Harmony Care At Giddings
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Giddings, Texas.
- Location
- 1181 N Williamson, Giddings, Texas 78942
- CMS Provider Number
- 675564
- Inspections on file
- 43
- Latest survey
- February 26, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 40 (5 serious)
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Harmony Care At Giddings during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, and documented wandering risk eloped from a secured unit after a CNA heard a door alarm but assumed a nearby resident had triggered it, turned the alarm off, and did not notify the LPN or check outside. The resident, who used a wheelchair and lived on the secure unit due to elopement risk and poor safety awareness, left through a lobby door without timely detection. About 20–30 minutes later, local police found the resident along a highway and returned him to the facility, where assessment showed no apparent injuries. Surveyors cited the facility for failing to maintain an environment free of accident hazards and to provide adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents, with the noncompliance determined to be Immediate Jeopardy and later classified as past noncompliance.
A resident with dementia, schizophrenia, and a history of territorial, aggressive behavior toward others who approached his room assaulted another severely cognitively impaired, wandering resident by striking him multiple times on the head with a plastic trash can, causing a scalp laceration requiring staples and brief hospitalization. Staff and a psych NP reported that the aggressive resident routinely became upset and violent when others neared or entered his room, and that the injured resident frequently came to that doorway and attempted to enter. Despite prior altercations and staff awareness of these triggers, the care plan was not adequately updated with specific interventions, staff on the secure unit lacked focused dementia/mental health training related to this behavior, and wandering residents continued to move freely near the aggressor’s room, leading to the resident-to-resident abuse incident.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to thoroughly investigate several abuse and neglect allegations involving five residents, including a cognitively intact incontinent resident who reported improper pericare, a severely cognitively impaired resident who fell and was reportedly left on the floor for an extended period, and a resident who alleged a staff member placed a pillow over his face. Investigation files relied on pre-existing in-services and safe surveys rather than initiating new, allegation-specific actions, lacked timely and properly documented assessments, and did not include efforts to identify an alleged perpetrator. In addition, an incident in which one cognitively impaired resident allegedly kicked and punched another resident who had wandered into his room was documented in progress notes but never reported to the abuse coordinator or the state and was not investigated as resident-to-resident abuse.
The facility failed to report an alleged resident-to-resident abuse incident to the administrator and state authorities as required. A resident with dementia, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s allegedly kicked and punched another cognitively impaired resident who had wandered into his room. An LVN assessed both residents, found no injuries, completed an internal incident report, and documented the event in the EHR but did not notify leadership or the abuse coordinator. Interviews with the DON, social worker, CNA staff, and the interim administrator confirmed that staff were trained that resident-to-resident altercations constitute abuse and must be reported immediately, yet this allegation was never elevated or reported externally, contrary to the facility’s abuse and neglect policy.
Two residents made serious allegations of abuse and threats against each other and a staff member, but the facility failed to document, investigate, or implement interventions to ensure their safety. Despite police involvement and staff awareness, no follow-up actions or separation of the residents occurred, and staff interviews revealed confusion about proper reporting and investigation procedures for abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
A resident with complex medical needs, including paraplegia and severe pressure ulcers, was immediately discharged after alleged threats toward staff, without a safe discharge plan or confirmation of continued care. The resident was not allowed to remain during the appeal process, declined offers for a hotel or hospital, and subsequently lacked access to necessary wound care and ADL assistance, ultimately sleeping in a vehicle and reporting unmet care needs.
A resident with complex medical needs was discharged without being given timely notice or the address of the discharge location, as required. The discharge notice was served due to alleged threats, but the resident was not provided with an alternative placement or a complete discharge plan, resulting in the resident having nowhere to go and missing essential care. Staff interviews and records confirmed the discharge planning was incomplete and the required information was not communicated.
A resident with complex medical needs and cognitive intactness was immediately discharged after alleged threats of violence toward staff, without a thorough investigation into the validity of the witness statements. The facility did not implement immediate safety interventions or ensure a safe discharge plan, resulting in the resident lacking necessary care and being left without a confirmed placement or follow-up.
The facility did not submit required PBJ staffing data to CMS for a full quarter, omitting details on direct care staff roles such as RN, LPN, CNA, and therapists. This was confirmed by record review and staff interview, with the Corporate Nurse acknowledging the lapse and noting the previous Administrator's departure as a contributing factor.
The facility did not obtain food from approved or satisfactory sources and failed to ensure that food was stored, prepared, distributed, and served according to professional standards.
The facility did not establish or maintain an infection prevention and control program as required, resulting in a deficiency identified during the survey.
A resident who was unable to perform activities of daily living did not receive the necessary care and assistance from staff, resulting in unmet needs for support with ADLs.
One of the kitchen garbage containers was found without a lid and containing waste, contrary to facility policy requiring trash cans to be covered except during use. Staff interviews and policy review confirmed the expectation for trash cans to remain closed to prevent contamination.
Surveyors found mouse droppings on a shelf in the kitchen food storage area, and both the Dietary Supervisor and Maintenance Supervisor acknowledged pest issues, despite recent pest control treatments and policies requiring regular pest management. This demonstrates a failure to maintain an effective pest control program.
A resident with multiple comorbidities and an indwelling Foley catheter did not receive catheter changes as ordered, with medication aides signing off on tasks outside their scope and failing to notify licensed staff. The resident was later hospitalized with UTI, possible sepsis, and other complications, and the facility lacked a care plan addressing catheter management at the time of the incident.
A resident with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes was admitted with hospital discharge orders for insulin and blood glucose monitoring, but these orders were not entered or followed by staff. The DON did not ensure orders were implemented, and neither the NP nor the medical director verified insulin administration or glucose checks. As a result, the resident developed severe hyperglycemia and DKA, requiring emergency transfer.
A resident with multiple complex conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, urinary retention with catheter, and severe cognitive impairment, did not have a comprehensive care plan addressing all care needs. The care plan only covered dietary needs, omitting critical interventions for catheter care, diabetes, oxygen therapy, anticoagulant use, and hypertension, despite clear orders and facility policy requiring a complete, measurable care plan. Staff interviews confirmed the care plan was not completed as required.
The facility did not isolate a resident who returned from the hospital with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis, failed to post PPE signage, and did not remove or test the COVID-negative roommate. Staff were not consistently informed of the resident's status, did not wear appropriate PPE, and hospital records confirming the diagnosis were not promptly reviewed. These actions and inactions resulted in a breakdown of the infection prevention and control program for two residents.
A resident with hemiplegia and depression was unable to be assisted out of bed due to the unavailability of a clean sling, despite her request to join others in the dining room. This issue, occurring about once a week, was due to the sling being in the laundry. The facility administrator was unaware of the problem until after the incident.
A facility failed to notify a resident's responsible party of significant incidents, including being hit by another resident and a fall leading to ER visit. The resident, with Alzheimer's and moderate cognitive impairment, was not properly documented or communicated about these events, violating the facility's policy on incident reporting and notification.
