Julia Ribaudo Extended Care Center
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania.
- Location
- 1404 Golf Park Drive, Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania 18436
- CMS Provider Number
- 395493
- Inspections on file
- 28
- Latest survey
- February 12, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 29
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Julia Ribaudo Extended Care Center during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
The facility failed to follow its infection control and animal visitation policies when an LPN brought a sick backyard chicken into the building without prior approval, veterinary clearance, or documentation, kept it at the nurses’ station, removed it from its carrier, and allowed residents to handle it, contrary to the facility’s pet protocol and CDC guidance on poultry. The facility also failed to adhere to its indwelling urinary catheter care procedure for two residents with cognitive impairment and urinary conditions, as both residents’ urinary drainage bags were observed resting directly on the floor instead of being maintained below bladder level and off the floor as required by policy and their care plans.
The facility failed to prevent ongoing intrusions into residents' rooms by other residents with cognitive impairments, resulting in repeated complaints about privacy violations, rummaging of personal belongings, and consumption of food. Despite these concerns being raised in council meetings and interviews, the issue persisted without documented resolution, impacting residents' dignity and quality of life.
The facility did not maintain an adequate supply of clean linens for resident care in two care units, as evidenced by resident concerns, staff reports of frequent shortages, and observations of insufficient linens on carts and in storage. The issue was compounded by delays in linen delivery and problems with linens not being returned from laundering.
The facility did not consistently provide evening snacks to residents, resulting in meal intervals exceeding 14 hours in several nursing unit areas. Multiple residents reported that snacks were not regularly offered, and the NHA could not provide documentation to show that evening snacks were consistently available, despite facility policy requiring them.
The facility did not maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in ongoing issues with small black flies, gnats, and ants in resident rooms and common areas. Multiple residents reported persistent pest sightings, and surveyors observed flying insects in hallways, resident rooms, and near food service areas. Pest control services were performed but lacked detailed documentation and follow-up, and the facility could not provide evidence of consistent efforts to resolve the issue.
A resident with chronic kidney disease, anxiety disorder, and moderate cognitive impairment was manually transferred to bed by two staff without the use of the ordered standing lift, causing significant distress and resulting in the resident biting a nurse aide. The care plan at the time did not address the resident's anxiety regarding transfers or provide alternative interventions, leading to a failure in implementing a comprehensive, person-centered care plan.
Surveyors identified that two residents were exposed to accident hazards due to unsecured medications left accessible in a resident's room and a cognitively impaired resident gaining unauthorized access to a restricted area behind the front desk. The facility did not follow its own policies for medication security or implement effective supervision to prevent these incidents.
Surveyors found that two residents receiving oxygen therapy did not have their equipment maintained or labeled according to physician orders and facility policy. Observations revealed humidification bottles and tubing were not dated, bottles were stored on the floor, and in one case, the bottle could not be secured due to broken straps. Staff interviews confirmed these deficiencies, and the administrator acknowledged the improper storage and lack of dating.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple pain management orders received PRN opioid medication without documented attempts at non-pharmacological interventions or assessment of pain level, contrary to facility policy. Staff administered morphine on several occasions without determining if a non-opioid medication was appropriate, and physician orders lacked clear guidance on pain intensity for medication selection.
A resident's personal belongings were not properly documented upon admission and discharge, as required. The inventory list lacked signatures from the resident or responsible party, and there was no record confirming the return of the resident's possessions at discharge. The DON confirmed that no further documentation was available to verify the release of these items.
Surveyors found that the facility did not maintain documented job descriptions in the personnel files of a nurse aide, an activities aide, and a dietary aide, as required by policy. This was confirmed by the administrator during the review.
A newly hired LPN began providing resident care without documentation from a healthcare practitioner confirming they were free from communicable diseases, as required by regulation. The administrator confirmed the absence of this documentation in the employee's file.
A review of staffing records and interviews confirmed that the facility did not meet required nurse aide-to-resident ratios on multiple day, evening, and night shifts, with no additional higher-level staff available to compensate for the shortfall.
The facility did not provide the required number of LPNs on several day and night shifts, resulting in staffing levels below the mandated ratios for the census on those dates. Staffing records and an interview with the DON confirmed that no additional higher-level staff were available to compensate for the LPN shortfall.
The facility did not consistently provide the required 3.2 hours of direct nursing care per resident per day, as evidenced by staffing records and confirmation from the DON. On multiple days, the nursing hours fell below the regulatory minimum.
A registered nurse failed to implement a physician's order to hold an anticoagulant (Eliquis) for a resident with atrial fibrillation in preparation for a scheduled procedure. The medication was not held as ordered, resulting in the cancellation and rescheduling of the procedure. The nurse acknowledged not saving the order during entry, which led to the deficiency.
The facility failed to conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine necessary resources for resident care, inaccurately reflecting the needs of residents with Alzheimer's, dementia, and behavioral health issues. The assessment did not evaluate staff capabilities to ensure adequate care, leading to a deficiency.
The facility failed to maintain a comprehensive infection prevention and control program. Infection control data lacked an operational system to monitor and investigate infections, with incomplete logs from November 2023 to October 2024. Clinical records showed residents treated for various infections, and interviews confirmed the absence of complete logs and a comprehensive program.
A resident frequently incontinent of bowels was not assessed for a bowel management program, despite being cognitively intact and aware of toileting needs. The facility's policy requires a continence evaluation and toileting plan, but the resident experienced 96 episodes of bowel incontinence without proper assessment or intervention.
