Focused Care At Orange
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Orange, Texas.
- Location
- 4201 Fm 105, Orange, Texas 77630
- CMS Provider Number
- 676094
- Inspections on file
- 35
- Latest survey
- November 18, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 1
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Focused Care At Orange during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident with a documented Hydrocodone allergy was administered 10 doses of Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen by multiple LVNs, despite her allergy being clearly listed in her records and reported by family. The pharmacy consultant made no recommendations, and staff interviews confirmed the allergy was known but not acted upon. The resident was unaware of receiving the medication and reported mental disturbances, with no documented allergic reactions in the notes.
Three residents experienced improper installation and maintenance of bed rails, including a loose rail with a large gap and lack of adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Care plans did not address entrapment risks, and bed mobility assessments indicated rails were not recommended, yet they remained in use. Staff failed to report or document issues, and repeated falls occurred, placing residents at risk for entrapment and injury.
A resident with hemiplegia and contractures did not consistently receive a physician-ordered palmar cushion to the left hand to prevent further contractures and maintain ROM. Staff were unaware of the order, and the device was not applied as required, with the order missing from the MAR and no clear facility policy in place for contracture management.
Surveyors found that kitchen staff did not consistently wear hair restraints as required, with two staff members observed without proper coverings while working. Additionally, the deep fryer and its baskets were not cleaned after use, leaving food debris and particles from a previous meal. These actions did not comply with facility policies or FDA Food Code standards for kitchen sanitation and staff hygiene.
A CNA failed to follow proper perineal care technique for a female resident with a history of urinary tract infection by wiping from the rectal area towards the vaginal area during incontinent care, contrary to facility policy and infection control procedures. The resident required extensive assistance and was receiving antibiotics for a UTI at the time.
A medication cart was observed to contain a loose, unidentified pill and various debris, including powdery and sticky substances, in multiple drawers. An LVN using the cart was unaware of the contamination and did not remove the loose pill or clean the drawers. Interviews with the DON, ADONs, and Administrator confirmed that both ADONs and nurses are responsible for ensuring medication carts are clean, but the cart in question was possibly overlooked, resulting in noncompliance with facility policy.
A resident with multiple complex conditions was administered morphine at an incorrect frequency after a nurse misinterpreted a verbal hospice order, resulting in 9 doses given every 3 minutes instead of every 30 minutes. The error was not immediately recognized, and the resident's condition deteriorated, leading to death. Staff interviews revealed confusion about the order and a lack of intervention despite concerns about the dosing frequency.
A facility failed to coordinate assessments with the PASRR program, resulting in a delay in providing a customized manual wheelchair (CMWC) for a resident with intellectual disabilities. Despite the IDT's agreement on the need for a CMWC, errors and delays in the submission process through the LTC Online Portal led to a delay in approval and ordering of the equipment. The resident did not receive the necessary services within the expected timeframe.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple medical conditions was injured after a CNA provided care alone, contrary to the care plan requiring two staff members. The resident rolled off the bed, resulting in a hip fracture. Staff interviews revealed inconsistencies in understanding and implementing the care plan, highlighting systemic issues in communication and training.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and physical disabilities fell out of bed and fractured her femur due to inadequate supervision and assistance. Despite her care plan requiring two-person assistance for ADLs, a CNA provided care alone, leading to the incident. Staff were reportedly trained to provide care without a second staff member, contrary to the care guide, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy situation.
The facility failed to protect residents from abuse, as evidenced by incidents involving four residents. A resident with dementia slapped another with Alzheimer's, resulting in a bruise. Another incident involved a resident with spondylosis hitting and pushing a resident with Parkinson's, causing a fall and skin tear. The facility did not report these incidents as abuse, constituting a deficiency in ensuring residents' safety.
The facility failed to report two incidents of resident-to-resident abuse within the required 2-hour timeframe. In one case, a resident with dementia and bipolar disorder slapped another resident with Alzheimer's, resulting in a bruise. In another incident, a resident with cognitive impairment hit and pushed a resident with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, causing a skin tear. The facility did not report these incidents promptly, citing a lack of serious injury and mutual altercation, contrary to their abuse policy.
The facility failed to report an incident of resident-to-resident abuse to the State Survey Agency within the required timeframe. Two residents were involved in a physical altercation, but the Administrator did not report it as abuse due to the lack of serious injury. The facility's abuse policy mandates reporting such incidents, but this was not adhered to, resulting in a deficiency.
The facility failed to ensure a dietary staff member had a current Food Handler's Certificate while working in the kitchen. The staff member admitted to not realizing the expiration and was attempting to complete the training. The Dietary Manager and Administrator acknowledged the lapse, noting the DM was responsible for monitoring the certificates.
The facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the kitchen and did not properly monitor food temperatures before serving. Observations revealed significant buildup on cooking equipment, improper storage of shoes, and inconsistent temperature checks of food items.
The facility failed to maintain a working food scale in the kitchen, leading to inaccurate food portioning during meal service. The Dietary Manager acknowledged the issue and admitted there was no policy regarding food portions, potentially risking residents' nutritional intake.
The facility failed to ensure valid advance directives for three residents, resulting in the risk of CPR being performed against their wishes. The DNR orders were found to be invalid due to missing or incorrect physician details and witness signatures.
A facility failed to accurately code a resident's MDS assessment for bladder and bowel incontinence. The resident, with nephrostomy tubes and a colostomy, was incorrectly marked as always incontinent instead of not rated. This error was confirmed through record reviews and staff interviews, highlighting a deviation from the MDS RAI Manual guidelines.
The facility failed to ensure accurate PASRR screenings for two residents with mental illness and developmental disabilities, resulting in missed evaluations and necessary services. Both residents were admitted with negative PASRR Level 1 screenings despite having diagnoses that should have triggered further evaluations.
The facility failed to develop and implement comprehensive care plans for two residents, one with an anxiety disorder and another with a contracture of the right hand, leading to deficiencies in addressing their medical and psychosocial needs.
A resident with a cerebral vascular accident and right-hand contracture did not receive appropriate ROM interventions. The care plan did not address the contracture, and no hand splint was provided. Staff and therapy oversight led to the resident's condition being unaddressed, potentially worsening the contracture.
A resident with atrial fibrillation and shortness of breath did not receive oxygen therapy as ordered by the physician. The resident's oxygen was set at 3 liters instead of the prescribed 2 liters, which was confirmed by an LVN and acknowledged by the DON. This failure to follow the physician's order placed the resident at risk.
A resident with significant dental issues and severe cognitive impairment did not receive necessary dental services due to a lack of follow-up and coordination among staff. Despite being on a pureed diet and having obvious dental problems, no dental consult was arranged after an initial discussion with the family.
Failure to Prevent Administration of Allergic Medication
Penalty
Summary
A facility failed to prevent a significant medication error involving a 78-year-old female resident with multiple documented allergies, including Hydrocodone. Despite clear documentation of the resident's Hydrocodone allergy on her face sheet, care plan, nurse report sheet, hospital discharge paperwork, and medication record, she was administered 10 doses of Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen over several days. The Hydrocodone was initially ordered by a hospital physician, but the facility's staff administered the medication without identifying or acting on the documented allergy. Multiple licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) administered the Hydrocodone doses, and the pharmacy consultant reviewed the resident's case without making any recommendations. Interviews with family members confirmed that the allergy was reported to staff upon admission, although the specific staff member was not recalled. The resident herself was unaware she had received Hydrocodone and did not recall being forced to take it, but reported mental disturbances associated with its administration, as relayed by her family. There were no documented notes of negative outcomes such as rashes or hives in the nurse's or progress notes during the period of administration. Interviews with facility staff, including the ADON, administrator, nurse practitioner, and pharmacist, confirmed that the resident's allergy to Hydrocodone was documented and that she should not have received the medication. The facility's policy required checking allergies before administering new medications, and in-service training on this topic had been conducted. Despite these protocols, the allergy was not identified or acted upon, resulting in the administration of a medication to which the resident was allergic.
Failure to Ensure Proper Bed Rail Installation, Assessment, and Maintenance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the correct installation, use, and maintenance of bed rails for three residents reviewed for bed rail use. Specifically, the facility did not have the manufacturers' recommendations and specifications available or follow them for installing and maintaining bed rails, resulting in a large gap in one resident's bed rail. Observations revealed that a bed rail was loose and had a gap of approximately 14 to 18 inches between the mattress and the rail, and staff reported that the issue had persisted for 2-3 months without being properly reported or addressed. The Director of Plant Operations was unaware of the issue until surveyor intervention and did not maintain documentation or a log of maintenance requests or repairs, nor did he have the manufacturer manuals for the beds or bed rails. Additionally, the facility failed to develop care plans that addressed the risk of entrapment and did not implement interventions to prevent entrapment for residents with a history of falling out of bed. Care plans for these residents did not include the risk of entrapment, and bed mobility assessments indicated that bed rails were not recommended for use, yet the rails remained in place. Multiple incident reports documented repeated falls from bed for these residents, and consent forms for bed rail use were present but not aligned with current assessments or care plans. The facility also did not provide maintenance and monitoring of bed rails according to manufacturer specifications or recommendations. There was no evidence of regular, documented inspections, and staff were not consistently trained on the proper procedures for reporting broken or malfunctioning bed rails. The lack of proper installation, assessment, and maintenance of bed rails placed residents at risk for entrapment, serious injury, or death, as directly stated in the report.
