PALMS CARE CENTER

1010 VENTURA AVENUE, CHOWCHILLA, CA 93610 (559) 665-4826
For profit - Limited Liability company 65 Beds AJC HEALTHCARE Data: November 2025 1 Immediate Jeopardy citation
Trust Grade
53/100
#432 of 1155 in CA
Last Inspection: April 2025

Within standard 12-15 month inspection cycle. Federal law requires annual inspections.

Overview

Palms Care Center has a Trust Grade of C, which means it is average and falls in the middle of the pack among nursing homes. It ranks #432 out of 1,155 facilities in California, placing it in the top half, and #2 out of 5 in Madera County, indicating it is one of the better local options. The facility is on an improving trend, with issues decreasing from 11 in 2024 to 8 in 2025. While staffing has a moderate rating of 3 out of 5 stars and a 37% turnover rate, which is below the state average, it has concerning RN coverage, being lower than 96% of California facilities. There are no fines on record, which is a positive sign. However, there are significant weaknesses to consider. A critical incident occurred where five residents were not properly assessed for the risk of entrapment with bed rails, leading to potential safety issues. Additionally, a serious incident involved a resident with a history of aggressive behavior who was left unsupervised, resulting in another resident sustaining an injury. Lastly, the facility failed to adequately display daily nurse staffing information, which could limit transparency for residents and their families. Overall, while Palms Care Center has some strengths, families should weigh these concerns when considering care options.

Trust Score
C
53/100
In California
#432/1155
Top 37%
Safety Record
High Risk
Review needed
Inspections
Getting Better
11 → 8 violations
Staff Stability
○ Average
37% turnover. Near California's 48% average. Typical for the industry.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most California facilities.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 12 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for California. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
⚠ Watch
39 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★★★★☆
4.0
Overall Rating
★★★☆☆
3.0
Staff Levels
★★★★☆
4.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2024: 11 issues
2025: 8 issues

The Good

  • 4-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover below average (37%)

    11 points below California average of 48%

Facility shows strength in quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 37%

Near California avg (46%)