The facility failed to maintain accurate records and ensure proper administration of controlled drugs for a resident, with discrepancies found between the Controlled Medication Utilization Record and the MAR. Additionally, another resident's medication was improperly stored in a dialysis communication binder instead of a secure area. The DON confirmed these failures in adhering to the facility's policies.
A resident with a history of dementia and aggressive behavior physically and verbally abused two other residents in an LTC facility. Despite known aggressive tendencies, the facility failed to implement adequate supervisory measures, resulting in incidents where one resident was grabbed by the chin and another was bear-hugged, leading to bruising. The facility's policy on abuse prevention was not effectively enforced.
A resident with Alzheimer's, malnutrition, and dysphagia was not provided with prescribed adaptive dining equipment, such as a maroon spoon and Provale cup, during meal observations. Despite physician orders, the resident received standard utensils, which was confirmed by the Director of Rehab, indicating a failure to adhere to prescribed care.
A resident was transferred to a hospital due to urgent medical needs, but the facility failed to provide a written notice with the medical reason for the transfer. This deficiency was confirmed during an interview with the Nursing Home Administrator.
A resident with dementia and psychosis was found to have been given Benadryl without a physician's order, leading to increased sedation and reduced behavioral symptoms. The facility's investigation revealed that a staff member administered the medication for convenience, but the individual responsible was not identified.
Failure to Enforce Pet Visitation Rules and Maintain Proper Catheter Bag Positioning
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to establish, maintain, and implement an effective infection prevention and control program related to animal visitation and indwelling urinary catheter care. The facility’s Infection Control Policies and Practices required an organized, effective program to prevent, identify, control, and reduce the risk of infections, and the Animal Visitation Pet Policy limited visiting animals to certain species, required prior arrangements with the activity department, and mandated up-to-date vaccinations and veterinary checkups with documentation on file. The pet policy also prohibited animals from nurses’ stations and other areas requiring sanitary precautions, and required pets to be leashed or caged. Despite these policies, an LPN brought a sick chicken from her home into the facility without prior administrative approval, without veterinary evaluation, and without any documentation of vaccinations or preventive care. The LPN reported that she brought the sick chicken into the building at the start of her shift, kept it at the nurses’ station, and removed it from its carrier at the nurses’ station to clean the cage and to feed and hydrate the animal. She carried the chicken in her arms within the facility and allowed residents to pet it. The DON confirmed that the chicken was present for several hours, that he was aware the animal was sick, and that the LPN removed the chicken from its cage and allowed resident contact. These actions were not in compliance with the facility’s animal visitation policy and infection control protocols. CDC guidance cited in the report indicated that backyard poultry can carry multiple infectious agents and recommended that poultry and related equipment be kept outside and not permitted inside areas where people live or receive care. The facility also failed to follow its own policy for indwelling urinary catheter care for two residents with catheters. The Indwelling Urinary Catheter Care Procedure required that urinary drainage bags be positioned below the level of the bladder for gravity drainage but not placed directly on the floor, as improper handling or contamination of the drainage system increases the risk of urinary tract infection. Resident 1, who had dementia, severe cognitive impairment, urinary retention, and a suprapubic catheter, had a care plan that included maintaining a closed catheter system and providing full assistance with catheter care. During observation, this resident was in bed with the urinary collection bag resting directly on the floor, which was confirmed by the LPN present. Resident 2, who had obstructive and reflux uropathy, morbid obesity, moderate cognitive impairment, and an indwelling urinary catheter, also had a care plan specifying catheter care per routine and positioning the collection bag and tubing below the bladder with a privacy cover. During observation, this resident was seated in a wheelchair at the nurses’ station with the urinary collection bag resting directly on the floor, again confirmed by the LPN. The DON later confirmed that urinary collection bags should be maintained off the floor. These observations demonstrated that the facility did not adhere to its catheter care policy and did not maintain proper infection control practices for residents with indwelling urinary catheters.
Failure to Prevent Resident Room Intrusions and Protect Resident Rights
Penalty
Summary
Julia Ribaudo Extended Care Facility was found noncompliant with federal and state regulations regarding resident rights and the promotion of a dignified environment. Surveyors identified that the facility failed to ensure residents' personal spaces were protected from intrusions by other residents. Multiple residents reported ongoing issues with other residents, particularly those with severe cognitive impairments, wandering into their rooms uninvited, rummaging through personal belongings, and consuming their food. These incidents were documented through clinical record reviews, resident council meeting minutes, and direct resident interviews. Specific examples included one resident with severe cognitive impairment repeatedly entering the rooms of other residents, sitting on their beds, and taking their snacks. Residents affected by these intrusions expressed frustration, anger, and the need to hide their belongings or call for staff assistance to remove the wandering resident. The issue was persistent, as evidenced by repeated mentions in resident council meeting minutes over several months, with no clear documentation of resolution or effective intervention by the facility. Interviews with the Nursing Home Administrator and Director of Nursing confirmed that resident wandering and room intrusions had been a recurring concern raised by residents. Despite some reports of improvement, the problem remained unresolved for several residents, as indicated by their continued complaints during group interviews and council meetings. The facility's failure to address these concerns and protect residents' rights to privacy and dignity led to the cited deficiency.