A resident with moderate cognitive impairment was hit by another resident with severe cognitive impairment and schizoaffective disorder. Despite staff witnessing the incident and taking initial steps, the facility failed to document or investigate the event. Miscommunication and assumptions among staff led to a lack of action, violating the facility's policy on abuse and neglect investigations.
The facility failed to develop comprehensive care plans for two residents, leading to deficiencies in addressing their medical and psychosocial needs. One resident required a mechanical lift for transfers, but the care plan inaccurately stated assistance from one staff member, contrary to policy. Another resident with severe cognitive impairment and aggressive behavior had no care plan addressing these issues, despite documented incidents. Staff interviews confirmed awareness of these needs but lacked guidance from the care plans.
The facility failed to maintain a functioning alarm on an exit door in a secure unit, housing seven residents with a history of unauthorized departures. Despite staff presence, the lack of an alarm posed a risk, as residents could exit unnoticed. The issue was known since early February, but a functioning temporary alarm was only installed several days later.
A resident with a history of depression and requiring mechanical lift assistance was not helped out of bed at her requested time for a morning smoke break, impacting her routine and socialization. Despite no documented restrictions, staff delayed assistance, citing convenience. The facility's unclear communication and lack of signed admission documents contributed to the deficiency in respecting the resident's rights.
A facility failed to implement a comprehensive care plan for a resident with multiple medical and mental health diagnoses, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The care plan lacked details on the resident's ADLs and behaviors, making it difficult for staff to provide appropriate care. Interviews with staff and the resident highlighted the challenges faced due to the incomplete care plan.
A resident with dementia eloped from the facility unnoticed, highlighting inadequate supervision and ineffective door alarms. Additionally, unsecured hazardous chemicals were found in a shower room, posing a risk to residents. Staff interviews revealed a lack of understanding of elopement protocols and insufficient monitoring of the resident's behavior.
The facility failed to submit required direct care staffing information for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024 to CMS, as mandated by their policy. The Administrator indicated that the previous company was responsible for the submission, which was not completed, potentially risking residents' care quality and well-being.
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, and homelike environment, affecting several residents and areas. Observations revealed broken soap dispensers, exposed wires on bed remotes, and unsecured window blinds and sills. The grounds were unkempt, with high grass and debris, and the shower room and dining area had maintenance issues. Staff interviews indicated poor communication and outdated room assignments, contributing to the deficiencies.
The facility failed to ensure proper storage of respiratory equipment for four residents, including CPAP masks, nebulizer masks, and oxygen tubing, which were found uncovered and not stored in dated plastic bags. This non-compliance with facility policy and care plans could lead to respiratory infections.
The facility failed to remove expired medications and maintain a contamination-free medication room refrigerator. Expired medications, including Aspirin and Docusate Sodium, were found, and the refrigerator contained both resident supplements and staff food, risking cross-contamination. Staff interviews revealed unclear responsibilities for removing expired medications and the use of the refrigerator for personal food due to the lack of a staff refrigerator.
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, leading to the presence of flies in the dining room during meal service and roaches and water bugs in the shower room. The ADM and MS managed pest control using over-the-counter products after the commercial service stopped, resulting in insufficient pest management.
A resident with dementia and a history of wandering left the facility unnoticed and was found at a nearby store. Despite the resident's cognitive impairments, the facility did not report the incident as an elopement to the state survey agency, citing it as a behavioral issue. The facility's policy requires immediate reporting of such incidents, which was not followed.
A facility failed to ensure a resident with Type 2 Diabetes and Morbid Obesity had proper physician's orders and monitoring upon admission. The resident did not receive consistent blood sugar and blood pressure checks as required. Interviews revealed confusion among staff about order confirmation and a lack of training on the facility's electronic charting system.
A facility failed to implement a baseline care plan within 48 hours for a resident with Type 2 Diabetes and Morbid Obesity. The resident's care plan, completed four days post-admission, lacked instructions for managing diabetes and physician orders. Interviews revealed that nurses were not trained to create baseline care plans, and the DON typically initiated them. The facility's admission checklist required completion within 24 hours, which was not followed.
Failure to Respond to Door Alarm Leads to Resident Elopement from Secured Unit
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to keep a resident’s environment as free of accident hazards as possible and to provide adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents, resulting in an elopement from a secured unit. The resident was an elderly male with schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety disorder, and recurrent major depressive disorder. His most recent MDS showed a BIMS score of 2, indicating severe cognitive impairment, with documented hallucinations, delusions, and wandering behavior occurring 1–3 days during the look‑back period. His care plan and elopement assessment identified him as an elopement risk and noted poor safety awareness related to his Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia, and he resided on a secure unit due to this risk. On the night of the incident, the resident was on the secured unit lobby area in his wheelchair, with another resident on a couch nearby. LVN A, the charge nurse on duty for the 6:00 pm to 6:00 am shift, reported that at about 1:00 am she rounded on the secured unit and instructed CNA B, an agency CNA assigned to the secured unit, to sit close to the two residents in the lobby area to monitor them. Around 2:00 am, LVN A returned to the unit and noted that the resident was no longer sitting where she had last seen him. At approximately the same time, a police officer arrived at the facility and asked if they were missing a resident, describing a man in a yellow wheelchair matching the resident’s description. Interviews and written statements showed that CNA B had heard the secured unit door alarm sound about 20–30 minutes before police contact but did not notify LVN A or check outside the door. CNA B reported that when the alarm sounded, she went to the door, saw the other resident sitting on the couch near the door, and assumed that resident had triggered the alarm. She turned the alarm off, did not look outside, did not conduct or request a head count, and did not inform the charge nurse that the alarm had gone off. As a result, the resident was able to leave the secured unit through the lobby door without timely detection. The resident was later found by local law enforcement walking along a major state highway approximately 0.9 miles from the facility in the early morning hours and was returned to the facility, where assessment documented no apparent injuries and stable vital signs. The surveyors determined that this failure to respond appropriately to the door alarm and to follow elopement procedures constituted noncompliance at the level of Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) beginning on 02/23/2026 and ending on 02/25/2026. The noncompliance was identified as Past Noncompliance (PNC). The deficient practice was cited for failing to ensure the environment remained as free of accident hazards as possible and that each resident received adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents for one of five residents reviewed for accidents and hazards.