Typical for the industry

Chain: AJC HEALTHCARE

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 39 deficiencies on record

1 life-threatening 1 actual harm
Apr 2025 8 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to meet professional standards of practice for two of 11...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to meet professional standards of practice for two of 11 sampled residents (Resident 28 and Resident 57) when: 1. Resident 28 sustained wounds due to continued itching and picking (pulling off dried skin and scabs) from her wounds on her right, left arms and right shoulder and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN)s did not notify the physician. This failure resulted in Resident 28 having open, bleeding and unhealing wounds which put Resident 28 at risk for infection and continued discomfort. 2. Resident 57's oxygen therapy (a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas essential to living organisms) was not administered per the physician order. This failure resulted in Resident 57 not receiving his oxygen therapy as ordered which had the potential to result in nasal dryness, shortness of breath, oxygen toxicity, and serious medical condition. Findings: 1. During a review of Resident 28's admission Record (AR - a summary of information regarding a patient which includes patient identification, past medical history, insurance status, care providers, family contact information and other pertinent information), dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated Resident 28 was admitted to the facility from an acute care hospital on [DATE] with diagnoses of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (when the blood sugar levels in the body are too high), depression (persistent feelings of sadness, despair, loss of energy, and difficulty dealing with normal daily life), muscle weakness, and abnormalities of gait (an unusual walking pattern). During a review of Resident 28's Minimum Data Set (MDS - a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive [mental processes] and physical functional level assessment), dated 2/6/25, the MDS section C indicated Resident 28 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS - a test given by medical professionals to determine cognitive (involving the process of thinking, learning and understanding) understanding on a scale of 1-15 ) score of 11 (a score of 0-7 suggests severe cognitive impairment, 8-12 suggests moderately impaired, 13-15 suggests cognitively intact), which suggested Resident 28 was moderately impaired. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/03/25 at 10:40 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1, Resident 28's Progress Notes dated 3/14/25 and 3/21/25 were reviewed. The Progress Note, dated 3/14/25 indicated, . The client was picking at their skin, resulting in open areas with minor bleeding. Bloody tissues were left on their dinner tray . LVN 1 stated there was no documentation of physician notification for Resident 28's continued picking of her wounds. LVN 1 stated the physician should have been notified so he could determine the proper care for Resident 28's wounds and behavior. LVN 1 stated Resident 28 was at risk of infection due to her open wounds. LVN 1 stated the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)s should have documented Resident 28's wounds during skin checks and should have notified the nurse of Resident 28 picking at her wounds. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/03/25 at 4:37 p.m. with the Pharmacist Consultant (PC), Resident 28's Order Summary Report, dated 4/3/25 was reviewed. The PC stated some pain medications could have caused itching, but he did not recall being notified Resident 28 had itching. The PC stated he did not evaluate residents but looked at nurses' notes when he did his monthly review. The PC stated he relied on nurses to let him know if there was anything significant going on with a resident. During an interview on 4/04/25 at 3:24 p.m. with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), the DSD stated staff should have checked Resident 28's skin every time they did skin care and during Resident 28's shower. The DSD stated her expectation was staff should have reported any wounds immediately to the charge nurse, so they could have notified the physician and received a treatment plan for Resident 28's wounds and prevented further skin breakdown. The DSD stated it was not okay for CNAs to have observed Resident 28 picking at her wounds and not report it to the charge nurse. During an interview on 4/04/25 at 4:14 p.m. with LVN 1, LVN 1 stated there were no paper log sheets for resident's bathing or showering skin checks. LVN 1 stated CNAs should have let the nurse know if there were any wounds and the nurse would have assessed the resident with the CNA. During a review of the facility policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Wound Treatment Management, dated 2024, indicated . To promote wound healing of various types of wounds, it is the policy of this facility to provide evidence-based treatments in accordance with current standards of practice and physician orders . wound treatments will be provided in accordance with physician orders, including the cleansing method, type of dressing, and frequency of dressing change . in the absence of treatment orders the licensed nurse will notify physician to obtain treatment orders . the effectiveness of treatments will be monitored through ongoing assessment of the wound . During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Licensed Vocational Nurse, undated, the document indicated . Observes for changes in residents' status, notifying the physician . performs wound treatments as per physicians' orders, observes for changes and documents accordingly . performs rounds to ensure resident needs are being met . During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Certified Nursing Assistant, undated, the document indicated . Assists with tracking the condition of the resident's skin. Reports any presence of pressure areas, skin breakdown or skin tears to nurse and supervisor . During a professional reference review obtained from https://www.jamda.com/article/S1525-8610(04)70066-3/abstract titled, Improving Communication Among Attending Physicians, Long-Term Care Facilities, Residents, and Residents' Families, dated March - April 2024, the professional reference review indicated, . effective bidirectional communication (data exchange between two parties) between attending physicians and long-term care facilities is of critical importance to ensure timely, appropriate, and high-quality care that is responsive to resident's needs . 2. During a review of Resident 57's AR, dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated, Resident 57 was admitted in the facility on 3/12/25, with diagnosis which included .Chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia (occurs when the lungs cannot adequately provide oxygen to the blood, leading to a chronic low oxygen level), heart failure (occurs when the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs), and pneumonia (a lung infection that inflames the air sacs and can lead to fluid buildup, making it difficult to breathe) . During a review of Resident 57's MDS assessment, dated 3/18/25, the MDS assessment indicated Resident 57's BIMS- assessment score was 9 out of 15 which indicated Resident 57 had moderate cognitive impairment. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/2/25 at 11:01 a.m. with LVN 1 in Resident 57's room, Resident 57 was observed lying in bed, eyes closed with his nasal cannula (a thin, flexible tube with two prongs that fit into the nostrils and deliver oxygen) in his nose. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had an order for oxygen therapy 2 LPM (liter per minute- a unit of measurement for the flow rate of oxygen) continuously through the nasal cannula. Resident 57's nasal cannula was observed connected to the oxygen concentrator (medical device that helps residents' breath). LVN 1 stated he observed Resident 57's oxygen concentrator on the right side of the bed turned on at 5 LPM. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had not received oxygen at 2 LPM. LVN 1 stated he was Resident 57's nurse and could not state how long Resident 57 received 5 LPM of oxygen therapy. LVN 1 could not state who increased Resident 57's oxygen therapy. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/2/25 at 11:05 a.m. with LVN 1, Resident 57's Order Summary Report, dated 4/2/25 was reviewed. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had an active order for, .Oxygen at 2 LPM via nasal cannula every shift . LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had not received oxygen at 2 LPM. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had not received oxygen therapy as per the physician order. LVN 1 stated it was important to follow all physician orders as prescribed. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 was at risk for nasal dryness and increased need for oxygen therapy requirements. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/2/25 at 11:09 a.m. with Respiratory Therapist (RT) 1, outside of Resident 57's room, RT 1 stated Resident 57 had chronic respiratory failure and required continuous oxygen therapy at 2 LPM . RT 1 stated Resident 57 was not in any respiratory distress and his oxygen therapy should not have been increased. RT 1 stated oxygen was a medication, and all medication orders were expected to be followed. RT 1 stated Resident 57 had not received his oxygen therapy as prescribed by the physician. RT 1 stated she was Resident 57's RT and could not state how long Resident 57 received 5 LPM of oxygen therapy. RT 1 could not state who increased Resident 57's oxygen therapy. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 4:32 p.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated oxygen therapy was a physician's order and was considered a medication. The DON stated all physician orders and medications must be administered as prescribed. The DON stated Resident 57's oxygen therapy was not administered as prescribed. The DON stated only physician's, Registered Nurses (RN), LVN's, and RT's were allowed to adjust the oxygen concentrator. The DON stated Resident 57 was at risk for shortness or breath with increased oxygen administration and oxygen toxicity. During a review of Resident 57's Order Summary Report, dated 4/3/25, the Order Summary Report indicated, Resident 57 had an active order for oxygen .at 2 Liters/Min via nasal cannula every shift . During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Oxygen Administration, undated, the P&P indicated, .Oxygen is administered to residents who need it, consistent with professional standards of practice .oxygen is administered under orders of a physician .personnel authorized to initiate oxygen therapy include physicians, RNs, LPNs, and respiratory therapists . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Medication Administration, undated, the P&P indicated, .Ensure that the six rights of medication administration are followed .right drug .right dosage . During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Licensed Vocational Nurse, undated, the document indicated, .Transcribes physician orders .and carries out orders as written .prepares and administers medications as per physicians' orders . During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Respiratory Therapist, undated, the document indicated, .Plans, develops, organizes, implements, evaluates, and directs the execution of respiratory care services in accordance with physician's orders . During a professional reference review retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19377391/ titled, The use of medical orders in acute care oxygen therapy, dated 2009, the professional reference review indicated, . Oxygen is considered to be a drug requiring a medical prescription and is subject to any law that covers its use and prescription . authorized by a physician following legal written instruction to a qualified nurse . 2. During a review of Resident 57's AR, dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated, Resident 57 was admitted in the facility on 3/12/25, with diagnosis which included .Chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia (occurs when the lungs cannot adequately provide oxygen to the blood, leading to a chronic low oxygen level), heart failure (occurs when the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs), and pneumonia (a lung infection that inflames the air sacs and can lead to fluid buildup, making it difficult to breathe) . During a review of Resident 57's MDS assessment, dated 3/18/25, the MDS assessment indicated Resident 57's BIMS- assessment score was 9 out of 15 which indicated Resident 57 had moderate cognitive impairment. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/2/25 at 11:01 a.m. with LVN 1 in Resident 57's room, Resident 57 was observed lying in bed, eyes closed with his nasal cannula (a thin, flexible tube with two prongs that fit into the nostrils and deliver oxygen) in his nose. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had an order for oxygen therapy 2 LPM (liter per minute- a unit of measurement for the flow rate of oxygen) continuously through the nasal cannula. Resident 57's nasal cannula was observed connected to the oxygen concentrator (medical device that helps residents' breath). LVN 1 stated he observed Resident 57's oxygen concentrator on the right side of the bed turned on at 5 LPM . LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had not received oxygen at 2 LPM. LVN 1 stated he was Resident 57's nurse and could not state how long Resident 57 received 5 LPM of oxygen therapy. LVN 1 could not state who increased Resident 57's oxygen therapy. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/2/25 at 11:05 a.m. with LVN 1, Resident 57's Order Summary Report, dated 4/2/25 was reviewed. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had an active order for, .Oxygen at 2 LPM via nasal cannula every shift . LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had not received oxygen at 2 LPM. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 had not received oxygen therapy as per the physician order. LVN 1 stated it was important to follow all physician orders as prescribed. LVN 1 stated Resident 57 was at risk for nasal dryness and increased need for oxygen therapy requirements. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/2/25 at 11:09 a.m. with Respiratory Therapist (RT) 1, outside of Resident 57's room, a picture of Resident 57's oxygen concentrator taken by the surveyor, dated 4/2/25 was reviewed. RT 1 stated the picture of the oxygen concentrator was Resident 57's RT 1 stated Resident 57's oxygen concentrator was on 5 LPM. RT 1 stated Resident 57 had chronic respiratory failure and required continuous oxygen therapy at 2 LPM . RT 1 stated she observed Resident 57 from the door way, outside Resident 57's room. RT 1 stated Resident 57 was not in respiratory distress and his oxygen therapy should not have been increased. RT 1 stated oxygen was a medication, and all medication orders were expected to be followed. RT 1 stated Resident 57 had not received his oxygen therapy as prescribed by the physician. RT 1 stated she was Resident 57's RT and could not state how long Resident 57 received 5 LPM of oxygen therapy. RT 1 could not state who increased Resident 57's oxygen therapy. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 4:32 p.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), a picture of Resident 57's oxygen concentrator taken by the surveyor, dated 4/2/25 was reviewed. The DON stated Resident 57's oxygen concentrator was turned on to 5 LPM and not the ordered 2 LPM. The DON stated oxygen therapy was a physician's order and was considered a medication. The DON stated all physician orders and medications must be administered as prescribed. The DON stated Resident 57's oxygen therapy was not administered as prescribed. The DON stated only physician's, Registered Nurses (RN), LVN's, and RT's were allowed to adjust the oxygen concentrator. The DON stated Resident 57 was at risk for shortness or breath with increased oxygen administration and oxygen toxicity. During a review of Resident 57's Order Summary Report, dated 4/3/25, the Order Summary Report indicated, Resident 57 had an active order for oxygen .at 2 Liters/Min via nasal cannula every shift . During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Oxygen Administration, undated, the P&P indicated, .Oxygen is administered to residents who need it, consistent with professional standards of practice .oxygen is administered under orders of a physician .personnel authorized to initiate oxygen therapy include physicians, RNs, LPNs, and respiratory therapists . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Medication Administration, undated, the P&P indicated, .Ensure that the six rights of medication administration are followed .right drug .right dosage . During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Licensed Vocational Nurse, undated, the document indicated, .Transcribes physician orders .and carries out orders as written .prepares and administers medications as per physicians' orders . During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Respiratory Therapist, undated, the document indicated, .Plans, develops, organizes, implements, evaluates, and directs the execution of respiratory care services in accordance with physician's orders . During a professional reference review retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19377391/ titled, The use of medical orders in acute care oxygen therapy, dated 2009, the professional reference review indicated, . Oxygen is considered to be a drug requiring a medical prescription and is subject to any law that covers its use and prescription . authorized by a physician following legal written instruction to a qualified nurse .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0679 (Tag F0679)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure one of five sampled residents (Resident 261) w...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure one of five sampled residents (Resident 261) was provided activities that met his preferences and interests to support mental and psychosocial well-being when Resident 261's developed activities did not match his interests or preference to write, draw or color. This failure had the potential for Resident 261 to result in isolation and decreased engagement in activities. Findings: During a review of Resident 261's admission Record (AR- a summary of information regarding a patient which includes patient identification, past medical history, insurance status, care providers, family contact information and other pertinent information), dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated, Resident 261 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnosis which included, .Convulsions (rapid, involuntary muscle contractions that cause uncontrollable shaking and limb movement) .hypertension (high blood pressure) and muscle weakness . During a review of Resident 261's Minimum Data Set (MDS- a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive [mental processes] and physical functional level assessment) assessment, dated 2/20/25, the MDS assessment indicated Resident 261's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS- a test given by medical professionals to determine cognitive (involving the process of thinking, learning and understanding) understanding on a scale of 1-15) score of 11 (a score of 0-7 suggests severe cognitive impairment, 8-12 suggests moderately impaired, 13-15 suggests cognitively intact) assessment score was 15 out of 15 which indicated Resident 261 had no cognitive impairment. During a review of Resident 261's Activities- Initial Review, dated 8/19/24, the Activities- Initial Review indicated, .likes .writing . During an interview on 4/1/25 at 10:00 a.m. with Resident 261, Resident 261 stated he did not participate in activities. Resident 261 stated the activities at the facility did not interest him. Resident 261 stated he liked to draw, color and write. Resident 261 stated he would enjoy participating in group activities if the facility had more drawing, writing and coloring activities. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 11:46 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1, Resident 261's Care Plan, dated 4/3/25 was reviewed. LVN 1 stated he was familiar with Resident 261. LVN 1 stated Resident 261 enjoyed drawing and coloring activities. LVN 1 stated Resident 261 was often observed coloring and drawing in his room. LVN 1 stated Resident 261's care plan did not reflect his preference and interest to draw, color or write. LVN 1 could not locate any progress activities notes in Resident 261's medical chart to reflect participation in coloring, drawing or writing in his room. LVN 1 stated Resident 261's care plan should have been updated to reflect his preferences and interests. LVN 1 stated he would expect activity progress notes to reflect Resident 261's participation or refusal to participate in activities independently. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 11:56 a.m. with the Activities Director (AD) 2, Resident 261's care plan, dated 4/3/25 was reviewed. AD 2 stated she was responsible to ensure activities met resident interests and preferences. AD 2 stated she was responsible to provide activities to residents within their room if they did not want to participate in the activity room. AD 2 stated she was responsible to update, review and revise all care plan and notes for resident participation in activities. AD 2 stated Resident 261's care plan did not reflect his preference and interest to draw, color or write. AD 2 stated it was important Resident 261's care plan and notes reflected his preferences and interests so all staff members could implement his choice of activities. AD 2 stated she participated in resident council on 2/19/25 and there was a request in the resident council meeting for more painting and coloring activities. AD 2 stated she did not add painting or coloring activities to the March calendar in response to resident council. AD 2 stated she added Residents Choice every Friday to the March activity calendar in response to resident council. AD 2 stated Resident Choice allowed each resident to choose which activity they wanted to participate in. AD 2 stated residents would need to ask for coloring, drawing or writing material if they chose those activities on Resident Choice days. During an interview on 4/3/25 at 4:32 p.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated she expected all preferences and interests to be reflected and implemented in care plans. The DON stated she expected all suggested activities in resident council to be implemented by the activities department. The DON stated it was important to implement activities that interested each resident to promote engagement. The DON stated Resident 261 was at risk for isolation and decreased engagement if his activity interests were not implemented. During a record review of Resident 261's Care Plan, dated 4/3/25, the Care Plan indicated, Resident 261 enjoyed watching television independently in his room. The Care Plan did not reflect Resident 261's interest to draw, color or write. During a review of the facility's document titled, In Room Resident Council, dated 2/19/25, the document indicated, .Issues, concerns or comments .paint rocks .more paintings and coloring pages .paint or decorate . During a review of the facility's document titled, Department Response Form, Department Activities, dated 2/19/25, the document indicated, .AD to add past activities to new coming months calendars . The document was signed as reviewed by the AD 2. During a review of the facility's document titled, Resident Council Minutes, dated 3/19/25, the document indicated, .New activities suggestions .more painting color .painting .arts and crafts . The document was signed as reviewed by the AD 2. During a review of the facility's activity calendar titled, January 2025, dated 1/2025, the document indicated, five days for coloring and four days for arts and crafts. During a review of the facility's activity calendar titled, February 2025, dated 2/2025, the document indicated, four days for arts and crafts and four days for residents' choice. During a review of the facility's activity calendar titled, March 2025, dated 3/2025, the document indicated, five days for arts and crafts and four days for residents' choice. During a review of the facility's activity calendar titled, April 2025, dated 3/2025, the document indicated, four days for arts and crafts and four days for residents choice. During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Activities Director, undated, the document indicated, .Assists in planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating all recreational, social, intellectual, emotional and spiritual programs, in accordance with facility policy, the resident's care plan, and as directed by supervisors . During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Comprehensive Care Plans, undated, the P&P indicated, .Resident specific interventions that reflect the resident's needs and preferences .the comprehensive care plan will be prepared by an interdisciplinary team, that includes .activities director/staff . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Resident Self Determination and Participation (Schedules), undated, the P&P indicated, .According to federal regulations, the resident has the right to .choose activities . consistent with his or her interests, assessments, and plans of care .activity staff should assist the resident to engage in meaningful activity during the day, according to preference .activity staff should assist in obtaining needed supplies or equipment, to assist the resident in developing a lifestyle in the facility similar to that at home (examples may include .writing paper and pencils .) .plans of care should be considerate of resident preferences and routines, to help avoid problem behaviors .activity staff should assist the resident in scheduling of daily activities so that all interests can be accommodated . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Activities, undated, the P&P indicated, .It is the policy of this facility to provide an ongoing program to support residents in their choice of activities based on their comprehensive assessment, care plan, and preferences. Facility-sponsored group, individual, and independent activities will be designed to meet the interests of each resident, as well as support their physical, mental and psychosocial well-being. Activities will encourage both independence and interaction with he community . activities will be designed with the intent to .create opportunities for each resident to have a meaningful life .promote or enhance emotional health .promote self-esteem, dignity, pleasure, comfort .independence .reflect resident's interests .reflect choices of the residents .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0801 (Tag F0801)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure the Registered Dietitian (RD) offered adequate c...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure the Registered Dietitian (RD) offered adequate consultation to support food and nutrition services, residents' assessments and the development of individualized care plans for one of six sampled residents (Resident 39), when RD did not follow up with weight changes for Resident 39. This failure had the potential to cause reduced quality of life and risk of weight loss, dehydration and delayed wound healing. Findings: During an interview on 4/1/25 at 9:22 a.m. with the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM), the CDM stated the Registered Dietitian (RD) was not onsite. CDM stated RD typically worked on Saturdays. During an interview on 4/2/25 at 9:11 a.m. with Kitchen Staff (KS) 1, KS 1 stated the RD did not do staff training; it was done by the CDM. During an interview on 4/2/25 at 2:51p.m. with the CDM, the CDM stated she was responsible for the day -to-day operations, ordering, and tray line audits. The CDM stated the RD conducted sanitation audits. The CDM stated for new admissions, she interviewed the residents and completed the nutritional screening, resident preferences, tray cards and verified supplements. The CDM stated the RD's working hours were not consistent, as he worked at another facility. During an interview on 4/2/25 at 3:01 p.m. with the RD, the RD stated he worked around five to seven hours a week and did not have set scheduled days. The RD stated he came in after he finished work at his other job. The RD stated he was responsible for overseeing the kitchen, completing the administrator checklist, checking temperature logs and monitoring weight changes and assessments. The RD stated he did not provide any trainings or in-services; all in-services were done by the CDM. The RD stated he did not typically encounter the kitchen staff since his hours varied so much. During an interview on 4/3/25 at 9:29 a.m. with the CDM, the CDM stated the Director of Nursing (DON) would email her and the RD a list of residents triggered for weight changes. The CDM stated they had weekly Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) meetings with the DON, activities, social services and therapy. The CDM stated the RD did not attend those meetings. During an interview on 4/3/25 at 4:18 p.m. with the Administrator (ADM), the ADM stated the expectation for the dietitian was to be at the facility six to eight hours a week. The ADM stated he was expected to complete the sanitation reports and oversee the CDM. The ADM stated the RD was supposed to communicate with the DON about clinical issues related to resident weights. The ADM stated he wanted RD to work more hours to fulfill his job duties. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 4:56 p.m. with the DON, progress note dated 3/17/25 was reviewed. The progress note indicated, Resident 39 had a five-pound weight loss in a week. The DON stated she did not know if RD was made aware of the weight loss for Resident 39. The DON stated the RD came in on Saturdays. The DON stated the RD only wrote one note in Resident 39's chart since January and no follow up notes since then. The DON stated the RD was not involved nor present in IDT meetings. The DON stated the RD probably should be involved in residents nutritional needs, because he was the one the facility turned to for guidance to ensure the residents received adequate calories. The DON stated they relied on the RD for all recommendations. The DON stated it would be nice to have the RD at the facility more often. The DON stated she emailed the RD and CDM the weekly weights that were triggered for weight gain or loss. The DON stated the RD was to send his recommendation. The DON stated it was his job to oversee the resident's weights. The DON stated in February and March the RD did not complete the Dietitian Nutritional Recommendations for Resident 39 even though Resident 39 was still triggered for weight change. The DON stated the Dietitian Nutritional Recommendations should have been done weekly until the resident was no longer triggered for weight changes. The DON stated she did not know if the RD was aware of Resident 39's weight fluctuation. The DON stated she did not know if the RD was able to fulfill his job duties due to the time spent at the facility. The DON stated she believed RD could have been seeing more residents and providing more dietary recommendations, if he come to the facility more often. The DON stated the RD did not create care plan for residents. The DON stated there were gaps in the recommendations he sent for February and March. During a review of the Offer Letter-Registered Dietitian dated 10/20/23, indicated the RD accepted the position as the Registered Dietitian. During a review of Dietitian Job Description dated 2023, indicated, the RD .The RD assessed and monitored the resident's nutritional status and provided recommendations to clinical/medical staff . Developed and updated nutritional care plans as needed .observed resident meal service to ensure diets were correct and modifications were followed .worked with other members of the interdisciplinary team to ensure that modified texture or therapeutic diets were in compliance with the residents medical condition .Conducted audits of relevant nutritional care on a routine basis .monitored residents for weight changes, nutrition support, and skin breakdown and made recommendations as needed . During a review of Employee Timecards dated 10/2024 through 3/2025 the RD worked these many hours per month: October 2024- 18.7 hours November 2024- 8 hours December 2024- 11 hours January 2025- 34.5 hours February 2025- 9.8 hours March 2025- 16.5 hours During a review of the State requirements professional reference titled, Title 22 California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section §72351 Dietic Service Staff,, indicated, . (a) A registered dietitian shall be employed on a full-time, part-time or consulting basis. Part-time or consultant services shall be provided on the premises at appropriate times on a regularly scheduled basis and of sufficient duration and frequency to provide continuing liaison with medical and nursing staffs, advice to the administrator, patient counseling, guidance to the supervisor and staff of the dietetic service, approval of all menus and participation in development or revision of dietetic policies and procedures and in planning and conducting in-service education programs. During the review of Resident 39's admission Record (AR- a summary of information regarding a patient which includes patient identification, past medical history, insurance status, care providers, family contact information and other pertinent information), dated 6/15/23, the AR indicated Resident 39 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with the diagnosis of: hemiplegia (total loss of movement of the arm, leg and trunk on the same side of the body), gastrostomy (a surgical opening fitted with a device to allow feedings to be administered directly to the stomach common for people with swallowing problems), and cerebrovascular accident (CVA-stroke, loss of blood flow to part of the brain). During a review of Resident 39's Minimum Data Set (MDS-a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive [mental processes] and physical functional level assessment), dated 1/20/25, the MDS section C indicated Resident 39 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS- a test given by medical professionals to determine cognitive (involving the process of thinking, learning and understanding) understanding on scale of 1-15) score of 3 (a score of 0-7 suggests severe cognitive impairment, 8-12 suggests moderately impaired, 13-15 suggests cognitively intact), which suggested Resident 39 had severe cognitive impairment. During a review of Care Plan Report dated 1/24/25, indicated of all Resident 39's active care plans, none of them were created by the RD. During a review of Dietitian Nutritional Recommendations dated 1/9/25, indicated Resident 39 was flagged for having a five percent change in their weight. The RD reviewed the case and recommended a decrease in the formula (is a diet designed to meet the needs of patients who require full or partial tube feeding). During a review of a Progress Note dated 1/12/25, indicated the RD made a formula change to address Resident 39's weight gain of sixteen pounds over six months. The RD recommended decreasing the Resident 39's formula from eight cans to seven per day. During a review of the Revised 2024 Scope and Standards of Practice for Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) from the Commission on Dietetic Registration the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, indicated, RDNs (RDs) are the most qualified to provide Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), a cost-effective, essential component of comprehensive nutrition care. It indicated RDs in clinical practice provide person centered nutrition care and MNT use the Nutrition Care Process (NCP- is a systematic problem-solving method that credentialed nutrition and dietetics practitioners use to critically think and make decisions when providing MNT or to address nutrition-related problems and provide safe and effective quality nutrition care. The NCP consists of four distinct, interrelated steps: Nutrition Assessment and Reassessment, Nutrition Diagnosis, Nutrition Intervention, and Nutrition Monitoring and Evaluation). It indicated in Standard 7 (seven) providing person-/population-centered nutrition care, the registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) conducts nutrition care process and workflow elements to identify and address nutrition-related problems which a RDN is responsible for treating. It indicated the RD: .7.2 Conducts nutrition assessment . 7.2.5 Obtains and assesses findings from nutrition-focused physical exam (NFPE) .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Medical Records (Tag F0842)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure accurate and complete medical records in accordance with pro...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure accurate and complete medical records in accordance with professional standards of practices were maintained for one of seven sampled residents (Resident 28), when the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST- a form that contains written medical orders for healthcare professionals regarding specific medical treatments that can or cannot be done at the end-of life) was not accurate and complete. This failure had the potential for Resident 28's decisions regarding treatment options and end of life wishes to not be honored. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on [DATE] at 11:22 a.m. with Resident 28 in Resident 28's room, Resident 28 was observed dressed in bed. Resident 28 could not state how she was doing. Resident 28 stated she had been at the facility for four to five weeks. During a review of Resident 28's admission Record (AR - a summary of information regarding a patient which includes patient identification, past medical history, insurance status, care providers, family contact information and other pertinent information), dated [DATE], the AR indicated Resident 28 was admitted to the facility from an acute care hospital on [DATE] with diagnoses of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (when the blood sugar levels in the body are too high), depression (persistent feelings of sadness, despair, loss of energy, and difficulty dealing with normal daily life), muscle weakness, and abnormalities of gait (an unusual walking pattern). During a review of Resident 28's Minimum Data Set (MDS - a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive [mental processes] and physical functional level assessment), dated [DATE], the MDS section C indicated Resident 28 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS - a test given by medical professionals to determine cognitive (involving the process of thinking, learning and understanding) understanding on a scale of 1-15 ) score of 11 (a score of 0-7 suggests severe cognitive impairment, 8-12 suggests moderately impaired, 13-15 suggests cognitively intact), which suggested Resident 28 was moderately impaired. During a concurrent interview and record review on [DATE] at 10:40 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1 Resident 28's POLST undated was reviewed. The POLST indicated, the section for date the form prepared was undated, signature of patient or legally recognized decisionmaker which included: name, signature, mailing address, phone number, relationship, and date were not filled in, signed, or dated. LVN 1 stated the resident or responsible party (RP)'s signature section was not completed. LVN 1 stated Resident 28's POLST was not complete. LVN 1 stated Resident 28, or her RP should have signed and dated the POLST form. LVN 1 stated the resident's signature verified the POLST was discussed with the resident, and she agreed with the POLST orders. LVN 1 stated the Medical Records department was responsible for making sure resident's forms were complete before they were scanned into the resident's records. During a concurrent interview and record review on [DATE] at 4:56 p.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), Resident 28's POLST undated was reviewed. The POLST indicated sections of the Date Prepared and Signature of Patient or Legally Recognized Decisionmaker were not filled in. The DON stated the resident or RP's signature should have been completed. The DON stated her expectation was for residents' POLSTs to be completed on admission. The DON stated the POLST was considered a physician order, and the physician should sign and date the POLST form. DON stated the nurse would have followed up with the incomplete POLST since it had the physician's signature. The DON stated Resident 28's POLST was not complete due to no resident or RP signature. The DON stated before the POLST was scanned into Resident 28's chart, Medical Records Clerk should have made sure it was complete. The DON stated if Resident 28's POLST was not complete, they should have given it back to the Social Services Director (SSD) to have it signed by Resident 28 or her RP. The DON stated the POLST was important so staff would know what to do if there was a change in the resident's condition, or if the resident needed a higher level of care and needed to be transferred to the hospital. The DON stated if a resident had no pulse, the POLST let staff know what emergency care they could do such as give cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR - an emergency lifesaving procedure performed when the heart stops beating) or place a G-tube (a surgical opening fitted with a device to allow feedings to be administered directly to the stomach for people with swallowing problems). The DON stated if the resident's POLST was not complete, there was a risk for the resident's end-of-life wishes for treatment of not being met. During a review of the facility job description document titled, Medical Records Clerk, undated, the document indicated, . Ensures incomplete records/charts are returned to appropriate department or personnel for corrections . ensures resident records are properly completed, assembled, coded, etc., before filing . During a review of the facility job description document titled, Social Services Director, undated, the document indicated, . The Social Services Director will oversee the process of Advance Care Planning for each resident upon admission . The Director will ensure that staff members are made aware of the resident's code status and end-of-life wishes and will assist with informing and educating residents and their representatives about health care options and ramifications . Policy and Procedure for Medical Records/Accuracy of Resident Records was requested multiple times and not receives.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0919 (Tag F0919)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure call lights were within reach for two of six sam...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure call lights were within reach for two of six sampled residents (Resident 4 and 9) when call lights were observed on the floor and tucked in bedside drawers out of resident reach. These failures had the potential for Resident 4 and 9 to have delayed medical attention, increased risk of falls, prolonged discomfort or pain, feelings of isolation and anxiety (feeling of worry or nervousness), and in severe cases, life-threatening situations. Findings: During a review of Resident 4's admission Record (AR- a document that provides resident contact details, a brief medical history, level of functioning, preferences, and wishes) dated 5/23/24, the AR indicated, Resident 4 was readmitted on [DATE] with the diagnosis of: congestive heart failure (CHF- a heart disorder which causes the heart to not pump the blood efficiently, sometimes resulting in leg swelling), diabetes mellitus ( DM-a disorder characterized by difficulty in blood sugar control and poor wound healing) and adult failure to thrive (a decline caused by chronic diseases and functional impairments which can cause weight loss, decreased appetite, poor nutrition and inactivity). During a review of Resident 4's Minimum Data Set (MDS- resident assessment tool which indicated physical and cognitive (the way we think and learn) abilities), dated 2/27/25, the MDS indicated, a Brief Interview for Metal Status (BIMS- an assessment of cognitive function) score of 15 out of 15 total score (0-7 severe cognitive impairment, 8-12 moderate cognitive impairment, 13-15 no cognitive impairment), which indicated Resident 4 had no cognitive impairment. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/1/25 at 12:33 p.m. in Resident 4's room, Resident 4 was observed lying in bed with no call light. The call light was observed on the floor and out of reach. Resident 4 stated he could not get a hold of staff when the call light was on the floor. During the review of Resident 9's admission Record, dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated Resident 9 was admitted on [DATE] with the diagnosis of: dementia (a progressive state of decline in mental abilities), bipolar disorder (sometimes called manic-depressive disorder; mood swings that range from the lows of depression to elevated periods of emotional highs) and muscle weakness (decreased strength in muscles). During a review of Resident 9's MDS, dated 3/14/25, the MDS indicated a BIMS score of four, which indicated Resident 4 had severe cognitive impairment. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/3/25 at 9:22 a.m. in Resident 9's room, Resident 9 was observed to hit the wall of her room to get staff attention because her call light was out of reach. Resident 9 stated it was difficult to get staff's attention without a call light, as she was supposed to call for help. During an interview with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 4 on 4/3/25 at 9:41 a.m., CNA 4 stated the residents needed to have their call lights within reach so they could get help. CNA 4 stated if the call light was not accessible, the resident would not have been able to call for help, which could have led to a fall and potential injury. During an interview with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1 on 4/3/25 at 11:49 a.m., LVN 1 stated, Call lights were supposed to be within the resident's reach, not on the floor or stuffed in a drawer. LVN 1 stated residents would be at risk for falling if they got out of bed on their own because they could not find their call light. During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 4/3/25 at 4:56 p.m. the DON stated it was her expectation for staff to ensure call lights be within Residents' reach. The DON stated, Call lights should not be on the floor or stuffed in a drawer. The DON stated the risk to the resident was that if they needed help, they could not get a hold of staff, and the resident could potentially fall while getting up unassisted. During a review of the facilities policy and procedure (P & P) titled Call lights: Accessibility and Timely Response, dated 8/2024, the P&P indicated, .Staff will ensure the call light is within reach of the resident .will be accessible to the resident while in bed .