Removal Plan
- The Director of Plant Operations changed the bed for resident #70 with properly operating bed rails.
- The Charge Nurse reassessed resident #70 for bed mobility and the bed mobility assessment for resident #70 was updated. The use of side rails was recommended per assessment.
- The Charge Nurse reassessed resident #102 for bed mobility and the bed mobility assessment for resident #102 was updated. The use of side rails was not recommended per assessment.
- The Director of Plant Operations removed the assist bar for resident #102 per recommendations from assessment.
- The Charge Nurse reassessed resident #87 for bed mobility and the bed mobility assessment for resident #87 was updated. The use of one bed rail for turning and repositioning recommended per assessment.
- The Director of Plant Operation removed the right bed rail from resident #102's bed.
- The Director of Plant Operations was educated according to Manufacturers Guidelines on proper installation of bed rails.
- The Director of Plant Operations conducted a Bed Rail Entrapment Assessment throughout the building to identify any bed rail posing a risk of entrapment.
- The Executive Director of Operation obtained the manufacturer's guidelines for each type of bedrail in the facility, and they are compatible for use with the beds that we have.
- Any non-compliant bed rail was either fixed or replaced to meet assessment standards and proper installation according to the manufactures guide.
- The Director of Plant Operations will complete the Bed Rail Entrapment Assessment.
- The Director of Clinical Operations and/or designee will conduct an audit of bed mobility assessments to ensure proper evaluation and documentation.
- If the bed mobility assessment indicated that bed rails were not needed, they were removed by the Director of Plant Operations.
- The Director of Clinical Operations and/or designee will lead training sessions to ensure team members understand proper procedures for identifying and addressing bed rail concerns.
- Team members must immediately report malfunctioning, broken, or non-working equipment to their Supervisor and the Director of Plant Operations via phone and on maintenance log.
- New team members will be educated regarding reporting any broken equipment during orientation.
- The Executive Director completed educational training with the Director of Plant of Operations regarding the completion of the Bed Rail Entrapment Assessment per company policy.
- Nursing staff and department managers educated on acceptable gaps for zone 1 and zone 3.
- Nursing staff will document on the licensed medication administration record the checks have been completed.
- Any gaps larger than 4-3/4 will be reported to the on-call phone and the maintenance log.
- Documentation will be completed on the company form for the assessment.
- The Executive Director of Operations completed educational training with the Director of Plant Operations on the manufacturer's guidelines on bed rails installation for the Medline (FCE1232RSRN) and Joerns beds (F14SC).
- Charge nurses must accurately complete bed rail assessments and determine if rails are suitable for resident use.
- Charge Nurses educated on how to accurately complete bed rail assessments.
- New charge nurses will be educated regarding completing an accurate bed rail assessment during orientation according to manufacturers' recommendation.
- If an assessment indicates bed rails are recommended, the team member must notify both the Director of Clinical Operations and the Director of Plant Operations immediately.
- New charge nurses will be educated regarding immediate notification to the Director of Clinical Operations and the Director of Plant Operations during orientation.
- The Director of Clinical Operation and/or Designee will complete training on accident/incident prevention, including types of interventions put into place to prevent any further fall.
- The Clinical Reimbursement Coordinator will conduct an audit of resident care plans, ensuring appropriate documentation of bed rail concerns.
- Care plans will be updated to specify bed rail risks and potential entrapment hazards.
- The Director of Clinical Operations notified the Medical Director of immediate jeopardy and reviewed bed rail policy and procedure.
- This practice will be reviewed with the QA Committee to ensure no changes are needed to the current policy.
- All actions outlined in this plan will be monitored for ongoing compliance, reinforcing our commitment to providing a safe environment for residents.
Failure to Provide Ordered Palmar Cushion for Resident with Contractures
Penalty
Summary
A resident with a history of hemiplegia, hemiparesis, and contractures following a cerebral infarction was not provided with appropriate treatment and services to maintain or improve range of motion (ROM) in accordance with physician orders. The resident had an order for a palmar cushion to be applied to the left hand at all times, except during hygiene, to prevent further contractures. Observations on multiple occasions revealed that the resident did not have the palmar cushion in place, and the resident reported not having had the cushion for weeks, despite feeling more comfortable with it. Nursing staff were unaware of the order and had not been applying the cushion, and the order was not reflected on the medication administration record (MAR) due to a lack of proper entry into the system. Interviews with staff indicated a lack of awareness and communication regarding the resident's need for the palmar cushion, with responsibility for its application being unclear between therapy and nursing. The care plan and physician orders specified the need for the cushion, but these were not consistently followed. Additionally, the facility did not have a current policy addressing the prevention and treatment of contractures, contributing to the failure to provide the required care and services to maintain the resident's ROM.
Failure to Maintain Kitchen Sanitation and Staff Hair Restraint Compliance
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the kitchen, specifically regarding staff compliance with hair restraint policies and the cleanliness of cooking equipment. During an initial tour, one staff member was seen without a hair restraint while standing between the stove and counters, only putting it on after being observed. She admitted to removing it due to discomfort and forgetting to replace it, despite acknowledging the requirement to wear it at all times. Another staff member in the dishwashing area was also found without a hair restraint, stating she had forgotten to put it on, even though she was aware of the facility's policy. Both staff members confirmed they had been trained to always wear hair restraints to prevent hair from contaminating food or equipment. Additionally, the facility's deep fryer was found with baskets containing dried brown crusty substances and black particles on the side and front ledges, which were identified as leftover debris from a previous meal service. The Dietary Manager confirmed that the fryer baskets and ledges should have been cleaned after use and that failure to do so could result in cross contamination. The fryer was reportedly on a weekly cleaning schedule, but the observed debris was attributed to a meal served two days prior. Facility policies and FDA Food Code requirements for hair restraints and equipment cleanliness were reviewed, confirming that the observed practices did not meet established standards.
Improper Perineal Care Technique During Incontinent Care
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a certified nursing assistant (CNA) failed to provide appropriate perineal care to a female resident who was always incontinent of bowel and bladder and had a recent urinary tract infection. During observed incontinent care, the CNA cleaned the resident's perineal area by wiping towards the rectum, but then cleaned the rectal area and wiped towards the vaginal area once, contrary to proper infection control procedures. The resident's care plan required extensive assistance for personal hygiene and noted she was receiving antibiotics for a urinary tract infection at the time of the incident. The CNA acknowledged during an interview that she had been trained to wipe from clean to dirty and recognized she should have wiped from front to back. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility's policy and expectations were for staff to wipe from front to back to prevent infections. The facility's written procedure also specified cleaning from front to back using a separate section of the wipe for each stroke.
Medication Cart Found Unclean with Loose Pill and Debris
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a medication cart serving rooms 109-120 was found to contain a loose, unidentified pill and scattered debris, including powdery and sticky substances, in multiple drawers. During observation, an LVN using the cart was unaware of the loose pill and did not remove it or clean the debris. The LVN acknowledged that the cart should be clean and free of loose pills, and stated that while maintenance sometimes pressure washes the carts, nurses are responsible for wiping down bottles and keeping the cart clean. The LVN believed that resident medications were not at risk because the medications were sealed, but agreed the cart should be wiped down. Interviews with the DON, ADONs, and Administrator revealed that responsibility for ensuring medication carts are clean and free of expired or loose medications is shared among ADONs, who are to check and clean the carts weekly, and the nurses who use the carts, who serve as a backup. The dirty medication cart was attributed to being possibly overlooked. The facility's policy requires that medication storage areas be kept clean, but the observed condition of the cart did not meet this standard.
Significant Medication Error: Incorrect Morphine Dosing and Transcription
Penalty
Summary
A significant medication error occurred when a resident with multiple complex diagnoses, including Alzheimer's disease, COPD, epilepsy, diabetes with neuropathy, paranoid schizophrenia, and pain, was administered morphine at an incorrect frequency and dosage. The resident, who was severely cognitively impaired and dependent on staff for all care, was ordered morphine sulfate 100mg/5ml, 1ml by mouth every 2 hours as needed. However, following a pain crisis, a new verbal order was received from hospice to administer 1ml every 30 minutes until the resident was comfortable, then every 2 hours. The nurse on duty misinterpreted and transcribed the order as 1ml every 3 minutes, resulting in the administration of 9 doses (180mg) over a 24-minute period. The error was not immediately identified, and the nurse continued to administer morphine according to the incorrect transcription. The nurse stated she clarified the order multiple times with the hospice RN, but still proceeded with the erroneous frequency. The hospice RN, upon arrival later in the day, discovered the error during a review of the narcotic count sheet and nurse's documentation. The hospice RN and physician were notified, and the resident's responsible party was offered Narcan or transfer to the ER, but these interventions were declined. The resident was closely monitored for changes in condition, and her respiratory status declined over the following hours. Interviews with staff revealed that the nurse who administered the morphine was not familiar with the hospice provider and believed the dosing was a new pain management protocol. Other staff present at the time expressed concern about the frequency but did not intervene. The error was ultimately reported to facility leadership and the consulting pharmacist, who confirmed the dosage was outside standard prescribing guidelines. The resident's condition deteriorated, and she passed away within hours of the overdose. The facility's policy required evaluation of new medication orders for appropriate dose, route, and frequency, but this was not followed in this instance.
