the State LTC Ombudsman when residents were transferred to the hospital after changes in condition or left against medical advice. Record reviews showed repeated absence of documentation that residents or responsible parties received written information about the transfers, and that the Ombudsman was informed. The Administrator confirmed that these notifications were not sent.
The facility failed to address repeated grievances regarding slow responses to resident call bells. The grievance policy required acknowledgment and active resolution of both written and verbal complaints, yet multiple residents reported that call bells often went unanswered for more than 30 minutes. Resident council minutes over several consecutive months documented ongoing complaints about delayed call bell response, and grievance records showed multiple similar complaints over an extended period. The DON and the administrator acknowledged a pattern of complaints about slow call bell responses and confirmed that the facility had not responded to these grievances.
Surveyors found that the facility did not ensure a safe, clean, and comfortable environment on two nursing units, noting a shattered clear plastic fire extinguisher cover in a hallway between resident rooms, holes in bathroom walls, a dented and misshaped room entrance doorframe near the floor, a hole in the wall between resident beds, and dented, crumbling wallboard near a bathroom entrance. These conditions were cited under state regulations for licensee responsibility and management.
A deficiency was identified when a resident’s MDS assessment did not accurately reflect the resident’s need for corrective lenses. The resident had a history of diabetes mellitus and falls and was care planned for impaired vision with a requirement for glasses. Despite this, the MDS indicated that no corrective lenses were needed during the look-back period, while direct observation showed the resident wearing glasses, and the Administrator later confirmed the inaccuracy of the MDS documentation.
A resident with chronic kidney disease and DM was documented on the MDS as alert and frequently incontinent of urine, and the CAA indicated that urinary incontinence should be addressed in the care plan. Review of the resident’s current care plan showed no interventions related to urinary incontinence, and the DON confirmed there was no documented evidence that this identified care area was included in the plan.
A resident with chronic kidney disease, polyneuropathies, and muscle weakness, who had no cognitive impairment and required substantial staff assistance for showers and total assistance for transfers, was scheduled to receive showers twice weekly on the evening shift. Over a 30-day period, there was no documentation that showers were provided, offered, or refused, and the resident reported not having had a shower since admission. The DON confirmed the absence of documentation that shower care was offered or provided, resulting in a deficiency related to nursing services and ADL care.
Surveyors found that staff did not follow multiple physician orders for three residents. A resident with diabetes received ordered insulin even when blood glucose readings were below the ordered hold parameter. Another resident with cerebral palsy, DM, and heart failure had repeated significant overnight weight gains without evidence that the physician was notified as ordered. A third resident with anemia and CKD had ordered CBC and CMP lab tests that were not documented as completed. The DON confirmed there was no documentation that these physician orders were carried out.
Staff failed to follow facility policy and physician orders requiring documentation of non-pharmacological interventions (NPI’s) before administering PRN oxycodone for two residents. One resident with osteoarthritis, hip pain, and diabetes had orders for NPI documentation each shift and PRN oxycodone for moderate to severe pain, yet received the narcotic multiple times in a month without any recorded attempt of NPI’s beforehand. Another resident with a history of stroke, diabetes, hemiplegia, and hemiparesis also had orders to document NPI’s prior to PRN pain medication, but similarly received PRN oxycodone several times without documentation that NPI’s were tried first, resulting in noncompliance with state pharmacy and nursing service regulations.
Failure to Prevent Elopement From Secured Unit
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves a resident with unspecified dementia without behavioral disturbance, psychotic disturbance, mood disturbance, and anxiety who was admitted to the facility in November 2025 and resided on a locked, secured unit requiring a code to exit. The facility had a written "Wandering and Elopements" policy that directed staff, when a resident was missing, to initiate the elopement/missing resident emergency procedure, determine if the resident was on an authorized leave, search the building and premises if not authorized to leave, and notify administration, the resident’s representative, the attending physician, and law enforcement if the resident was not located. On the date of the incident, the resident closely followed a housekeeper through double doors on the ground floor into a back hallway and then out a side door, leaving the secured unit without authorization. The housekeeper was unaware that the resident had followed through the door, and staff failed to ensure the resident’s safety by not checking for residents before and after exiting the unit. An elopement alarm was later activated after the resident was found to be unaccounted for on the secured unit, and the facility’s established protocols were then initiated, including notification of local law enforcement. The resident was subsequently located off premises by local police, sitting in a relaxed manner, conversing appropriately with officers, holding a beverage, and with no visible injuries, and he denied pain or discomfort. Facility documentation showed that the resident had been able to travel far enough to purchase food and a drink at a restaurant, as evidenced by a receipt from a nearby McDonald’s. A progress note recorded that the resident had been noted not on the unit, an immediate search was conducted, administration and proper authorities were notified, and the resident was returned safely, with a skin check completed and the resident later observed in his room eating dinner. In an interview, the resident stated that it was taking too long to get out of the building, that he waited for an opportunity and took it, and that he wanted to leave and go back to his place. In a separate interview, the Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that staff failed to ensure the resident’s safety by not checking for residents before and after exiting the unit, leading to the elopement from the secured environment.