CONCERN (E)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered care plan (CP - a detailed approach to care customized to an individual resident's needs) for three of 14 sampled residents (Resident 28, 37, 41) when: 1. Resident 37's CP did not address Resident 37's preference to maintain an ileostomy (is a surgical procedure where the end of the small intestine (ileum is brought through an opening in the abdomen (stoma) to allow waste to exit the body through a bag instead of the anus) and to manage the associated risk. This failure placed Resident 37 at risk for stoma complications and not to honor residents' choice while ensuring proper care. 2. Resident 41's CP was not developed to address the ongoing medication refusal. This failure had the potential for resident 41 to experience severe and serious medical complications. 3. Resident 28 did not have an individualized care plan for self-harm indicated by pulling dried skin and scabs off her wounds (picking) on her right and left arms and right shoulder causing bleeding and unhealing wounds. This failure placed Resident 28 at an increased risk for wound infection, pain and discomfort. 4. Resident 28's CP was not implemented to provide a toileting schedule (a schedule that instructed Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)s to assist Residents to the toilet every 2 hours) and adequate supervision and assistance to prevent falls. This Failure resulted in Resident 28 attaining an unwitnessed fall and put Resident 28 at risk for further falls. Findings: 1. During a review of Resident 37's admission Record (AR- a summary of important information regarding a patient which include patient identification, past medical history, insurance status, care providers, family contact information and other pertinent information), dated 4/4/25, the AR indicated, Resident 37 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with a diagnosis of Protein-calorie Malnutrition (is the state of inadequate intake of food), Supraventricular Tachycardia (a rapid heart rhythm problem where the heart beats too fast), Anxiety (emotion characterized by feelings of unease, worry, or fear), and Ileostomy . During a review of Resident 37's Minimum Data Set (MDS - a resident assessment tool used to identify resident cognitive and physical function assessment, dated 3/8/25, the MDS assessment indicated Resident 37's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS -assessment of cognitive status for memory and judgment assessment score was 15 out of 15 (a score of 13-15 indicates cognitively intact, 08-12 indicates moderately impaired, and 00-07 indicates severe impairment). The BIMS assessment indicated Resident 37 was cognitively intact. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/1/25 at 10:08 a.m. with Resident 37, in Resident 37's room, Resident 37 was observed to have a stoma (surgical opening in the abdomen to allow fecal waste to exit the body into a bag) on the right side of the abdomen, and was uncover. Resident 37 was observed cleaning the stoma with a white washcloth. Resident 37 was observed having a clear large plastic bag filled with white washcloths to the left-hand side on the bed. Resident 37 stated she had an ileostomy. Resident 37 stated the bag over the stoma bothered the stoma area and rather keep the bag off the stoma. Resident 37 stated the nurses could not get the bag to stick on correctly, causing the bag to leak. Resident 37 stated when the bag got too full it bothered her. Resident 37 stated the plastic bag next to her had clean towels inside, her family brought back to the facility after washing the towels. Resident 37 stated she would clean and took care of the stoma using the washcloths to manage the fecal waste coming out of the stoma. During a review of Resident 37's Physician Order (PO), dated 3/1/25, the PO indicated, . Order date: 3/1/25 . Communication Method: Prescriber written . Order Summary: Ileostomy care .every shift . During a review of Resident 37's Electronic Medical Record (EMR), on 4/2/25, the EMR indicated no CP was developed for Resident 37's preferred ileostomy care. During an interview on 4/2/25 at 10:22 a.m. with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 2, CNA 2 stated Resident 37 did not like to have the ileostomy bag over the stoma. CNA 2 stated Resident 37 would care for the stoma and the fecal waste with towels her family brought to her. CNA 2 stated Resident 37 did not like the ileostomy bag on because it bothered her, and the bag would get too full too quick. During a review of Resident 37's Hospice Notes (notes created by an individual who is providing care and comfort support to a person terminal ill), on 4/3/25, the Hospice notes indicated, . Reports her ileostomy bag fills very rapidly when she eats anything .she does not want to empty the bag in the middle of a meal .loosing her appetite when she sees her bag fill up During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/2/25 at 2:49 p.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) 3, LVN 3 stated Resident 37 did not have a person centered CP in place for stoma care. LVN 3 stated the CP should be in place indicating resident 37 choice to keep the stoma uncovered. LVN 3 stated the CP was important because it insured everyone who provide care for Resident 37 had the appropriate information needed to provide person centered care. During an interview on 4/3/25 at 11:05 a.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated CP were important for all residents. DON stated her expectation was for the CP to be created on time and updated as needed. During a review of the facility's Policy and Procedure P&P titled, Comprehensive CP, dated 2025, the P&P indicated, .It is the policy of this facility to develop . the comprehensive person-centered CP for each resident . focus on the resident as the locus of control and support the resident .Resident specific interventions that reflect the residents needs and preferences .Qualified staff responsible for carrying out interventions specified in the care plan will be notified of their roles and responsibilities for carrying out the interventions .and when changes are made . 2. During a review of Resident 41's AR, dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated, Resident 41 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with a diagnosis of Epilepsy [a chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures(uncontrolled jerking body movements)], Atrial Fibrillation (heart beat irregularly and rapidly), Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA- a medical condition where blood flow to the brain is briefly blocked), and Hypertension (a condition where the force of blood pushing against the artery [A blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to tissues and organs in the body] walls is consistently too high, meaning the heart has to work harder to pump blood. That can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.) During a review of Resident 41's MDS dated [DATE], the MDS assessment indicated Resident 41's BIMS assessment score was 13 out of 15. The BIMS assessment indicated Resident 41 was cognitively intact. During an interview on 4/1/25 at 4:07 p.m. with Resident 41's Responsible Party (RP), RP stated she was the person of contact for Resident 41. RP stated Resident 41 was admitted into the facility 1/7/25. RP stated Resident had a stroke in the past and began to care for her at home and can no long care for her. RP stated she has not been contacted by the facility to inform her of any changes to Resident 4's condition. During a review of Resident 41's Medication administration Record (MAR- a standardized record that organizes essential information about a patient and their prescribed medications), dated 3/2025, the MAR indicated, .Apixaban (a type of medicine helps prevent harmful blood clots from forming] Oral (by mouth) Tablet 5 milligrams- (MG-a unit of measurement used to measure the dosage of medication] give 1 tablet by mouth two times a day for [for stroke prevention] related atrial fibrillation .start date 1/8/25. The MAR indicated Resident 41 refused the medication twice a day for 24 days out of 31 days. During a review of Resident 41's MAR dated 3/2025, the MAR indicated, Levtiracetam (medication for seizures) 500 MG give two tablets two times a day for seizures .start date 1/8/25. The MAR indicated Resident 41 refused medication twice a day for 24 days out of 31 days in March. During a review of Resident 41's MAR dated 3/2025, the MAR indicated Metoprolol Succiate (medication to lower blood pressure and heartrate) 50 MG 1 tablet by mouth one time a day for high blood pressure .start date 1/8/25, was refused by Resident 41, 27 days out of 31 days in March. During a review of Resident 41's MAR dated 3/2025, the MAR indicated Lisinopril (medication used to lower blood pressure.) .start date 1/8/25 ., 5 MG 1 tablet by mouth one time a day for high blood pressure, was refused by resident 41, 27 days out of 31 days in March. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 10:21 a.m. with LVN 2 , Resident 41's MAR and CP was review. LVN 2 stated Resident 41's CP for medication refusal and interventions was not created. LVN 2 stated nurses were expected to care plan residents' refusal with person centered interventions. LVN 2 stated after every refusal, the RP and medical doctor should be notified and document the responses. LVN 2 stated a CP should have been created for Resident 41. LVN 2 stated Resident 41 was at risk for health decline refusing medications. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 11:05 a.m. with the DON, Resident 41's CP and progress (a record of how the residents respond to treatment or services) notes were reviewed. The DON stated she expected the refusal of medication to be documented with Resident 41's reason of refusals, what person-centered education information was provided, with the Residents 47' s' response and to notify the RP, and medical doctor. The [NAME] stated it was important documentation reflected education provided to Resident 41 to ensure she received accurate and ongoing education. The DON stated it was important resident 41's refusals were care planned to ensure interventions were in place to ensure ongoing education of medication importance. During an interview on 4/3/25 at 4:33 p.m. with Medical Doctor (MD), the MD stated he expected nursing staff to provide education on risk and benefits of not taking medication as ordered. The MD stated he expected the nursing staff to contact and inform Resident 41's RP of every refusal. The MD stated he expected nursing staff to document risks and benefit as provided to Resident 41. The MD stated it was important to document the risks and benefits that were explained to Resident 41 to ensure she received education . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Comprehensive CP, dated 2025, the P&P indicated, .It is the policy of this facility to develop . the comprehensive person-centered CP for each resident . focus on the resident as the locus of control and support the resident .Resident specific interventions that reflect the residents needs and preferences .Qualified staff responsible for carrying out interventions specified in the care plan will be notified of their roles and responsibilities for carrying out the interventions .and when changes are made . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Refusal of Treatment/Medication, dated 8/11, the P&P indicated, .Resident refuses treatment .the charge nurse, or DON will interview them to determine what and why they refuse . detailed information relating to the refusal must be entered into the resident's medical record . Documentation .shall include . medication or treatment refused; .response and reason(s) for refusal; . resident was informed to the extent of their ability to understand of the purpose of the treatment and the consequences of not receiving the medication/or treatment . Date and time the physician was notified as well as physicians response . 3. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/01/25 at 11:22 a.m. in Resident 28's room, Resident 28 was observed dressed, lying in bed with uncovered wounds on her right and left arms and right shoulder. Resident 28 was observed pulling dried skin and scabs off from her shoulder. Resident 28 stated she picked at her wounds because they itched. Resident 28 stated she was not getting medication for the itching. During a review of Resident 28's AR , dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated Resident 28 was admitted to the facility from an acute care hospital on [DATE] with diagnoses of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (when the blood sugar levels in the body are too high), depression (persistent feelings of sadness, despair, loss of energy, and difficulty dealing with normal daily life), muscle weakness, and abnormalities of gait (an unusual walking pattern). During a review of Resident 28's MDS - , dated 2/6/25, the MDS section C indicated Resident 28 had a BIMS score of 11 out of 15 , which suggested Resident 28 was moderately impaired. During an interview on 4/02/25 at 2:33 p.m. with CNA 1, CNA 1 stated Resident 28 picked at her wounds because she was anxious. CNA 1 stated this was a behavior of Resident 28. CNA 1 stated she did not know if Resident 28 was given medication for her wounds. CNA 1 stated she reported Resident 28's behavior and wounds to the nurse. CNA 1 stated Resident 28 had picked at the same wounds, and they were not healing, During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/03/25 at 10:40 a.m. with LVN 1, Resident 28's CP, undated was reviewed. The CP indicated there was no care plan developed and implemented regarding Resident 28 harming herself by picking at her wounds, and no interventions for the care of her wounds. LVN 1 stated Resident 28 was non-compliant with picking at her wounds. LVN 1 stated Resident 28 should have had a CP for her wound care and behavior and should have been put on alert charting for monitoring. LVN 1 stated CPs were important so nurses and CNAs would have continued follow up on resident's goals and would have known if assistance was needed when caring for residents. LVN 1 stated the CPs helped make sure resident's goals and objectives were complete. LVN 1 stated if there was no CP in place, the resident's level of care may not have been met. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/03/25 at 4:56 p.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), Resident 28's CP, undated was reviewed. The DON stated there was no care plan in place regarding Resident 28 picking at her wounds. The DON stated she was notified yesterday of Resident 28 picking at her arms and shoulder. The DON stated Resident 28 should have had a care plan for picking at her wounds so staff would have known Resident 28's plan of care and , what interventions were in place to care for Resident 28's wounds. The DON stated the CP helped staff deliver a personalized plan of care and informed staff how to take care of each resident. The DON stated Resident 28's wounds could have gotten worse and had put Resident 28 at risk for infection. 4. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/01/25 at 11:22 a.m. with Resident 28 in Resident 28's room, Resident 28 was observed dressed, lying in bed. Resident 28 stated she did not know how she was doing. Resident 28 stated she had been at the facility for four to five weeks. Observed fall mats on the right side of Resident 28's bed. Resident 28 stated she had fallen while she had been at the facility. Stated she did not know when she fell. Resident 28 stated her right leg did not work. Resident 28 stated she had gone to the hospital, but did not know if she went to the hospital because of her fall. Resident 28 observed changing position to sit up in bed and move her legs over the side of her bed to attempt to get out of bed. Resident 28 stated she needed to use the restroom. Resident 28 stated she needed help to get to her wheelchair. Observed wheelchair at foot of Resident 28's bed out of reach. During an interview on 4/2/25 at 2:33 p.m. with CNA 1, CNA 1 stated CNAs should have been going to resident rooms every two hours to check on residents and made rounds regularly by going up and down the hallway. CNA 1 stated Resident 28 had a couple of falls. CNA 1 stated she did not know why Resident 28 fell. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/02/25 at 3:03 p.m. with the Social Services Director (SSD), Resident 28's Interdisciplinary Post Event Note, dated 3/14/25 was reviewed. The Interdisciplinary Post Event Note indicated, . Root cause is she (Resident 28) often calls out for help because she doesn't understand how to use the call light because she is confused . The SSD stated the therapy department was to follow up with Resident 28 to educate on her environmental awareness and use of her call light. During an interview on 4/03/25 at 10:40 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1, LVN 1 stated the nurse was responsible for assessing residents for falls. LVN 1 stated if the resident had a fall, the nurse would have assessed the resident after the fall to be sure there were no injuries that would have put the resident at immediate risk. LVN 1 stated the nurse would have assisted the resident to a proper position to be sure the resident was safe, checked the resident's orientation level, called the resident's physician and Responsible Party (RP). LVN 1 stated the nurse would have performed an assessment for a Change of Condition (COC) in the resident's status, and if the resident hit their head, the nurse would have performed neurological (relating to the nervous system) checks for the first two hours. LVN 1 stated neurological checks would have also been performed if the resident's fall was unwitnessed. LVN 1 stated nurses would have put the resident on alert charting after a fall, inform the resident's family, and monitor the resident throughout their shift. The nurse revised the resident's care plan, and the DON sent the reporting to the appropriate facilities. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/03/25 at 4:56 p.m. with the DON, the DON stated Resident 28 had a fall on 3/14/25 which resulted in no injuries. The DON stated after a resident had a fall, the IDT would review the fall note in the system and go over the root cause of the fall. The DON stated the IDT would come up with therapy or activity recommendations for the resident. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/04/25 at 3:24 p.m. with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), Resident 28's Fall Risk Assessment, dated 1/30/25 was reviewed. The Fall Risk Assessment indicated Resident 28 had a fall risk score of 11.0, which was considered a high risk for falls. The DSD stated Resident 28 was a high fall risk resident and staff should have been checking on Resident 28 at least every two hours. Resident 28's CP, undated was reviewed. The CP indicated, . Date Initiated 01/31/25 . Revision on: 02/3/25 . Interventions . anticipate and meet needs. Be sure call light is within reach and respond promptly to all requests for assistance . Date Initiated: 01/31/25 . resident to be on a toileting schedule . Date Initiated: 02/03/25 . The DSD stated staff should have checked Resident 28 every two hours for toileting needs. The DSD stated checking residents more frequently than every two hours was important as it provided closer monitoring for residents who were at a higher risk for falls. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Comprehensive Care Plans, dated 2025, indicated, . It is the policy of this facility to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered care plan for each resident, consistent with resident rights, that includes measurable objectives and timeframes to meet a resident's medical, nursing, and mental and psychosocial needs .and meet professional standards of quality . [care and all services are provided according to accepted standards of clinical practice] . resident specific interventions that reflect the resident's needs .
CONCERN (E)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to ensure an infection prevention and control program was...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to ensure an infection prevention and control program was maintained for 7 of 14 sampled residents (Resident 4, 9, 10, 22, 48, 50, and 261), when: 1. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1 and LVN 2 did not perform hand hygiene [cleaning hands by handwashing with soap and water or the use of an antiseptic hand rub, also known as alcohol-based rub (ABHR)] between Resident 10, 22, 48, 50, and 261 during medication administration. This failure had increased risk of cross-contamination (the process by which bacteria or other microorganisms are unintentionally transferred from one substance or object to another, with harmful effects) and the spread of infection. 2. Resident 4's oxygen nasal cannula (O2 NC- a tube that directs oxygen into the nose) tubing was observed not in a protective bag on top of the oxygen concentrator (medical device that supplies oxygen-enriched air to help people breathe easier). This failure placed Resident 4 at risk for cross contamination which could result in infection and illness. 3. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 4 did not perform hand hygiene after leaving a resident room and before entering and exiting Resident 9's room. This failure had the potential to cause cross contamination and the spread of harmful pathogens (tiny germs like bacteria or viruses) from one resident 's environment to another, leading to potential infections. Findings: 1. During an observation of medication administration on 4/2/25 at 11:31 a.m. LVN 1 and LVN 2 were observed administering afternoon medications to Resident 10, 22, 48, 50, and 261. LVN 1 and LVN 2 did not perform hand hygiene between administering the medications to residents. During a review of Resident 10's Minimum Data Set (MDS-a resident assessment tool used to identify resident cognitive[mental processes], physical functional level assessment), dated 12/18/24, the MDS section C indicated Resident 10's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS- a test given by medical professionals to determine cognitive(involving the process of thinking, learning and understanding) understanding on a scale of 1-15) score was 15 out of 15 (0-6 severe cognitive impairment, 7-12 moderately impaired, 13-15 cognitively intact) which indicated Resident 10 was cognitively intact. During a review of Resident 22's MDS assessment dated [DATE], the MDS assessment indicated Resident 22's BIMS assessment score was 12 out of 15 which indicated Resident 22 had moderately impaired. During a review of Resident 48's MDS assessment dated [DATE], the MDS assessment indicated Resident 48's BIMS assessment score was 00 out of 15 which indicated Resident 22 had severe cognitive impairment. During a review of Resident 50's MDS assessment dated [DATE], the MDS assessment indicated Resident 50's BIMS assessment score was 13 out of 15 which indicated Resident 22 was cognitively intact. During a review of Resident 261's MDS assessment dated [DATE], the MDS assessment indicated Resident 261's BIMS assessment score was 15 out of 15 which indicated Resident 22 was cognitively intact. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/2/25 at 11:31 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1 in the south hall, during afternoon medication administration. LVN 1 was observed administering medications to Resident 10, 22 and 261 without performing hand hygiene. LVN 1 stated hand sanitizer should have used before and after entering the residents' rooms. LVN 1 stated it was important to wash hands between residents during medication pass to reduce the risk of infection for other residents. During an observation on 4/2/25 at 11:57 a.m. LVN 2, was observed in the East Hall exiting Resident 48's room and entering Resident 50's room without performing hand hygiene during afternoon medication administration. During an interview on 4/2/25 at 11:57 a.m. with LVN 2, LVN 2 stated that hand washing should be done after three to four residents. LVN 2 stated she did not perform hand washing because the sink was far. The LVN stated the hand hygiene was important for residents because it places them at risk for cross contamination. During an interview on 4/4/25 at 11:22 p.m. with Infection Preventionist (IP-professionals who make sure healthcare workers and health facilities are doing all the things they should to prevent infections from spreading), the IP stated her expectation was to perform hand hygiene before entering the residents' rooms, coming out of the residents' rooms, before and after resident care and between residents during medication administration. The IP stated staff was expected to wash hands with soap and water after care for residents who are on Enhanced Barrier Precaution (EBP- an infection control intervention to reduce transmission of infections). The IP stated hand hygiene was important to prevent cross contamination and the spread of infections. During a review of facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Medication Administration, dated 4/2024, the P&P indicated, . Wash hands prior to administering medication . During a review of facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Hand Hygiene, dated 5/2024, the P&P indicated, .All staff will perform proper hand hygiene procedures to prevent the spread of infection . 2. During an observation on 4/1/25 at 10:08 a.m. in Resident 16's room, Resident 16's oxygen NC tubing was observed not in a protective bag on top of the oxygen concentrator and in direct contact with the wall. During a review of Resident 16's AR, the AR indicated, Resident 16 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with a diagnosis which included Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD- a common lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe) and acute respiratory failure with hypoxia (lungs are suddenly not able to get enough oxygen into their blood, causing a lack of oxygen throughout their body). During a review of Resident 16's Order Summary Report (OSR), dated 4/4/25, the OSR indicated, . [Resident 16] . Order Summary: Oxygen- At 2 liters (unit of measurement) per/minute via Nasal cannula Every Shift . Order status: Active .Start Date/By: 2/25/25 . During an interview on 4/2/25 at 2:50 p.m., with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 3, LVN 3 stated the oxygen NC should not have been left out on top of the oxygen concentrator touching the wall. LVN 3 stated tubing needed to be replaced and put into the protective bag when the resident was not using it. LVN 3 stated cross contamination could have occurred with the NC not in the protective bag when not in use. During an interview on 4/4/25 at 11:22 a.m., with the IP, the IP stated the oxygen nasal cannula touching the wall on top of the concentrator was unacceptable. The IP stated the potential outcome for a resident could be an infection, compromising the health of Resident 16. The IP stated cross contamination for Resident 16 could have occurred. The IP stated staff did not follow the facility policy and procedure for Oxygen Administration. During a review of facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Oxygen Administration, dated 2/2023, the P&P indicated, . Keep delivery devices covered in plastic bag when not in use . During an observation on 4/3/25 at 9:22 a.m. CNA 4 exited a resident room without performing hand hygiene, entered Resident 9's room without performing hand hygiene, assisted Resident 9 with their out-of-reach call light, and left the room without performing hand hygiene out. During the review of Resident 9's admission Record, dated 4/3/25, the AR indicated Resident 9 was admitted on [DATE] with the diagnosis of: dementia (a progressive state of decline in mental abilities), bipolar disorder (sometimes called manic-depressive disorder; mood swings that range from the lows of depression to elevated periods of emotional highs) and muscle weakness (decreased strength in muscles). During a review of Resident 9's MDS, dated [DATE], the MDS BIMS- , which indicated Resident 4 had severe cognitive impairment. During an Interview with CNA 4 on 4/3/25 at 9:41 a.m. CNA 4 stated the importance of performing hand hygiene while going in and out of resident rooms was to prevent cross contamination. During an interview with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1 on 4/3/25 at 11:49 a.m. LVN 1 stated we are to perform hand hygiene in and out of resident rooms. LVN 1 stated this was important because they did not want to spread germs (living things that can be found everywhere) to other residents. LVN 1 stated ensuring proper hand hygiene helped reduce the risk of infection. During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 4/3/25 at 4:56p.m. the DON stated that her expectation of staff was to perform hand hygiene when entering and exiting resident rooms. The DON stated CNA 4 should have performed hand hygiene when she entered and exited Resident 9's room. The DON stated her expectation of staff was to perform hand hygiene upon entering and exiting resident rooms, even if they were not touching anything, as it ensured germs were not carried from room to room. During a review of facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Hand Hygiene, dated 5/2024, the P&P indicated, .All staff will perform proper hand hygiene procedures to prevent the spread of infection .staff will perform hand hygiene when indicated, using proper technique consistent with accepted standards of practice .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Staffing Information (Tag F0732)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure daily nurse staffing information contained all required information when the total number of hours and actual hours wor...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure daily nurse staffing information contained all required information when the total number of hours and actual hours worked by Registered Nurse (RN)s, Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) s, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)s were not separated, and was not posted in a prominent readily accessible location to 60 out of 60 residents and visitors. This failure resulted in restricted public access to posted nurse staffing information for 60 out of 60 residents admitted within the facility which had the potential to result in residents not knowing how many direct care hours were provided daily. Findings: During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 1:54 p.m. with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), the facility's document titled Daily Nurse Staffing , dated 4/3/25 was reviewed. The facility's daily nurse staffing document indicated, .Total Hands on PPD (Per Patient Day) . 3.7 [hours] .Total Hours 222 [hours] .Divided by total census 60 . The DSD could not state or locate the total number and actual hours worked by RNs, LVNs/LPNs, or CNAs on the daily nurse staffing document. The DSD stated she was responsible to calculate unlicensed nursing staff total number and actual hours worked by CNAs. The DSD stated the Director of Nursing (DON) was responsible to calculate licensed nursing staff total number and actual hours worked by the LVNs or LPNs and RNs. The DSD stated she was responsible to post daily nurse staffing information with all required information. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/3/25 at 2:15 p.m. with the DSD at the nursing station, the facility's daily nurse staffing document was observed posted behind the nursing station to the right of the facility's sink. At the entrance of the nursing station a sign indicated, Staff members only beyond this point. Thank you. The DSD stated residents and visitors were not allowed behind the nursing station. The DSD stated residents and visitors could not readily access or view the daily nurse staffing information behind the nursing station. The DSD stated residents and visitors had to ask for the daily nurse staffing information. The DSD stated the daily nurse staffing information should be posted in a location easily accessed and viewable to all 60 residents and visitors. The DSD stated unlicensed and licensed nursing staff hours should be separated. The DSD stated residents and visitors had a right to view and access the posted nurse staffing information without assistance. The DSD stated residents and visitors had a right to know which staff members were working and how many direct care hours were provided for each resident every day. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 4:32 p.m. with the DON, the facility's document titled Daily Nurse Staffing (DNS), dated 4/3/25 was reviewed. The DON could not state or locate the total number and actual hours worked by RNs, LVNs/LPNs, or CNAs on the DNS document. The DON stated the facility's DNS document was posted behind the nursing station. The DON stated the facility's DNS document was not readily accessible to all residents and visitors. The DON stated it was important to have the total number and actual hours worked by RNs, LVNs/LPNs, and CNAs. The DON stated it was important residents and visitors had access to the facility's daily nurse staffing document with all required information so they could view what staff was on shift, how many staff were available and how many licensed/ unlicensed direct care hours were provided to care for each resident on daily basis. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/3/25 at 4:57 p.m. with the Administrator (ADM), the facility's document titled DNS, dated 4/3/25 was reviewed. The ADM could not state or locate the total number and actual hours worked by RNs, LVNs/LPNs, or CNAs on the DNS document. The ADM stated, 99% of the time it [the facility's DNS document] is posted behind the nursing station. The ADM stated the document was not easily accessible to all residents or visitors when the document was behind the nursing station. The ADM stated residents and visitors had a right to view and know nurse staffing information with all required information. The ADM stated the facility did not have a policy or procedure for posted daily nurse staffing information or requirements. The ADM stated he expected the facility to follow state regulations for posted nurse staffing information. During a review of the facility's document titled DNS, dated 3/27/25, 3/28/25, 3/29/25, 3/30/25, 3/31/25, 4/1/25, 4/2/25, and 4/3/25 the documents were not separated by the total number and actual hours worked by RNs, LVNs/LPNs and CNAs. The document combined all unlicensed and licensed nursing hands on care provided to residents into, Total Hands on PPD. During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Director of Nursing, undated, the job description indicated, .Oversees nursing schedules to ensure resident needs, regulatory and budget standards are met . During a review of the facility's job description document titled, Administrator, undated, the job description indicated, Establishes a culture of compliance by adhering to all facility policies and procedures. Complies with standards of business conduct, and state/federal regulations and guidelines .
Jul 2024 1 deficiency 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G) 📢 Someone Reported This