Removal Plan
- PD brought Resident #1 back to the facility
- Resident #1 was assessed head to toe and had no apparent injuries
- Resident #1 was placed on 1:1 monitoring
- Resident #1 and all other residents in the facility were reassessed for elopement risk
- Staff were in-serviced on elopement
- Staff participated in elopement drills twice since Resident #1's incident
- Door stoppers were placed on 2 of the secure unit doors
- The staffing Agency was notified of agency staff actions
- Maintenance checked alarms and door magnetic locks
- The MD was notified of the incident
- An Ad hoc was held
Failure to Prevent Resident-to-Resident Assault by Known Aggressive Resident
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to protect a resident from abuse when one cognitively impaired resident physically assaulted another with a plastic trash can, causing a scalp laceration that required three staples and a brief hospitalization. The aggressor was a 70-year-old man with dementia, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease, who had a BIMS score of 7 indicating severe cognitive impairment. His care plan documented a history of inappropriate and physically aggressive behaviors, including a prior incident on 12/13/25 in which he allegedly kicked and punched another resident who had entered his room. Staff interviews and a psychiatric NP evaluation described him as withdrawn, territorial about his room, paranoid when others entered his space, and prone to aggression when other residents came near or into his room. The assaulted resident had severe cognitive impairment with a BIMS score of 0 and diagnoses including altered mental status, acute kidney failure, and thrombocytopenia. He resided on the secure unit due to elopement risk, need for reduced stimuli, and wandering. On the date of the incident, a CNA reported hearing commotion in the hall and then observing the aggressor holding a plastic trash can over the other resident’s head and hitting him multiple times. The CNA separated the residents, after which the aggressor returned to his room and closed the door, and the injured resident was escorted to the lobby. Hospital records documented a scalp contusion and laceration with three staples placed. Multiple staff and the psych NP reported that the aggressor routinely became upset or aggressive when other residents approached or entered his room, and that the injured resident frequently came to or attempted to enter that room, sometimes using the door to propel his wheelchair. Staff stated it was “normal” for the aggressor to get aggressive when residents wandered into his room, that he would push residents out, and that other residents were not cognitively able to recognize the threat of going near his doorway. The social worker and DON acknowledged that the aggressor’s need for personal space and his paranoid schizophrenia had led to repeated altercations and that these behaviors and triggers were not adequately addressed or updated in his care plan. The secure unit housed wandering residents, and staff reported trying to redirect residents away from the aggressor’s room but also stated that residents had a right to move about the unit. The facility’s own secured unit policy required individualized, person-centered care based on residents’ needs and behaviors, but interviews revealed gaps in dementia and mental health training and a lack of specific, implemented interventions to prevent resident-to-resident altercations related to the aggressor’s territorial behavior. The facility had placed the aggressor on the secured unit based on a physician’s order citing elopement risk, yet the only documented elopement risk assessment showed no verbal expressions of wanting to leave and no history of elopement. The social worker and the aggressor’s responsible party both indicated they did not view him as an elopement risk and instead emphasized his paranoid schizophrenia, history of theft at a prior facility, and desire to stay in his room to protect his belongings. Staff interviews showed uncertainty about why he was on the secure unit and highlighted that his primary issue was aggression when others approached his space. Despite known prior incidents and staff awareness that residents frequently wandered and forgot to avoid his door, the care plan and unit practices did not sufficiently address these known triggers, contributing to the resident-to-resident assault that resulted in injury. The interim administrator and DON acknowledged that interventions specific to the aggressor’s behaviors and triggers, such as measures to keep other residents from approaching his door, had been discussed but not implemented or incorporated into the care plan. Staff also reported that while there had been general in-services on resident-to-resident abuse, there was no specific training on managing this resident’s behaviors. The secured unit policy emphasized gathering history, preferences, and routines to tailor care, yet interviews and record reviews showed that the aggressor’s territoriality, paranoia, and history of altercations were not effectively translated into concrete, consistently applied interventions. This lack of effective, individualized behavioral management and environmental controls allowed a known pattern of aggression to culminate in the physical assault and injury of another resident.
Failure to Thoroughly Investigate Multiple Abuse and Neglect Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to thoroughly investigate multiple allegations of abuse and neglect for several residents. For one cognitively intact female resident with cerebral palsy, schizophrenia, and incontinence, the record shows she required maximal assistance for toileting and was always incontinent of bowel and bladder. She alleged that unknown staff at an unknown time did not perform pericare appropriately and left feces in her vaginal area. The provider investigation report documented her complaint but only referenced general staff in-services and safe surveys that predated the allegation, with no evidence of a new, allegation-specific in-service, no new safe surveys, and no documented new skin assessment during the investigation. A second resident, a severely cognitively impaired female with Parkinson’s disease and muscle wasting, was care planned as being at risk for falls. Nursing notes documented that she was found on her knees on the floor holding onto a table, assessed with no injuries, and returned to bed, with the physician and family notified. Later, her family reported that she had fallen and was left on the floor for over an hour. The provider investigation report again referenced only general in-services and safe surveys dated prior to the allegation, with no new in-services related to the specific incident, no formal skin assessment beyond a narrative note, and no safe surveys conducted with other residents. The DON stated she was unsure how long the resident was on the floor and confirmed that no new safe surveys or formal skin assessment were completed. A third resident, a severely cognitively impaired male with a cervical spinal cord injury and a stage 4 sacral pressure ulcer, alleged that around the time of his admission a female agency CNA placed a pillow over his face while providing care. The provider investigation report documented the allegation and referenced abuse monitoring and staff in-services, but the in-services and safe surveys cited were dated before the allegation and were not newly initiated for this event. The DON reported that she interviewed the resident but did not attempt to identify the alleged perpetrator, did not initiate new in-services or safe surveys, and acknowledged missing multiple elements in the investigation. The resident’s care plan contained no focus related to this allegation, and key assessments such as a new skin assessment, BIMS, and trauma assessment were delayed several days after the allegation, rather than completed on the day it was reported. The facility also failed to investigate an alleged resident-to-resident abuse incident involving two severely cognitively impaired male residents. One resident, with dementia, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease, had a care plan focus for inappropriate behaviors and physical aggression, including a note that on a specific date he allegedly kicked and punched another resident who was on the ground after entering his room. Progress notes by an LVN documented that this resident was allegedly kicking and punching the other resident, who had wandered into his room. The other resident, who resided in a secure unit due to elopement risk and wandering, had severe cognitive impairment and multiple medical diagnoses including altered mental status, acute kidney failure, and thrombocytopenia. The LVN later stated he did not notify the Administrator, who was the abuse and neglect coordinator, about the incident, and the DON confirmed the event was not reported to the state and was not investigated as an allegation of physical abuse. Interviews with the DON and Administrator further established that the investigations for the first three residents were incomplete and did not meet facility expectations or policy requirements. The DON acknowledged that no new safe surveys were conducted for the first two residents, that no formal in-service specific to pericare or the fall allegation was provided, that no timely skin assessments were documented under the correct forms, and that she did not attempt to identify the alleged perpetrator in the pillow incident. The Administrator, who started after these events, reviewed the investigations and stated they were not thorough, noting the absence of allegation-specific in-services, skills observations, resident interviews, timely assessments, and new safe surveys. The facility’s written policy on abuse, neglect, exploitation, and misappropriation requires immediate protection of residents, initiation of investigations, reporting of all alleged or suspected incidents, and retraining following incidents or identified trends, but the documented investigations and staff interviews show that these steps were not fully carried out for the cited allegations.