Plan Of Correction
Preparation, submission, and implementation of the Plan of Correction does not constitute an admission of or agreement with the facts and conclusions set forth on the survey report. Our Plan of Correction is prepared and executed as a means to continuously improve the quality of care and to comply with state and federal regulatory requirements. The facility is unable to retroactively correct Resident 3 and Resident 29's personal space being impeded on by wandering residents 16 and 19. All residents who voiced concerns during the resident council meeting were offered interventions that will deter wandering residents from entering their rooms. To identify like residents that could be affected by wandering residents, the DON/designee will interview all current alert and oriented residents with BIMS of 12 and greater. To prevent reoccurrence, the NHA/designee will educate the IDT team completing concierge rounds to follow up with the identified alert and oriented residents to monitor any further concerns or resolution. To prevent reoccurrence, nursing staff re-educated on the redirection of wandering residents to prevent the wandering of residents into peers' rooms. To monitor and maintain compliance, the DON/designee will interview 6 random alert and oriented residents with BIMS of 12 and greater to monitor resolution of wandering residents weekly x4 and then monthly x2. Results will be reviewed at QAPI. The team completing concierge rounds will follow up with the identified alert and oriented residents to monitor any further concerns or resolution. To prevent reoccurrence, nursing staff re-educated on the redirection of wandering residents to prevent the wandering of residents into peers' rooms. To monitor and maintain compliance, the DON/designee will interview 6 random alert and oriented residents with BIMS of 12 and greater to monitor resolution of wandering residents weekly x4 and then monthly x2. Results will be reviewed at QAPI.
Failure to Maintain Adequate Supply of Clean Linens
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an adequate supply of clean linens to meet the needs of residents in two of four resident care units, specifically in the E Hallway and A Hallway. Resident council meeting minutes documented concerns from residents about linen availability, and the Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged that nurse aides were discarding washcloths and that additional linen had been ordered. Observations over several days revealed that linen carts in these hallways frequently contained only a minimal number of washcloths and bath towels, with some instances where no washcloths were available for resident care. Staff interviews confirmed ongoing difficulties in obtaining clean linens, with reports that clean linens were not delivered to the floors until after 9:00 AM, despite care being provided earlier, resulting in shortages. Further observations showed that the facility laundry room had no additional linens available for staff use at the time, and the linen closet outside the E Hallway had a limited supply. The Nursing Home Administrator also reported issues with linens being sent out for laundering and not returned, and was unable to confirm that the facility maintained an adequate number of linens to meet residents' daily needs.
Plan Of Correction
The facility is unable to retroactively correct the available linen supply on E Hallway and A Hallway linen cart. This has the potential to affect all residents. The NHA/designee completed an audit of all linen carts and rooms to ensure there was available linen. To prevent reoccurrence, the NHA/designee will educate housekeeping/laundry aides and CNAs on facility linen laundering processes and the location of clean linen should the linen cart need to be restocked. To monitor and maintain compliance, the NHA/designee will ensure an adequate supply of linens is available in linen carts and supply closets weekly x 4 and monthly x 2. Results will be reviewed at QAPI.
Failure to Consistently Provide Required Evening Snacks
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to consistently provide evening snacks to residents, as required by federal regulations and its own policy. Scheduled mealtimes in multiple nursing unit areas resulted in more than 14 hours elapsing between the evening meal and breakfast the following day. Specifically, the intervals ranged from 14 hours and 15 minutes to 14 hours and 30 minutes, exceeding the 14-hour maximum unless a nourishing snack is provided at bedtime or a resident group agrees to a longer interval. During a resident council interview, four out of eight residents reported that snacks were not consistently offered in the evenings. One resident stated that snacks were only occasionally offered, while three others indicated they were not offered snacks at all. These resident accounts were corroborated by the lack of documentation showing that snacks were consistently provided during the evening hours. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that it is the facility's policy to offer nourishing snacks in the evening but was unable to provide evidence that this was being done consistently. The deficiency was identified through a combination of policy review, scheduled mealtime analysis, and resident and staff interviews.
Plan Of Correction
Resident#28, #32, #69, and 90 are currently being offered HS snacks. To identify like residents that have the potential to be affected, an audit was completed of current residents to ensure that snacks are being offered. To prevent this from recurring, the DON/designee will educate the nursing staff on offering HS snacks to the residents. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, the DON/designee will audit 5 residents weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly for 2 months, to ensure that snacks are being offered by the nursing staff. Results will be reported to QAPI for recommendations and follow-up.
Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program as required, resulting in ongoing issues with small black flies, gnats, and ants in resident rooms and common areas across two nursing units and a resident dining/lounge area. Multiple residents reported persistent sightings of these pests, and direct observations by surveyors confirmed the presence of flying insects in hallways, resident rooms, and near food service areas such as the pantry and around the garbage can and ice machine. Resident council meeting minutes and interviews further documented that these pest issues had been ongoing for several months, despite the facility being informed by residents. A review of the facility's pest control policy and contract revealed that while routine pest control services were in place, the contract specifically excluded certain pests such as gnats and other free-flying insects. Pest control invoices showed treatments were performed, but lacked detailed descriptions of services, follow-up actions, or outcomes. The facility was unable to provide documentation of consistent follow-up or contractor recommendations to resolve the persistent pest issues. The Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged the ongoing pest problems despite treatments.