A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure adequate supervision and monitoring for one of...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure adequate supervision and monitoring for one of six sampled residents (Resident 1) when Resident 1 had a history of aggressive behavior towards other residents and staff did not implement interventions to protect other residents. On 7/12/24 Resident 1 was left unattended in the dining room. Resident 1 hit Resident 2 with a closed fist to his left hand. Resident 1 had a care plan intervention for one on one (1:1-constant observation for safety of residents) supervision. This failure resulted in Resident 1 not being supervised in the dining room and striking Resident 2 on his left hand, causing injuries to Resident 2 ' s left hand that required treatment for a skin tear (a wound that is caused by direct contact between the skin and another object) and bleeding to his left hand. Finding: During a review of Resident 1 ' s admission Record (AR), dated 7/30/24, the AR indicated, Resident 1 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses that included, Dementia (loss of cognitive functioning, thinking remembering, and reasoning), and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (body has trouble controlling blood sugar). During a review of Resident 1's Minimum Data Set (MDS - a resident assessment tool used to identify resident cognitive (mental process) and physical function) Assessment dated 6/10/24, the MDS indicated, Resident 1's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS -assessment of memory and judgment) assessment score was 99 (unable to complete) (a score of 13-15 indicates cognitively intact, 8-12 indicates moderately impaired, 0-7 indicates severe impairment). During a review of Resident 2 ' s admission Record (AR), dated 7/30/24, the AR indicated, Resident 1 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses that included, Congestive Heart Failure (heart is unable to pump blood efficiently), and anemia (not enough healthy red blood cells). During a review of Resident 2's MDS Assessment dated 6/28/24, the MDS indicated, Resident 1's BIMS assessment score was 4. The BIMS assessment indicated Resident 2 had severe cognitive impairment. During a concurrent observation and interview on 7/30/24 at 08:35 a.m. with Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) CNA 1 in Resident 1 ' s room, Resident 1 was sitting in his wheelchair by the bed, dressed. CNA 1 stated, she was assigned to a 1:1 with Resident 1 from 08:30 a.m. to 09:00 a.m. CNA 1 stated, Resident 1 was on a 1:1 because of his aggressive behaviors to other residents. CNA 1 stated, Resident 1 should be 1:1 continuously for the safety of other residents. CNA 1 stated, all residents including Resident 1 had the right to be free from physical abuse. During a concurrent interview and record review on 7/30/24 at 9:20 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) LVN 1. Resident 1 ' s (AM SHIFT) document dated 7/12/24 1:1 document was reviewed. LVN 1 stated, Resident 1 liked to go up to other residents and shake their hand. LVN 1 stated, Resident 1 has had altercations with other residents. LVN 1 stated, we were in charge of assigning CNAs to a 1:1 daily, for Resident 1 starting at 6:00 a.m. to 10:00p.m. in 30- minute increments. LVN 1 stated Resident 1 was on a 1:1 due to his multiple altercations with other residents. LVN 1 stated, Resident 1 was a danger to other residents. LVN 1 stated, Residents have the right to be free from physical abuse from other residents. LVN 1 stated, Resident 1 and Resident 2 had an altercation in the large dining room on 7/12/24 at 2:30 p.m. LVN 1 stated, Resident 2 had a skin tear and was bleeding from his left hand. LVN 1 stated Resident 1 hit Resident 2 with a closed fist. LVN 1 stated 1:1 document dated 7/12/24 showed Resident 1 was on 1:1 on 7/12/24 at 6:00 am till 10:00 pm. LVN 1 stated the assignment sheet indicates at 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. a CNA was not assigned to provide 1:1 for Resident 1. LVN stated, because of the missing assignments on 7/12/24 placed other residents in danger. During a record review of Resident 1 ' s Care Plan (CP) undated, the CP indicated, .Focus .resident will be free of being involved in any resident to resident altercation .goal .resident will be free of physical altercation .intervention .one on one .CNA .date initiated 7/12/2024 . During an interview on 7/30/24 at 10:25 a.m. with LVN 2, LVN 2 stated, Resident 1 was on a 1:1 on 7/12/24 from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. LVN 2 stated, Resident 1 was not on a 1:1 at the time of the incident. LVN 2 stated, the altercation took place on 7/12/24 at 2:30 p.m. in the dining room. LVN 2 stated, LVNs were responsible to complete the 1:1 log sheet for CNA assignments daily. LVN 2 stated LVN ' s were responsible to monitor and observe CNAs were providing the 1:1. LVN 2 stated, Resident 1 was on a 1:1 due to his behavior and aggression towards other residents. LVN 2 stated, Resident 1 was a danger to others because his aggression could escalate quickly, and he would become verbally and physically aggressive. LVN 2 stated, residents had the right to be free from physical abuse by other residents. During an interview on 7/30/24 at 10:40 a.m. with CNA 2, CNA 2 stated, she was assigned to Resident 1 to provide 1:1 from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on 7/12/24. CNA 2 stated, Resident 1 was on a 1:1 due to his aggression, especially towards other male residents. CNA 2 stated, residents had the right to be free from abuse from other residents. CNA 2 stated, Resident 1 was danger to other residents. During an observation on 7/30/24 at 11:00 a.m. in the patio, Resident 2 was sitting in his wheelchair. Resident 2 had a large bandage to the back of his left hand. Resident 2 was unable to recall how or what happened to his hand. During a review of Resident 4 ' s admission Record (AR), dated 7/30/24, the AR indicated, Resident 4 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses that included, Schizophrenia (a disorder that affects a person ' s ability to think, feel, and behave) and muscle weakness. During a review of Resident 4's MDS Assessment dated 05/24/24, indicated Resident 4's BIMS assessment score was 15. The BIMS assessment indicated Resident 4 was cognitively intact. During an interview on 7/30/24 at 11:15 a.m. with LVN 1, LVN 1 stated, a CNA did not witness the altercation. LVN 1 stated, if Resident 1 was on a 1:1 at the time of the incident, the assigned CNA would be the witness. LVN 1 stated, Resident 4 witnessed the incident. During an interview on 7/30/24 at 11:30 a.m. with Resident 4, Resident 4 stated, he was in the dining room watching a movie when he saw Resident 1 hit Resident 2 on his left hand several times with a closed fist. During a concurrent interview and record review on 7/30/24 at 1:00 p.m. with Director of Nursing (DON), Resident 1 ' s 1:1 document dated 7/12/24 was reviewed. The DON stated, the incident happened on 7/12/24 at 2:30 pm in the dining room. The DON stated, Resident 1 was on a 1:1 due to his physical aggression towards other residents. The DON stated the 1:1 log dated 7/12/24 indicated there were no CNAs assigned to Resident 1 on 7/12/24 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The DON stated, because Resident 1 was not on the 1:1, the incident took place. The DON stated, Resident 1 should be on 1:1 always. The DON stated, if Resident 1 had been on 1:1 the CNA assigned would be a witness. The DON stated, there was no documentation of a CNA as a witness. The DON stated residents in the facility had the right to be free from physical harm from other residents. The [NAME] stated any injury to another resident from a resident-to-resident altercation was considered harm. The DON stated, Resident 2 sustained injuries to his left hand. The DON stated it was the facilities responsibility to keep residents safe. During an interview on 7/30/24 at 1:35 p.m. with CNA 3, CNA 3 stated, she was familiar with Resident 1 who could be aggressive with other residents. CNA 3 stated Resident 1 is currently on a 1:1 due to his behavior and is a danger to other residents. CNA 3 stated all residents had the right to be free from physical abuse from other residents. During a concurrent interview and record review on 7/30/24 at 1:55 p.m. with the DON, the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation dated 2024 was reviewed. The P&P indicated, .It is the policy of this facility to provide protections for the health, welfare and rights of each resident by developing and implementing written policies and procedures that prohibit and prevent abuse, neglect, exploitation and misappropriation of resident property . The DON stated, We did not follow our P&P. The DON stated we failed to protect Resident 2 from a resident who we knew was a danger to others in the facility. During a telephone interview on 07/31/24 at 10:52 a.m. with Administrator (ADM), The ADM stated the facility was responsible for the safety of all of their residents. The ADM stated Resident 1 was on a 1:1 because of his aggressive behavior and was danger to other residents. The ADM stated all residents had the right to be free from abuse per the facility P&P. During a review of the facility ' s P&P titled Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation dated 2024, the P&P indicated .It is the policy of this facility to provide protections for the health, welfare and rights of each resident by developing and implementing written policies and procedures that prohibit and prevent abuse, neglect, exploitation and misappropriation of resident property .abuse means the willful infliction of injury .resulting in physical harm or mental anguish .Instances of abuse of all residents .cause physical harm, pain, or mental anguish It includes verbal abuse, physical abuse .the facility will implement policies and procedures to prevent and prohibit all types of abuse .the facility will make efforts to ensure all residents are protected from physical harm .increased supervision of .residents .
Apr 2024 10 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0552 (Tag F0552)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure a physician Informed Consent (the process in wh...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure a physician Informed Consent (the process in which residents are given important information of the possible risk and benefits of psychoactive medications) for the use of psychotropic medication (medication capable of affecting mind, emotions, and behavior) was obtained for one of six sampled residents (Resident 26) when Resident 26 was administered quetiapine fumarate and risperidone (medications used to treat anxiety [intense excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations]) on 3/26/24 to 4/8/24 and informed consent was not obtained prior to medication administration. These failures resulted in Resident 26 to be administered psychotropic medications and not be fully informed of the risk and benefits and did not have the knowledge to make an informed decision which placed Resident 26 at a potential risk for negative side effects. Findings: During an observation on 4/15/24, at 12:25 p.m. in the dining room, Resident 26 was seated in a geriatric chair (large, padded chair designed to help seniors with limited mobility) appropriately dressed and appeared clean and neat. Resident 26 did not answer any questions asked but instead was observed eating lunch. During a review of Resident 26's admission Record (AR-document with resident information), dated 4/18/24, the AR indicated, Resident 26 was admitted on [DATE], with diagnosis of dementia (loss of brain function such as memory, thinking, language, judgment, or behavior), with unspecified severity with psychotic disturbance (severe mental disorders that causes abnormal thinking and perceptions [belief or opinion]). During a review of Resident 26's Order Summary Report, dated 4/19/24, the Order Summary indicated, .[QUEtiapine Fumarate brand name] Oral Tablet 50 MG [milligram-unit of measurement] Give one tablet by mouth at bedtime related to unspecified dementia . Risperidone 1 MG Give two tablet by mouth at bedtime related to unspecified dementia . During a review of Resident 26's Medication Administration Record (MAR-a document that shows the medications ordered and taken by a resident), dated 3/1/24-3/31/24 and 4/1/24-4/30/24, the MAR indicated, quetiapine fumarate was administered every day starting from 3/26/24 thru 3/31/24 and 4/1/24 thru 4/1/24 thru 4/8/24. During a review of Resident 26's MAR, dated 3/1/24-3/31/24 and 4/1/24-4/30/24, the MAR indicated, risperidone was administered every day starting from 3/27/24 thru 3/31/24 and 4/1/24 thru 4/1/24 thru 4/8/24. During a concurrent interview and record review with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 3 on 4/18/24, at 1:40 p.m. Resident 26's order summary for quetiapine and risperidone was reviewed by LVN 3. LVN 3 stated Resident 26 medications were ordered when resident was admitted on [DATE]. LVN 3 stated the informed consents for the quetiapine and risperidone was signed on 4/9/24. LVN 3 stated the quetiapine was administered to Resident 26 daily from 3/26/24-3/31/24 and from 4/1/24- 4/8/24 without a signed informed consent. LVN 3 stated the risperidone was administered to Resident 26 daily from 3/27/24-3/31/24 and from 4/1/24-4/8/24 without a signed informed consent. LVN 3 stated psychotropic medications should have had a signed informed consent prior to administration of the medication. LVN 3 stated licensed nurses were responsible in making sure an informed consents were obtained and explained the risk and benefits to Resident 26 and family prior to administration of medications. During an interview on 4/19/24, at 9:30 a.m. with the Minimum Data Set Coordinator (MDSC), the MDSC stated the admitting nurse was responsible in making sure informed consents were signed prior to administration of a psychotropic medication. MDSC stated psychotropic medication could not be administered without a signed informed consent. During an interview on 4/19/24, at 10:45 a.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated it was the responsibility of the licensed nurse to obtain an informed consent and to make sure there was a signed informed consent prior to administering psychotropic medications. The DON stated Resident 26 was already on quetiapine and risperidone when admitted to the facility. The DON stated Resident 26's family member (FM) did not want to discontinue the medications. The DON stated informed consent were important to explain the risk and benefits of medication to resident and family, so they can decide to take the medication or refused. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Antipsychotic Medication Use dated 7/2022, the P&P indicated, . Residents (and/or resident representative) will be informed of the recommendation, risks, benefits, purpose and potential adverse consequences of antipsychotic medication use . All antipsychotic medications should have informed consent . During review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Use of Psychotropic Medication dated 2/2022, the P&P indicated, . Residents and/or representatives shall be educated on the risks and benefits of psychotropic drug use, as well as alternative treatments/non-pharmacological interventions .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0553 (Tag F0553)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to honor resident's rights for one of eight sampled resi...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to honor resident's rights for one of eight sampled residents (Resident 12), when Resident 12 was not informed or allowed to decline plan of care. Resident 12 was placed on a low air loss mattress (LAL-enhancing circulation and reducing prolonged pressure in one area) that was contraindicated for fitted sheets and resident's request for fitted sheets was not addressed. This failure resulted in Resident 12 feeling frustrated, ignored, disrespected and physically uncomfortable when she was not allowed to have fitted sheets on her mattress. Findings: During a review of Resident 12's admission record (AR- document with resident demographic and medical diagnosis information) dated 4/17/24, the AR indicated Resident 12 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnosis of Injury of the Cervical (cervical- uppermost region) Spinal Cord, major depressive order (persistently low or depressed mood, decreased interest in pleasurable activities, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, lack of energy, poor concentration, appetite changes, agitation, sleep disturbances, or suicidal thoughts), quadriplegia (paralysis of torso and all four limbs), and asthma (a condition in which airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus). During a review of Resident 12's Minimum Data Set (MDS - a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive [mental processes] and physical functional level assessment), dated 3/30/24, the MDS section C indicated Resident 4 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS - a test given by medical professionals to determine cognitive understanding on a scale of 1-15) score of 15 (a score of 0-7 suggests severe cognitive impairment, 8-12 suggests moderately impaired, 13-15 suggests cognitively intact), which indicated Resident 12 was cognitively intact. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/15/24 at 12:40 p.m. with Resident 12, in Resident 12's room, Resident 12 was lying on a blue air mattress without any barriers between her upper back and the mattress, a thick multicolored cloth was present from the middle of the resident's back to just below her buttocks. Resident 12 stated, . I bought fitted sheets with deep pockets to fit the air mattress . I was told by a male staff member he would put it on my care plan and get the sheets put on my mattress . Resident 12 began to cry and stated, she felt unsanitary lying on the bare mattress. Resident 12 stated, .I keep requesting for staff to put the sheets on my bed, but they never do . I bought my own sheets so I could have something between me and the mattress . I bought my own sheets with deep pockets so they would fit on to the mattress . I do not understand why they will not put them on . I feel frustrated and ignored . During an observation on 4/16/24 at 4:17 p.m., with Resident 12 in Resident 12's room, Resident 12 was lying on her back, on blue air mattress without a fitted sheet on her bed. Resident 12 appeared to be sleeping. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/17/24 at 9:50 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1, LVN 1 stated, the fitted sheet would inhibit the healing property of the mattress. LVN 1 stated he did not educate Resident 12 on how the LAL mattress worked or the reason for not having a fitted sheet. LVN 1 stated the resident should have been educated prior to being placed on the LAL mattress. LVN 1 stated, if the resident was educated and involved in her care, she would not have purchased sheets, she would have had the option to decline being placed on the LAL mattress. LVN 1 stated, Resident 12 was not included in her plan of care. During an interview on 4/17/24 at 2:46 p.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated the resident should have been educated on the reason for placing her on the LAL mattress, how the mattress functions and given the decision to accept or decline being placed on the LAL mattress. DON stated, Resident 12's requests for having fitting sheets placed on the LAL mattress should have been addressed and if the resident no longer wanted to be on the LAL mattress, she should have been given other options for wound prevention. DON stated, Resident 12 was not informed of her right to refuse the mattress. DON stated the facility should have informed her of the right to refuse and honored her rights. During an interview on 4/18/24 at 2:17 p.m. with LVN 3, LVN 3 stated, Resident 12 was placed on the LAL mattress as a preventative measure when a red area on her right buttock was noted. LVN 3 stated, Resident 12 did ask for a fitted sheet but with the low air loss mattress it was contraindicated. LVN 3 stated she did not educate the resident and did not know if anyone else had educated the resident. LVN 3 stated she never discussed alternative options with Resident 12 or informed anyone of Resident 12's concerns. LVN 3 stated Resident 12 should have been involved in the decision to place her on the LAL mattress. LVN 3 stated Resident 12 had the right to decline being placed on the LAL mattress. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure titled, Resident Rights dated 10/2022, indicated . 2. Planning and Implementing care. The resident has the right to be informed of, and participate in, his or her treatment, including b. The right to participate in the development and implementation of his or her person centered-centered plan of care, including but not limited to: i.The right to participate in the planning process, including . the right to request meetings and the right to request revisions to the person-centered plan of care . During a review of facility's document, titled, Low Air Loss Mattress Systems: Your Top Questions Answered undated, the Low Air Loss Mattress Systems: Your Top Questions Answered indicated, .fitted sheets should not be placed over low air loss mattresses because they compress the air cells and restrict air flow. Thin knit or jersey material flat sheets should be used instead. Low air loss mattress covers are specifically designed to allow air flow to pass through and prevent moisture build up. This creates a microclimate between the skin and mattress to keep the user comfortable and prevent skin breakdown. Quilted reusable pads and incontinence briefs will block airflow and trap moisture against the skin .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Safe Environment (Tag F0584)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide a clean and homelike environment for one of 18...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide a clean and homelike environment for one of 18 sampled residents (Resident 45), when Resident 45's room had chipped, missing and peeling paint on the walls of the bathroom and mirror. This failure had the potential for Resident 45 to not have living space in a homelike environment and possibly feeling depressed. Findings: During a review of the Resident 45's admission Record (AR- document with resident information), dated 4/17/24, the AR indicated Resident 45 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnosis of malnutrition (not getting enough nutrients for body to thrive), and anxiety disorder (feeling of fear, dread, and uneasiness). During a review of Resident 45's Minimum Data Set (MDS - a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive [mental processes] and physical functional level assessment), dated 3/30/24, the MDS section C indicated Resident 4 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS - a test given by medical professionals to determine cognitive understanding on a scale of 1-15 ) score of 15 (a score of 0-7 suggests severe cognitive impairment, 8-12 suggests moderately impaired, 13-15 suggests cognitively intact), which indicated Resident 45 was cognitively intact. During an interview on 4/15/24 at 12:39 p.m. with Resident 45, in Resident 45's room, Resident 45 stated, the bathroom was dirty, the paint was missing around the sink and paint on the wall was chipped and peeling. Resident 45 stated there was sand in the bottom of the toilet bowl and takes a long time for the bathroom to be cleaned. Resident 45 stated she used her briefs instead of using the bathroom. Resident 45 stated. Using the bathroom is worse than using my brief. During an interview on 4/17/24 at 9:30 a.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1, the LVN 1 validated, the chipped and missing paint on and around the bathroom sink in Resident 45's bathroom. LVN stated, this was not a homelike environment. LVN 1 stated, I would not have my bathroom at home in this condition. During an interview on 4/17/24 at 1:55 p.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated the bathroom in Resident 45's bathroom was not kept in a homelike environment. During an interview on 4/18/24 at 12:35 p.m. with Director of Maintenance (DM), the DM stated, the bathroom in Residents 45's bathroom did not provide a homelike environment. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Resident Rights dated 10/2022, the P&P indicated . 8. Safe Environment. The Resident has a right to a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment, .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Assessment Accuracy (Tag F0641)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the Minimum Data Set assessment ((MDS -assessme...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the Minimum Data Set assessment ((MDS -assessment of physical and psychological functions and needs) accurately reflected resident's health and functional status for one of three sampled residents (Resident 57) when Resident 57's functional limitation in range of motion was inaccurately coded on the MDS assessment. This failure had the potential to result in Resident 57's care needs not being met. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/15/4, at 10:20 a.m. in room [ROOM NUMBER], Resident 57 was lying in bed and observed with right sided weakness. Resident 57 stated he was not able to move his right arm and right leg and used his left hand to move his right arm and right leg. During a review of Resident 57's admission Record (document with resident demographic and medical diagnosis information), dated 4/18/24, indicated Resident 57 was admitted in the facility on 1/30/24 with diagnoses which included cerebral infarction (interrupted blood flow to the brain), muscle weakness and hypertension (high blood pressure). During a review of Resident 57's Minimum Data Set (MDS-a functional and cognitive abilities assessment) assessment, dated 2/4/24, indicated, the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score was 6 out of 15 (a BIMS score of 13-15 indicates cognitively intact, 8-12 indicates moderately impaired and 0-7 indicates severe impairment), which indicated Resident 57 was cognitively impaired in decision making. During an interview on 4/17/24, at 1:49 p.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 2, LVN 2 stated Resident 57 was weak on his right side, he needed assistance with his activities of daily living (ADL-related to personal care which includes bathing, dressing, transfers, toilet use). LVN 2 stated Resident 57 was not able to move his right arm and right leg without assistance. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/17/24, at 3:32 p.m. with Minimum Data Set Coordinator (MDSC), Resident 57's admission MDS assessment dated [DATE], section GG was reviewed by MDSC. The MDSC stated Resident 57 has right sided weakness, he was not able to move his right side without assistance. The MDSC stated Resident 57's functional limitation in range of motion was not coded correctly. The MDSC stated, . It was a mistake, I coded the section wrong . The MDSC stated it was his responsibility to make sure the MDS assessment was accurate. During an interview on 4/19/24, at 11:30 a.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated it was the responsibility of the person completing MDS assessments to ensure their assessments of residents were accurate. The DON stated the MDS assessment should have been accurate, and staff were expected to complete MDS assessments with accuracy. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Conducting an accurate Resident Assessment dated 2/22, the P&P indicated, .Qualified staff who are knowledgeable about the resident will conduct an accurate assessment addressing each resident's status, needs, strengths and areas of decline .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan for one of six sampled residents (Resident 57) when Resident 57 was administer...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan for one of six sampled residents (Resident 57) when Resident 57 was administered apixaban (anticoagulant-blood thinner) medication for atrial fibrillation (an irregular, often rapid heart rate that commonly caused poor blood flow and blood clot formation) and the facility did not initiate a care plan for apixaban. This failure placed Resident 57 at a potential risk for use of anticoagulant needs not met. Findings: During a concurrent observation, and interview on 4/15/24, at 10:20 a.m. in Resident 57's room, Resident 57 was lying down in his bed. Resident 57 stated he was not able to move the right side of his body and needed assistance with his care. Resident 57 stated he wanted to get stronger so he can go home to his ranch but needed someone to take care of him. During a review of Resident 57's admission Record (document with resident demographic and medical diagnosis information), dated 4/18/24, indicated Resident 57 was admitted in the facility on 1/30/24 with diagnoses which included cerebral infarction (interrupted blood flow to the brain), atrial fibrillation and hypertension (high blood pressure). During a review of Resident 57's clinical record titled Order Summary Report undated, indicated apixaban Oral Tablet 5 MG [blood thinner medication] Give 1 tablet by mouth two times a day related to PERMANENT ATRIAL FIBRILLATION Order date 1/30/24 . During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/17/24, at 2:30 p.m. with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 2, Resident 57's order summary report was reviewed. LVN 2 stated Resident 57's apixaban was prescribed on 1/30/24. LVN 2 stated she did not find a care plan for Resident 57's anticoagulant use. LVN 2 stated there should have been a care plan developed and it was the charge nurse's responsibility to initiate a care plan. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/19/24, at 9:15 a.m. with the Minimum Data Set Coordinator (MDSC), Resident 57's care plan was reviewed. The MDSC stated he did not find a care plan for Resident 57's use of anticoagulant medication. The MDSC stated there should have been a care plan to monitor side effects of the anticoagulant medication. The MDSC stated it was the responsibility of the licensed nurses to initiate a care plan and it should be personalized to the need of the resident. During an interview on 4/19/24, at 10:15 a.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated charge nurses are responsible in initiating a base line care plan within 24 hours of admission and comprehensive care plan were to be completed within seven days of admission or medication order. The DON stated there should have been a care plan for the use of anticoagulant medication to monitor for bleeding which was one of the side effects of the medication. The DON stated care plans were important because it directed the staff to care for each resident and care plan should be individualized to each resident needs. During a review of facility's policy and procedure titled Care Plans, Comprehensive Person-Centered, dated 3/22, the P&P indicated, . The comprehensive, person-centered care plan is developed within seven (7) days . and no more than 21 days after admission . includes measurable objectives and timeframe; describes the services that are to be furnished to attain or maintain the resident's highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0761 (Tag F0761)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure drugs and biologicals were labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles when Licensed Vocation...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure drugs and biologicals were labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles when Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 6 did not lock her medication cart and went inside a resident room to administer medication. This failure had the potential for residents, staff, and visitors to have access to the unlocked medication cart. Findings: During a review of Resident 12's admission Record (document with resident demographic and medical diagnosis information), dated 4/18/24, indicated Resident 12 was re-admitted in the facility on 9/2/22 with diagnoses which included asthma (difficulty breathing), quadriplegia (weakness of upper and lower body) and heart failure. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/16/24, at 12:06 a.m. during medication pass observation in south wing hallway. LVN 6 observed preparing medications for Resident 12, after LVN 6 prepared Resident 12, she turned her back on her medication cart, did not locked the medication cart and went inside Resident 12's room and closed the privacy curtain. The medication cart was not within LVN 6 view. During an interview on 19/19/24, at 10: a.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated the facility practice was to make sure to lock the medication cart whenever the medication cart was left unattended. The DON stated medications inside the unlocked medication cart was accessible to residents, staff, and visitors and ingest the medication which could lead to allergic reactions. The DON stated licensed nurses were trained to make sure medication carts were locked when unattended. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Medication Storage, dated 10/22, the P&P indicated, . All drugs and biologicals will be stored in locked compartments .Only authorized personnel will have access to keys to locked compartments. During a medication pass, medications must be under the direct observation of the person administering medications or locked in the medication storage area/cart .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to establish and maintain an infection control program to provide a safe...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to establish and maintain an infection control program to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment to help prevent infection for one of three sampled residents (Resident 40) when Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 7 failed to sanitize (disinfect) the blood pressure cuff (device used to measure the pressure of blood in the circulatory system), stethoscope (device used to listen to internal sounds of a human body or an animal) after use and did not wash her hands after checking the blood pressure of Resident 40. These failures had the potential to result in cross contamination (bacteria or other microorganisms are unintentionally transferred from one substance or object to another, with harmful effect) and transmission of infection between residents. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/16/24, at 4:05 p.m. in the east wing hallway by Resident 40's room, LVN 7 was passing medications. LVN 7 checked Resident 40's blood pressure using an arm cuff and a stethoscope and did not sanitize the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope, LVN 7 also was not using disposable gloves. LVN 7 walked out of Resident 40's room and placed the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope on top of medication cart and prepared medications. LVN 7 stated she did not sanitize the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope after she used it on Resident 40 and did not wash her hands before she started preparing medications for Resident 40. LVN 7 stated she did not sanitize the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope after she used it on Resident 40 and did not wash her hands after she checked Resident 40's blood pressure and prior to preparing medications. LVN 7 stated she should have sanitized the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope after each use and before using on another resident. LVN 7 stated she should have washed her hands before preparing Resident 40's medication. LVN 7 stated it was an infection control issue, she could be the carrier of bacteria and spread to other residents. During a review of Resident 40's admission Record (AR- document containing resident personal information), dated 4/18/24, the AR indicated, Resident 40 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses that included . hypertensive heart disease with heart failure ([long term condition that develops over many years in people with high blood pressure], atherosclerotic heart disease [build up of fats and other substances in the artery wall] . During an interview on 4/19/24, at 11:05 a.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated the licensed nurse should have washed her hands or used alcohol gel and sanitized the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope after she took Resident 40's blood pressure. The DON stated licensed nurse should washed their hands before preparing residents' medications. The DON stated it was infection control issue. During a review of facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Resident-Care Equipment, dated 10/2022, the P&P indicated, . Staff shall follow established infection control principles for cleaning and disinfecting reusable, non critical equipments . Each user is responsible for routine cleaning and disinfection of multi-resident items after each use, particularly before use for another resident . Multiple-resident use equipment shall be cleaned and disinfected after each use . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Medication Administration, dated 2/22, the P&P indicated, . Medications are administered by licensed nurses . in a manner to prevent contamination or infection . Wash hands prior to administering medication per facility protocol and product .
CONCERN (E)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to meet professional standards of practice for three of e...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to meet professional standards of practice for three of eight sampled residents (Residents 8, 11 and 57) when: 1. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 2 failed to follow facility's procedure on Proper Inhalation Technique for Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI-small, hand-held device filled with medicine to treat breathing problem) when she administered MDI medication to Residents 11 and 8. This failure had the potential for Residents 8 and 11 to suffer from respiratory infection which could lead to serious health condition. 2. Licensed Nurses (LNs) were signing the Electronic Treatment Administration (eTAR- electronic version of standard paper treatment administration record) on Resident 57's order for splint/orthotic device (support to an injured or weakened body part) from 4/1/24- 4/17/24 and not following the treatment order on how the splint/orthotic device was to be applied to Resident 57. This failure had the potential for Resident 57 to not received the full benefits of using the splint/orthotic device. Findings: 1. During a medication administration observation on 4/17/24, at 7:23 a.m. in west wing hallway with LVN 2, LVN 2 prepared Resident 11's medications. Resident 11's medications included fluticasone-sameterol (used to treat asthma [long term condition affecting the airways in the lungs]). LVN 2 walked in Resident 11's room, LVN 2 observed sliding the lid of the inhaler to the side exposing the mouthpiece and instructed Resident 11 on how to use the medication inhaler. After medication was administered to Resident 11, LVN slid the lid back to cover the mouthpiece of the inhaler, placed inside the medication box and put it inside the medication cart. LVN 2 did not wash or wipe the inhaler's mouthpiece before and after medication use. During a medication administration observation on 4/17/24, at 7:45 a.m. in west wing hallway with LVN 2, LVN 2 prepared Resident 8's medications. Resident 8's medication included umeclidinium and vilanterol inhalation powder (medication used for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD-group of diseases that causes airflow blockage and breathing-related problems]). LVN 2 walked into Resident 8's room, slid the lid of the inhaler to the side exposing the mouthpiece and instructed Resident 8 on how to use the medication inhaler. After medication was administered to Resident 8, LVN 2 slid the lid back to cover the mouthpiece of the inhaler and placed inside the medication box and put inside the medication cart. LVN 2 did not wash or wipe the mouthpiece of the inhaler's mouthpiece before and after medication use. During a review of Resident 11's admission Record (document with resident demographic and medical diagnosis information), dated 4/18/24, indicated Resident 11 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included COPD, asthma and heart failure. During a review of Resident 11's Minimum Data Set (MDS-a functional and cognitive abilities assessment) assessment dated [DATE], indicated the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score was 15 out of 15 (a BIMS score of 13-15 indicates cognitively intact, 8-12 indicates moderately impaired and 0-7 indicates severe impairment), which indicated Resident 11 was cognitively intact in decision making. During a review of Resident 8's admission Record, dated 4/18/24, indicated Resident 8 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included COPD, hypertension (high blood pressure) and muscle weakness. During a review of Resident 8's Minimum Data Set (MDS-a functional and cognitive abilities assessment) assessment dated [DATE], indicated the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score was 6 out of 15 (a BIMS score of 13-15 indicates cognitively intact, 8-12 indicates moderately impaired and 0-7 indicates severe impairment), which indicated Resident 11 was severely impaired in decision making. During an interview on 4/17/24, at 2:15 p.m. with LVN 2, she stated during medication administration of Resident 11 and Resident 8 she did not wash the mouthpiece of Resident 11 and Resident 8's inhaler medication after used. LVN 2 stated she just had skills checked and the instruction was to wash the mouthpiece of inhalers with water after resident use. LVN 2 stated it was an infection control issue. LVN 2 stated residents put their mouth over the mouthpiece and if not washed it could grow bacteria which could cause respiratory infection. LVN 2 stated she should have been more careful and mindful of what she was doing when she was doing her medication pass. During an interview on 4/19/24, at 10:20 a.m. with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated the licensed nurses just had skills checked and the nurses were supposed to wash the mouthpiece of inhalers with water after administration and before placing it back in the box. The DON stated the licensed nurse should have cleaned the inhaler's mouthpiece after resident use as a means of infection prevention. The DON stated not cleaning the inhaler's mouthpiece could harbor bacteria which could lead to serious respiratory disease. During a review of facility's clinical record titled, Medication Administration Observation/Training/Education and Skills Competency, undated, the Medication Administration Observation/Training/Education and Skills Competency indicated, .Proper Inhalation Technique for Metered Dose Inhalers (MDI) . Clean mouthpiece with water and store following manufacturer's recommendation . 2. During concurrent observation, interview and record review on 4/17/24, at 2:15 p.m. with LVN 2, Resident 57's order summary report was reviewed. LVN 2 stated Resident 57's least splinting/orthotic device was ordered on 1/31/24. LVN 2 stated she did not know where the splint/orthotic device goes because she did not remember applying the splint/orthotic device to Resident 57 and did not know who was supposed to apply the splint/orthotic device. LVN 2 walked into Resident 57's room and checked where the splint/orthotic device was applied, Resident 57 was lying in bed and was not wearing the splint/orthotic device. LVN 2 reviewed the eTAR (electronic Treatment Administration Record-) dated 4/1/24-4/30/24, LVN 2 stated the eTAR was signed every shift daily from 4/1/24 to 4/17/24. LVN 2 stated she signed the eTAR daily when working not knowing what she was signing. LVN 2 stated she should not have signed the eTAR until she knew the splint/orthotic device was applied. During a review of Resident 57's admission Record, dated 4/18/24, indicated Resident 57 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included cerebral infarction (occurs as a result of disrupted blood flow to the brain due to problems with the blood vessels), hypertension (high blood pressure) and weakness. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/18/24, at 3:14 p.m. with LVN 4, Resident 54's eTAR was reviewed. LVN 4 stated she signed Resident 57's eTAR for the application of splint/orthotic device. LVN 4 stated she signed the eTAR because she thought Resident 57 was wearing the sling/orthotic device. LVN 4 stated she should have made sure Resident 57 was wearing the sling/orthotic device prior to signing. LVN 4 sated it was not a good nursing practice not knowing what she was signing. During an interview on 4/19/24, at 10:21 p.m. with the DON, she stated the licensed nurses were responsible in making sure Resident 57's splint was applied before signing eTAR. The DON stated, . It is not acceptable they are just signing without knowing what they are signing . The DON stated the licensed nurses should have checked first then sign. The DON stated it was not an acceptable practice in the facility. During a review of facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Resident Mobility and Range of Motion [ROM-how far you can move or stretch a part of your body, such as a joint or a muscle], dated 7/17, the P&P indicated, . 2. Residents with limited range of motion will receive treatment and services to increase and/or prevent further decrease in ROM. 3. Resident with limited mobility will receive appropriate services, equipment and assistance to maintain or improve mobility .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0801 (Tag F0801)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on interview and record review the facility failed to hire a qualified Dietary Manager (DM) to carry out the functions of the food and nutrition services for 56 of 61 residents who receive food ...