Failure to Report Resident-to-Resident Abuse Allegation to State Authorities
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to immediately report an alleged resident-to-resident abuse incident to the administrator and appropriate state authorities as required by policy and regulation. On 12/13/25, a nurse (LVN A) documented in the electronic health record that one resident (Resident #4) was allegedly kicking and punching another resident (Resident #5), who was on the ground after entering Resident #4’s room. LVN A assessed both residents and noted no injuries, completed a facility incident report, and entered a progress note in Resident #4’s record, but did not notify the Administrator, DON, or abuse coordinator of the allegation. The incident was therefore not reported to Health and Human Services as an allegation of abuse. Resident #4 was a 70-year-old man with dementia, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease, with a BIMS score of 7 indicating severe cognitive impairment. His care plan included a focus on inappropriate behaviors and physical aggression, noting that on 12/13/25 he allegedly kicked and punched another resident who had entered his room. Resident #5 was a male resident with altered mental status, acute kidney failure, and thrombocytopenia, with a BIMS score of 0 indicating severe cognitive issues, and a care plan focus on residing in a secure unit due to elopement risk, need for reduced stimuli, and wandering. The alleged altercation occurred when Resident #5 wandered into Resident #4’s room, and Resident #4 became upset. Multiple staff interviews confirmed that the incident met the facility’s definition of a reportable resident-to-resident altercation and that all staff had been trained to report abuse, neglect, and exploitation immediately to the Administrator, who served as the abuse and neglect coordinator. LVN A acknowledged he did not inform the Administrator and stated he should have done so. The DON and social worker both stated that the incident should have been reported to the State as an allegation of abuse, and the Interim Administrator stated that leadership was not made aware of the incident and therefore no investigation or state report was initiated. Review of the facility’s Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation, and Misappropriation Prevention, Reporting, and Investigation Policy, dated 01/2026, showed a requirement to immediately protect residents, initiate investigations, and report all alleged or suspected incidents as required by Texas HHSC and CMS, which was not followed in this case.
Failure to Prevent, Investigate, and Report Abuse and Neglect Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement written policies and procedures to prohibit and prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation of residents, as well as to ensure proper investigation and reporting of such allegations. Specifically, the facility did not ensure the safety of two residents after they made serious allegations against each other and a staff member. One resident, who was paralyzed and required significant assistance with activities of daily living, alleged that the Administrator (ADM) harassed, bullied, and picked on him. Despite this, there was no documentation of the allegation in the resident's records, no investigation was initiated, and no interventions were implemented to ensure his safety. Staff interviews revealed confusion about the process for handling such allegations, and the ADM, who was also the abuse and neglect coordinator, stated he was not aware of the allegation and had not investigated it. Another resident, who was cognitively intact but had a history of manipulative and impulsive behaviors, alleged that the first resident threatened her with sexual violence. She called the police non-emergency line, and law enforcement responded, instructing both residents to stay away from each other. However, the facility did not document the incident, offer a room change, or implement any interventions to separate the residents or ensure their safety. Both residents continued to reside on the same hallway, and staff did not monitor or document any follow-up actions related to the allegations. Progress notes, assessments, and the facility's incident log contained no entries regarding these events. Interviews with various staff members, including the DON, HR, SW, and CNAs, revealed a lack of clarity and training regarding the reporting and investigation of abuse, neglect, and exploitation (ANE). Staff consistently identified the ADM as the abuse and neglect coordinator responsible for reporting and investigating ANE, but there was no evidence that the required steps were taken in response to the allegations. The facility also failed to remove the alleged perpetrator from the environment upon notification of the allegations, and there was no documentation of any investigation or reporting to the appropriate authorities. This lack of action and documentation placed residents at risk of further abuse, neglect, or harm.
Failure to Ensure Safe Discharge and Right to Appeal
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident was not discharged when exercising the right to appeal a discharge notice, and did not provide for a safe and appropriate discharge environment. The resident, who was cognitively intact and had significant medical needs including vertebra osteomyelitis, stage 3 and 4 pressure ulcers, neuromuscular bladder dysfunction, paraplegia, protein-calorie malnutrition, cellulitis, and sepsis, was issued an immediate discharge notice following allegations of making threats toward staff. The discharge notice did not specify an address for discharge, and the resident was served the notice in the presence of police officers, with a no trespass order also issued. The resident declined offers for a hotel stay and hospital transport, stating he could not care for himself and needed ongoing care and services. Despite this, the facility proceeded with the discharge, and the resident reported having nowhere to go, ultimately sleeping in his truck and not receiving necessary wound care, meals, or ADL assistance after discharge. Interviews with facility staff revealed inconsistencies and lack of clarity regarding the alleged threats, with some staff unable to recall details or confirm the nature of the threats. Documentation and incident logs did not consistently reflect the reported behavioral incidents leading to the discharge. The facility did not implement additional interventions such as 1:1 supervision or behavioral services prior to discharge, and there was no evidence of a completed discharge planning review or confirmation of a safe discharge location. The resident's hospice provider was notified, but there was no confirmation that hospice services continued after discharge or that the resident had access to necessary care and supplies. The facility also failed to allow the resident to remain in the facility during the appeal process, as required, citing immediate jeopardy due to the alleged threats. The resident and some staff disputed the severity and veracity of the threats, and the resident denied making specific threats to shoot staff. The facility's actions resulted in the resident being left without a safe discharge plan or continued care, despite his complex medical needs and dependence on staff for assistance with activities of daily living and wound care.
Failure to Provide Proper Discharge Notice and Planning
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a resident with proper notice prior to discharge, specifically omitting the address of the discharge location on the notice and not notifying the resident as soon as practicable before the discharge occurred. The resident, who was cognitively intact and had significant medical needs including vertebra osteomyelitis, stage 3 and 4 pressure ulcers, neuromuscular bladder dysfunction, paraplegia, protein-calorie malnutrition, cellulitis, and sepsis, was served with an immediate discharge notice due to alleged threats made toward staff and administration. The discharge notice did not include the required address of the discharge location, and the resident was not given adequate time or information to prepare for the discharge. Interviews and record reviews revealed that the resident was offered a hotel stay and transportation to a hospital, both of which he declined, but he was not provided with an alternative placement or a clear discharge plan. The resident reported having nowhere to go after discharge and ultimately slept in his truck, missing necessary wound care, ADL care, and meals. Staff interviews confirmed that the discharge planning review was incomplete, and there was no documentation of the alleged behavioral incidents leading to the discharge in the resident's progress notes or the facility's incident log. The resident's care plan indicated a high level of dependence on staff for daily care and medical management, yet these needs were not addressed in the discharge process. The facility also failed to document or communicate the location to which the resident was being discharged, as required by regulation. The discharge was executed in the presence of police officers, and the resident was served with a no trespass order. Despite the resident's request to appeal the discharge and remain in the facility during the appeal process, the facility did not allow him to stay, citing immediate jeopardy. The lack of proper notification and discharge planning resulted in the resident being left without a safe or appropriate discharge destination, and the facility did not ensure continuity of care or services post-discharge.