Plan Of Correction
The facility cannot go back and retro-correct the pest control concern. Pest control strips were added to the community to decrease pest concerns. NHA has pest control services on a weekly/as needed schedule to tour the facility to ensure that pest control techniques are effective. This has the ability to affect all residents. To prevent this from recurring, NHA/designee will educate staff on the Pest Control Policy. NHA has pest control services on a weekly/as needed schedule to tour the facility to ensure that pest control techniques are effective. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, NHA/designee will complete weekly rounds with the pest control technician weekly x 4, then monthly x 2, to ensure that pest control techniques are effective. NHA/designee will interview 5 alert and oriented residents to verify that the techniques are effective. Results will be reported to QAPI for recommendations and follow-up.
Failure to Develop and Implement Comprehensive Care Plan for Safe Transfers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive, person-centered care plan that addressed the individualized needs and interventions for safe transfers for one resident. The resident, who was admitted with chronic kidney disease and an anxiety disorder, had a physician's order requiring the assistance of two staff members for transfers using a standing lift. Despite this order, there was an incident where two staff members manually transferred the resident to bed without the use of the standing lift, which was not in accordance with the care plan or physician's order. The resident, who was moderately cognitively impaired, experienced significant distress during the manual transfer and bit a nurse aide as a result. The incident was documented in a progress note, and the resident later explained that she was upset and frightened by the way she was transferred, as it deviated from the usual method involving the standing lift. Staff interviews confirmed that the manual transfer occurred and that the resident became anxious during the process. At the time of the incident, the resident's care plan did not identify her anxiety regarding transfers nor did it include the option for a manual two-person assist. The care plan was only updated after surveyor inquiries to reflect the resident's anxiety and to specify the appropriate transfer methods. Prior to this update, staff were expected to follow the physician's orders and the individualized plan of care, but the plan did not adequately address the resident's specific needs related to transfers.
Plan Of Correction
Resident 22's Transfer Care Plan was updated with individualized needs on. To identify like residents, a facility audit was completed by the DON/designee to identify any residents using a stand lift that have associated anxiety or behaviors. Care plans were updated to reflect individualized preferences for alternative safe transfers, other than facility policy to utilize Hoyer lift. To prevent reoccurrence, the DON/designee will educate licensed nursing on updating resident care plans with individualized preferences as they occur. To monitor and maintain compliance, the DON/designee will audit residents with new orders for stand lift/Hoyer lift, with associated anxiety or behaviors requiring individualized needs related to transfers, and update care plans as needed weekly x 4 and monthly x 2. Results will be reviewed at QAPI.
Failure to Secure Medications and Prevent Unauthorized Access
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement adequate safety measures to prevent accidents for two residents. For one resident with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), surveyors observed a bottle of Pepto Bismol and two prescription inhalers stored in an unlocked bedside table drawer and on the bed. The resident stated that her nephew brought her the Pepto Bismol and that a nurse had given her the inhalers, which she kept accessible in case she became short of breath. The resident's clinical record indicated she did not wish to self-administer medications, and the facility's policy required that self-administration be assessed, documented, and that medications be stored in a locked compartment if permitted. However, the medications were not secured, and the resident's drawer did not lock, making them accessible to others. For another resident with Parkinson's disease and moderate cognitive impairment, the care plan noted issues with noncompliance, including attempts to access restricted areas. Despite interventions such as a gate and education, the resident was observed behind the front desk, where he activated the door mechanism to allow entry to the survey team. The resident acknowledged he was not permitted in that area and asked the surveyors not to report his actions. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that adequate safety measures were not in place to prevent the resident from accessing the restricted area. These findings demonstrate that the facility did not maintain a resident environment free of accident hazards and did not provide adequate supervision or assistance devices to prevent accidents, as required by facility policy and federal regulations. The deficiencies were identified through observations, record reviews, and interviews with residents and staff.
Plan Of Correction
Resident 62's POC was reviewed, CRNP was notified of Pepto Bismol at bedside. New orders received for Pepto Bismol and self-administration assessment completed. Trellegy inhaler removed from resident room and explained that there was no current order without incident. Resident 62 has an order in place from 10/10/2024 that she may keep her Combivent inhaler at bedside and self-administer. Resident instructed to keep medications in locked bedside table. Initial audit performed to ensure that no other residents had medications at bedside and if so, medications were removed and if indicated, self-assessment were completed. Resident 63 was immediately educated on facility policy for visitor entry. Facility staff immediately educated on visitor entry policy and keeping the entry behind the desk restricted if staff not present. Maintenance director applied plastic casing with lock over unlocking mechanism. To identify like residents that could be affected, the resident's DON/designee will interview residents with a BIMS of 12 or higher to ask if they would like to self-administer and if they request, a self-administration assessment will be completed. All residents assessed and determined to self-administer will be educated on keeping medications locked at bedside. To identify like residents that could be affected, all residents that are alert and oriented with a BIMS of 12 and above that are independently mobile were educated on the visitor entry policy. To prevent reoccurrence, DON/designee will educate licensed nurses on the self-administration policy. To prevent reoccurrence, DON/designee will educate all facility staff; all staff were educated on visitor entry policy and keeping the entry behind the desk restricted if staff not present. To identify like residents that could be affected, the resident's DON/designee will interview residents with a BIMS of 12 or higher to ask if they would like to self-administer and if they request, a self-administration assessment will be completed. All residents assessed and determined to self-administer will be educated on keeping medications locked at bedside. To identify like residents that could be affected, all residents that are alert and oriented with a BIMS of 12 and above that are independently mobile were educated on the visitor entry policy. To prevent reoccurrence, DON/designee will educate licensed nurses on the self-administration policy. To prevent reoccurrence, DON/designee will educate all facility staff; all staff were educated on visitor entry policy and keeping the entry behind the desk restricted if staff not present. To monitor and maintain compliance, DON/designee will audit all new residents with a BIMS of 12 or higher for self-administration preferences and self-administration assessments weekly for 4 weeks and monthly for 2 months. To monitor and maintain compliance, DON/designee will audit that medications are not left out and available for other residents to get. To monitor and maintain compliance, DON/designee will audit front desk to ensure resident access behind the desk is restricted if an employee is not present behind the desk and that access to the entry mechanism is not accessible if staff is not present behind the desk weekly for 4 weeks and monthly for 2 months. Results will be reviewed at QAPI.