Failure to Coordinate PASRR Assessments and Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to coordinate assessments with the PASRR program and incorporate the recommendations from the PASRR evaluation report into a resident's care planning. Specifically, the facility did not provide and arrange for a specialized customized manual wheelchair (CMWC) for a resident as recommended and agreed upon by the interdisciplinary team (IDT) within the timeframe set by PASRR. This deficiency was identified for one of two residents reviewed for PASRR assessments. The resident involved was a male with multiple diagnoses, including moderate intellectual disabilities, developmental disorder of speech and language, hypertension, hypertensive chronic kidney disease, chronic kidney disease, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The resident was PASRR positive for intellectual disability and required specialized services, including a CMWC. Despite the IDT's agreement on the need for a CMWC during a quarterly meeting, the facility did not ensure timely coordination and delivery of the wheelchair. The Clinical Reimbursement Coordinator was responsible for submitting the request for the CMWC through the LTC Online Portal. However, there were delays and errors in the submission process, which led to a delay in the approval and ordering of the CMWC. The DME company did not receive the approval until several weeks after the initial request, resulting in the resident not receiving the necessary equipment within the expected timeframe. Interviews with facility staff revealed a lack of awareness of the specific timelines required for PASRR-related processes, contributing to the deficiency.
Failure to Implement Care Plan Leads to Resident Injury
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered care plan for a resident, which resulted in a serious injury. The resident, a female with severe cognitive impairment and multiple medical conditions, was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living (ADLs). Despite the care plan indicating that two staff members were required for her care, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) provided care alone, leading to the resident rolling off the bed and sustaining a hip fracture. The incident occurred when the CNA was providing toileting care without a second staff member, contrary to the care plan's requirements. The CNA was unaware of the care guide's instructions and had been trained to provide care without a second staff member. This lack of adherence to the care plan resulted in the resident falling from the bed and later requiring surgical repair for a hip fracture. Interviews with various staff members revealed inconsistencies in the understanding and implementation of the care plan. Some staff believed the resident required only one staff member for assistance, while others were unaware of the care guide's requirements. The Director of Nursing (DON) and other staff members acknowledged the risk of injury when care plans were not followed accurately, highlighting a systemic issue in the facility's communication and training processes.
Removal Plan
- Physical Therapy evaluated Resident #5 to ensure appropriate staff assist to prevent further accidents.
- The Director of Clinical Operations implemented floor mats for Resident #5.
- The MDS nurse updated the level of assist to 1-2 person for ADL's for Resident #5 to prevent further injuries.
- Physical Therapy determines the level of assistance required.
- The MDS Nurse implemented scoop mattress for Resident #5 to prevent further injuries.
- The above change in care is discussed in the morning clinical meeting with the update being added to the Kardex to keep staff informed.
- The MDS Nurse is responsible for making the update on a quarterly basis, or as needed if a change occurs, after the IDT has discussed the resident.
- The IDT determines the number of staff (increase/decrease) that is needed for ADL's.
- The EDO had the therapist go re-evaluate Resident #5 for ADL care.
- The evaluation showed that Resident #5 was a 1 person assist for bed mobility.
- The IDT met and are in agreeance will make the change on the care plan effective.
- The Director of Clinical Services will perform an in-service education to the staff immediately on the level of care during of this assessment of Resident #5.
- The MDS Nurse and/or designee will review fall care plans on all residents to ensure that they are appropriate and will help prevent injuries by ensuring the appropriate level of assistance needed for ADL's by team members.
- All care plans will be reviewed to ensure the appropriate level of assistance for ADL's by staff is accurate by the MDS Nurse and/or designee.
- The care plan will update the Kardex to show the level of assistance needed to all nursing staff.
- All incidents/accidents will be reviewed in the morning clinical meeting by the Director of Clinical of Operations and/or designee to ensure that care plan is updated to reflect any changes in level of care and appropriate interventions are in place after each fall.
- In-service Education will be provided to all nursing staff by the Director of Clinical Services and/or designee.
- Staff will not be allowed to work until in-service education has been provided which includes: How to use the Kardex to determine the level of staff assistance needed to care for the residents.
- The change in level of assistance will be communicated in the morning clinical meeting and the Kardex is updated at that time.
- The Director of Clinical Services and/or the Assistant Director of Clinical Services will randomly monitor two nurse aides weekly to ensure that they are utilizing the Kardex for resident care.
- Any aide that is not utilizing the Kardex system will be re-trained immediately.
- The Regional Clinical Reimbursement Coordinator will perform in-service education with the MDS Nurses on personalizing the care plan for falls with interventions and level of care provided by team members.
- The Director of Clinical Services and/or the Assistant Director of Clinical Services will monitor during the morning clinical meeting, during the review of incidents/accidents, that the interventions and level of care provided by team members are being reviewed and care plan changed as needed.
- The incident/accident care plans will be monitored by the Director of Clinical Services and/or by the Assistant Director of Clinical Services in the morning clinical meeting with the IDT to ensure appropriate fall interventions are in place for the resident's care plan.
- The fall interventions will be monitored for 72 hours by the Director of Clinical Operation and/or designee to ensure that the intervention is effective.
- If the fall intervention is not effective the IDT will make other recommendations for a new approach and the care plan will be updated.
Failure to Provide Adequate Supervision and Assistance Leads to Resident Injury
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents for a resident who was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living (ADLs). The resident, who had severe cognitive impairment and multiple physical disabilities, required two-person assistance for bed mobility, toileting, and bed baths as per her care plan. However, on the day of the incident, a CNA provided care without a second staff member, resulting in the resident falling out of bed and sustaining a fractured left femur. The resident's care plan and care guide clearly indicated the need for two-person assistance, but the CNA was reportedly trained to provide care without a second staff member. This discrepancy between the care plan and the training provided to staff led to the resident not receiving the required level of care. Interviews with various staff members revealed a lack of awareness and adherence to the care guide, with some staff believing that the resident could assist with repositioning by holding the side rail, despite her severe cognitive and physical impairments. The incident was further compounded by the initial x-ray not showing a fracture, delaying the identification and treatment of the injury. It was only after the resident exhibited pain during therapy that a repeat x-ray was conducted, revealing the fracture. The facility's failure to ensure that staff followed the care guide and provided the necessary level of assistance placed the resident at risk of harm, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy situation.
Failure to Prevent Resident-to-Resident Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect residents from abuse and neglect, as evidenced by incidents involving four residents. Resident #3, diagnosed with dementia, COPD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, was involved in an altercation with Resident #4, who has Alzheimer's. On October 5, 2024, Resident #3 slapped Resident #4, resulting in a bruise on Resident #4's face. The incident was confirmed by the facility's investigation, and it was reported to the Health and Human Services (HHS) the following day. Despite the facility's actions to separate the residents and adjust medications, the initial failure to prevent the altercation constituted a deficiency. Another incident involved Resident #1, who has spondylosis and acute kidney failure, and Resident #2, diagnosed with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. On November 11, 2024, Resident #1 hit and pushed Resident #2, resulting in Resident #2 falling and sustaining a skin tear. The facility did not report this incident as resident-to-resident abuse, as the Administrator believed it was a mutual altercation without serious injury. However, the failure to report and prevent the incident was a deficiency in ensuring residents' safety and protection from abuse. The facility's noncompliance with abuse prevention policies was identified as a deficiency, with the incidents occurring between October 5, 2024, and November 11, 2024. The facility's abuse policy, revised in January 2020, mandates that residents be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The facility's failure to adhere to this policy and promptly report and address incidents of resident-to-resident abuse led to the identified deficiency.
Failure to Timely Report Resident-to-Resident Abuse Incidents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report allegations of abuse within the required 2-hour timeframe for four residents involved in two separate incidents. In the first incident, Resident #3 slapped Resident #4 in the face after an altercation, resulting in a bruise on Resident #4's face. The facility did not report this incident to the appropriate authorities until the following day, exceeding the mandated reporting period. Resident #3 had a history of dementia, COPD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, while Resident #4 had Alzheimer's and was known to be potentially physically aggressive. In the second incident, Resident #1 hit and pushed Resident #2, leading to a skin tear on Resident #2's left forearm and elbow. This incident was also not reported within the required timeframe. Resident #1 had moderate cognitive impairment and a history of behavioral symptoms, while Resident #2 had Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, with a care plan indicating verbal aggression. Despite the altercation, the facility did not report the incident as resident-to-resident abuse, citing the lack of serious injury and the nature of the altercation as mutual. The facility's failure to report these incidents promptly could place residents at risk of further abuse, physical harm, mental anguish, and emotional distress. The facility's abuse policy mandates immediate reporting of any allegations of abuse or suspicious serious bodily injury, which was not adhered to in these cases. Interviews with the Director of Nursing and the Administrator revealed a misunderstanding of the reporting requirements, contributing to the delay in notifying the appropriate authorities.