Failure to Ensure Safe Discharge and Thorough Investigation Following Alleged Threats
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to administer its resources effectively and efficiently to ensure the highest practicable well-being of a resident with complex medical needs. The resident, who was cognitively intact and had significant medical diagnoses including vertebra osteomyelitis, stage 3 and 4 pressure ulcers, neuromuscular bladder dysfunction, paraplegia, protein-calorie malnutrition, cellulitis, and sepsis, was subject to an immediate discharge following allegations of making credible threats of violence toward staff, including a threat to shoot the administrator. The discharge process was initiated without a thorough investigation into the validity of the witness statements regarding the alleged threats. Documentation and interviews revealed inconsistencies and a lack of clarity about the nature and timing of the threats, as well as insufficient documentation in the resident's progress notes and incident logs related to the alleged incidents. The facility did not take immediate action to ensure the safety of all residents when the alleged credible threat was reported. There was a delay in notifying law enforcement, and the resident was not placed on 1:1 supervision or provided with other interventions during the period between the alleged threat and the discharge. Staff interviews indicated confusion about the process for handling such threats, and there was no clear evidence that behavioral or psychiatric services were offered or that the resident's care plan was updated to address the situation. The discharge notice provided to the resident did not include an address for discharge, and alternative placement options were limited to a hotel stay, which the resident declined due to inability to self-care. Following the immediate discharge, the resident, who required assistance with activities of daily living and wound care, was left without a safe and proper discharge plan. The resident reported having nowhere to go, ultimately sleeping in his truck and not receiving necessary care, meals, or wound care supplies. Facility leadership and staff were unable to confirm the resident's whereabouts or continuity of care post-discharge. The discharge planning review was incomplete, and there was no evidence of follow-up or due diligence to ensure the resident's safety and ongoing care after leaving the facility.
Failure to Submit Required Direct Care Staffing Data to CMS
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to electronically submit complete and accurate direct care staffing information to CMS for the period of October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, as required by federal regulations. The missing submission included essential details such as the category of work for each direct care staff member, including whether individuals were registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, therapists, or other specified medical personnel. This deficiency was identified through record review, which showed no Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data was submitted for the specified quarter, and was confirmed during an interview with the Corporate Nurse. During the interview, the Corporate Nurse acknowledged awareness of the missing PBJ submission and stated uncertainty regarding the reason for the failure. She indicated that the previous Administrator, who resigned on July 1, 2025, did not ensure the required data was submitted. The facility's policy on reporting direct care staffing information outlines the requirement for timely and accurate electronic submission of staffing data to CMS, but this process was not followed for the quarter in question.
Noncompliance with Food Procurement and Handling Standards
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to procure food from sources that are approved or considered satisfactory and did not store, prepare, distribute, and serve food in accordance with professional standards. This deficiency was identified during the survey process, indicating noncompliance with established food safety and handling requirements. No additional details regarding specific residents, staff, or observed events are provided in the report.
Failure to Implement Infection Prevention and Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide and implement an infection prevention and control program. This deficiency was identified during the survey process, indicating that the required measures to prevent and control infections were not established or maintained as per regulatory standards. The report does not specify particular actions, inactions, or events, nor does it mention any specific residents or staff involved in the deficiency.
Failure to Assist Residents with Activities of Daily Living
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when care and assistance were not provided to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) for residents who were unable to do so themselves. The report notes that residents requiring help with ADLs did not receive the necessary support from staff, resulting in unmet care needs. This failure was observed and documented by surveyors during their review of facility practices.
Improper Disposal of Garbage in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that one of two facility garbage containers in the kitchen did not have a lid attached or placed on it, despite containing waste. This observation was made during a facility inspection. Interviews with the Dietary Supervisor and a Dietary Aide confirmed that facility policy requires trash cans to be covered at all times except during use, and both staff members acknowledged that leaving trash cans uncovered could lead to contamination. A review of the facility's Dietary Services Policies and Procedures for Waste Control and Disposal also confirmed the requirement for trash cans to remain covered except when in use.
Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control in Kitchen Food Storage
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed several mouse droppings on the bottom shelf in the facility's kitchen food storage room during an inspection. The Dietary Supervisor confirmed that the droppings appeared to be from mice and stated that the maintenance department was responsible for pest control. The Maintenance Supervisor, who began working at the facility in early June, reported that while he had not personally seen pests, staff members had informed him of mouse sightings. He also indicated that pest control services had visited the facility twice in the previous month to perform extermination services, and he could provide documentation of these visits. A review of facility records showed that the food storage policy required storage areas to be free from rodent and insect infestation and to be treated for pests on a regular schedule. Pest control service inspection reports confirmed recent treatments for rodents, roaches, spiders, and ants. Despite these measures and policies, the presence of mouse droppings in the food storage area indicated that the facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program to keep the area free of pests.
Failure to Provide Appropriate Catheter Care and Adhere to Physician Orders
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a male resident with a history of autistic disorder, hypertension, urinary retention, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and diabetes mellitus type II did not receive appropriate catheter care as ordered. The resident had an indwelling Foley catheter with physician orders specifying monthly changes and routine catheter care every shift. Documentation showed that the Foley catheter was not changed as ordered on two consecutive months, despite being signed off as completed by medication aides (MAs) who later admitted they did not perform the task and that it was outside their scope of practice. The care plan for the resident did not include interventions for catheter care, diabetes, or hypertension at the time of the incident. The resident was subsequently transferred to the emergency room after staff noted fever, lethargy, decreased urine output, and low blood pressure. Hospital records indicated the resident was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection, possible sepsis, acute kidney injury, and pneumonia. The Foley catheter was found to have brown urine with pus and was replaced in the emergency room. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of clarity regarding responsibilities for catheter changes, with MAs signing off on tasks they did not perform and failing to notify licensed nurses of the outstanding orders. The DON confirmed that MAs were not permitted to change Foley catheters and that the resident's catheter change orders were not followed as required. Further review of facility documentation and interviews with the nurse practitioner and medical director highlighted discrepancies in the understanding and implementation of catheter care orders. The medical director expressed disagreement with the monthly change order, but the facility had not clarified or updated the order prior to the incident. The lack of proper documentation, failure to follow physician orders, and absence of a comprehensive care plan for catheter management contributed to the resident's hospitalization and the identification of an Immediate Jeopardy situation by surveyors.