Failure to Maintain and Label Oxygen Therapy Equipment per Policy
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to ensure oxygen therapy was administered and maintained according to physician orders and facility policy for two residents. The facility's policy required licensed clinicians to administer oxygen as ordered, change humidifier bottles when empty, and date equipment. For one resident with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), observations revealed the oxygen humidification bottle was stored directly on the floor, was empty, and neither the bottle nor the tubing was dated. These issues persisted over two consecutive days, and a registered nurse confirmed the deficiencies during an interview. For another resident, also with COPD, staff were ordered to administer oxygen with humidification as needed, clean the concentrator, and change tubing weekly. Observations showed the nasal cannula and tubing were left across the bed with the cannula on the floor, and the humidification bottle was also on the floor with broken attachment straps, preventing it from being secured to the concentrator. The bottle was not dated, and these conditions were confirmed by a staff member during an interview. The Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged that humidification bottles should not be stored on the ground and should be dated when changed. The findings were based on clinical record reviews, facility policy, direct observations, and staff interviews, and demonstrated a failure to follow established protocols for oxygen therapy equipment maintenance and infection control.
Plan Of Correction
Resident #3 concentrator fixed, and humidifier bottle and tubing replaced. Resident #62 concentrator fixed, oxygen bag replaced and dated per policy, humidifier bottle and oxygen tubing replaced. To identify like residents that have the potential to be affected, DON/designee audited residents receiving oxygen therapy to ensure concentrator working properly, humidification bottle not on floor, and documentation present in the electronic clinical record. To prevent this from recurring, licensed staff will be educated on the oxygen administration policy by the DON/designee. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, DON/designee will audit 5 residents weekly x4 then monthly x2 to ensure concentrator working properly, humidification bottle changed, tubing changed, and documented in the electronic record. Result to QAPI for recommendation and follow-up.
Failure to Attempt Non-Pharmacological Pain Interventions Before Administering Opioids
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its own pain management policy by not attempting non-pharmacological interventions before administering a narcotic pain medication on an as-needed basis to a resident. The policy required that non-pharmacological interventions be tried prior to giving PRN pain medication, and if these interventions failed, medication would be administered according to the resident's pain intensity rating. However, documentation showed that staff did not attempt these interventions or assess the resident's pain level before administering opioid medication. The resident involved had a history of major depressive disorder and unspecified dementia with agitation, and was severely cognitively impaired, as indicated by the absence of a BIMS score on the MDS assessment. The resident had multiple physician orders for pain management, including acetaminophen for mild pain and morphine sulfate for pain or shortness of breath, but the orders for morphine did not specify a pain level or scale, making it unclear when to use each medication as per facility policy. Review of the electronic Medication Administration Record revealed that the resident received PRN morphine sulfate on multiple occasions without any documented attempts at non-pharmacological interventions and without assessment of pain level to determine if a non-opioid medication would have been appropriate. This was confirmed during an interview with the Nursing Home Administrator, who reviewed the findings related to the failure of licensed nursing staff to follow the required pain management procedures.
Plan Of Correction
Resident #19 Morphine order clarified to indicate levels of pain. Cannot go back and retro-correct non-pharmacology interventions for resident #19. To identify like residents that have the potential to be affected, DON/designee audited all residents with PRN pain medication to ensure that residents' pain levels are clarified in the physician order and non-pharmacological interventions are being offered prior to administration of the medication. To prevent this from recurring, licensed staff will be educated on pain management by the DON/designee. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, DON/designee to audit 5 residents x4 weeks then monthly x 2 months to ensure that pain levels are completed and non-pharmacological interventions offered prior to administration of the medication. Results to QAPI for recommendations and follow-up.
Failure to Document and Return Resident's Personal Belongings at Discharge
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a complete and accurate record of a resident's personal possessions upon both admission and discharge. Specifically, for one resident, the inventory list documenting personal belongings at admission and discharge did not include a signature from either the resident or a responsible party. Additionally, there was no documentation in the resident's discharge information indicating that the belongings were returned to the resident upon discharge. An electronic observation detail report showed that the resident arrived with four belongings, but the facility was unable to provide further documentation confirming the release of these items at discharge. During an interview, the Director of Nursing confirmed that no additional records could be produced to verify the return of the resident's possessions.
Plan Of Correction
Resident #94 received all of his personal belongings upon discharge. To identify like residents that have the potential to be affected, the DON/designee completed a 2-week audit of new admissions to ensure that personal inventory sheets were completed upon admission and discharge of the residents. To prevent this from recurring, the DON/designee educated the nursing staff on the completion of the personal inventory sheet upon admission and discharge of the resident. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, the DON/designee will audit personal inventory sheets of new admissions and discharges weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly for 2 months, to ensure they are being completed and signed per the policy. Results will be reported to QAPI for recommendations and follow-up.