Failure to Report Resident-to-Resident Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to investigate and report an incident of resident-to-resident abuse to the State Survey Agency within the required 5 working days. This incident involved two residents, where one resident hit and pushed another. The facility did not submit the findings of their investigation within the stipulated timeframe, which is a requirement for such incidents. The Director of Nursing (DON) was aware of the incident and notified the Administrator, who is the abuse coordinator. However, the Administrator did not report the incident as abuse because he perceived it as a mutual altercation without serious injury. Resident #1, who was involved in the incident, had moderate cognitive impairment and a history of behavioral symptoms directed at others. His care plan did not include any behavioral interventions. Resident #2, the other resident involved, was cognitively intact but had a history of verbal aggression. Following the incident, Resident #1 was moved to another room, and both residents were separated. Despite these actions, the facility did not fulfill its obligation to report the incident to the state, as required by their abuse policy and state regulations.
Expired Food Handler's Certificate for Dietary Staff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to employ staff with the appropriate competencies and skill sets to carry out the functions of the food and nutrition service. Specifically, one dietary staff member (DA J) did not have a current Food Handler's Certificate while working in the facility's kitchen. Record review indicated that DA J's certificate had expired, and during an interview, DA J admitted to not realizing the expiration and was attempting to complete the training. The Dietary Manager (DM) and the Administrator acknowledged the lapse, with the Administrator noting that the DM, who had recently started, was responsible for monitoring the certificates. This deficiency could place residents at risk of foodborne illness due to being served by improperly trained staff.
Sanitary Conditions and Food Temperature Monitoring Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to store, prepare, distribute, and serve food under sanitary conditions in the preparation kitchen. Observations revealed that baking sheets, steam table pans, muffin pans, and skillets had brown and/or black baked-on buildup. Additionally, staff did not leave their shoes in the kitchen, and food temperatures were not properly checked before serving. Specifically, during the initial tour of the kitchen, multiple baking sheets, muffin pans, and a skillet were found with significant buildup. The Dietary Manager (DM) acknowledged the issue but mentioned she had only been working at the facility for two weeks and had not addressed the buildup yet. During the lunch meal service, slide shoes were found under the prep table, and the DM acknowledged they should not be there. Cook G pulled turkey breast roasts from the oven and checked their temperature, but the DM did not check the food temperatures before serving. When prompted by the surveyor, the DM checked the temperature of the turkey slices, which had dropped to 154 degrees, and then checked the other foods on the steam table, which were above the required holding temperature. The DM and Cook G admitted that food temperatures should be checked when taken out of the oven and before serving, but this was not done consistently.
Failure to Maintain Essential Kitchen Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain essential equipment in safe operating condition, specifically a food scale in the kitchen. During the lunch meal service, it was observed that the food scale was not functioning, preventing accurate measurement of food portions. Cook G sliced turkey roasts without pre-cutting them to the required portion size and attempted to use the food scale, which did not work. The Dietary Manager (DM) acknowledged the issue and admitted that without a working scale, the accuracy of the meat portions could not be determined. The DM also mentioned that there was no policy regarding the food scale or food portions and that they were supposed to follow the menu spreadsheet for portion amounts. This deficiency could potentially lead to residents not receiving the correct amount of food, which may result in weight loss and decreased quality of life.
Failure to Ensure Valid Advance Directives
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the right to formulate an advance directive was provided for three residents. Resident #26, an elderly male with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, and peripheral vascular disease, had a DNR order that was not valid due to missing physician details and incorrect witness signatures. The Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledged the invalidity of the DNR and the potential for CPR to be initiated against the resident's wishes. Resident #91, an elderly female with cerebral infarction, respiratory failure, kidney failure, and peripheral vascular disease, also had a DNR order that was not valid. The physician's signature was in the wrong section, lacked a date, and did not include the physician's printed name or license number. The DON confirmed the invalidity of the DNR and the risk of CPR being performed against the resident's wishes. Resident #216, an elderly male with cerebral infarction, hypertension, and heart failure, had a DNR order that was incomplete. The form lacked identification of the person initiating the DNR and the physician's signature in the required section. The DON admitted the DNR was not valid, which could result in CPR being administered contrary to the resident's preferences.
Inaccurate MDS Assessment for Continence
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure an accurate MDS assessment for a resident reviewed for MDS assessment accuracy. Specifically, the facility did not accurately code the resident's MDS assessment for bladder and bowel incontinence. The resident, a female with diagnoses including malignant neoplasm of the cervix and quadriplegia, had nephrostomy tubes and a colostomy. Despite this, the resident's MDS assessment was incorrectly coded as always incontinent of bowel and bladder, rather than not rated, as required by the MDS RAI Manual. This discrepancy was confirmed through record reviews and interviews with facility staff, including the MDS Nurse and the DON, who acknowledged the error and its potential negative outcomes, such as the resident not receiving appropriate care and incorrect information being reported to CMS. The resident's care plan and physician orders indicated the presence of nephrostomy tubes and a colostomy, which should have led to the MDS assessment being marked as not rated for both bladder and bowel continence. Observations confirmed the presence of these medical devices. The MDS Nurse admitted that the assessment should have been marked not rated, and the DON confirmed that the facility followed the MDS RAI manual for accuracy. The incorrect coding of the MDS assessment was a clear deviation from the manual's guidelines, which specify that residents with ostomies or nephrostomy tubes should be coded as not rated for continence.
Failure to Ensure Accurate PASRR Screenings
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure preadmission screening for individuals identified with mental illness (MI), developmental disability (DD), or intellectual disability (ID) were evaluated for services for two residents. Resident #50, a male with diagnoses including recurrent depressive disorders, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorder, was admitted without an accurate PASRR Level 1 screening. Despite having physician orders for antidepressants and anxiety medication, his PASRR Level 1 screening was negative, and no further evaluation was conducted. The MDS nurse acknowledged that a positive PASRR Level 1 should have triggered a further evaluation, but this was not done due to the initial negative screening result. The Regional Nurse confirmed that the resident should have had a positive PASRR Level 1 and a corrected screening should be sent to the Local Mental Health Authority (LMHA). Similarly, Resident #69, a female with diagnoses of Huntington's disease, dementia, and anxiety disorder, was admitted without an accurate PASRR Level 1 screening. Her admission MDS indicated severely impaired cognition and an altered level of consciousness, yet her PASRR Level 1 screening was negative. The MDS nurse responsible for her screening admitted to being unaware that Huntington's disease was a PASRR positive diagnosis. The Director of Nursing (DON) and the Regional Nurse both acknowledged that the incorrect PASRR Level 1 screening could result in the resident missing out on necessary PASRR services. The Regional Nurse admitted to overlooking the screening and stated that reeducation for the MDS nurses would be provided. The facility's policy, revised in November 2023, mandates that PASRR screenings be completed timely and accurately. However, the failure to adhere to this policy resulted in both residents not receiving the necessary evaluations and services. The October 2023 Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User's Manual specifies that all individuals admitted to a Medicaid-certified nursing facility must have a Level 1 PASRR completed to screen for possible MI, ID, or DD. The facility did not comply with these requirements, leading to the deficiencies noted in the report.
Failure to Develop Comprehensive Care Plans for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered care plan for two residents, leading to deficiencies in addressing their medical and psychosocial needs. Resident #50, a male with an anxiety disorder, did not have a care plan for his anxiety or the medication buspirone, despite having an active diagnosis and physician orders for the medication. This oversight was acknowledged by the MDS nurse, who admitted that the lack of a care plan could result in the resident not receiving appropriate care. The deficiency was identified through record reviews and interviews with staff, who confirmed the absence of the necessary care plan for the resident's anxiety disorder and medication management. Similarly, the facility did not develop a care plan for Resident #55's contracture of the right hand, despite the resident having a diagnosis of cerebral vascular accident and limited range of motion (ROM) in both upper and lower extremities. Observations revealed that the resident's fingers and thumb were stiff and contracted, yet the care plan did not address these issues. Interviews with the DON and MDS nurse confirmed that the care plan was not updated to reflect the resident's condition, which could lead to the resident not receiving the required care. The facility's policy on comprehensive care plans mandates regular updates, but this was not adhered to in these cases.