Failure to Implement Hospital Discharge Orders for Insulin Administration
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services that ensured the accurate acquisition, receipt, dispensing, and administration of all drugs and biologicals to meet the needs of a resident. Specifically, the facility did not carry out hospital discharge orders for insulin administration to control blood glucose for a resident with a diagnosis of uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus. The resident was admitted with a history of diabetes, hypertension, urinary retention, and autistic disorder, and had clear hospital discharge instructions for insulin NPH Hum/Reg 70/30 to be administered subcutaneously before breakfast and dinner, as well as orders for blood glucose monitoring. Upon review, it was found that the resident's Medication Administration Record (MAR) and Treatment Administration Record (TAR) did not reflect any orders for insulin or blood sugar checks for the months following admission. Multiple staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness regarding the resident's need for insulin or glucose monitoring. The Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledged not entering the resident's orders into the electronic medical record and did not follow up to ensure hospital records were received. The nurse practitioner (NP) and medical director also failed to verify that the insulin orders were implemented, and the NP did not review the MAR/TAR during visits. The resident subsequently developed severe hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), requiring transfer to the emergency room. The facility's own policies required thorough medication reconciliation upon admission, including review of hospital discharge summaries and communication with referring providers to resolve discrepancies. However, these procedures were not followed, resulting in the omission of critical insulin therapy and glucose monitoring for the resident. Staff interviews and documentation confirmed that the breakdown in communication and failure to implement discharge orders directly led to the resident's acute medical deterioration.
Failure to Develop Comprehensive Person-Centered Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to develop a comprehensive, person-centered care plan for a male resident with multiple complex medical conditions, including autistic disorder, hypertension, urinary retention with an indwelling catheter, a history of urinary tract infections, and diabetes mellitus type II. The resident's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) indicated severe cognitive impairment, short-term and long-term memory problems, and the need for special treatments such as oxygen therapy and anticoagulant medication. Despite these needs, the care plan initiated for the resident only addressed dietary needs and did not include plans for catheter care, diabetes management, oxygen therapy, anticoagulant use, or hypertension. Record reviews showed that the resident was prescribed multiple medications for hypertension, anticoagulation, and urinary retention, and had specific orders for catheter care and oxygen therapy. However, these critical aspects of care were not reflected in the resident's comprehensive care plan. Interviews with facility staff, including the DON, Interim Administrator, and MDS nurse, revealed a lack of clarity and follow-through regarding the timely completion of comprehensive care plans. The MDS nurse acknowledged that the comprehensive care plan for this resident was not completed after the assessment, stating it "fell through the cracks." The facility's own policy requires that a comprehensive, person-centered care plan be developed within seven days of the required MDS assessment and no more than 21 days after admission, including measurable objectives and timeframes for all identified needs. In this case, the policy was not followed, resulting in the resident not having a care plan that addressed all of his medical, nursing, and psychosocial needs.
Failure to Isolate COVID-Positive Resident and Implement Infection Control Measures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement and maintain an effective infection prevention and control program, specifically in relation to the management of COVID-19 cases among residents. One resident, who had a history of systemic lupus erythematosus, cognitive impairment, and respiratory issues, was sent to the hospital due to a change in condition and subsequently tested positive for COVID-19. Upon return to the facility, there was no evidence that the resident was placed in isolation, no signage was posted on the door to indicate the need for personal protective equipment (PPE), and staff did not consistently wear appropriate PPE when providing care. The resident's hospital records, which confirmed the COVID-19 diagnosis and recommended droplet precautions, were not immediately reviewed or made available to staff, resulting in a lack of communication and appropriate infection control measures. Additionally, the facility failed to remove the COVID-negative roommate from the shared room or test the roommate as required by infection control protocols. Interviews with staff, including LVNs, CNAs, and the DON, revealed confusion and lack of communication regarding the resident's COVID-19 status. Some staff were unaware of the positive test result, and others did not take action to isolate the resident or notify the appropriate parties. The facility also lacked current COVID-19 test kits, which prevented retesting and further complicated the response. The infection control logs did not reflect any COVID-19 cases during the relevant period, and staff reported not being in-serviced on COVID-19 protocols in the preceding 60 days. The facility's infection prevention and control policy required the identification and management of infections, implementation of isolation precautions, and staff education, but these procedures were not followed in this instance. The administrator and DON both acknowledged gaps in communication and documentation, including the failure to obtain and review hospital records in a timely manner. The lack of adherence to established infection control protocols and failure to isolate the COVID-positive resident or protect the roommate constituted a deficiency in the facility's infection prevention and control program.
Resident's Right to Self-Determination Not Honored Due to Equipment Unavailability
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to honor a resident's request to be assisted out of bed, which compromised her right to a dignified existence and self-determination. The resident, who has a history of hemiplegia, depression, and pain, expressed a desire to get out of bed and eat in the dining room with others. However, she was told by staff that they could not assist her due to the unavailability of a clean sling required for her transfer. This situation was observed on the morning of February 9, 2025, when the resident remained in bed eating breakfast alone, despite her preference to join others in the dining room. Interviews with staff revealed that the lack of a clean sling was a recurring issue, occurring approximately once a week. A CNA confirmed the inability to assist the resident due to the sling being in the laundry, while a laundry aide indicated that the sling had not yet been washed and was waiting to be air-dried. The facility administrator was unaware of the issue until after the observation and acknowledged that residents should not be denied the opportunity to get out of bed due to such logistical problems. The deficiency highlights a failure to ensure the resident's rights to self-determination and participation in activities of choice were respected.
Failure to Notify Responsible Party of Resident Incidents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to immediately notify the responsible party of a resident when there was a significant change in the resident's physical and psychosocial status. Specifically, the facility did not inform the responsible party of two critical incidents involving the resident. The first incident occurred when the resident was hit by another resident, and the second incident involved the resident being sent to the emergency room after a fall, which resulted in increased confusion. These lapses in communication could potentially put residents at risk by not having their care needs and health changes communicated and addressed with their responsible party. The resident in question is an elderly female with Alzheimer's disease, cognitive communication deficit, and dementia, who was admitted to the facility with moderate cognitive impairment. The facility's records showed no documentation of the incident on the day the resident was hit, and although the resident was sent to the hospital after a fall, the responsible party was not notified. Interviews with staff revealed a breakdown in communication and assumptions that others had taken the necessary steps to notify the responsible party, which did not occur. The facility's policy requires that all incidents, accidents, or changes in a resident's condition be recorded and that family, physicians, or other staff be notified if indicated. However, in this case, the policy was not followed, as evidenced by the lack of documentation and notification to the responsible party. The Director of Nursing and other staff members were either unaware of the incidents or assumed that others had taken the necessary actions, leading to a failure in communication and documentation.