Unsanitary Food Storage and Staff Hygiene Practices in Dietary Department
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to store and handle food in a sanitary manner in the dietary department in accordance with its own policy and professional standards. The facility’s “Personal Hygiene” policy dated February 2, 2026, required all staff to wear hair restraints to effectively keep hair from contacting exposed food. During observation of the lunch meal service tray line on April 15, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:03 p.m., two dietary employees were observed working directly over uncovered food on the tray line with uncovered mustaches. In the same area, the window frame above the shelf where a large mixer with an uncovered bowl, a Robot-coupe mixer, and a blender were stored had peeling paint, while the Robot-coupe mixer and blender were actively being used to prepare resident food. Additionally, the blind in this window frame had dried food debris along its length, and another window frame above a storage rack of resident meal trays also had peeling paint. These conditions were cited under 42 CFR 483.60(i) Food Safety Requirements and 28 Pa. Code 201.14(a) Responsibility of licensee, and had been previously cited on March 26, 2025. No specific residents, medical histories, or clinical conditions were described in the report; the deficiency focused on environmental and staff hygiene practices in the dietary department during food preparation and tray line service.
Failure to Provide Required Written Transfer Notices and Ombudsman Notification
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors found that the facility failed to provide required written notifications of transfers and discharges to residents and/or their representatives, and failed to notify the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman for six residents who were transferred out of the facility. Clinical record review showed that one resident was transferred to the hospital after a change in condition on December 26, 2025, without documented evidence that the resident or responsible party received written information regarding the transfer or that a copy of the transfer notice was sent to the Ombudsman. Another resident was transferred to the hospital after a change in condition on January 9, 2026, with no documented evidence that the Ombudsman was notified of the transfer. Additional record reviews revealed that three more residents were transferred to the hospital after changes in condition on March 30, 2026, and March 12, 2026, without documentation that the residents and/or their responsible parties or legal representatives were provided written information regarding the transfers, or that the Ombudsman was notified. One resident left the facility against medical advice on February 3, 2026, and there was no documented evidence that the Ombudsman was notified of this transfer. In an interview on April 17, 2026, the Administrator confirmed that notifications of transfers were not sent to the residents and/or their representatives and that written notices of the transfers and discharge were not sent to the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
Failure to Address Repeated Grievances About Slow Call Bell Response
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to address ongoing grievances related to slow response times to resident call bells, as required by its grievance policy. The policy, last reviewed on February 24, 2026, stated that grievances could be either formal written complaints or verbal complaints to staff, and that the facility was to acknowledge and actively work toward resolution of such complaints. During a confidential resident group interview on April 14, 2026, all four participating residents reported that call bells were answered slowly, often taking more than 30 minutes. Review of resident council minutes from September 8, 2025, through December 11, 2025, showed repeated complaints about slow call bell responses at each monthly meeting, with no evidence that any resident council minutes were recorded in 2026. Additionally, review of resident grievances from October 31, 2025, through March 23, 2026, revealed multiple complaints about slow call bell responses on several dates in late 2025 and early 2026. In an interview on April 17, 2026, the DON and Nursing Home Administrator confirmed there was a pattern of complaints about slow call bell responses and that the facility had failed to respond to those grievances. These findings demonstrate that the facility did not honor residents’ rights to have grievances acknowledged and addressed, despite repeated verbal and written complaints documented through resident council minutes and the grievance process.
Damaged Walls, Doorframes, and Fire Extinguisher Cover Compromise Safe, Homelike Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment on two of five nursing units, specifically the [NAME] and [NAME] units. During observations conducted over two days, surveyors noted that the clear plastic fire extinguisher cover in the hallway between rooms 135 and 137 was shattered. In one resident bathroom, there were holes on the left and right walls, and the doorframe at the entrance to another resident room was dented and misshaped near the floor. Additionally, there was a hole in the wall between the beds in another resident room, and the wallboard at the bottom of the wall to the right of the entrance to a bathroom in yet another room was dented and crumbling. These environmental deficiencies were directly observed in resident care areas and common hallways and were cited under 28 Pa. Code 201.14(a) regarding the responsibility of the licensee and 28 Pa. Code 201.18(e)(2.1) regarding management responsibilities.