Missing Job Descriptions in Employee Personnel Files
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the personnel records for three employees, specifically a nurse aide, an activities aide, and a dietary aide, contained documented evidence of their job descriptions. Review of the personnel files for these employees, all hired in 2025, revealed that none included a written job description outlining the duties, responsibilities, and qualifications for their respective roles. This deficiency was confirmed during an interview with the Nursing Home Administrator, who acknowledged that the facility could not produce the required documentation for these employees.
Plan Of Correction
Employee #5, #7, and #8 have signed job descriptions. To identify like individuals that have the potential to be affected, NHA/designee will audit new hires in the last 14 days to ensure job descriptions are signed by the employee. To prevent this from recurring, Human Resources will be educated by NHA/designee on personnel policies and procedures. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, NHA/designee will audit new personnel files weekly for the first four weeks, then monthly for two months, to ensure personnel files contain the signed job description. Results will be reported to QAPI for recommendations and follow-up.
Lack of Communicable Disease Clearance for New LPN Hire
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that an employee was assessed by a healthcare practitioner and determined to be free from communicable diseases or conditions prior to providing resident care. Specifically, a review of the personnel file for a Licensed Practical Nurse revealed that there was no documentation showing a healthcare practitioner had made this determination at or before the employee's hire date. During an interview, the Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the required written determination was not present in the employee's file as mandated by regulation.
Plan Of Correction
Employee #6 received her physical. To identify like residents that have the potential to be affected. NHA/designee to audit new hire files for the last 14 days to ensure personnel files contain employee physical. To prevent this from recurring, Human Resources educated by NHA/designee on personnel policies and procedures. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, NHA/designee to audit new personnel files weekly x4 then monthly x 2 to ensure personnel files contain employee physical. Results to QAPI for recommendations and follow-up.
Failure to Meet Minimum Nurse Aide Staffing Ratios
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to meet the required minimum nurse aide staffing ratios across multiple shifts, as evidenced by a review of weekly staffing records. On numerous occasions, the number of nurse aides scheduled for the day, evening, and night shifts did not meet the mandated ratios based on the facility's census. For example, on several dates, the day shift had fewer nurse aides than the required 1:10 ratio, the evening shift fell short of the 1:11 ratio, and the night shift did not meet the 1:15 ratio. These deficiencies were documented for a total of 45 out of 63 reviewed shifts. Specific staffing shortfalls were detailed, including instances where the number of nurse aides was below the required threshold for the number of residents present. The report lists exact numbers for each shift and census, showing consistent under-staffing. Additionally, it was noted that on these dates, there were no additional higher-level staff available to compensate for the lack of nurse aides. An interview with the Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility did not meet the required nurse aide to resident ratios on the identified dates. The report does not mention any specific residents affected or provide details about their medical history or condition at the time of the deficiency.
Plan Of Correction
The facility cannot correct the CNA staffing hours on the cited dates; however, efforts are continuously being made to maintain the staffing hours within regulatory guidelines. Moving forward, the facility will make good faith efforts by continuing to recruit staff through participation in job fairs, offering sign-on and referral bonuses, and utilizing internal/external resources in the event of staffing requirement deficits. RDCS will re-educate the NHA, Nursing Administration, RN Supervisors, and Scheduler and HR/Payroll staff on PA staffing ratio requirements. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, the NHA/designee will audit the CNA staffing ratios weekly for four weeks, and then monthly for two months. The audit outcomes will be presented to the QAPI Committee for further review and recommendations. The facility cannot correct the LPN staffing hours on the cited dates; however, efforts are continuously being made to maintain the staffing hours within regulatory guidelines. Moving forward, the facility will make good faith efforts by continuing to recruit staff through participation in job fairs, offering sign-on and referral bonuses, and utilizing internal/external resources in the event of staffing requirement deficits. RDCS will re-educate the NHA, Nursing Administration, RN Supervisors, and Scheduler and HR/Payroll staff on PA staffing ratio requirements. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, the NHA/designee will audit the LPN staffing ratios weekly for four weeks, and then monthly for two months. The audit outcomes will be presented to the QAPI Committee for further review and recommendations.
Failure to Meet Minimum LPN Staffing Ratios on Multiple Shifts
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to meet the required minimum staffing ratios for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) on both day and night shifts for 15 out of 63 reviewed shifts. Specifically, on multiple dates, the number of LPNs scheduled for the day shift did not meet the mandated ratio of 1 LPN per 25 residents, with actual staffing falling short of the required number based on the facility's census. Similarly, on several night shifts, the facility did not provide the required 1 LPN per 40 residents, again resulting in fewer LPNs than necessary according to the census. Staffing records confirmed these deficiencies, and it was noted that no additional higher-level staff were present to compensate for the shortfall in LPN coverage on the affected shifts. An interview with the Director of Nursing corroborated that the facility did not meet the required LPN-to-resident ratios on the specified dates. The report does not mention any specific residents affected or detail any medical conditions or outcomes related to the staffing deficiencies.