Failure to Provide Appropriate ROM Interventions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a resident with limited range of motion (ROM) received appropriate treatment and services to prevent further decrease in ROM. Resident #55, who had a diagnosis of cerebral vascular accident, exhibited contractures in her right hand. Despite this, there were no physician orders for a hand splint, and the resident's care plan did not address her limited ROM. Physical therapy notes indicated that the resident received therapy for her lower extremities but did not document any interventions for her right-hand contracture. Observations confirmed that the resident's fingers and thumb were stiff and contracted, and she did not have a hand splint in place during multiple checks by staff and interviews with the resident and staff members. Interviews with staff revealed that the resident had not been provided with a hand splint, and there was a lack of communication and oversight regarding the resident's need for ROM interventions. The physical therapist admitted that the contracture of the resident's right hand was overlooked during therapy sessions, which focused on other issues such as tardive dyskinesia and gross motor skills. The therapist acknowledged that interventions like a palm guard could have been implemented to prevent further contracture. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that there was no specific policy for ROM or contracture management in place. The lack of appropriate interventions and oversight led to the resident's condition being unaddressed, potentially resulting in further contractures and skin integrity issues. Staff members, including CNAs and LVNs, were unaware of the need for a hand splint and had not been instructed to provide one, highlighting a systemic issue in the facility's care planning and communication processes.
Failure to Administer Oxygen as Ordered
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident who needed respiratory care was provided care consistent with professional standards of practice and the comprehensive person-centered care plan. Specifically, the facility did not administer the resident's oxygen via nasal cannula as ordered by the physician. The resident, who had diagnoses of atrial fibrillation and shortness of breath, was ordered to receive oxygen at 2 liters via nasal cannula. However, observations on multiple occasions revealed that the resident's oxygen was set at 3 liters instead of the prescribed 2 liters. This discrepancy was confirmed by a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) who acknowledged that the oxygen was set incorrectly and noted the potential negative outcomes of such an error. The Director of Nursing (DON) stated that her expectations were for oxygen to be administered at the correct dose and for LVNs to check the settings each time they entered the room. The facility's respiratory policy also emphasized the importance of verifying the oxygen administration order, including the method, flow rate, and oxygen saturation parameters. Despite these guidelines, the facility's failure to adhere to the physician's order for oxygen administration placed the resident at risk of not receiving appropriate care to maintain their highest level of well-being.
Failure to Provide Dental Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide or obtain dental services for a resident with significant dental issues. Resident #7, who had diagnoses of head injuries, stroke, and speech and language deficits, was admitted with missing teeth and dental decay. Despite being on a pureed diet due to difficulty in chewing and swallowing, the resident did not receive a dental consult. The resident's MDS annual assessment indicated severe cognitive impairment and obvious dental issues, yet no follow-up was conducted after an initial discussion with the family in September 2023. Interviews with staff revealed that a request for dental services was sent, but the insurance would not cover it, and no further action was taken. The social worker admitted that the previous social worker failed to follow up on the dental consult. The Director of Nursing stated that it was the responsibility of the social services to arrange dental services, but there was no policy in place for dental services. This lack of follow-up and coordination led to the resident not receiving necessary dental care, potentially causing pain and self-esteem issues.
Latest citations in Texas
A resident with severe dementia, mobility deficits, and dependence for transfers was provided bed rails without a documented entrapment risk assessment, physician order, or inclusion of bed rail use in the care plan, despite a facility policy requiring alternatives, IDT review, informed consent, and proper installation. Maintenance installed 1/3 bed rails on verbal request from nursing, believing the clinical steps had been completed, and the resident later was found partially out of bed with her head pinned between the rail and a low air loss mattress, unresponsive, and subsequently pronounced deceased. The medical examiner noted neck abrasions, bruising, and muscle hemorrhage consistent with entrapment between the mattress and bed rail and indicated the likely cause of death as strangulation on the rails or asphyxiation on the mattress, and the deficiency was cited as past Immediate Jeopardy.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple pressure injuries received twice-daily wound care without a corresponding pain care plan or documented pain assessments, despite having a PRN acetaminophen order. During an observed wound care attempt, the resident winced, cried out, and showed facial expressions consistent with pain when repositioned, while staff were unsure of her primary language, whether she had been assessed or medicated for pain, or even what pain medications were ordered. CNAs and the treatment nurse noted foul odor and colored drainage from the wounds and that the resident felt warm, but the LVN initially reported no indication of pain or need for vital signs and only checked a temperature after surveyor prompting, without performing a clear pain assessment. The wound care NP later reported the resident had increased necrotic tissue, odor, and frequent combative behavior during prior treatments that had not been considered as possible pain responses, and the resident’s representative stated they were unaware of wound odor, infection concerns, or antibiotic orders and believed the resident was receiving pain medication while video showed wound care being attempted without it.
Surveyors found three mechanical lifts repeatedly parked unlocked and unsecured in a hallway adjacent to the 300 Hall, where they were stored and charged when not in use. An RN and a CNA assigned to the hall both stated they were unaware the lifts were unsecured, despite prior in‑service training on lift safety and storage, and each could not recall when that training last occurred. The DON confirmed that all lifts were expected to be locked when not in use, acknowledged unawareness of the unsecured lifts over several days, and stated that while staff had been educated on lift safety, there was no facility policy addressing accidents and hazards related to mechanical lift safety and storage, and the existing mechanical lift policy lacked such content.
Surveyors found multiple food safety and storage deficiencies in the kitchen, including an unsealed bag of meat, sauce containers with dried drippings on the handle and rim, a container of overripe bananas with black peels, and uncovered whole eggs in an unlabeled, undated bowl. Temperature logs for reach-in refrigerators and a freezer were missing required PM shift temperature checks and staff signatures. In interviews, dietary staff, the Dietary Manager, and the Administrator confirmed that these conditions did not follow facility policies requiring open food to be securely covered, labeled, dated, properly cleaned, and monitored with completed temperature logs.
A resident with lymphedema and multiple comorbidities had physician orders for bilateral lower extremity ace wraps each morning with removal in the evening, along with edema checks every shift. On the survey day, the resident was observed in a wheelchair without leg wraps, while the MAR showed the morning treatment as completed. The resident reported his legs were supposed to be wrapped daily and that they had not been wrapped for about a week, and he described inconsistent staff response to his call light. The charge nurse admitted it was not normal practice to document treatment before completion and stated the resident usually received wraps after a shower, which had not yet occurred. CNAs gave conflicting accounts about how consistently the wraps were applied, and leadership confirmed expectations that treatments be performed per orders and documented only after completion, in line with the facility’s documentation policy prohibiting false entries.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to provide pressure ulcer care consistent with professional standards for three residents. One resident with hemiplegia and vascular dementia had a sacral wound that was omitted from the care plan and repeatedly left off weekly skin assessments, while heel wounds were documented without consistent measurements or staging and ordered treatments were not always recorded as given. A second resident with multiple comorbidities developed a sacral wound that progressed from MASD to an unstageable and then Stage 4 pressure injury with surgical debridement, yet the care plan was not updated to reflect the active pressure ulcer and specific interventions, and weekly skin assessments often lacked complete staging and measurements. A third resident with dementia and incontinence had an unstageable sacral ulcer and MASD, but weekly skin assessments were inconsistent, some ordered wound treatments and topical medications were not documented on the TAR, and nursing notes did not show that care was provided on those dates. Staff interviews revealed that the treatment nurse handled nearly all weekly skin assessments and wound care documentation, relied on the DON or wound physician for staging and measurements, and that facility policies requiring complete wound assessment and documentation were not consistently followed.
The facility failed to ensure call lights were accessible for four residents who were identified as fall risks and required assistance with ADLs or had significant mobility or cognitive impairments. Observations found residents lying in bed with call lights placed at the head of the bed, on the floor, on a roommate’s bed, or on a nightstand, all out of reach, despite care plan interventions requiring call lights to be kept within reach. A CNA, an LVN, and the DON each confirmed that all staff are responsible for keeping call bells within residents’ reach and acknowledged that inaccessible call bells could lead to accidents, falls, avoidable injuries, delayed care, and unmet needs, contrary to the facility’s written call light policy.
Surveyors found that multiple resident rooms and two halls were not maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. Bathrooms in several rooms had brown or gray stains in corners and around toilets, and some showers and room floors had dark or built-up dirt along edges, near closets, and by beds and walls. Air conditioning vents and filters in several rooms were observed with black grime or thick dust. Handrails on two halls had debris, including tissue with a red-brown substance, candy wrappers, gum, plastic, and paper wedged between the rails. Sharps containers in several rooms had used gloves and trash placed on top. The Administrator and housekeeping staff confirmed that housekeeping was responsible for cleaning rooms, bathrooms, floors, handrails, and air conditioning units, and staff acknowledged that the observed conditions were a health hazard and could cause infection.
The facility failed to follow its own infection control practices and physician orders for three residents requiring respiratory care. A resident with COPD had a nasal cannula and nebulizer mask connected to equipment that were not bagged or dated when not in use, despite orders for weekly changes. Another resident with asthma had an unbagged, undated nasal cannula and an oxygen humidifier bottle that was partially full, cracked, and dated from a prior week. A third resident with COPD had both nasal cannula and nebulizer mask unbagged and undated, despite orders for weekly equipment changes and monitoring of pulse, O2 sat, treatment time, and lung sounds. Staff, including a CNA, an LVN, and the DON, acknowledged that equipment should always be bagged, dated, and changed per schedule to prevent infection, consistent with the facility’s infection prevention and control policy.