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Based on interview and record review the facility failed to hire a qualified Dietary Manager (DM) to carry out the functions of the food and nutrition services for 56 of 61 residents who receive food from the kitchen when the dietary supervisor did not meet the minimum qualifications for the role. This failure had the potential to affect the nutrition status and health of 56 of 61 residents who receive food from the kitchen. Findings: During an interview on 4/16/24 at 10:58 a.m., with the DM, the DM stated she was still in school to become a certified dietary manager. The DM stated she had not yet fully completed her schooling and training. The DM stated she was not certified as of 4/16/24. The DM stated she was unsure if she met the requirements for the dietary manager role. During an interview on 4/18/24 at 2:28 p.m., with the Registered Dietitian (RD), the RD stated the person hired as the dietary manager should have been certified. The RD stated the current DM was not certified for the role. The RD stated it was important to have a certified dietary manager in order to uphold state regulations and to ensure the appropriate rules and regulations were followed in the kitchen. During a review of Dietary Manager job description dated 2023, the job description indicated, . Minimum requirements include one of the following: Certification as a dietary manager, Certification as a food service manager. Has similar national certification for food service management and safety from a national certifying body. Has 2 or more years of experience in the position of director of food and nutrition services in a nursing facility setting . During a review of the Food Code U.S Food and Drug Administration, dated 2022, indicated, . 2-102.11 Demonstration. Based on the risks inherent to the food operation, during inspections and upon request the person in charge shall demonstrate to the regulatory authority knowledge of foodborne disease (illnesses that come from eating food) prevention . and the requirements of this code. the person in charge shall demonstrate this knowledge by . (b) being a certified food protection manager who has shown proficiency of required information through passing a test that is part of an accredited program .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure safe preparation, distribution, and storage practices were followed in the kitchen for 56 of 61 residents in accordanc...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure safe preparation, distribution, and storage practices were followed in the kitchen for 56 of 61 residents in accordance with facility policy and procedure and the US Food Code when: 1. The top of the dish washer had crumbs, dust, and was covered in a white residue (material that gets leftover after not being cleaned for some time). 2. The cooking surface of three of seven pans was cracked and peeling. 3. The walk-in freezer had a large icicle (hanging piece of ice that grows as water drips). 4. Oven mitts were torn at the tip and the inside fabric was exposed. These failures had the potential to attract pests, contaminate residents' food, and cause foodborne illnesses to 56 of 61 sampled residents who receive food from the kitchen. Findings: 1. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/14/24 at 9:33 a.m., with the Dietary Supervisor (DS) in the kitchen, the top of the dishwasher was covered with dirt, crumbs, and white residue. The DS stated the top of the dishwasher should have been cleaned. The DS stated dirt and crumbs on top of the dishwasher could have fallen on to the dishes and prevented them from being fully cleaned. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/14/24 at 9:56 a.m., with cook (CK) 1, the CK 1 stated the top of the dish washer was covered with dirt, crumbs, and white residue. CK 1 stated the top of the dish washer should have been cleaned daily. CK 1 stated dishes being washed may have been contaminated by the dirt and crumbs on top of the dish washer. During an interview on 4/17/24 at 3:59 p.m., with the Registered Dietitian (RD), the RD stated the top of the dishwasher should not have had any dirt, crumbs, or white residue on top. The RD stated the white residue build up, food crumbs, and dirt could have led to improper cleaning of the dishes. The RD stated staff should have been trained on cleaning the surface of the dishwasher. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Sanitation, dated 10/2022, indicated, . 1. All food service areas shall be kept clean, sanitary, free from litter, rubbish 2. The department shall establish a sanitation program for food services based on applicable state and federal requirements 4. Sanitation inspections will be conducted in the following manner: b. weekly: The dietary manager shall inspect all food services weekly to ensure the areas are clean and comply with sanitation and food service regulations . During a review of the Food Code U.S Food and Drug Administration, dated 2022, indicated, . 4-602.13 Nonfood-Contact Surfaces. The presence of food debris or dirt on nonfood contact surfaces may provide a suitable environment for the growth of microorganisms which employees may inadvertently transfer to food . 2. During an observation on 4/14/24 at 9:44 a.m., in the kitchen, the cooking surface of three of seven pans was cracked, peeling, and missing. During an interview on 4/18/24 at 2:12 p.m., with the RD, the RD stated the cooking surface of the pans should have been intact. The RD stated the pans should have been replaced because the coating could have gone into a resident's food and caused cross contamination. During an interview on 4/19/24 at 2:28 p.m., with the DS the DS stated the cooking surface of the pans in the kitchen should not have been peeling. The DS stated the coating of the pans could have gotten into the residents' food when they were used to prepare food. During a review of the facility's P&P titled Sanitation, dated 10/2022, indicated, . 1. All food service areas shall be kept clean, sanitary, free from litter, rubbish 2. The department shall establish a sanitation program for food services based on applicable state and federal requirements. 4. Sanitation inspections will be conducted in the following manner: b. weekly: The dietary manager shall inspect all food services weekly to ensure the areas are clean and comply with sanitation and food service regulations . During a review of the Food Code U.S Food and Drug Administration, dated 2022, the Food Code indicated, . 4-601.11 EQUIPMENT FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES and UTENSILS shall be clean to sight and touch. Microorganisms may be transmitted from a food to other foods by utensils, cutting boards, thermometers, or other food-contact surfaces . 3. during a concurrent observation and interview on 4/14/24 at 9:56 a.m., with CK 1 in the kitchen, the walk-in freezer had a large icicle hanging inside. CK 1 stated there should not have been an icicle in the freezer. CK 1 stated the icicle could have caused someone to get hurt, there should have been no ice buildup at all. During an interview on 4/18/24 at 2:16 p.m., with the RD, the RD stated the freezer should not have had a large icicle inside. The RD stated the icicle could have been caused by an error in the normal working condition of the inside of the freezer. The RD stated the freezer may not have been operating at its normal recommended capacity and it could have had problems cooling the food stored inside. During an interview on 4/19/23 at 11:34 a.m., with the DS, the DS stated a large icicle should not have been present in the walk-in freezer. The DS stated the icicle could have caused someone to get hurt and it could have indicated a problem with the working condition of the freezer. During a review of the facility's policy and P&P titled Sanitation, dated 10/2022, indicated, . 3. The sanitation program will be provided for inspections to be conducted of the food service areas . 5. Inspections will be conducted but not limited to the following areas: a. Dry Storage b. Freezer c. Refrigerator . During a review of the Food Code U.S Food and Drug Administration, dated 2022, the Food Code indicated, .Equipment and utensils must be designed and constructed to be durable and capable of retaining their original characteristics so that such items can continue to fulfill their intended purpose for the duration of their life expectancy and to maintain their easy cleanability. If they cannot maintain their original characteristics, they may become difficult to clean, allowing for the harborage of pathogenic microorganisms, insects, and rodents. Equipment and utensils must be designed and constructed so that parts do not break and end up in food as foreign objects or present injury hazards to consumers . 4. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/19/24 at 11:34 a.m., with the DS in the kitchen, oven mitts were torn at the tip and had the interior fabric exposed. The DS stated the oven mitts should have been fully intact because ripped oven mitts could have led to someone getting burned. The DS stated torn oven mitts could have hidden pests and germs. During a concurrent observation and interview on 4/14/24 at 9:56 a.m., with CK1 in the kitchen, the oven mitts were torn at the tip and had the interior fabric exposed. CK 1 stated the oven mitts were torn and ripped. CK 1 stated having torn oven mitts could have caused someone to get burned while handling hot foods and it would have made cleaning the oven mitts more difficult. During an interview on 4/18/24 at 2:12 p.m., with the RD, The RD stated having torn oven mitts could have caused someone to get burned when handling hot items. The RD stated torn oven mitts could hide pathogens (bacteria that make someone sick) and cause contamination (to make dirty or unclean) of food. During a review of the facility's P&P titled Sanitation, dated 10/2022, indicated, . 1. All food service areas shall be kept clean, sanitary, free from litter, rubbish . 2. The department shall establish a sanitation program for food services based on applicable state and federal requirements . 4. Sanitation inspections will be conducted in the following manner: . b. weekly: The dietary manager shall inspect all food servicers weekly to ensure the areas are clean and comply with sanitation and food service regulations . During a review of the Food Code U.S Food and Drug Administration, dated 2022, the Food Code indicated, . 4-601.11 EQUIPMENT FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES and UTENSILS shall be clean to sight and touch. Microorganisms may be transmitted from a food to other foods by utensils, cutting boards, thermometers, or other food-contact surfaces .
Nov 2023 1 deficiency
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain an environment free from accident hazards for...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain an environment free from accident hazards for three of three sampled residents (Resident 1, Resident 3 and Resident 4) when Residents were not educated on oxygen safety precautions. This failure resulted in Resident 1 being burned from when her oxygen tubing caught fire and had potential for Resident 3 and 4 being burnt. Findings: During a record review of Resident 1's admission Record (AR-a document with personal identifiable and medical information), dated October 11, 2023, the AR indicated Resident 1 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] diagnoses which included chronic kidney disease (condition in which kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood as well as they should), heart failure (condition that develops when the heart does not pump enough blood for the body's needs), and chronic ulcer (an open sore) of lower leg. Resident 1 required staff assistance for activities of daily living. During a review of Resident 1 ' s Minimum Data Set (MDS- a resident assessment tool used to identify resident care needs identify cognitive (mental processes) and physical functional level assessment), dated 7/26/23, indicated, .Resident 1 ' s Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS - screening tool used to assess resident cognitive level) score was 15 out of 15 (0-7 indicated severe cognitive impairment - [memory loss, poor decision making-skills], 8-12 moderate cognitive impairment, and (13-15) cognitively intact) . During a review of Resident 1 ' s Nursing – Clinical admission Evaluation , dated 7/22/23, indicated, . Does the resident express a desire to smoke/utilize tobacco products? [NO was marked] . During an observation and concurrent interview on 10/11/23, at 10:00 a.m., with Resident 1, in her room, Resident 1 stated, fire had just started and Resident 1 denied smoking. Resident 1 stated, she did not remember what happened but saw sparks and swiped plastic from her face when she was in the bathroom. Resident 1 stated she has used oxygen for seven years. Resident 1 stated the facility did not provide education on smoking while using oxygen. Resident 1 stated, she has not seen anyone smoking at the facility. Resident 1 observed resting in bed, and short of breath while talking and wearing oxygen. Resident 1 was observed with a transparent dressing to left side of cheek and left thigh. During a record review of the fire department's investigation, titled Incident type: 111 – Building Fire, . Incident #: 2023-592 , dated 10/10/2023, the report indicated, Origin: Burn patterns are consistent with the witness statements of the origin being in the bathroom. Cause: The origin room had no obvious heat source. Nothing was plugged in to the outlet and no other electrical equipment found, however, a partially burnt material (possible joint) typically used for smoking was found in the toilet. That evidence, with the location of the burns to the resident, indicates smoking while using an oxygen supplied nasal cannula. During an interview on 10/11/23, at 9:53 a.m., with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 1, CNA 1 stated, the facility was a no smoking facility. CNA 1 stated, if we saw smoking material, we let the nurse know and confiscate the smoking material. CNA 1 stated, if residents are new and smoking materials are in the inventory, we tell the nurse and report it immediately. During a concurrent interview and record review on 10/11/23, at 10:15 a.m., with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1, the records of Resident 1, Resident 3 and Resident 4 were reviewed. LVN 1 stated, the facility was a no smoking facility and Resident 1 had been in noncompliance at times. LVN 1 stated, Resident 1 had vape (a device used for inhaling) pens that had to be taken away. LVN 1 stated he could not find a record for education of not smoking/flames with oxygen use on Res 1, Res 3, and Res 4 who all used oxygen and smoke. LVN 1 stated the facility did not provide education on smoking with oxygen use. During an observation and concurrent interview on 10/11/23, at 10:31 a.m., with Resident 3, Resident 3 stated, she was shaken up by fire but feels safe now. Resident 3 stated, she had not been educated on smoking or having flames next to oxygen. Signage observed outside Resident's room indicates oxygen in use. Resident 3 observed in bed with clean clothes and no odors. During an observation and concurrent interview on 10/11/23, at 10:40 a.m., with Resident 4, Resident 4 stated, she had not been educated by the staff about safety precautions while using oxygen. Signage observed outside Resident's room indicates oxygen in use. During an interview on 10/11/23, at 10:44 a.m., with CNA 2, CNA 2 stated, when residents were using oxygen, they could not smoke as oxygen is flammable and could ignite. CNA 2 stated, no smoking was allowed at the facility and we will tell the nurse if resident was smoking. During an interview on 10/11/23, at 11:00 a.m., with the Administrator (ADM) and the Director of Nursing (DON), the ADM stated, residents who were using oxygen should be educated about the safety precautions of using oxygen and smoking. The DON stated, residents should be educated about oxygen safety precautions and if it was not charted it was not done. ADM stated, the policy indicates residents should be educated and the education documented in the chart on safety precautions of using oxygen and not smoking. The ADM and DON stated the facility did not provide education on safety precautions of using oxygen and smoking at the same time to Resident 1, 3 and 4. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Oxygen Safety, dated 2023, the P&P indicated .Staff, residents, and families will be educated on oxygen safety precautions in accordance with their roles and responsibilities related to the use and storage of oxygen .
Nov 2021 19 deficiencies 1 IJ (1 affecting multiple)
CRITICAL (K)