Plan Of Correction
The facility cannot correct the LPN staffing hours on the cited dates; however, efforts are continuously being made to maintain the staffing hours within regulatory guidelines. Moving forward, the facility will make good faith efforts by continuing to recruit staff through participation in job fairs, offering sign-on and referral bonuses, and utilizing internal/external resources in the event of staffing requirement deficits. RDCS will re-educate the NHA, Nursing Administration, RN Supervisors, Scheduler, and HR/Payroll staff on PA staffing ratio requirements. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, the NHA/designee will audit the LPN staffing ratios weekly for four weeks, and then monthly for two months. The audit outcomes will be presented to the QAPI Committee for further review and recommendations.
Failure to Meet Minimum Nursing Care Hours
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to consistently provide the minimum required 3.2 hours of direct general nursing care per resident per 24-hour period, as mandated by regulation effective July 1, 2024. A review of staffing records revealed that on 17 out of 21 days reviewed, the facility's nursing hours fell below this minimum threshold. Specific dates were identified where the direct care nursing hours per resident ranged from 2.71 to 3.16, all below the required standard except for one day. An interview with the Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility did not consistently meet the required nursing care hours for each resident on a daily basis. The deficiency was identified through a combination of staffing level reviews and staff interviews, with no additional information provided regarding the medical history or condition of individual residents at the time of the deficiency.
Plan Of Correction
The facility cannot correct the inability to meet the minimum nurse staffing of 3.2 hours of general nursing care to each resident on the cited dates; however, efforts are continuously being made to maintain staffing hours within regulatory guidelines. Moving forward, the facility will make good faith efforts by continuing to recruit staff by participating in job fairs, offering sign-on and referral bonuses, and utilizing internal/external resources in the event of staffing requirement deficits. RDCS will re-educate the NHA, Nursing Administration, RN Supervisors, and Scheduler and HR/Payroll staff on PA staffing PPD requirements. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, the NHA/designee will audit daily nursing hours weekly for 4 weeks, and then monthly for 2 months. The audit outcomes will be presented to the QAPI Committee for further review and recommendations.
Failure to Implement Physician's Order for Anticoagulant Hold
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a registered nurse failed to implement a physician's order to hold a resident's Eliquis (an anticoagulant) in preparation for a scheduled procedure. The resident, who had diagnoses including depression and atrial fibrillation, was admitted with a physician's order for Eliquis 5 mg every 12 hours. On March 7, 2025, a nursing progress note documented that the Eliquis was to be held starting March 21, 2025, in anticipation of a procedure scheduled for March 24, 2025, and that a new physician's order would be required to resume the medication post-procedure. However, on March 24, 2025, it was documented that the Eliquis had not been held as ordered, resulting in the cancellation and rescheduling of the procedure. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the registered nurse responsible for entering the hold order admitted to mistakenly not saving the order during the entry process. This failure to implement the physician's order as written led directly to the postponement of the resident's scheduled procedure.
Inadequate Facility-Wide Assessment for Resident Care Needs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct and document a comprehensive facility-wide assessment to determine the necessary resources for resident care, as required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The assessment did not accurately identify the specific needs and services required by the resident population, including those with Alzheimer's, dementia, and behavioral health needs. The facility's assessment, last reviewed on July 26, 2024, did not reflect the current resident population's characteristics, such as the 30 residents with Alzheimer's or dementia and the 47 residents receiving psychiatric or psychological services. The facility's assessment inaccurately indicated that there were no residents with behavioral health needs requiring special treatments, despite evidence to the contrary. Additionally, the assessment failed to evaluate the overall number of facility staff and their capabilities to ensure a sufficient and competent workforce to meet each resident's needs. During an interview, the Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the Facility Assessment lacked the required information, leading to a deficiency in meeting the regulatory requirements for resident care.
Inadequate Infection Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain and implement a comprehensive infection prevention and control program. A review of the facility's policy indicated the need for an organized, effective program to prevent, identify, control, and reduce infection risks, conduct surveillance of communicable diseases, and monitor employee health. However, the facility's infection control data did not reflect an operational system to monitor and investigate infection causes and spread. There was no evidence of a system to analyze clusters, changes in prevalent organisms, or increases in infection rates in a timely manner. The facility's infection control logs from November 2023 through October 2024 were incomplete, with no accurate tracking of infections for several months. Clinical records showed that a resident was treated for a fungal skin infection in April 2024, another for a urinary tract infection in July 2024, and another for a c-diff infection in August 2024. Interviews with the Director of Nursing and the Infection Preventionist confirmed the absence of complete infection control logs and the failure to maintain a comprehensive program. The facility did not demonstrate a system for preventing, identifying, reporting, investigating, and controlling infections and communicable diseases for all residents, staff, and visitors according to accepted standards and guidelines.
Failure to Implement Bowel Management Program for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate treatment and services to restore normal bowel function for a resident, identified as Resident 75, who was frequently incontinent of bowels. The facility's Continence Management Program policy requires a plan to manage incontinence based on the resident's needs and capabilities, including a continence evaluation and a toileting plan. However, the clinical record review revealed that Resident 75, who was admitted with diagnoses including cellulitis and morbid obesity, was not properly assessed for a bowel management program despite being frequently incontinent. The resident was cognitively intact, with no communication or mental status issues, and was aware of his toileting needs but unable to walk to the bathroom. The admission Minimum Data Set assessment indicated frequent bowel incontinence, and the care plan noted occasional incontinence with interventions such as offering toileting after meals. Despite this, the resident experienced bowel incontinence on 96 occasions from admission through October 9, 2024. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility did not assess the resident for a bowel management program or implement interventions to minimize incontinence episodes, failing to provide the necessary treatment and services to restore normal bowel function.