Surveyors found that staff failed to administer multiple residents’ scheduled medications within the facility’s one-hour administration window, despite active orders for numerous drugs treating conditions such as DM, HTN, CHF, dementia, seizures, and hypothyroidism. During a morning med pass, a med tech had not completed 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. medications by late morning, and staff interviews confirmed that medications were required to be given within a defined time range. In addition, staff did not consistently check BP before dispensing medications with BP parameters, did not keep a milk-based Med Pass nutritional supplement refrigerated or on ice as required by manufacturer directions and facility protocol, and failed to date most insulin vials when opened, contrary to facility policy. These actions and inactions showed that pharmaceutical services, including accurate dispensing, administration, and storage of medications and biologicals, were not provided as required for the residents reviewed.
Failure to Assess, Order, and Care Plan Bed Rail Use Resulting in Fatal Entrapment
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to follow its own policy and regulatory requirements for the assessment, ordering, care planning, and safe use of bed rails for a cognitively impaired resident. The resident was an elderly female with severe dementia, repeated falls, a fractured neck of the left femur, cognitive communication deficit, and a need for assistance with personal care. Her admission MDS showed a BIMS score of 03, indicating severe cognitive impairment, and documented that she required substantial staff assistance with bed mobility and was completely dependent on staff for transfers from bed to chair. Despite these needs, her care plan addressed ADL self-care performance deficits related to dementia and included interventions for bed mobility requiring one staff member to assist with repositioning, but it did not mention bed rails or any risk of entrapment. The facility obtained a bed rail consent form signed by the resident’s family member, which listed multiple potential dangers of bed rail use, including suffocation and various forms of entrapment that could cause injury or death. However, from the time of admission through the date of the incident, there was no documented bed rail safety or entrapment risk assessment for this resident, no physician order for bed rails, and no inclusion of bed rail use in the resident’s care plan. Maintenance staff reported that a charge nurse verbally requested installation of bed rails on the resident’s bed, and he believed the usual clinical steps—assessment, IDT review, consent, and physician order—had already been completed, but he had no documentation of when the rails were installed. The DON later confirmed that, for this resident, the required risk of entrapment assessment, physician order, and care plan focus for bed rails were not completed, and alternatives to bed rails were not attempted prior to installation, contrary to facility policy. On the night of the incident, a CNA observed the resident resting calmly around 2:00 a.m. During a subsequent round close to 5:00 a.m., the CNA found the resident partially out of bed with her head pinned between the assist bar/bed rail and the mattress, and notified the LVN. The LVN’s written statement described finding the resident seated on the floor on the right side of the bed, off the mattress, with her head resting between the side rail and the mattress, unresponsive. CPR was initiated and EMS was called, but the resident was later pronounced deceased. The county medical examiner reported that the resident had bruising and abrasions around the neck and jawline and hemorrhaging in the neck muscles, injuries consistent with being trapped between the mattress and bed rails, and indicated that the likely cause of death would be strangulation on the bed rails or asphyxiation on the mattress. Subsequent observation of the bed showed 1/3 bed rails of the same make and model as the bed frame and a low air loss mattress; while the rails were not loose and there was little space when the mattress was fully inflated, the air mattress could be compressed enough to create significant space between the mattress and rails. The facility’s failure to conduct a bed rail entrapment risk assessment, obtain a physician order, and incorporate bed rail use into the care plan prior to installation led to the resident’s entrapment and death, and constituted noncompliance identified as past Immediate Jeopardy. The facility’s written bed rail policy required that appropriate alternatives be attempted before installing bed rails, that the IDT assess each resident for entrapment risk, that risks and benefits be reviewed with the resident or representative, that informed consent be obtained prior to installation, and that manufacturer instructions and compatibility of bed, mattress, and rails be verified. It also required updating the care plan to reflect the need or choice for bed rails. In this case, staff interviews and record review showed that these steps were not followed for the resident involved. The DON acknowledged that the process did not occur as required, that the IDT did not meet to assess the resident for entrapment risk, and that the bed rails were installed based on the responsible party’s request without the mandated clinical review and documentation. This sequence of omissions and deviations from policy directly preceded the resident’s fatal entrapment between the bed rail and mattress.
Removal Plan
- Notify Medical Director
- Notify Ombudsman
- Conduct ad hoc QAPI
- DON to provide education to trainers regarding abuse and neglect
- Review admissions processes regarding bed rails and complete in-service with DON, ED, and IDT
- Provide in-service to all nurses involved with admissions process regarding bed rails
- Audit bed rails currently in use
- Inspect bed rails currently in use
- Verify consent on file for all bed rails in use
- Verify order and care plan for all bed rails
- Complete bed rail safety evaluation for all residents with bed rails
- Audit low air loss mattresses currently in use
- Verify order and care plan for all low air loss mattresses in use
- Complete fall risk assessment for all residents with low air loss mattress
- Provide staff education regarding use of enabler/bed rail
- Provide staff education regarding false safety
- Provide staff education regarding low air loss mattress
- Audit admissions for completion
- Audit low air loss mattresses and bedside rails
- Conduct ongoing monitoring for improvement to be reviewed at QAPI
Failure to Assess and Manage Pain During Wound Care for a Nonverbal Resident
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide safe, appropriate pain management consistent with professional standards of practice and the resident’s needs during wound care. A female resident with severe cognitive impairment (BIMS score of 00) was admitted with multiple pressure-related skin conditions, including a left heel deep tissue injury (DTI), right heel DTI, an unstageable sacral pressure injury, a left heel ulcer, a right bunion DTI, and other bruising/discoloration. Her MDS Care Area Assessment did not trigger for pain and no care planning decision for pain was documented. The resident’s care plan contained detailed entries for her multiple wounds but did not include any care plan for pain, despite the presence of significant pressure injuries and ongoing wound care orders. Record review showed the resident had an active PRN order for acetaminophen 500 mg every 6 hours as needed for pain and an order for Doxycycline for the sacral wound, as well as twice-daily wound care orders for the unstageable sacral pressure injury. The MAR for the month showed that no acetaminophen had been administered since early in the month, even though wound care was being performed twice daily. During an observed attempt to perform wound care, the resident was dependent for mobility and required staff to roll and reposition her. When staff attempted to roll her for treatment, she winced, cried out "Oh my God" in Spanish, and displayed furrowed eyebrows and facial expressions consistent with pain. CNAs assisting with care noted that she appeared to be lying on the wound, that her wounds often drained, and that there was a foul odor and visible brownish-green drainage on her brief and positioning towels. Despite these signs, the treatment nurse could not confirm whether the resident had been assessed for pain or medicated prior to the procedure and was unsure of the resident’s primary language. During this same encounter, the resident was noted by the surveyor and CNAs to feel warm to the touch, and her wounds and dressings showed green, brown, or red drainage. The treatment nurse and CNAs acknowledged the resident felt warm, but the charge nurse (LVN) initially stated there was no indication the resident was in pain or needed vital signs assessed and only checked the resident’s temperature after being prompted by the surveyor. The LVN reported a normal temperature using a contactless thermometer, was unsure if the resident had any pain medication orders, and did not initially perform a direct pain assessment. Subsequent interviews revealed that the wound care NP had observed increased necrotic tissue and odor in the sacral wound the prior week and that the resident had been frequently combative, refusing wound care by kicking and biting, but this behavior had not been considered as a possible reaction to pain. CNAs later described the resident’s facial expressions and reactions during repositioning as indicating pain, while the LVN reported feeling pressured and nervous during the surveyor’s questioning and could not clearly describe having assessed the resident for pain during her shift. The resident’s responsible party stated they had not been informed of wound odor, infection concerns, or antibiotic orders and believed the resident was receiving pain and fever medications, later expressing shock upon reviewing video that showed wound care being attempted without medication. The facility’s own pain assessment and management policy stated that residents should be assessed for pain at admission and ongoing, monitored for pain with changes in condition, and that procedures such as moving or wound care can cause pain. It also directed that pain management interventions be consistent with the resident’s goals and documented in the care plan, and that underlying causes of pain, including skin/wound conditions like pressure ulcers, be addressed. In this case, the resident with multiple pressure injuries and ongoing wound care had no pain care plan, no documented pain assessment using appropriate tools for severe dementia, and no administration of ordered PRN pain medication in the weeks preceding the observed event, despite clear non-verbal signs of pain during wound care attempts. These actions and omissions led surveyors to determine that the facility failed to ensure pain was assessed and treated prior to wound care, resulting in the resident crying out and exhibiting pain behaviors when touched or moved.
Removal Plan
- Amend treatment orders to require pain evaluation prior to treatments and medication if indicated upon re-admission.
- Provide additional 1:1 education to CNA A, CNA B, LVN A, and the facility treatment nurse specific to issues identified in the preliminary fact analysis.