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Deficiency F0700 (Tag F0700)

Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure five of five Residents (Residents 6, 8, 11, 16...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure five of five Residents (Residents 6, 8, 11, 16, and 55) were assessed for the risk of entrapment (resident caught, trapped, or entangled in the space in or about the bed and side rail) from bed (side) rails (adjustable metal or rigid plastic bars in various sizes that attach to the bed, and can be placed in a guard (raised) or lowered) prior to installation and had no consent (form signed by resident or family explaining the risks of side rail use), physician order, indication for use, and care plans prior to the use of side rails when: 1. Resident 6 had two bed rails raised up and had sustained an injury of unknown origin on 10/29/2021 prompting the facility to pad the bed rails. Prior to the use of the two bed rails, staff did not conduct an entrapment risk assessment; no consent, physician order and care plan were done prior to the use of the two bed rails for Resident 6. 2. Resident 16 had two bed rails on both sides of the bed in the guard position (A position that is intended to prevent an individual from inadvertently rolling out of bed). Resident 16 did not have a physician's order, consent, and plan of care prior to the use of the bed rails. 3. Resident 11 had two bed rails on both sides of the bed in the guard position and did not have a consent prior to use of bed rails. 4. Resident 8 had two bed rails on both sides of the bed in the guard position and did not have a physician's order, consent, entrapment risk assessment, and plan of care prior to use of the bed rails. 5. Resident 55 had two bed assist bed rails in the guard position and no entrapment risk assessment, consent, physician order and care plan were done prior to use. These failures had the potential to cause entrapment, serious harm, injury, or death to Residents 6, 8, 11, 16, and 55. Because of the serious potential harm such as injury and entrapment to Residents 6, 8, 11, 16, and 55 and the serious potential harm to all residents with bed rails used without an entrapment risk assessment, no consent, no physician order, no indication for use, and no care plans prior to use, an Immediate Jeopardy (IJ, a situation in which non-compliance with one or more regulatory requirements has caused or is likely to cause serious injury, harm, impairment, or death to a resident) situation was called., on 11/4/2021 at 6:07 p.m., under Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 483.25 (F700) with the Administrator (ADM) and Director of Nursing (DON). The facility was provided the IJ template which indicated the need to submit an acceptable written Plan of Removal that addressed the need for immediate action for the IJ situation. The facility submitted a Plan of Removal (POR) on 11/8/21, at 11:02 p.m., to address the IJ situation. The IJ POR included: 1) immediately conduct entrapment risk assessments for affected Residents, obtain consents for all affected residents and obtain physician's order and develop and implement a care plan for each affected resident. 2) Develop immediate safety processes and monitoring steps to ensure the residents do not get entrapped and sustain injuries. 3) Implement processes regarding the difference between bedrolls and/or mobility aids, consents, physician orders, entrapment risk assessment, care planning, equipment monitoring & maintenance that would ensure all residents' safety. 4) Implement Training and Education and measure of competencies to all staff regarding Physical Restraints [Physical Restraint is defined as any manual method or physical or mechanical device, material, or equipment attached or adjacent to the resident's body that the individual cannot remove easily which restricts freedom of movement or normal access to one's body]/Bedrails to ensure residents' safety at all times. The IJ Plan of Removal was accepted on 11/8/21 at 12:28 p.m. While onsite, the surveyors validated the POR implementation action items through observations, interviews, record reviews and confirmed that all POR action interventions to address the IJ situation were fully implemented. The IJ was removed on 11/8/21 at 5:50 p.m., with the ADM. Findings: 1. During an observation on 11/2/21, at 2:55 p.m., in Resident 6's room, Resident 6 was asleep in bed with two bed rails up and a soft, hallow piece of foam covered the top of the half bed rails. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 3:09 p.m., with the DON, the DON stated Resident 6 had an injury of unknown origin on 10/29/21. The DON stated Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) were doing last rounds on 10/29/21 and saw Resident 6's right hand was reddened, swollen and warm to touch. The DON stated Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1 called her to look at Resident 6's right hand. The DON stated Resident 6 said don't touch when the DON looked at her hand. The DON stated an x-ray (digital image of a part of the body) was done at the facility. The DON stated Resident 6's physician wanted the staff to place a soft splint (soft, padded material that is used to secure an injury by holding it in place ) on her right hand. The DON stated Resident 6 would not let staff put a splint on her hand. The DON stated Resident 6 was sent to the hospital on [DATE] to get a splint on the right hand, and the hospital repeated the x-ray. The DON stated the x-ray at the hospital showed no fracture of the right hand. The DON stated the x-ray indicated degenerative joints (decrease in function of joints) of Resident 6's right hand. The DON stated the hospital placed a soft splint on Resident 6's hand. The DON stated staff or residents did not witness the injury. The DON stated Resident 6's injury could have occurred as a result of her hand hitting the bed rail. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 3:38 p.m., with LVN 1, LVN 1 stated CNA 3 asked her to look at Resident 6's right hand on 10/29/21 at 2:24 p.m. LVN 1 stated Resident 6's knuckles on her right hand were red, swollen, and warm to touch. LVN 1 stated staff had not reported any past falls for Resident 6. LVN stated the physician ordered x-rays of Resident 6's right hand. LVN stated the x-ray was done at the facility. LVN stated the x-ray results showed Resident 6 had a fracture. The physician ordered to put a splint on Resident 6's right hand. LVN 1 stated the staff was not able to get a splint on Resident 6's hand and Resident 6 was sent out to the hospital to get her right hand splinted. LVN 1 stated the second x-ray that was done at the hospital on [DATE] did not indicate a fracture. LVN 1 stated that after the injury Resident 6's side rails were padded to keep her from hurting her hand. LVN 1 stated Resident 6's injury could have been caused by her hitting the bed rail. During a concurrent interview and record review on 11/3/21, at 3:38 p.m. with LVN 1, Resident 6's Radiology Interpretation, dated 10/29/21, was reviewed. The X-ray indicated, .Impression: Impaction fractures age unknown, distal right second and third metacarpals (miniature long bone near the second and third finger of the right hand) . LVN 1 stated the first x-ray was done at the facility on 10/29/21. LVN 1 stated the second x-ray was done at the hospital on [DATE]. The second X-ray indicated, .Findings: . There is no acute fracture or dislocation. Advanced degenerative changes involving interphalangeal and first carpal metacarpal joints (first joint of the finger and is located between the first two bones of the finger). Soft tissues (supports internal bones) are unremarkable . During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/4/21, at 9:40 a.m., with CNA 1 in Resident's 6 room, Resident 6's bed had two bed rails up. CNA 1 stated the bed rails were padded because Resident 6 had hurt her hand. CNA 1 stated they used two CNAs to get Resident 6 up because she sometimes hits at them. CNA 1 stated Resident 6's injury could have been a result of her hand hitting the bed rail. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/4/21, at 1:00 p.m., with LVN 3, Resident 6's electronic health record (EHR), dated between 10/1/21 and 10/30/21 was reviewed. LVN 3 stated she could not find the physician's order, no entrapment risk assessment, no consent, or care plan for the padded bedrails before the injury on 10/29/21. Resident 6's care plan indicated padded bed rails were initiated on 10/30/21. LVN 3 stated there should be a physician's order, an entrapment risk assessment, a consent form signed by Resident 6's responsible party and a care plan done before the bed rails were used for Resident 6. During an interview, on 11/4/21, at 2:37 p.m., with the CNA 2, the CNA 2 stated she had worked at the facility since September 2021 and was familiar with Resident 6. CNA 2 stated Resident 6 would swat at the staff and was confused at times. CNA 2 stated Resident 6 had bed rails up since she started working at the facility in 2021. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/4/21, at 2:43 p.m., with LVN 4, Resident 6's EHR, dated 10/1/21 to 11/4/21 was reviewed. LVN 4 stated there were no consent form, and physician orders for the bed rails for Resident 6. LVN 4 stated she did not recall how long Resident 6 had been using bed rails. During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/4/21, at 3:15 p.m. with Director of Maintenance (DOM), in Resident 6's room, Resident 6's had two bed rails up. DOM stated the bed rails came with Resident 6's bed. DOM stated he put the padding on the bed rails. DOM was unable to provide a copy of the Resident 6's bed manufacturer's guidelines. DOM demonstrated how Resident 6 was supposed to lower the bed rails by pulling on a knob below the side rail. DOM stated Resident 6 could not remove the bed rail because she was unable to reach down to where the knobs were located on the bed. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/4/21, at 3:34 p.m., with the Director of Rehabilitation (DOR) in Resident 6's room, Resident 6's bed rails were observed up. DOR stated there should be an entrapment risk assessment, and a consent form prior to use. DOR stated the bed rails were considered a restraint since Resident 6 was unable to remove it. DOR stated the importance of doing an entrapment risk assessment was to prevent entrapment injury. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 5:37 p.m. with the DOM, the DOM stated he was responsible for installing bed rails on Resident 6's bed. The DOM stated he did not perform necessary measurements to ensure bed and bed rail compatibility for Resident 6 and other residents with bed rails. The DOM stated that he was unaware of the requirements for the measurements of the bed rails. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Bed Rails, dated June 2020, the P&P indicated, .Maintenance/Designee will assess the bed dimensions no less than quarterly by utilizing Maintenance Inspection Checklist-Resident Rooms. Maintenance will also check bed rails regularly to ensure they are installed correctly, as rails may shift or loose over time . During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/4/21, at 5:53 p.m., with CNA 2, CNA 3, and the DON in Resident 6's room, CNA 3 stated the bed rails on Resident 6's bed was used as a mobility device. CNA 2 asked Resident 6 to grab the bed rails, Resident 6 did not follow commands and did not grab the bed rails. CNA 2 stated Resident 6 would not be able to remove the bed rails. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/5/21, at 9:15 a.m. with ADM, Facility Reported Event (Facility Reported Event), dated 10/30/21 was reviewed. The Facility Reported Event indicated, on 10/29/2021 .CNA notified the LVN that resident had redness, warm and swelling to her right hand .notified the physician and received and order for x-ray to right hand .All LVNs and CNAs were interviewed .Through an investigation of residents behaviors and interviews of staff .the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT-staff members of different expertise that work together toward a common goal for the resident) determined that redness and swelling of the hand was likely caused by accident by the resident . ADM stated that the staff determined that Resident 6 probably hit her hand on the bed rail causing her injury. ADM stated nobody actually witnessed the injury. During an interview on 11/5/21, at 2:50 p.m. with Resident 6's responsible party (RP), the RP was notified by the facility regarding Resident 6's injury of unknown origin on 10/29/21. RP stated Resident 6 had cracked bones in her right hand and thought Resident 6 was probably trying to grab something on her bedside table and hit her hand against the bed rail. During a review of Resident 6's Minimum Data Set (MDS- a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive (mental processes) and physical functional level assessment were reviewed. MDS dated [DATE], indicated, .Resident 6's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS - screening tool used to assess resident cognitive level) score was 3 out of 15 (0-7 indicated severe cognitive impairment - [memory loss, poor decision making-skills], 8-12 moderate cognitive impairment, and (13-15) cognitively intact) . MDS Section G (Function Status) indicated . B. Transfer how resident moves between surfaces including to or from: bed, chair, wheelchair, standing position . code 3 (two-person physical assist) . C. Walk in room how resident walks between locations in her room Code 8 (activity did not occur) . D. Walk in corridor how resident walks in corridor on unit . code 8 . 5. During an observation on 11/4/21, at 2:39 p.m., in Resident 55's room, Resident 55 was laying on his back in bed, with two assist bed rails attached to the midsection of the bed and was in the guard down position. Resident 55's bed was observed in the low position with two floor mats on both sides of the bed. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/4/21, at 2:42 p.m., with CNA 2, in Resident 55's room, Resident 55 was laying in bed with both bed rails in the lowered position. CNA 2 stated, Resident 55 was not alert and required total assist for mobility. CNA 2 stated, Resident 55's bed rails were in place to prevent him from falling out of bed. During a review of Resident 55's Minimum Data Set and physical functional level assessment dated [DATE], the MDS indicated Resident 55's Brief Interview for Mental Status score was 0 out of 15, Section G indicated . B. Transfer how resident moves between surfaces including to or from: bed, chair, wheelchair, standing position . code 3 . C. Walk in room how resident walks between locations in her room Code 8 . D. Walk in corridor how resident walks in corridor on unit . code 8 . During a concurrent interview and record review on 11/4/21, at 3:01 p.m., with Minimum Data Set Coordinator (MDSC), MDSC reviewed Resident 55's clinical record. MDSC stated, he did not know when the bed rails were installed on Resident 55's bed. MDSC reviewed the clinical record and stated there was no physician order, no informed consent for bed rail use, no bed rail care plan, and no entrapment risk assessment. MDSC reviewed Section P of the MDS, dated [DATE] titled, Restraint and Alarms, indicated, .Physical Restraints .Physical restraints are any manual method, or physical or mechanical device, material or equipment attached or adjacent to the resident's body that the individual cannot remove easily which restricts freedom of movement or normal access to one's body .Bed rail 0 . MDSC stated, the MDS section P was inaccurate because it was coded as 0 which meant not used. MDSC stated, he had worked with Resident 55 in the past and stated he was non-verbal and had limited mobility. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/4/21, at 3:08 p.m., with MDSC, in Resident 55's room, Resident 55 was laying in bed with both bed rails in the guard down position. MDSC stated, the quick release knob was located on the bottom of the bed rail and Resident 55 would not be able to remove the bed rail independently. MDSC proceeded to move the bed rail from its guard down position into the assist up position (assisting the resident in standing or sitting in bed) and stated the assist bed rail should not be down because there was no order, consent, care plan, or entrapment risk assessment. MDSC stated, without an entrapment risk assessment the bed rails were an endangerment to Resident 55 and could cause more harm than good. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 3:38 p.m., with DOR, DOR stated when the therapy department makes a recommendation for bed rail use a resident or resident representative consent was required prior to use. DOR stated, if bed rails were installed just because a resident was a fall risk that would be considered a restraint. DOR stated, there should be an entrapment risk assessment and care plan interventions for the use of bed rails. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 5:45 p.m., with DON, DON stated, the facility had different bed rail sizes. DON stated, there was no determination of which residents' bed had longer or shorter bed rails, the bed rails were installed based on whatever fit the bed. During a review of the facility policy and procedure titled Bed Rails dated 11/2021 was reviewed. The policy indicated .Decisions to use or discontinue the use of a bed rail will be made in the context of an individualized resident assessment using an Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) and will take into account the resident's medical needs, comfort, and freedom of movement .The Assessment of whether to use bed rails should include an evaluation of the alternatives to the use of bed rail that were attempted and how these alternatives failed to meet the resident's assessed needs. If bed rails are to bed used, the assessment Bed Rail Utilization [would be conducted] by a Licensed Nurse and/or the IDT. The Licensed Nurse and/or the IDT may refer to the Bed Rail Decision Tree during the assessment. Before installing a bed rail, the Facility must: Assess the resident for risk for entrapment from bed rails; and Ensure the bed's dimensions are appropriate for the resident's size and weight. If the bed rail is used as a restraint, the Facility will refer to Policy Restraints, for informed procedures. If a bed rail is used as an enabler, the resident/resident representative's informed consent will be obtained by a Licensed Nurse or the physician. The resident's plan of care will be updated to reflect the use of bed rails. The plan of care should also include documentation of the type of specific direct monitoring and supervision provided during the use of the bed rails and the identification of how needs will be met during the use of bed rails . During a review of the facility's P&P titled, Restraints, dated June 2020, the P&P indicated, .Physical Restraint is defined as any manual method or physical or mechanical device, material, or equipment attached or adjacent to the resident's body that the individual cannot remove easily which restricts freedom of movement or normal access to one's body. This may include bed rails, .if underlying causes of medical symptoms cannot be eliminated, alternative measures must be tried before a restraint is used .if the Facility is utilizing bed rails, the assessment Bed Rail Entrapment Risk Assessment .will be completed by a Licensed Nurse prior to the installation of bed rails .if a bed rails is being used as an enabler, the resident must be able to easily and voluntarily get in and out of bed when the equipment is in use. If the resident cannot easily and voluntarily release the bed rails and/or use the bed rails to reposition, the use of the bed rails may be considered a restraint . During a review of the manufactured guidelines titled Assist Rails retrieved from http://www.invacare.com/doc_files/1130185.pdf dated 1/26/2017 indicated, .The assist rails have three positions: Guard (Down) A: This position is intended to prevent an individual from inadvertently rolling out of bed. Assist (Up) B: Assist the user in the standing or sitting in bed. Transfer (Back) C: Allows unimpeded access to user. When changing position of the assist rail, hold and raise the rail with one hand while pulling the adjustment knob outward with the other hand . During a review of professional reference from the FDA- Food and Drug Administration, titled A Guide to Bed Safety Bed Rails in Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Home Health Care: The Facts retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/hospital-beds/guide-bed-safety-bed-rails-hospitals-nursing-homes-and-home-health-care-facts dated 12/11/17, indicated, . Today there are about 2.5 million hospital and nursing home beds in use in the United States. Between 1985 and January 1, 2009, 803 incidents of patients* caught, trapped, entangled, or strangled in beds with rails were reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Of these reports, 480 people died, 138 had a nonfatal injury, and 185 were not injured because staff intervened. Most patients were frail, elderly or confused . Patients who have problems with memory, sleeping, incontinence, pain, uncontrolled body movement, or who get out of bed and walk unsafely without assistance, must be carefully assessed for the best ways to keep them from harm, such as falling. Assessment by the patient's health care team will help to determine how best to keep the patient safe . Potential risks of bed rails may include: Strangling, suffocating, bodily injury, or death when patients or part of their body are caught between rails or between the bed rails and mattress. More serious injuries from falls when patients climb over rails. Skin bruising, cuts, and scrapes. Inducing agitated behavior when bed rails are used as a restraint. Feeling isolated or unnecessarily restricted. Preventing patients, who are able to get out of bed, from performing routine activities such as going to the bathroom or retrieving something from a closet . During a review of professional reference from the FDA- Food and Drug Administration, titled FDA Entrapment Zones and Guidelines undated, indicated, . This product [bed rail] in not [is not] recommended for individuals with cognitive problems (difficulty in understanding their surroundings) . 2. During an observation on 11/4/21, at 2:38 p.m., in Resident 16's room, Resident 16 was asleep in bed. Resident 16 had a half beds rail on the upper left and upper right side of the bed in the guard position; the right side of the bed was next to the wall. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/4/21, at 3:38 p.m., with LVN 5, Resident 16's EHR as reviewed. LVN 5 stated Resident 16 did not have a physician's order, Care Plan, and consent prior to the use of bed rails. Resident 16's Enabler [a bed rails used to facilitate movement /Restraints-Physical [a device used to impede movement] initial evaluation) was reviewed. The Enabler/Restraint-Physical (initial evaluation), dated 6/1/18, indicated, .Reason for use of physical restraint . No restraints in use . History/Alternatives Attempted . No restraints in use .Communication . Family/POA [Power of Attorney], Decision Maker notified . No . Restraint Order . No . During an interview on 11/4/21, at 3:38 p.m., with LVN 5, LVN 5 stated there should be a physician's order, entrapment assessment, consent, and care plan prior to use of bed rails for Resident 16. During a review of Resident 16's MDS and physical assessment dated [DATE], the MDS indicated Resident 16's BIMS score was 4 which indicated severe cognitive impairment. Resident 16's functional status assessment indicated Resident 16 required two-person extensive assistance from staff with bed mobility. 3. During an observation on 11/4/21, at 2:42 p.m., in Resident 11's room, Resident 11 was asleep in bed. Resident 11 had a half bed rail on the upper right and upper left side of the bed. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/4/21, at 3:21 p.m. with LVN 5, Resident 11's Physician's Order, dated 2/13/19 was reviewed. Resident 11's physician's order indicated, .side rail/enabler bed mobility . Resident 11's Enabler/Restraint-Physical (initial evaluation), dated 1/11/19 was reviewed. The Enabler/Restraint-Physical (initial evaluation) indicated, .Reason for use of physical restraint . No restraints in use . History/Alternatives Attempted . No restraints in use . Communication . Family/POA [Power of Attorney], Decision Maker notified . No . Restraint Order . No . Resident 11's Care Plan, dated 1/30/19 was reviewed. Resident 11's care plan indicated, .I have physical functioning deficit related to: limited assistance need with ADL's [Activities of Daily Living] . I will improve or maintain my current level of physical functioning. Assistive devices (assist bar [a bed rail used to facilitate movement] to one side of the bed) . LVN 5 stated Resident 11 had no consent prior to the use of the half bed rails . During an interview on 11/4/21, at 3:38 p.m., with LVN 5, LVN 5 stated there should be a physician's order, entrapment risk assessment, consent, and care plan prior to the use of bed rails for Resident 11. 4. During an observation on 11/4/21, at 2:50 p.m., in Resident 8's room, Resident 8 was asleep in bed. Resident 8 had a half upper bed rails on both side of the bed in the guard position. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/4/21, at 3:13 p.m., with LVN 5, Resident 8's EHR was reviewed. LVN 5 stated Resident 8 did not have a physician's order, care plan, and entrapment risk assessment prior to use of bed rails . During an interview on 11/4/21, at 3:38 p.m., with LVN 5, LVN 5 stated there should be a physician's order, entrapment assessment, consent, and care plan prior to use of bed rails for Resident 8.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0583 (Tag F0583)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to protect the privacy of personal information for one of 43 sampled residents (Resident 110) when Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to protect the privacy of personal information for one of 43 sampled residents (Resident 110) when Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 8 did not close Resident 110's Electronic Health Record (EHR- are electronic versions of the paper charts. An EHR includes resident's medical history, notes, and other information about health including symptoms, diagnoses, medications, lab results, vital signs, immunizations, and reports from diagnostic tests). The EHR were left open, unattended and exposed for public viewing. This failure had the potential for unauthorized access to resident's personal information and violated Resident 110's right to privacy and confidentiality. Findings: During an observation on 11/4/21, at 9:54 a.m., in the hallway, Resident 110's EHR was left open and unattended. LVN 8 was inside the medication room. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 10 a.m., with LVN 8, LVN 8 verified Resident 110's EHR was left open and unattended in the hallway. LVN 8 stated Resident 110's EHR should not be left open and unattended to maintain Resident 110's privacy. During an interview on 11/09/21, at 4:26 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON) the DON stated Resident 110's EHR should not be left open unattended to maintain Resident 110's privacy. The facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, indicated, .Residents Rights .Ensures protected health information is kept confidential . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled, Electronic Protected Health Information Security dated 8/2020, the P&P indicated, .To ensure the security and integrity of medical records of residents at the facility . Computers or other electronic device will be located in areas that limit access to residents and visitors . monitors should face away from public view . Facility staff will be assigned unique user log-in information to access the electronic record keeping system . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration Subcutaneous Insulin dated 9/18, indicated, . Residents health information needs to remain private. The pages of the MAR notebook containing resident health information must remain closed or covered when not in direct use .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0657 (Tag F0657)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to implement and timely revise a person-centered comprehensive care plan for one of three sampled Residents (Resident 18) when: ...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to implement and timely revise a person-centered comprehensive care plan for one of three sampled Residents (Resident 18) when: 1. Resident 18's care plan for use of indwelling urinary catheter (IUC-a catheter drains urine from your bladder into a bag outside the body) was not reviewed or revised by the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT-group composed of a physician, a nurse and appointed facility staff who meet and discuss the care of the residents). This failure had the potential for Resident 18's to develop urinary tract infections (UTI-infection of the urinary tract) and not following his specific care needs for the IUC. Findings: During an interview on 11/03/21, at 2:03 p.m., with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 9, LVN 9 stated Resident 18 had an IUC since admission and is diagnosed with obstructive uropathy (is a structural or functional hindrance of normal urine flow, sometimes leading to renal dysfunction). LVN 9 stated Resident 18's care plan was not personalized or revised since admission. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/03/21, at 2:18 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), Resident 18's Electronic Health Record (EHR- are electronic versions of the paper charts. An EHR includes resident's medical history, notes, and other information about health including symptoms, diagnoses, medications, lab results, vital signs, immunizations, and reports from diagnostic tests) was reviewed. The EHR indicated Resident 18's IUC was permanent. The DON stated Resident 18's EHR indicated he was diagnosed with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH-condition in which an overgrowth of prostate tissue pushes against the urethra and the bladder) and dysfunction (not working normally) of bladder. The DON stated Resident 18 had IUC since 2020. The DON stated the care plan was not updated since his admission. The DON stated the catheter care plan should have been implemented and revised since 12/14/2020 and quarterly thereafter. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/05/21, at 9:54 a.m., with LVN 5, Resident 18's care plan was reviewed. LVN 5 stated, Resident 18's care plan was initiated on 12/14/2020 and should have been revised quarterly. LVN 5 stated Resident 18's was at risk for developing UTI if the IUC stayed in long term. During a review of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Version 3.0 Manual, dated 10/2019 indicated, .The plan of care must be reviewed and revised periodically, and the services provided must be consistent with each resident's written plan of care . During a review of facility document titled Care Planning dated 6/2020, indicated, .A comprehensive person-centered Care Plan will be developed for each resident. The Care Plan will include measurable objectives and timetables to meet a resident's medical, nursing, mental and psychosocial needs .in the event that the Comprehensive Care Plan identified a change in the resident's goals or functioning that was not identified in the Baseline Care Plan, these changes will be incorporated into an updated summary and provided the resident and /or resident's representative .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Incontinence Care (Tag F0690)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure bowel and bladder training program was develop...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure bowel and bladder training program was developed for one of three sampled residents (Resident 18) when Resident 18' s bowel and bladder (B&B) training program (a training program to overcome bladder problems) was not developed for the indwelling urinary catheter (IUC-a catheter drains urine from your bladder into a bag outside your body). This failure had the potential for Resident 18's to develop urinary tract infections (UTI-infection of the urinary tract) and loss of opportunity to regain bowel and bladder function. Findings: During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/3/21, at 2:03 p.m., with LVN 9, Resident 18's electronic health record (EHR- are electronic versions of the paper charts. An EHR includes resident's medical history, notes, and other information about health including symptoms, diagnoses, medications, lab results, vital signs, immunizations, and reports from diagnostic tests) was reviewed. The EHR indicated, Resident 18 had IUC. LVN 9 stated Resident 18's care plan did not mention a B&B training program. LVN 9 stated Resident 18 should have been on a bowel and bladder (B&B) training program to restore his bladder function. LVN 9 stated Resident could have UTIs and loss of bladder function if a B&B training program was not implemented. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/03/21, at 2:18 p.m., with the DON, Resident 18's Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) Notes were reviewed. The IDT (group composed of a physician, a nurse and appointed facility staff who meet and discuss the care of the residents) notes did not indicated Resident 18's B&B training program was discussed. The DON stated Resident 18's EHR indicated he was diagnosed with Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH-condition in which an overgrowth of prostate tissue pushes against the urethra and the bladder) and dysfunction (not working normally) of bladder. The DON stated Resident 18 had a IUC since 2020. The DON was unable to find documentation that a B & B training program was discussed with Interdisciplinary Team (IDT-group composed of a physician, a nurse and appointed facility staff who meet and discuss the care of the residents) and was implemented. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/05/21, at 9:36 a.m., with LVN 5, Resident 18's EHR was reviewed. LVN 5 stated there was no documentation that B&B training trial was attempted. LVN 5 stated the facility did not have a policy on B & B training. LVN 5 stated Resident 18 would be at risk to develop urinary tract infections since the IUC was permanent. LVN 5 stated no attempt was made to regain Resident 18's bladder function. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/05/21, at 3:36 p.m., with the DON, Resident 18's Nursing Bowel and Bladder Assessment was reviewed. Resident 18's Nursing Bowel and Bladder assessment dated [DATE], indicated, .1. Type of Toileting Program .b. Prompted Voiding .d. Check and change . The DON stated Resident was not on a B&B training program and the assessment was inaccurate. The DON stated the accuracy of the documentation for Resident 18's Bowel and Bladder Assessment and Foley Catheter Use Assessment was the Minimum Data Set [MDS- a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive (mental processes)] Coordinator's (MDSC) responsibility. The DON stated the facility did not have a policy on Bowel and Bladder Training program. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/05/21, at 4:05 p.m., with the MDSC, the Nursing Bowel and Bladder Assessment was reviewed, dated 9/15/21, indicated, .1. Type of Toileting Program .b. Prompted Voiding .d. Check and change . The MDSC stated Resident 18's bowel and bladder assessment was documented incorrectly on the MDS because Resident 18 had an IUC and was not on a B&B training program. The MDSC stated Resident 18's care could be affected if the assessment for bowel and bladder function was not done accurately. During a review of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Version 3.0 Manual, dated 10/2019 indicated, .Each resident who is incontinent or at risk of developing incontinence should be identified, assessed, and provided with individualized treatment (medications, non-medicinal treatments and/or devices) and services to achieve or maintain as normal elimination function as possible .Residents may need to be referred to practitioners who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect bladder function .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Tube Feeding (Tag F0693)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide enteral G-tube (Gastrostomy tube that is place...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide enteral G-tube (Gastrostomy tube that is placed directly into the stomach for administration of food, fluids, and medications) feeding per physician order, for one of three sampled residents (Resident 42) when; Resident 42 did not have training to self-administer enteral feeding and administered an incorrect formula by adding water to his enteral feeding. This failure resulted in Resident 42 receiving more water than prescribed and had the potential to cause adverse complications. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/2/21, at 12:12 p.m., with Resident 42, in Resident 42's room, Resident 42 stated, he had been a carpenter and was able to pick up on this quickly. Resident 42 stated, he had watched nurses do the enteral feeding a thousand times and was able to do it by himself. Resident stated he would demonstrate how he self-administered the enteral feeding via his G-tube. Resident 42 proceeded by opening the gravity bag (gravity feeding is a way to deliver feeding formula through the feeding tube. With this feeding method, formula flows out of a bag and into the tube by gravity) lid and poured approximately 300 ml (ml- milliliter-a unit of measurement) of water from a water pitcher then poured two bottles containing 237 ml of [brand name (enteral feeding)] into the bag. Resident 42 stated, he usually pours 400 to 500 ml of water and stated there was approximately. 750 ml total in the bag then began to administer the formula via the G-tube. During a review of Resident 42's Minimum Data Set (MDS- a resident assessment tool used to identify cognitive (mental processes) and physical functional level assessment dated [DATE], the MDS indicated Resident 42's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS - screening tool used to assess resident cognitive level) score was 15 out of 15 (0-7 indicated severe cognitive impairment - [memory loss, poor decision making-skills] 8-12 moderate cognitive impairment, (13-15) cognitively intact). During a concurrent interview and record review on 11/3/21, at 2:56 p.m., with Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 1, Resident 42's Order Summary Report (OSR) dated 11/2021 indicated, .Enteral Feed Order every 6 hours [Brand Name (enteral feeding)] 1.5 2 cartons at 0000 1 carton 0600, 2 carton 1200, 1 carton 1800 Q [every] 6 hours via gravity bag to deliver 2133 kcals [kilocalories], 1422ml [milliliters], 30g [grams, a unit of measurement] Fiber, 91g protein, 1090ml H2O (water) . Resident incapable of administering own medication . LVN 1 stated, there was no MD order indicating that Resident 42 was capable of administering his own enteral feeding and there should have been an physician's order in place. LVN 1 reviewed the clinical record and stated, there was no assessment or education given to Resident 42 to ensure the safe administration of the enteral feeding. LVN 1 stated, she did not know if Resident 42 administered his enteral feeding per physician order because she did not observe himself administer the enteral feeding. LVN 1 stated, adding 300 - 400 ml water to the bag was not part of the enteral feed physician's order. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 3:38 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated, there was no physician order, education, or an Interdisciplinary Team (IDT- involves team members from different disciplines working collaboratively, with a common purpose, to set goals, make decisions and share resources and responsibilities for the best interest of the resident) meeting to ensure safety and capability of self-administration of enteral feeding for Resident 42. The DON stated, Resident 42 should have been educated and it was the IDT's responsibility to educate and re-educate for self-administration of enteral feeding. The DON stated the purpose of educating and re-educating Resident 42 was to ensure safe administration of enteral feeding. The DON stated, the order did not indicate to add water to the bag during the enteral feeding. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 10:59 a.m., with the Administrator (ADM), the ADM stated, there was no in-service education or re-education for Resident 42 to self-administer enteral nutrition. The ADM stated, the facility did not have a policy on Resident self-administration for enteral feeding. During a concurrent interview and record review on 11/5/21, at 11:48 p.m., with LVN 5, the facility policy and procedure titled, Self Administration of Drugs dated 11/2010 was reviewed. The policy indicated, .The staff or practitioner will periodically (for example, during quarterly MDS reviews) reevaluate a resident's ability to continue to self-administer medications . LVN 5 stated, enteral nutrition was not considered a medication but the policy would apply to enteral feeding because an evaluation and education should be done for safety. During a telephone interview on 11/5/21, at 2:01 p.m., with the Registered Dietitian (RD), the RD stated, she was aware that Resident 42 was self-administering enteral nutrition. The RD stated, she had not observed Resident 42 self-administer enteral nutrition. The RD stated, there should be a physician order indicating, Resident 42 was capable of self-administering enteral nutrition and education to avoid complications.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0761 (Tag F0761)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure drugs were labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional standards of practice for one of 43 sampled resid...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure drugs were labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional standards of practice for one of 43 sampled residents (Resident 2) when Resident 2's artificial eye drops container was stored in the medication cart in the hallway without an open and used by date. These failures had the potential to result in the contamination, decreased efficacy of eye drops which placed Resident 2 at risk for decrease eye moisture and getting an eye infection. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/4/21, at 9:16 a.m., with License Vocational Nurse (LVN) 2, the medication cart stored Resident 2's artificial sterile eye drops. The eye drops had no open date and used by date (last date recommended for the use of a product while at peak quality) and was ready for Resident 2's use. LVN 2 stated the artificial sterile eye drop once open should have an open date and used by date to ensure medication potency and prevent eye infection. During an interview on 11/9/21 at 4:26 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated Resident 2's eye drops once open should have an open and used by date to ensure medication potency. During a review of the facility policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Medication Administration dated 9/2019, the P&P indicated, . Certain products of package types such as . ophthalmic drops have specified shortened end-of-use dating, once opened, to ensure medication purity and potency . Position statements from the American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses and American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) stated that multi-use eye drops and ointments should be disposed of 28 days after initial use. These position statements are based on safety guidelines that have been established for safe use and are considered as best practice . The Ocular Surface, Professional Reference titled, A Patient's Guide to Artificial Tears dated 8/3/17, (found at http://www.tearfilm.org/dettnews-a_patients_guide_to_artificial_tears/5523_5519/eng/) indicated . As soon as you open . bottle, bacteria or fungus free-floating in the air will inevitably get in . In addition, many people use artificial tears in an as needed manner . increasing risk of contamination. A good practice . is that once you open a bottle, label it with the date of opening, and discard after 3 months even if it's not finished .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0802 (Tag F0802)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observations, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure the food service staff had the appropriate competencies and skills sets to carry out the functions of the food servi...