Failure to Investigate Resident-to-Resident Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to thoroughly investigate an allegation of abuse involving two residents. On February 3, 2025, a resident with moderate cognitive impairment was hit on the face by another resident with severe cognitive impairment and schizoaffective disorder. Despite the incident being witnessed by a CNA and a physical therapist, and the CNA taking immediate action to separate the residents and notify a nurse, there was no documentation or investigation initiated. The CNA assumed that the administration had been notified, and the LVN who assessed the residents did not document the incident or notify the responsible party, believing that the Director of Nursing (DON) was involved. The Director of Rehabilitation (DOR) was informed by a physical therapist about the incident and directed the staff to the Administrator, who was in a meeting at the time. However, the Administrator misunderstood the nature of the issue and did not realize it involved resident aggression. Consequently, no investigation was conducted, and the facility's policy on abuse and neglect, which requires timely and thorough investigations, was not followed. This oversight placed residents at risk of further abuse and harm.
Deficiencies in Comprehensive Care Plans for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement comprehensive person-centered care plans for two residents, leading to deficiencies in meeting their medical, nursing, and psychosocial needs. Resident #5, a female with hemiplegia and moderate cognitive impairment, required a mechanical lift for transfers, which was not accurately reflected in her care plan. The care plan incorrectly stated that she required total assistance from one staff member, contrary to the facility's policy that mandates the use of two staff members for mechanical lift transfers. Resident #7, a male with severe cognitive impairment and a history of aggressive behavior, did not have his aggressive tendencies addressed in his care plan. Despite documentation of aggressive incidents, including grabbing and spitting on staff, his care plan only included dietary needs. Interviews with staff revealed that they were aware of his aggressive behavior but lacked guidance from the care plan on how to manage it. The facility's policy requires comprehensive care plans to include measurable objectives and timeframes, which were not met in these cases.
Failure to Maintain Functioning Exit Door Alarm in Secure Unit
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a secure environment for residents on one of its secure units by not having a functioning alarm on an exit door. This deficiency was identified during an observation and interview process, where it was revealed that the exit door on the secure unit did not have an alarm to alert staff if a resident exited. The secure unit housed seven residents, all of whom had a history of unauthorized departures or attempts, necessitating a secure environment for their safety. Despite the presence of staff on the unit, the lack of a functioning alarm posed a risk, as residents could potentially exit the building without staff knowledge, especially when staff were occupied with other duties. The issue was compounded by the fact that the facility's Maintenance Technician was aware of the problem since 2/3/25, when it was discovered that the wires for the door alarm had been pulled, rendering it nonfunctional. Although a temporary alarm was installed on 2/6/25, it was also found to be nonfunctional. The Administrator confirmed the absence of a functioning alarm and stated that a new alarm had been ordered. However, it was not until 2/10/25 that a new temporary alarm was installed, which successfully emitted a loud sound when the door was opened, indicating that the deficiency had persisted for several days without resolution.
Failure to Honor Resident's Request for Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to honor a resident's request to be assisted out of bed between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, which was a part of her daily routine and preference for attending the morning smoke break. The resident, who had a history of depression and required a mechanical lift for transfers, expressed that being out of bed and socializing during smoke breaks was important for her mental well-being. Despite her requests, the staff did not assist her out of bed at the requested time, leaving her in bed until later in the morning. The resident's medical records did not indicate any restrictions on her being out of bed or smoking, and there was no documentation of any limitations discussed with her. Interviews with staff revealed that the resident required two staff members for assistance, and it was sometimes deemed easier to assist her later in the day. However, staff acknowledged that there was time to assist her at her requested time, and no specific restrictions were communicated regarding her mobility or smoking. The Director of Nurses and other staff members had differing views on whether assisting the resident out of bed for smoking was a right or a privilege. The facility's policy on resident rights emphasized the importance of assisting residents in exercising their rights, but the resident was not informed of the facility's smoking policy or any related restrictions upon admission. The lack of signed admission documents and clear communication contributed to the deficiency in respecting the resident's rights and preferences.
Failure to Implement Comprehensive Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered care plan for a resident, which included measurable objectives and timeframes to meet the resident's medical, nursing, and mental and psychosocial needs. The care plan did not address the resident's activities of daily living (ADLs), behaviors, and diagnosis of mental illness, which included schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This oversight was identified during a review of the resident's records and interviews with facility staff. The resident, a female with a history of hemiplegia, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and tobacco use, was admitted to the facility with significant physical and cognitive impairments. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) Admission Assessment indicated that the resident required maximal assistance with various ADLs and had moderately impaired cognition. Despite these needs, the comprehensive care plan did not include necessary details about the resident's ADLs, behaviors, or psychiatric diagnoses. Interviews with the Director of Nurses and other staff members revealed that the lack of documentation in the care plan made it difficult for staff to know the specific care required for the resident. The Director of Nurses acknowledged that the care plan should have included all relevant information from the MDS and that the absence of this information could lead to a decline in the resident's quality of life or care. The resident herself expressed dissatisfaction with the care provided, indicating that staff were not adequately trained to meet her needs.
Failure to Prevent Resident Elopement and Secure Hazardous Chemicals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents, specifically in the case of a resident who eloped from the facility. The resident, who had a history of dementia, vertigo, and anxiety disorder, left the facility without staff knowledge and was found at a convenience store 0.4 miles away. Despite having a care plan that included interventions for wandering, the resident was able to leave the facility unnoticed, indicating a lack of effective monitoring and supervision. Interviews with facility staff revealed a lack of understanding and communication regarding the resident's elopement risk. The Director of Nursing (DON) and other staff members did not consider the incident an elopement, and there was no investigation conducted. The facility's policy on elopement was not followed, and the staff was unaware of the resident's departure until informed by another resident. The facility's exit doors were found to have alarms that were barely audible, and the staff could not see or hear the doors from the nurse's station. Additionally, the facility failed to maintain a safe environment in the shower room, where two spray bottles containing potentially harmful chemicals were left unsecured. These chemicals were not part of the facility's standard supplies, and their presence posed a risk of accidental ingestion or contact. The facility's Material Safety Data Sheets did not include information on these chemicals, further indicating a lapse in safety protocols.
Failure to Submit Quarterly Staffing Data to CMS
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with the mandatory electronic submission of staffing information to CMS based on payroll data in a uniform format. Specifically, the facility did not submit the required direct care staffing information for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, which spans from October 1 to December 31. This failure was identified during a review of the CMS PBJ Staffing Data Report, which indicated that no data was submitted for the quarter, triggering a metric failure. The facility's policy mandates that staffing information be reported electronically to CMS through the Payroll-Based Journal system no less frequently than quarterly, with specific submission deadlines for each fiscal quarter. During an interview, the facility's Administrator stated that the corporate office was responsible for reporting the CMS PBJ staffing data. She explained that the previous company was responsible for reporting the first quarter staffing information, but it was not completed. The new corporate office did report the second quarter data. The failure to submit the first quarter staffing information could potentially place residents at risk for unmet personal needs, decreased quality of care, and a decline in health status and well-being.