- Nursing leadership (DON/designees) to conduct facility rounds on all residents to ensure no unreported or undocumented changes in pain levels; audit all wound care orders to ensure pain management orders are present as indicated.
- Complete house-wide pain assessments; communicate any reported pain to the charge nurse for medication administration if indicated and complete follow-up assessment to ensure effectiveness.
- Re-educate licensed nurses on change in condition, pain assessment and management, administering pain medications, and the pain-clinical protocol (including identifying situations where increased pain may be anticipated such as wound care, ambulation, repositioning, and reviewing the critical element pathway for pain recognition and management).
- Re-educate all non-licensed nursing staff on recognizing change in condition/status including changes in pain levels and proper reporting using STOP AND WATCH Alert in PCC/point-of-care documentation and/or direct communication to the charge nurse; re-educate staff not working prior to their next scheduled shift.
- Educate the Facility Administrator and DON by the Divisional President of Operations on standards of care, pain management, and quality oversight.
- Validate staff education via completion of a quiz and acknowledgement covering recognition of changes in condition, proper notification procedures, and pain assessment and management.
- Review and validate the pain assessment and management policy to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements (no changes required).
- Implement monitoring: change in condition/pain assessment audits (review 24-hour summary report and nurse progress notes; ensure changes are reported to the provider and documented; ensure pain assessments are completed prior to treatments); review audit results in IDT/QAPI meetings and address issues immediately, including provider communication.
Unsecured Mechanical Lifts Left Unlocked in Resident Hallway
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to keep the environment as free of accident hazards as possible in the hallway adjacent to the 300 Hall, specifically related to unsecured mechanical lifts. Surveyors repeatedly observed three mechanical lifts parked in this hallway that were unlocked and unsecured on multiple occasions over three consecutive days at various times. These observations showed that the lifts remained in an unsecured state while not in use, in an area used for storing and charging them. During interviews, an RN assigned to the 300 Hall stated she was unaware that the three mechanical lifts parked in the adjacent hallway were unlocked and unsecured, despite being stationed at the nearby nurses’ station. She reported having received in‑service training on mechanical lift safety and storage but could not recall when the training occurred. The RN acknowledged that mechanical lifts were supposed to be locked when not in use and confirmed that the three lifts observed were the only ones she used for residents and that they were stored in that hallway to be charged when not in use. She also stated that she typically did not check the parked lifts to verify they were locked and secured. A CNA assigned to the same hall similarly reported being unaware that the three mechanical lifts were unlocked and unsecured, despite also having received in‑service training on mechanical lift safety and storage and being unable to recall when that training last occurred. The DON stated she was unaware that the three lifts had been left unlocked and unsecured over the three days of observation and confirmed her expectation that all mechanical lifts be locked when not in use. The DON stated that all staff had been educated on proper mechanical lift usage and safety but could not recall when the last in‑service training occurred. The DON and Administrator both reported that the facility did not have a policy addressing accidents and hazards related to mechanical lift safety and storage, and the existing “Total Mechanical Lift” policy did not contain information on accidents and hazards related to lift safety and storage.
Food Storage, Labeling, and Temperature Monitoring Deficiencies in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s food storage and handling practices in the main kitchen. During an observation of the walk-in refrigerator, they found a zip-top bag containing meat slices that was not fully sealed and exposed to air. They also observed one gallon container of sauce with black drippings on the handle and one jar of sauce with yellow, dried drippings around the rim. A container held approximately ten overripe whole bananas with black peels, and three whole eggs were left uncovered and exposed to air in an unlabeled and undated bowl. Additionally, temperature logs for two reach-in refrigerators and one reach-in freezer were missing the PM shift temperature checks and signatures for a specific date. In interviews, dietary staff, the Dietary Manager, and the Administrator confirmed that these conditions were inconsistent with facility policies and expected practices. Dietary staff stated that temperature logs were to be completed at the start and end of each shift by cooks and dietary aides, and that the Dietary Manager was responsible for ensuring completion. They explained that eggs should be returned to their original container or stored sealed, labeled, and dated; overripe bananas should be discarded; zip-top bags should be fully sealed; and jars and gallon containers should be wiped down after each use. The Dietary Manager and Administrator reiterated that all open food must be securely covered, labeled, and dated, and that fruits and vegetables showing visible damage or rot should be discarded, consistent with written facility policies on food storage and dietary food service personnel responsibilities.
Failure to Follow Physician Orders for Lymphedema Leg Wraps and Accurate Documentation
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide treatment and care in accordance with physician orders and professional standards of practice for one resident with lymphedema. The resident was an adult male with multiple diagnoses including cardiac arrhythmia, musculoskeletal symptoms, osteitis deformans of multiple sites, eye and adnexa disorder, lymphedema, major depressive disorder, prostate disorder, chronic pain, hypokalemia, COPD, muscle weakness, lack of coordination, epilepsy with complex partial seizures, unsteadiness on feet, and other gait and mobility abnormalities. His Quarterly MDS showed a BIMS score of 15, indicating intact cognition, and he was dependent for toileting hygiene, showering/bathing, and personal hygiene. Physician orders on the March MAR included ace wraps to both lower extremities every morning and removal every evening, along with edema checks every shift. On the survey date, record review of the March MAR showed that the charge nurse had documented completion of the resident’s morning leg wrap treatment, but when the surveyor reviewed the resident at 11:21 a.m., he was observed sitting in his wheelchair with his legs not wrapped. At 11:50 a.m., the MAR still reflected that the treatment was completed, despite the wraps not being in place. The resident reported he had severe leg swelling due to lymphedema and stated his legs were supposed to be wrapped daily, but the last time they had been wrapped was about a week prior. He stated that whether his call light requests for treatment were answered depended on who responded, and that staff sometimes did not return to complete his care, which made him feel bad. In interviews, Charge Nurse A acknowledged that it was not normal nursing practice to document treatment before completion and stated that the resident normally received leg wraps after his shower, but that morning the resident had not yet had a shower. CNAs provided differing accounts: one CNA stated the wraps were always on during bed baths but did not bathe the resident that day; another CNA stated that sometimes the resident’s legs were wrapped and sometimes not, that his legs were not wrapped that day, and that she had given him a bed bath that morning; a third CNA stated she had never seen his legs unwrapped. The NP explained that the purpose of the wraps was to enhance circulation due to lymphedema. The DON confirmed the resident had bilateral leg wrap orders in the morning and removal in the evening, and that she was informed around midday that his legs were not wrapped. The Administrator stated she knew the resident’s legs were wrapped but did not know why, and both the DON and Administrator stated that documentation of treatment should occur after the treatment is performed, consistent with the facility’s documentation policy, which prohibits false information in the medical record.
Failure to Accurately Assess, Care Plan, and Treat Pressure Ulcers for Multiple Residents
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide pressure ulcer care consistent with professional standards, including accurate assessment, staging, measurement, care planning, and implementation of ordered treatments for multiple residents with pressure injuries. For one resident with hemiplegia, vascular dementia, incontinence, low body weight, and an admission Braden score indicating risk, the facility did not consistently identify and document all existing wounds. Her care plan listed only a left heel pressure wound and omitted a sacral wound. Weekly skin assessments from late January through March repeatedly failed to document the sacral wound after its initial identification, and heel wounds were inconsistently documented without required measurements or staging. On several dates, the weekly skin assessment was left blank or lacked measurements, despite physician documentation that the left heel wound progressed from Stage 3 to Stage 4 with increasing size. The treatment administration record (TAR) also showed missing documentation of ordered wound treatments to the sacrum and left heel on multiple dates, with no corresponding nursing notes indicating that care was provided. A second resident with hemiplegia, vascular dementia, diabetes, malnutrition, peripheral vascular disease, incontinence, and significant weight loss was identified as at risk for pressure ulcers but initially had no documented pressure wounds. Her care plan, last updated the previous year, addressed only potential for pressure ulcer development and other skin integrity risks, and did not reflect a current sacral pressure wound. However, physician orders and TAR entries showed daily treatment to a sacral wound, and weekly skin assessments documented a sacral wound beginning in mid-February. These assessments frequently lacked staging and, at times, lacked complete measurements. Over several weeks, documentation showed the sacral wound increasing in size and evolving from MASD to an unstageable wound and then to a Stage 4 pressure injury requiring surgical debridement of devitalized tissue, including subcutaneous tissue, muscle fascia, and tendon. Despite this progression and ongoing wound physician involvement, the resident’s care plan was not updated to reflect the current pressure injury and specific wound care interventions. A third resident with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, muscle weakness, incontinence, and an initially non-risk Braden score that later declined to moderate risk had an unstageable sacral pressure ulcer present on admission and MASD. Her care plan included potential for pressure ulcer development, an unstageable sacral pressure ulcer related to immobility, and a wound infection requiring oral antibiotics. Physician orders directed weekly skin assessments and specific daily and evening wound treatments to the sacral area. However, the March TAR showed multiple dates where ordered sacral wound treatments and topical medication for left upper buttock redness were not documented as given, and nursing progress notes did not show that wound care was provided on those dates. Weekly skin assessments for this resident were inconsistent, with several assessments in early January documented as refused or limited, alternating between noting arm discoloration and no skin issues, and later assessments intermittently omitting the sacral wound or lacking measurements and staging. Wound physician notes documented an unstageable sacral pressure injury with rapid clinical decline and later a Stage 3 pressure injury that had increased in size, but these changes were not consistently mirrored in the facility’s weekly skin assessment documentation. Interviews with nursing staff and leadership further described systemic issues contributing to the deficiency. The treatment nurse stated she could not stage wounds and relied on the DON or wound physician for staging, and that she was responsible for updating care plans when new pressure injuries were identified, though she was unsure of the required timeframe. She also reported that she performed nearly all weekly skin assessments for approximately 96 residents Monday through Thursday, with no assessments scheduled on Fridays unless there was a new admission, and that wound measurements were typically taken only when the wound physician visited, after which she transferred his measurements into the weekly skin assessments. The DON and ADON indicated that the treatment nurse was responsible for all wound care planning, weekly skin assessments, and ensuring documentation, and acknowledged that missing or inconsistent wound measurements and documentation on weekly skin assessments would prevent the facility from determining whether wounds were improving or worsening. Facility policies required full assessment and documentation of pressure ulcers, including location, stage, length, width, depth, exudate, and necrotic tissue, as well as complete wound care documentation, but the records for these three residents showed repeated omissions and inconsistencies in assessment, staging, measurement, care planning, and documentation of ordered treatments.