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Based on observations, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure the food service staff had the appropriate competencies and skills sets to carry out the functions of the food service when one of seven dietary staff (Cook-CK 4) worked in the kitchen with an expired food handler card (FHC-proof of certification required of all food handlers in certain states within the United States. A food handler is defined as a person who works in a food facility and performs any duties that involve the preparation, storage or service of food in a facility). This failure had the potential to place residents at risk for unsafe food practices and handling which may lead to food borne illnesses (is any illness resulting from the spoilage of contaminated food, pathogenic bacteria, viruses, or parasites that contaminate food). Findings: During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/05/21, at 10:23 a.m., with Dietary Supervisor (DS), the [NAME] (CK) 4, DS, CK 1, Dietary Aide (DA) 1, CK 3, DA 2 and CK 2's FHCs were reviewed. CK 4's FHC was issued on 6/11/2018 and expired on 6/10/21. DS stated a current FHC was expected to work in the kitchen. DS stated residents could develop food borne illnesses if dietary staff was not current on safe food handling practices. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/05/21, at 10:45 a.m., with CK 4, the FHC was reviewed. The FHC indicated, CK 4's certificate expired on 6/10/2021. CK 4 stated she knew her FHC was expired. CK 4 stated residents in the facility could develop food borne illnesses because she was not up to date on the current food practices and standards of food handling. During an interview on 11/05/21, at 1:36 p.m., with Registered Dietician (RD-a skilled health care professional who is an expert in the field of nutrition), RD stated she performed an audit and was aware that one of the staff did not have a current FHC. RD stated it is an expectation for the dietary staff to follow the current standard food handling and must have a current FHC. RD stated the residents could get food borne illnesses if residents' food was not handled properly and staff were not current on safe food practices. During a review of CK 4's Timecard, dated 6/1/2021 through 10/22/2021, the Timecard indicated, CK 4 worked fulltime at the facility after the food FHC had expired. During an interview on 11/05/21, at 4:08 p.m., with the Administrator (ADM), the ADM stated the DS was responsible for oversight of dietary staff. The ADM stated her expectation was for all dietary staff not to work unless have an active FHC to work in the kitchen. During a review of the Health and Safety Code 113948 (HSC), dated 1/1/2020, the HSC indicated, .Each food handler shall maintain a valid food handler card for the duration of his or her employment as a food handler .
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0943 (Tag F0943)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain an effective abuse training program for one of three employees (Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 6) when employee training was not ...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain an effective abuse training program for one of three employees (Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 6) when employee training was not tracked, and employee did not complete the mandatory training necessary to identify and report abuse to meet the needs of the residents. This failure placed residents at risk for abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Findings: During a concurrent interview and record on 11/10/21, at 10:16 a.m., with Director of Staff Development (DSD), DSD reviewed LVN 6's employee file and training binder. DSD validated that LVN 6 had not completed abuse training in 2020 and 2021. DSD stated, the abuse training was not done, the abuse training was supposed to be for all the staff every year. DSD stated, she was responsible for ensuring staff complete the mandatory training and was her expectation that all staff complete mandatory training. DSD stated, all staff in-service training had been a problem at the facility for the past year. During an interview on 11/10/21, at 4:43 p.m., with the Administrator (ADM), ADM stated, the last time the facility had a Quality Assurance and performance (QAPI) meeting was in September and staff competencies and training was not discussed. The ADM stated it was the DSD's responsibility to ensure staff competencies were done yearly. The ADM stated, the DSD needed to develop a tracking system to ensure all staff trainings were completed. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure titled, Abuse Prevention and Prohibition Program dated 8/2020, the policy indicated, .To ensure the Facility establishes, operationalizes, and maintains an Abuse Prevention and Prohibition Program designed to screen and train employees, protect residents, and to ensure a standardized methodology for prevention, identification , investigation, and reporting abuse, neglect, mistreatment, misappropriation of property, and crime in accordance with federal and state requirements .All employees, contractors and volunteers will be trained through orientation and ongoing training sessions, no less than annually, on the following topics .Abuse prevention .
CONCERN (E)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide services which meet professional standards of quality for three of 43 sampled residents (Resident 40, Resident 110, an...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide services which meet professional standards of quality for three of 43 sampled residents (Resident 40, Resident 110, and Resident 56 .) when: 1. Resident 40 was administered oxygen without following physician's order. This failure resulted in Resident 40 to receive a high dose of oxygen and had the potential to experience oxygen toxicity (a lung damage that happens from breathing too much (supplemental) oxygen. It can cause coughing and trouble breathing. In severe cases it can even cause death.) Which can lead to difficulty in breathing and death. 2. License Vocational Nurse administered insulin by way of an insulin pen to Resident 110 and Resident 56 without disinfecting the insulin pen rubber seal, did not prime (a method to remove air bubbles from the needle to ensure it is working, and full dose administration) the pen, and did not hold the pen at the injection site for 5-10 seconds prior to pulling the needle out. This failure placed Resident 110 and Resident 56 at risk for an inaccurate insulin dosage and impaired insulin absorption (movement of a medication from the site of administration to bloodstream) and cross contamination. Findings: 1. During an observation on 11/2/21, at 2:18 p.m., in Resident 40's room, Resident 40 was laying in bed with the oxygen concentrator (a medical device that provides oxygen) connected to her nose via nasal cannula (is a small, flexible tube that attaches to an oxygen source and intended to deliver a steady stream of oxygen to your nose). The oxygen concentrator flow rate was set to administer oxygen at 5 liters per minute (unit of measurement). During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/2/21, at 2:31p.m., with License Vocational Nurse (LVN) 5, LVN 5 verified the oxygen concentrator flow rate was set to deliver at 5 liters per minute of oxygen to Resident 40. LVN 5 stated she will check Resident 40's physician's order for Oxygen. During an interview on 11/2/21 at 2:41 p.m., with LVN 5, LVN 5 stated Resident 40's physician's order for Oxygen was to administer oxygen at 2 liters per minute. LVN 5 stated she did not follow physician's order. LVN 5 stated Resident 40 had a diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (it's a long lasting lung disease which limits the flow of oxygen in and out the lungs) and if given too much oxygen can cause difficulty breathing for Resident 40. During an interview on 11/9/21, at 3:18 p.m., with LVN 5, LVN 5 stated oxygen was considered a medication and was prescribed by a physician and the physician's orders should be followed. During an interview on 11/9/21, at 4:26 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated oxygen was considered a medication and physician's order should be followed to prevent oxygen toxicity for Resident 40. During a review of Resident 40's admission Record dated 2/17/19, the admission Record indicated Resident 40 was admitted in the facility with a diagnosis of COPD. During a review of Resident 40's Order Summary Report dated 2/17/19, the Order Summary Report indicated, .Oxygen @[at] 2 l/min [liters per minute] .) During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, indicated, . Principal Responsibilities . Ability to carry out physician orders . Special Nursing Care Responsibilities .Demonstrate knowledge and ability to implement . properly administers O2 [oxygen] . During a review of the professional reference titled, Harms of over oxygenation in patients with exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5461124/ dated 6/5/2017, indicated, .Too much oxygen can be dangerous for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) with (or at risk of) hypercapnia (the presence of excessive amount of carbon monoxide [a colorless odorless toxic gas] in the blood). During a review of the professional reference tiled, Bench to bedside review: Oxygen as a drug retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2688103/ dated 2/24/2009, indicated, .Oxygen is one of the most widely used therapeutic agents. It is a drug in the true sense of the word, with specific biochemical and physiologic actions, a distinct range of effective doses, and a well-defined adverse effects at high doses . During a review of the facility policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Oxygen Administration dated 6/2020, the P&P indicated, .A physician's order is required to initiate oxygen therapy . The order shall include: Oxygen flow rate, Method of administration (e.g. nasal cannula) . The P&P titled, Medication Administration dated 9/2019, indicated, .Medications are administered in accordance with the written orders of the prescriber . 2. During a medication administration observation, on 11/04/21, at 10:08 a.m., LVN 8 administered NovoLOG insulin (rapid-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 6 units (unit of measurement) by way of an insulin pen to Resident 110. LVN 8 did not prime the NovoLOG insulin pen prior to the insulin administration to Resident 110. LVN 8 injected the insulin to Resident 101's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 110's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 seconds. During a review of Resident 110's, admission Record (a document containing resident profile information) dated 11/3/21, the admission Record indicated, Resident 110 was admitted to the facility with diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (a long-term disorder that is characterized by high blood sugar). During a review of Resident 110's, Order Summary Report dated 8/21/19, the Orders Summary Report indicated, .Insulin NovoLOG Solution Inject as per sliding scale: 0-200 = 0; 201-250 = 2; 251-300 = 4; 400 = 6; 401- 450 = 8, subcutaneously (under the skin) one time a day related to Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar in the blood) . During an interview on 11/4/21, at 10:11 a.m., with LVN 8, LVN 8 stated he did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 110 after injection. LVN 8 stated he had been a license nurse for 25 years and never heard of priming the insulin pen. During a medication administration observation, on 11/4/21, at 12:33 p.m., LVN 3 administered insulin Lispro (fast-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 5 units (unit of measurement) via an insulin pen to Resident 56. LVN 3 did not disinfect the insulin pen rubber seal prior to attaching the needle and did not prime the insulin Lispro pen prior to the insulin administration to Resident 56. LVN 3 injected the insulin to Resident 56's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 56's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 seconds. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 12:50 p.m., with LVN 3, LVN 3 stated she did not disinfect the insulin pen rubber seal before attaching the needle, did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 56 after injection. LVN 3 stated she was not aware she needed to prime the insulin pen and wait 5 seconds prior to removing the needle from Resident 56. During a review of Resident 56's admission Record dated 1/17/2020, the admission Record indicated, Resident 56 was admitted to the facility with diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. During a review of Resident 56, Order Summary Report dated 10/12/21, the Order Summary Report indicated, .Insulin Lispro Solution Pen-Injector 100 UNIT/ML [milliliter] inject 5 unit subcutaneously with meals related Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus . During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 11/4/21, at 3:02 p.m., she stated the license nurse should have primed the insulin pen prior to administration. The DON stated the nurse should have kept the pen needle under the skin for 5 seconds after injecting the insulin to ensure the insulin was absorbed. The DON stated the insulin pen rubber seal should be disinfected prior to attaching the needle to prevent cross contamination. During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, the Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION indicated, .Principal Responsibilities . Responsible for ensuring the delivery of efficient and effective nursing care while achieving positive clinical outcomes and resident/family satisfaction in accordance with accepted standards of practice, stated and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Ability to administer medications and treatment timely and according to facility policy . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration Subcutaneous Insulin dated 5/2016, the P&P indicated, . Always perform the safety test before each injection. Performing the safety test ensures that you get an accurate dose by: ensuring that pen and the needle work properly. Removing air bubbles . Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards. Tap the insulin reservoir so that air bubbles rise up towards the needle. Press the injection button all the way in. Check if insulin comes out of the needle tip. You may have to perform the safety test several times before insulin seen. If no insulin comes out, check for air bubbles and repeat the safety test two more times to remove them. If no insulin comes out, the needle may be blocked .Deliver the dose by pressing the injection button in all the way . Keep the injection button pressed all the way. Slowly count to 10 before you withdraw the needle from the skin. This ensures that the full dose will be delivered . During a review of the professional reference titled, Insulin Pen Injections dated 8/2018, retrieved at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17923-insulin-pen-injections, indicated, .How do I use an insulin pen? Wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol wipe . Prime the insulin pen. Priming means removing air bubbles from the needle, and ensures that the needle is open and working. The pen must be primed before each injection . To prime the insulin pen, turn the dosage knob to the 2 units indicator. With the pen pointing upward, push the knob all the way. At least one drop of insulin should appear. You may need to repeat this step until a drop appears. Select the dose of insulin that has been prescribed for you by turning the dosage knob . Injecting insulin with an insulin pen: .Slowly push the knob of the pen all the way in to deliver your full dose. Remember to hold the pen at the site for 6-10 seconds, and then pull the needle out . During a review of the professional reference titled, Risk associated with the use of Insulin pens and Vials dated 2017, (retrieved at https://www.ismp.org/sites/default/files/attachments/2017-11/ISMP138-Insulin%20Guideline-051517-2-WEB.pdf), indicated, . nurses have reported seeing a wet spot on the skin post injection due to insulin leaking from the injection site because the needle was not left in place for 5-10 seconds after injection . During a review of the professional reference titled, Severe hyperglycemia in patients incorrectly using insulin pens at home dated 10/2017, (retrieved at https://www.ismp.org/alerts/severe-hyperglycemia-patients-incorrectly-using-insulin-pens-home), indicated, . Prior to injection, the pen should be primed using 2 to 3 units of insulin to make certain that the needle is correctly attached and to remove any air bubbles or pockets in the insulin cartridge. This is known as an air shot and the patient should see about 2 drops of insulin come out of the needle .
CONCERN (E)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Unnecessary Medications (Tag F0759)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure the facility medication error rate did not exceed five percent when the facility medication error rate was 16 percent wh...