Medication Administration and Storage Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain accurate records of controlled drugs and ensure proper drug administration for one resident, identified as Resident 75. The facility's policy requires maintaining separate individual controlled substance records for Schedule II medications and regularly reconciling inventory records with the medication administration record (MAR). However, a review of Resident 75's records revealed discrepancies between the Controlled Medication Utilization Record and the MAR, with 19 instances where the administration of OXYcodone-acetaminophen was not documented in the MAR. The Director of Nursing (DON) was unable to explain these discrepancies, confirming the facility's failure to implement effective procedures for reconciling controlled substance medications. Additionally, the facility did not store medications safely for another resident, identified as Resident 39. The facility's policy mandates that medications be stored securely in locked cabinets or medication rooms. However, during an observation, two medication packs of midodrine were found in Resident 39's dialysis communication binder at the nursing station, which is not an approved storage area. A registered nurse confirmed that the medication should not have been stored in the binder and should have been secured in an appropriate storage area. The Director of Nursing confirmed the facility's responsibility to ensure proper storage and security of medications, acknowledging that Resident 39's midodrine should not have been left in the dialysis communication binder. These deficiencies indicate a failure to adhere to the facility's policies and procedures regarding medication administration and storage, as outlined in the facility's pharmacy services manual.
Failure to Prevent Resident-to-Resident Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect two residents from abuse by another resident, resulting in physical and verbal altercations. Resident 76, who has a history of dementia and unspecified psychosis, was involved in incidents where he physically and verbally abused Residents 35 and 64. On August 14, 2024, Resident 76 grabbed Resident 64's chin, shook her face, and used offensive language. On September 17, 2024, Resident 76 wrapped his arms around Resident 35 from behind, leading to faint bruising on her neck. Resident 76 has a documented history of aggressive behavior, including previous incidents of physical and verbal aggression towards staff and other residents. Despite this, the facility did not implement adequate supervisory measures to monitor Resident 76's behavior and prevent further incidents. Progress notes and incident reports indicate ongoing aggressive behavior by Resident 76, including attempts to enter other residents' rooms, verbal outbursts, and physical aggression towards staff. The facility's policy on abuse prevention was not effectively enforced, as evidenced by the repeated incidents involving Resident 76. The Director of Nursing confirmed the facility's responsibility to prevent resident-to-resident abuse and acknowledged the failure to adequately supervise Resident 76. The facility's lack of sufficient measures to monitor and manage Resident 76's behavior resulted in the physical abuse of Residents 35 and 64.
Failure to Provide Prescribed Adaptive Dining Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adaptive dining equipment as required and prescribed for a resident diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease, protein-calorie malnutrition, and oropharyngeal dysphagia. The resident was admitted with specific needs for a maroon spoon and a Provale cup to manage food and liquid intake safely, as documented in a Speech Therapy discharge summary and a current physician order. These adaptive tools were intended to help the resident control the rate and amount of food and liquids to prevent aspiration and choking. During observations on two separate lunch meals, the resident was not provided with the prescribed maroon spoon or Provale cup. Instead, the resident was served with a white plastic spoon, a regular carton of milk, and a regular plastic juice cup on one occasion, and a stainless-steel spoon and a regular plastic juice cup with a straw on another occasion. The Director of Rehab confirmed that the adaptive equipment was not utilized during these meal observations, indicating a failure by the facility to adhere to the physician's orders and provide necessary adaptive eating/drinking equipment.
Failure to Provide Written Transfer Notice
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide written notices of a facility-initiated hospital transfer for one resident, identified as Resident 53. According to regulatory requirements, a facility must notify the resident and their representative(s) of any transfer or discharge, including the reasons for the move, in writing and in a language and manner they understand. On August 5, 2024, Resident 53 was transferred to a hospital due to urgent medical needs that could not be met at the facility. However, the Immediate Discharge/Transfer Notice provided by the facility did not include a medical reason for the transfer. This deficiency was confirmed during an interview with the Nursing Home Administrator on October 11, 2024.
Unauthorized Administration of Benadryl to Control Resident Behavior
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident was free from chemical restraints not required for medical treatment. Resident B1, who was admitted with diagnoses including unspecified dementia, unspecified psychosis, and insomnia, was prescribed Risperdal to manage behaviors. Despite the medication, the resident continued to exhibit wandering behaviors and required constant redirection. During the period from June to July, the resident displayed symptoms such as drooling, being hunched over, and increased confusion, which were not consistent with the effects of Risperdal. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the resident's urine tested positive for diphenhydramine (Benadryl), a medication for which he had no prescription. The presence of diphenhydramine coincided with periods when the resident appeared more sedated and did not exhibit his usual behavioral symptoms. Interviews with staff confirmed that the resident did not have visitors who could have provided the drug, suggesting that it was administered by facility staff without a physician's order. The facility's follow-up to the lab results concluded that a staff member had given the resident Benadryl to control his behaviors for convenience, but the individual responsible was not identified. This unauthorized administration of medication constitutes a failure to protect the resident from chemical restraints not required for medical treatment, as there was no documented evidence of a physician's order for Benadryl.
Latest citations in Pennsylvania
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.
Trusted data from CMS and state health departments
Every citation, penalty and Plan of Correction is sourced from public CMS records (latest release May 27, 2026) and official state health department websites — never guesswork.
Trusted by long-term care providers and associations.