Failure to Ensure Accessible Call Lights for Multiple Residents
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s failure to reasonably accommodate resident needs and preferences by not ensuring that call lights were accessible to four residents reviewed. For one male resident with a skull fracture, a baseline MDS showing he was a fall risk and unable to complete the BIMS interview, and a care plan indicating he required assistance with ADLs, observation showed he was lying in bed with his call light positioned at the head of the bed, out of his reach. A second male resident, with diagnoses including need for assistance with personal care, stroke, and dysphagia, and a quarterly MDS indicating he was unable to complete the BIMS interview, had a care plan intervention specifying that his call light should be within reach; however, observation found him lying in bed with his call light on the floor, out of reach. A third resident, a female with lack of coordination, unsteadiness on her feet, repeated falls, and severe cognitive impairment (BIMS score of 1), had a care plan intervention to ensure her call light was within reach, yet she was observed lying in bed with her call light placed on her roommate’s bed. A fourth male resident with right-sided paralysis, intact cognition (BIMS 14), and a care plan identifying him as a fall risk with an intervention to keep his call light within reach, was observed lying in bed with his call light on the nightstand, out of reach. During interviews, a CNA, an LVN, and the DON each stated that call bells should always be within residents’ reach and that all staff are responsible for ensuring this, and acknowledged that lack of accessible call bells could result in accidents, falls, avoidable injuries, delayed care, and unmet needs. The facility’s written policy on call lights required staff to place the call device within the resident’s reach before leaving the room.
Failure to Maintain Clean Resident Rooms and Hallway Handrails
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s failure to provide a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment, as required by the facility’s Resident Rights policy. During observations on the 300 and 400 halls, surveyors noted that handrails contained debris, including a piece of tissue with a red and brownish substance on the 300 hall and candy wrappers, gum, clear plastic materials, and large pieces of paper wedged between the rails on the 400 hall. Multiple resident rooms on these halls were found with unclean and unsanitary conditions. Several bathrooms had brownish or grayish stains in the corners of the floors and around toilets, as well as dark stains along floor edges, in corners, and in showers. Room floors showed built-up dirt near closet doors, door frames, and along floor edges, with brownish or dark stains near beds and walls. Additional observations revealed that air conditioning unit vents and filters in several rooms had black grime or thick dust accumulation. In multiple rooms, sharps containers used for needle disposal had used, dirty or disposable gloves and pieces of trash placed on top of them. During interviews, the Administrator stated that housekeeping services were provided seven days a week, with cleaning in the morning and evening, and that housekeeping was expected to thoroughly clean resident rooms and facility areas. A housekeeper assigned to the 300 and 400 halls confirmed responsibility for cleaning entire rooms, bathrooms, floors, and wiping down handrails, stating that handrails were wiped at least once a week and acknowledging that the observed conditions were a health hazard. The Housekeeping Supervisor confirmed that housekeeping and floor technicians were responsible for cleaning hallways, floors, handrails, entire rooms, bathrooms, and air conditioning units, and acknowledged that not thoroughly cleaning rooms and handrails could cause an infection.
Improper Storage and Maintenance of Oxygen and Nebulizer Equipment
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to provide respiratory care consistent with professional standards, physician orders, and the infection prevention and control program for three residents receiving oxygen and nebulizer treatments. For a male resident with COPD, record review showed physician orders to change tubing, clean filters, and change the O2 water bottle and nebulizer kit weekly on night shift every Saturday. However, observation revealed that his nasal cannula connected to the oxygen concentrator and his nebulizer mask connected to the nebulizer machine were not bagged or labeled with a date when not in use. For a female resident with asthma, physician orders directed weekly changes of tubing, filter cleaning, and O2 water bottle changes, but observation showed her nasal cannula connected to the oxygen concentrator was not bagged or labeled, and an oxygen humidifier bottle left on the nightstand was only one-quarter full, cracked, and dated from an earlier date. A female resident with COPD had physician orders to change tubing, clean filters, and change the O2 water bottle and nebulizer kit weekly, as well as orders to obtain and record pulse, O2 saturation, treatment minutes, and lung sounds in relation to nebulizer treatments. Observation found that her nasal cannula connected to the oxygen concentrator and nebulizer mask connected to the nebulizer machine were not bagged or labeled with a date when not in use. Staff interviews with a CNA, an LVN, and the DON confirmed that facility practice and expectations were for oxygen tubing and nebulizer masks to be bagged and dated when not in use, with bags changed weekly or as needed, and for humidifier bottles to be changed regularly. The DON stated that failure to follow these practices could be an infection control issue leading to serious health consequences. The facility’s written Infection Prevention and Control Program policy emphasized decreasing infection risk, recognizing infection control practices during care, and ensuring compliance with infection control regulations, which was not followed in these observed instances.
Medication Administration, Monitoring, and Storage Failures During Med Pass
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide pharmaceutical services that ensured accurate acquiring, receiving, dispensing, and administering of medications and biologicals for all 10 residents reviewed for pharmacy services. Record reviews showed that multiple residents had active physician orders for medications to treat conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, dementia, end-stage renal disease, hypertension, heart failure, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, hypothyroidism, seizures, neuropathy, and pain. These medications included antihypertensives (such as amlodipine, hydralazine, metoprolol, benazepril, nifedipine), anticoagulants (Eliquis), antidiabetics (metformin, insulin), antipsychotics (olanzapine, quetiapine), anticonvulsants (levetiracetam), thyroid replacement (levothyroxine), heart failure medications (furosemide, carvedilol, isosorbide dinitrate), and others such as gabapentin, baclofen, galantamine, and lidocaine patches. During observation of a morning medication pass, surveyors noted that Med Tech F had not finished passing morning medications on two hallways between 10:15 a.m. and 11:14 a.m., even though those medications were scheduled for 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. This meant that residents’ medications were administered more than one hour after their scheduled administration times, contrary to the facility’s stated one-hour before or after administration window. Interviews with Med Tech F, LVN A, and the DON confirmed that facility practice and policy required medications to be given at the ordered times within that window to maintain effectiveness and comply with physician orders. The facility also failed to follow required procedures related to medication parameters and storage. Med Tech F and LVN A stated that medications with blood pressure check parameters required a blood pressure reading before dispensing the medication into a cup, but the report states the facility failed to check one resident’s blood pressure before dispensing medication. Additionally, observations and interviews revealed that the Med Pass liquid nutritional supplement, described as milk-based, was not kept refrigerated or on ice during medication administration, despite manufacturer directions and facility protocol requiring it to be refrigerated or kept on ice. Further, review of insulin storage on three halls showed that 12 of 14 insulin vials were not dated with the date of first use, even though LVN A, LVN B, and the DON stated that facility policy required insulin vials to be dated when opened and discarded after a specified period (generally 28–30 days). These failures placed residents at risk for receiving medications outside ordered time frames and using insulin vials without a known open date. Facility policy and procedure for medication administration (Policy Number 7C) required that medications be administered as prescribed by the resident’s physician, in accordance with written orders and the resident’s service plan, and that routine medications be administered per facility time ranges unless otherwise specified. The policy also required that medications be recorded on the MAR, that resident identification be verified prior to administration, and that medications be administered according to the dosage schedule on the MAR. Staff interviews confirmed awareness of these requirements, including the need to date insulin vials upon opening and to maintain proper storage conditions for nutritional supplements. Despite this, the observed late medication administration, failure to check blood pressure before dispensing certain medications, failure to keep Med Pass on ice or refrigerated, and failure to date insulin vials demonstrated noncompliance with the facility’s own medication administration and pharmaceutical services procedures for the residents reviewed.
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