Facility Fails to Maintain Safe and Homelike Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment for several residents and areas within the facility. Observations revealed that Resident #27's bathroom soap dispenser was not attached to the wall, and Resident #5's bed remote control was held together with electrical tape, exposing wires. Resident #13's window blinds were broken and missing slats, while Resident #1's window blinds and windowsill were not securely attached, and the baseboard was detached. Resident #19's windowsill was also falling off, allowing outside air into the room, which concerned the resident due to potential mold exposure. The facility grounds were not maintained, with high grass, weeds, and debris observed around the premises. The shower room linen cart was dirty, and the baseboard was detached, with crumbled sheetrock present. Additionally, a hole in the concrete floor outside the dining room posed a potential fall risk. The maintenance staff was inexperienced, and the facility's maintenance equipment was not fully operational, contributing to the lack of upkeep. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of awareness and communication regarding maintenance issues. The Care Team Assignment Sheet, which was supposed to ensure room checks, was outdated, with rooms assigned to staff no longer employed. The facility's policy on providing a homelike environment was not effectively implemented, as evidenced by the numerous deficiencies observed during the survey.
Failure to Properly Store Respiratory Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for four residents, as observed during a survey. Resident #80's CPAP mask was found uncovered and not stored in a dated plastic bag on two separate occasions. This was contrary to the care plan and physician's orders, which required the CPAP mask to be applied at bedtime and stored properly when not in use. The lack of proper storage could lead to contamination and potential respiratory infections. Resident #22's nebulizer mask was also found uncovered and not stored in a dated plastic bag. This resident had a diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and required regular nebulizer treatments as per physician orders. The failure to properly store the nebulizer mask could expose the resident to harmful bacteria and increase the risk of respiratory infections. Similarly, Resident #19's oxygen tubing was not dated, and her nasal cannula was found uncovered. Resident #24's nebulizer mask was also found uncovered and not stored correctly. Interviews with staff, including an LVN and the DON, revealed a lack of training and adherence to the facility's policy on respiratory equipment storage. The facility's policy required respiratory equipment to be stored in a plastic bag with the date and resident's name to prevent infection, but this was not consistently followed.
Expired Medications and Contaminated Storage in Medication Room
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the removal and destruction of expired drugs and biologicals in the medication storage room, as observed on May 28, 2024. During the inspection, seven bottles of expired medications, including Aspirin, Docusate Sodium, and natural tear eye drops, along with expired Skincote protective dressing applicators, were found. Interviews with staff revealed that the responsibility for removing expired medications was not clearly assigned, leading to the oversight. The Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledged that the staffing coordinator, who was responsible for this task, had left the facility a month prior, and the expired medications had not been addressed since then. Additionally, the facility failed to maintain a contamination-free environment in the medication room refrigerator. The refrigerator contained both resident nutritional supplements and staff personal food items, such as yogurt, drinks, and cheese sticks, which posed a risk of cross-contamination. Staff interviews confirmed that the refrigerator was used for personal food due to the lack of a staff refrigerator in the break room. The DON and other staff members recognized the potential for cross-contamination and the ineffectiveness of expired medications, but the issue persisted due to unclear responsibilities and the absence of a dedicated staff refrigerator.
Pest Control Deficiency in Dining and Shower Rooms
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in the presence of pests in both the dining room and shower room. On May 28, 2024, during a resident meal service, flies were observed in the dining room, with one resident swatting a fly off her food and another having a fly land on her drink cup multiple times. The following day, on May 29, 2024, a small brown roach and a water bug were observed in the shower room, indicating a pest infestation. Interviews with facility staff revealed that the pest control was managed internally by the Administrator (ADM) and Maintenance Staff (MS) using over-the-counter products, as the commercial pest control company had stopped servicing the facility. The ADM was unaware of the reason for the discontinuation of the commercial service. Staff interviews indicated a widespread issue with flies, particularly in the dining room, and the presence of water bugs, especially during the summer. The facility's policy on pest control emphasized the need for frequent treatment and monitoring, but the current practices were insufficient to maintain a pest-free environment.
Failure to Report Resident Elopement
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report an incident of elopement involving a resident to the state survey agency. The resident, who has a history of dementia, vertigo, anxiety disorder, and lack of coordination, left the facility without staff knowledge and was found at a convenience store 0.4 miles away. Despite the resident's cognitive impairments and previous assessments indicating a risk of wandering, the facility did not recognize or report the incident as an elopement. The resident's care plan included interventions to prevent wandering, such as disguising exits and offering distractions, but these measures were not effective in preventing the resident from leaving the facility. On the day prior to the incident, the resident expressed a desire to walk to the store, which was denied by the charge nurse due to previous violations of the smoking policy. However, the following day, the resident managed to leave the facility unnoticed and was later retrieved by a CNA. Interviews with the facility's Administrator and DON revealed a lack of understanding and acknowledgment of the incident as an elopement. Both staff members did not report the incident to the state, believing it was a behavioral issue rather than an elopement. The facility's policy on abuse and neglect requires immediate reporting of such incidents, but this protocol was not followed, indicating a deficiency in the facility's response to potential neglect situations.
Failure to Follow Physician's Orders for Resident's Immediate Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident had proper physician's orders and that these orders were followed for immediate care upon admission. Specifically, the facility did not provide physician's orders for fingerstick blood sugar checks for a resident with Type 2 Diabetes and Morbid Obesity. Additionally, the facility did not consistently check the resident's blood pressure as per the physician's orders. This oversight was identified during a review of the resident's records and interviews with facility staff, including the resident's physician and nurses involved in the resident's care. The resident, a female with a history of Type 2 Diabetes and Morbid Obesity, was admitted to the facility with specific medication orders, including insulin and blood pressure medication. However, the facility did not document consistent blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring, which are critical for managing her conditions. Interviews with the facility's staff revealed a lack of clarity regarding who was responsible for writing and confirming the orders, and there was a noted gap in the training of nurses on the facility's electronic health care charting system. The Director of Nursing acknowledged the importance of regular monitoring for residents with such diagnoses, but the facility failed to implement these standard care practices effectively.
Failure to Implement Timely Baseline Care Plan for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement a baseline care plan within 48 hours of admission for a resident with Type 2 Diabetes and Morbid Obesity. The resident was admitted to the facility with a discharge medication list that included Insulin Glargine for diabetes and Lisinopril for high blood pressure. However, the baseline care plan was not completed until four days after admission and did not include instructions to address the resident's diabetes or physician orders. This oversight could place residents at risk of receiving inadequate care and services. Interviews revealed that the facility's nurses, including LVN A, had not been trained to create baseline care plans. The Director of Nursing (DON) admitted that she usually started the task of completing care plans, which are essential for guiding staff in providing care. The facility's admission checklist indicated that baseline care plans should be completed within the first 24 hours, but this was not adhered to in this case. The facility did not provide a care plan policy review before the exit.
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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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