Inaccurate MDS Documentation of Resident’s Need for Corrective Lenses
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to ensure that the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment accurately reflected a resident’s current status. Clinical record review showed that Resident 139 had diagnoses including diabetes mellitus and a history of falls, and the resident required glasses to correct impaired vision. The resident’s care plan documented a problem with impaired vision and indicated that glasses were required beginning March 8, 2022. However, the MDS assessment dated [DATE] documented in Section B (Hearing, Speech, and Vision) that the resident did not require corrective lenses during the previous seven days. On observation on April 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., Resident 139 was noted to be wearing glasses. In an interview on April 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., the Administrator confirmed that the MDS assessment for this resident was inaccurate, as it did not reflect the resident’s actual need for and use of corrective lenses during the assessment look-back period.
Failure to Include Urinary Incontinence in Comprehensive Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a comprehensive care plan that addressed an identified care area for one resident. Clinical record review showed that this resident had chronic kidney disease and diabetes mellitus, and a Minimum Data Set completed on February 20, 2026, documented that the resident was alert and frequently incontinent of urine. The Care Area Assessment summary dated the same day specified that the resident’s urinary incontinence was to be addressed in the care plan. However, review of the current care plan revealed no evidence that interventions for urinary incontinence were included. In an interview on April 17, 2026, at 10:25 a.m., the Director of Nursing confirmed that there was no documented evidence that this identified care area was addressed in the resident’s care plan.
Failure to Provide Scheduled Showers and Document ADL Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide and document assistance with activities of daily living, specifically showering, for one resident who was dependent on staff for this care. The resident was admitted on March 12, 2026, with diagnoses including chronic kidney disease, polyneuropathies, and muscle weakness. A Minimum Data Set assessment dated March 19, 2026, showed the resident had no cognitive impairment, required substantial staff assistance for showers, and was totally dependent on staff for transfers. Facility documentation indicated the resident was scheduled to receive showers on Wednesdays and Saturdays during the evening shift. However, the resident reported on April 14, 2026, that they had not had a shower since admission, and review of the clinical record showed no evidence that a shower had been provided, offered, or refused during the previous 30 days. The DON confirmed on April 16, 2026, that there was no documented evidence that showers were offered or provided to this resident. This deficiency was cited under 28 Pa. Code 211.12(d)(1)(5) related to nursing services.
Failure to Follow Physician Orders for Insulin, Weight Monitoring, and Lab Tests
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to implement and follow physicians’ orders for three residents. For one resident with diabetes mellitus, a physician ordered Novolog insulin to be administered in the morning prior to breakfast, with instructions to hold the insulin if the resident’s blood sugar was less than 80 mg/dL. Review of the April 2026 MAR showed that staff administered the insulin on three occasions when the resident’s blood sugar was below 80 mg/dL, contrary to the physician’s order. Another resident with cerebral palsy, diabetes mellitus, and heart failure had a physician’s order to be weighed every night shift and to notify the physician if the resident gained more than 2 lbs in 24 hours or 5 lbs in one week. Clinical records showed multiple instances of significant weight gains over 24-hour periods, including gains of 4.7 lbs, 3.4 lbs, 6 lbs, 2.3 lbs, 5.8 lbs, 4 lbs, 2.4 lbs, and 3.3 lbs, without documented evidence that the physician was notified as ordered. A third resident with anemia and chronic kidney disease had a physician’s order for two blood tests (CBC and CMP), but the clinical record contained no documentation that these lab tests were obtained. The DON confirmed there was no documented evidence that care and services were provided in accordance with these physicians’ orders.
Failure to Document Non-Pharmacological Interventions Before PRN Narcotic Administration
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to follow the facility’s pain management policy and specific physician orders requiring documentation of non-pharmacological interventions (NPI’s) and their effectiveness prior to administering as-needed narcotic pain medication for two residents. The policy, last reviewed February 24, 2026, required staff to document NPI’s and their effectiveness for patients receiving pain interventions. For a resident with left knee osteoarthritis, right hip pain, and diabetes, a physician ordered on March 17, 2026, that NPI’s be documented every shift, and on April 6, 2026, ordered oxycodone every four hours as needed for moderate to severe pain. Review of the MAR showed that this resident received as-needed oxycodone 23 times in April 2026 without documented evidence that NPI’s were attempted prior to administration. Another resident with diagnoses including cerebral infarction (stroke), diabetes, hemiplegia, and hemiparesis had a physician order dated February 7, 2026, directing staff to document NPI’s used before administering as-needed pain medication, and an order dated April 3, 2026, for oxycodone every four hours as needed for moderate to severe pain. MAR review revealed this resident received as-needed oxycodone nine times in April 2026 without documented evidence that NPI’s were attempted prior to administration, in violation of 28 Pa. Code 211.9(a)(1) Pharmacy services and 28 Pa. Code 211.12(d)(1)(5) Nursing services.
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