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Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure the facility medication error rate did not exceed five percent when the facility medication error rate was 16 percent when 25 opportunities of medication administration were observed and four of the 25 medications were not administered in accordance with physician's orders, resulting in a medication error rate of 12 percent. These failure placed Resident 110, and Resident 56 at risk for inaccurate insulin dosage and impaired insulin absorption (movement of a medication from the site of administration to bloodstream) and not getting the full therapeutic effects of all the administered medications. Findings: During a medication administration observation, on 11/04/21, at 10:09 a.m., in the hallway, with License Vocational Nurse (LVN) 8, LVN 8 administered Sodium Bicarbonate (a medication use to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion) tablet 650 mg (milligrams - unit of measurement) one tablet, Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate (a medication use to treat infection) Tablet 500-125 mg one tablet, and NovoLOG insulin (rapid-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 6 units (unit of measurement) by way of an insulin pen to Resident 110. LVN 8 did not prime (remove air bubbles from the needle to ensure it is open and working) the NovoLOG insulin pen prior to the insulin administration to Resident 110. LVN 8 injected the insulin to Resident 101's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 110's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 seconds. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 10:11 a.m., with LVN 8, LVN 8 stated he did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 110 after injection. LVN 8 stated he had been a license nurse for 25 years and never heard of priming the insulin pen. During a review of Resident 110's admission Record (a document containing resident profile information) dated 11/3/21, the admission Record indicated, Resident 110 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (a long-term disorder that is characterized by high blood sugar), Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (is the backward flow of stomach acid into the throat to the mouth), and Osteomyelitis, Left ankle and foot (infection in the bones) . During a review of Resident 110's Order Summary Report dated 8/21/19, the Order Summary Report indicated, .Insulin NovoLOG Solution Inject as per sliding scale: 0-200 = 0; 201-250 = 2; 251-300 = 4; 400 = 6; 401- 450 = 8, subcutaneously (under the skin) one time a day related to Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar in the blood) . Sodium Bicarbonate (used to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion.) Tablet 650 mg (unit of measurment) Give 1 tablet by mouth three times a day related to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease . Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate (antibiotic) Tablet 500-125 mg Give 1 tablet by mouth two times a day for Osteomyelitis for 7 days . During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/4/21, at 10:28 a.m., with LVN 8, Resident 110's Medication Admin Audit Report (MAAR), dated 11/4/21 was reviewed. The MAAR indicated, . NovoLOG Solution Inject as per sliding scale: 0-200 = 0; 201-250 = 2; 251-300 = 4; 400 = 6; 401- 450 = 8, subcutaneously one time a day related to Hyperglycemia . Sliding scale PRN [as needed] only if BS [blood sugar] is over 200 . Scheduled Date 11/4/21 07:00. Administration time 11/4/21 10:22 . Sodium Bicarbonate Tablet 650 mg Give 1 tablet by mouth three times a day . Scheduled Date 11/4/21 07:00. Administration time 11/4/21 10:22 . Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate Tablet 500-125 mg Give 1 tablet by mouth two times a day . Scheduled Date 11/4/21 07:00. Administration time 11/4/21 10:22 . LVN 8 stated the medications was scheduled for 7 a.m. and was administered late at 10:22 a.m. to Resident 110. During a medication administration observation, on 11/4/21, at 12:33 p.m., LVN 3 administered insulin Lispro (fast-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 5 units by way of an insulin pen to Resident 56. LVN 3 did not disinfect the insulin pen rubber seal prior to attaching the needle and did not prime the insulin Lispro pen prior to insulin administration to Resident 56. LVN 3 injected the insulin on to Resident 56's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 56's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 12:50 p.m., with LVN 3, LVN 3 stated she did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 to 10 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 56 arm after injection. During a review of Resident 56, admission Record dated 1/17/20, the admission Record indicated, Resident 56 was admitted to the facility with diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. During a review of Resident 56, Order Summary Report dated 10/12/21, the Order Summary Report indicated, Insulin Lispro Solution Pen-Injector 100 UNIT/ML [milliliter] inject 5 unit subcutaneously with meals related Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus . During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 11/9/21, at 4:26 p.m., she stated the license nurse should have primed the insulin pen prior to administration to Resident 110 and Resident 56. The DON stated the nurse should have kept the pen needle under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds after injecting the insulin to ensure the insulin was absorbed and Resident 110 and Resident 56 receive the accurate insulin dose. The DON stated the license nurse should administered medications in a timely manner to ensure the effectiveness of the medications. During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, indicated, Principal Responsibilities . Responsible for ensuring the delivery of efficient and effective nursing care while achieving positive clinical outcomes and resident/family satisfaction in accordance with accepted standards of practice, stated and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Ability to administer medications and treatment timely and according to facility policy . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration Subcutaneous Insulin dated 5/2016, the P&P indicated, . Always perform the safety test before each injection. Performing the safety test ensures that you get an accurate dose by: ensuring that pen and the needle work properly. Removing air bubbles . Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards. Tap the insulin reservoir so that air bubbles rise up towards the needle. Press the injection button all the way in. Check if insulin comes out of the needle tip. You may have to perform the safety test several times before insulin seen. If no insulin comes out, check for air bubbles and repeat the safety test two more times to remove them. If no insulin comes out, the needle may be blocked .Deliver the dose by pressing the injection button in all the way . Keep the injection button pressed all the way. Slowly count to 10 before you withdraw the needle from the skin. This ensures that the full dose will be delivered . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration General Guidelines dated 9/2018, the P&P indicated, .Medications are administered in accordance with written orders of the prescriber . Medications are administered within 60 minutes of scheduled time . During a review of the professional reference titled, Using medication: Using antibiotics[medications use to treat infections] correctly and avoiding resistance dated 11/2008, retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361005/, indicated, .When should you take antibiotics? Some antibiotics are always meant to be taken at the same time of day, others are meant to be taken before, with or after a meal. If you are supposed to take the medicine three times a day, for example, it usually needs to be taken at set times so that the effect is spread out evenly over the course of the day . During a review of the professional reference titled, Why You Need to Take Your Medications as Prescribed or Instructed dated 2/2016 retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/special-features/why-you-need-take-your-medications-prescribed-or-instructed, indicated, . Sticking to your medication routine (or medication adherence) means taking your medications as prescribed - the right dose, at the right time, in the right way and frequency. Why is doing these things important? Simply put, not taking your medicine as prescribed by a doctor or instructed by a pharmacist could lead to your disease getting worse, hospitalization, even death .
CONCERN (E)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0760 (Tag F0760)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on Observation, Interview, and Record Review the facility failed to ensure residents were free from significant medication error for two of six sampled residents (Resident 110, and Resident 56) ...

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Based on Observation, Interview, and Record Review the facility failed to ensure residents were free from significant medication error for two of six sampled residents (Resident 110, and Resident 56) when: 1. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 8 administered Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate (a medication use to treat infection) not following physician's order administration time, and administered insulin (medication used to treat high blood sugar) by way of an insulin pen (a device used to inject insulin) to Resident 110 without priming prime (a method to remove air bubbles from the needle to ensure it is working, and provides insulin full dose administration) the insulin pen and without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. 2. LVN 3 administered insulin by way of an insulin pen to Resident 56 without disinfecting the insulin pen rubber seal prior to attaching the needle, did not prime the insulin pen, and did not allow the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. These failure placed Resident 110, and Resident 56 at risk for inaccurate insulin dosage and impaired insulin absorption (movement of a medication from the site of administration to bloodstream) and not getting the full therapeutic effects of the administered medications. Findings: 1. During a medication administration observation, on 11/04/21, at 10:09 a.m., in the hallway, with License Vocational Nurse (LVN) 8, LVN 8 administered Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate (antibiotic) Tablet 500-125 mg (milligrams - unit of measurement) one tablet, and NovoLOG insulin (rapid-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 6 units (unit of measurement) by way of an insulin pen to Resident 110. LVN 8 did not the NovoLOG insulin pen prior to the insulin administration to Resident 110. LVN 8 injected the insulin to Resident 101's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 110's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for at least 5 seconds. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 10:11 a.m., with LVN 8, LVN 8 stated he did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 110's arm after injection. LVN 8 stated he had been a license nurse for 25 years and never heard of priming the insulin pen. During a review of Resident 110's admission Record (a document containing resident profile information) dated 11/3/21, the admission Record indicated, Resident 110 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (a long-term disorder that is characterized by high blood sugar), Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (is the backward flow of stomach acid into the throat to the mouth), and Osteomyelitis, Left ankle and foot (infection in the bones) . During a review of Resident 110's Order Summary Report dated 8/21/19, the Order Summary Report indicated, .Insulin NovoLOG Solution Inject as per sliding scale: 0-200 = 0; 201-250 = 2; 251-300 = 4; 400 = 6; 401- 450 = 8, subcutaneously (under the skin) one time a day related to Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar in the blood) . Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate Tablet 500-125 mg Give 1 tablet by mouth two times a day for Osteomyelitis for 7 days . During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/4/21, at 10:28 a.m., with LVN 8, Resident 110's Medication Admin Audit Report (MAAR), dated 11/4/21 was reviewed. The MAAR indicated, . NovoLOG Solution Inject as per sliding scale: 0-200 = 0; 201-250 = 2; 251-300 = 4; 400 = 6; 401- 450 = 8, subcutaneously one time a day related to Hyperglycemia . Sliding scale PRN [as needed] only if BS [blood sugar] is over 200 . Scheduled Date 11/4/21 07:00. Administration time 11/4/21 10:22 . Amoxicillin-Pot Clavulanate Tablet 500-125 mg Give 1 tablet by mouth two times a day . Scheduled Date 11/4/21 07:00. Administration time 11/4/21 10:22 . LVN 8 stated the medications was scheduled for 7 a.m. and was administered late at 10:22 a.m. to Resident 110. During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 11/9/21, at 4:26 p.m., she stated the license nurse should have primed the insulin pen prior to administration to Resident 110 and Resident 56. The DON stated the nurse should have kept the pen needle under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds after injecting the insulin to ensure the insulin was absorbed and Resident 110 and Resident 56 receive the accurate insulin dose. The DON stated the license nurse should administered medications in a timely manner to ensure the effectiveness of medicatiuons. During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, indicated, .Principal Responsibilities . Responsible for ensuring the delivery of efficient and effective nursing care while achieving positive clinical outcomes and resident/family satisfaction in accordance with accepted standards of practice, stated and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Ability to administer medications and treatment timely and according to facility policy . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration Subcutaneous Insulin dated 5/2016, the P&P indicated, . Always perform the safety test before each injection. Performing the safety test ensures that you get an accurate dose by: ensuring that pen and the needle work properly. Removing air bubbles . Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards. Tap the insulin reservoir so that air bubbles rise up towards the needle. Press the injection button all the way in. Check if insulin comes out of the needle tip. You may have to perform the safety test several times before insulin seen. If no insulin comes out, check for air bubbles and repeat the safety test two more times to remove them. If no insulin comes out, the needle may be blocked .Deliver the dose by pressing the injection button in all the way . Keep the injection button pressed all the way. Slowly count to 10 before you withdraw the needle from the skin. This ensures that the full dose will be delivered . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration General Guidelines dated 9/2018, the P&P indicated, .Medications are administered in accordance with written orders of the prescriber . Medications are administered within 60 minutes of scheduled time . During a review of the professional reference titled, Using medication: Using antibiotics[medications use to treat infections] correctly and avoiding resistance dated 11/2008, retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361005/, indicated, .When should you take antibiotics? Some antibiotics are always meant to be taken at the same time of day, others are meant to be taken before, with or after a meal. If you are supposed to take the medicine three times a day, for example, it usually needs to be taken at set times so that the effect is spread out evenly over the course of the day . During a review of the professional reference titled, Why You Need to Take Your Medications as Prescribed or Instructed dated 2/2016 retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/special-features/why-you-need-take-your-medications-prescribed-or-instructed, indicated, . Sticking to your medication routine (or medication adherence) means taking your medications as prescribed - the right dose, at the right time, in the right way and frequency. Why is doing these things important? Simply put, not taking your medicine as prescribed by a doctor or instructed by a pharmacist could lead to your disease getting worse, hospitalization, even death . 2. During a medication administration observation, on 11/4/21, at 12:33 p.m., LVN 3 administered insulin Lispro (fast-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 5 units by way of an insulin pen to Resident 56. LVN 3 did not disinfect the insulin pen rubber seal prior to attaching the needle and did not prime the insulin Lispro pen prior to insulin administration to Resident 56. LVN 3 injected the insulin on to Resident 56's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 56's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 12:50 p.m., with LVN 3, LVN 3 stated she did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 to 10 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 56 arm after injection. During a review of Resident 56, admission Record dated 1/17/20, the admission Record indicated, Resident 56 was admitted to the facility with diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. During a review of Resident 56, Order Summary Report dated 10/12/21, the Order Summary Report indicated, Insulin Lispro Solution Pen-Injector 100 UNIT/ML [milliliter] inject 5 unit subcutaneously with meals related Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus . During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 11/9/21, at 4:26 p.m., she stated the license nurse should have primed the insulin pen prior to administration to Resident 110 and Resident 56. The DON stated the nurse should have kept the pen needle under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds after injecting the insulin to ensure the insulin was absorbed and Resident 110 and Resident 56 receive the accurate insulin dose. The DON stated the license nurse should administered medications in a timely manner to ensure effectiveness of the medications. During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, indicated, Principal Responsibilities . Responsible for ensuring the delivery of efficient and effective nursing care while achieving positive clinical outcomes and resident/family satisfaction in accordance with accepted standards of practice, stated and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Ability to administer medications and treatment timely and according to facility policy . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration Subcutaneous Insulin dated 5/2016, the P&P indicated, . Always perform the safety test before each injection. Performing the safety test ensures that you get an accurate dose by: ensuring that pen and the needle work properly. Removing air bubbles . Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards. Tap the insulin reservoir so that air bubbles rise up towards the needle. Press the injection button all the way in. Check if insulin comes out of the needle tip. You may have to perform the safety test several times before insulin seen. If no insulin comes out, check for air bubbles and repeat the safety test two more times to remove them. If no insulin comes out, the needle may be blocked .Deliver the dose by pressing the injection button in all the way . Keep the injection button pressed all the way. Slowly count to 10 before you withdraw the needle from the skin. This ensures that the full dose will be delivered . During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration General Guidelines dated 9/2018, the P&P indicated, . Medications are administered in accordance with written orders of the prescriber . Medications are administered within 60 minutes of scheduled time . During a review of the professional reference titled, Why You Need to Take Your Medications as Prescribed or Instructed dated 2/2016 retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/special-features/why-you-need-take-your-medications-prescribed-or-instructed, indicated, . Sticking to your medication routine (or medication adherence) means taking your medications as prescribed - the right dose, at the right time, in the right way and frequency. Why is doing these things important? Simply put, not taking your medicine as prescribed by a doctor or instructed by a pharmacist could lead to your disease getting worse, hospitalization, even death .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0725 (Tag F0725)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to provide sufficient staffing to provide care and services to ensure residents received the needed care to attain and maintain their highest ...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to provide sufficient staffing to provide care and services to ensure residents received the needed care to attain and maintain their highest practicable physical, mental and psychosocial well-being for five of six sampled residents (Residents 3, 10, 18, 19 and 20) when residents' needs, preferences, and accommodations were communicated to staff, and staff did not respond in a timely manner. These failures resulted in Residents 3, 10, 18, 19 and 20's needs not being met. Findings: During an interview on 11/2/21, at 2:56 p.m., with Resident 10, Resident 10 stated, the facility was understaffed and would call for assistance which took up to an hour for staff to respond. During an interview on 11/2/21, at 3:37 p.m., Resident 18's responsible party (RP), RP stated, she couldn't remember how long ago it was that Resident 18 was not showered by staff for one and a half weeks. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 9:19 a.m., with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 7, CNA 7 stated, the facility had problems keeping staff since COVID-19 (a contagious serious respiratory infection transmitted from person to person) started in 2020. CNA 7 stated, she cared for 14-15 residents during the day and there were times residents would miss there showers because of short staffing. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 10:22 a.m., with Resident 19, Resident 19 stated, he required a lift to get out of bed with staff's assistance and was unable to attend the resident council meetings regularly because of short staffing. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 10:28 a.m., with Resident 20, Resident 20 stated, the facility was understaffed, and the resident's microwave was taken away from the residents because there was no staff available to warm up the food such as popcorn. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 10:30 p.m., with Resident 3, Resident 3 stated, the facility did not have enough staff to meet all the resident's needs During an interview on 11/10/21, at 11:32 a.m., with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), the DSD stated, she was responsible for staffing CNAs, made the schedules, and filled call-ins when on shift. The DSD stated, when she was not at the facility the Charge nurse would fill in the shifts as needed. During a concurrent interview and record on 11/10/21, at 11:32 a.m., with the DSD, the facility document titled Nursing Staffing Worksheet Patient Per Day (PPD) nursing hours for 8/21, 9/21, 10/21, and 11/21 was reviewed. The DSD stated staffing had been difficult and the facility hardly ever met the required nursing hours. The DSD stated, the facility did not have staffing waiver. The DSD stated, the staffing shortage started with COVID-19 the facility became short staffed and had not been able to build their team. The DSD stated, the facility had less staffing hours for the resident and that resident's would occasionally miss showers. The DSD stated, the facility staffed 2 LVNs on am, pm and noc (night) shifts. The DSD stated, the facility was not using a registry agency. The DSD stated, the facility had to do something because it was hard on the staff and hard on the residents. For 8/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 11 of 31 days. For 9/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 21 of 30 days. For 10/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 25 of 31 days For 11/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 10 of 10 days During an interview on 11/10/21, at 4:43 p.m., with the Administrator (ADM), the ADM stated, it was hard to retain staff. During an interview on 11/10/21, at 4:49 p.m., with the ADM, the ADM stated, staffing was discussed at QAPI (Quality Assurance & Performance Improvement) meeting in September and there were no notes on discussion of ideas to improve staffing. The ADM stated, the facility needed 6 CNA's to be fully staffed and that staffing was the number 1 priority right now. During a review of the facility policy titled Staffing dated 10/2017, indicated .Our facility provides sufficient numbers of staff with the skills and competency necessary to provide care and services for all residents in accordance with the resident care plans and the facility assessment .Staffing numbers and the skill requirement of direct care staff are determined by the needs of the residents based on each resident's plan of care .Inquiries or concerns relative to our facility's staffing should be directed to the Administrator or his/her designee .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0726 (Tag F0726)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

3. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/2/21 at 2:26 p.m., with Resident 32, in Resident 32's room, Resident 32 was laying in bed with the catheter bag touching the ground. Resident 32 ...

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3. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/2/21 at 2:26 p.m., with Resident 32, in Resident 32's room, Resident 32 was laying in bed with the catheter bag touching the ground. Resident 32 stated, after lunch the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) emptied his catheter bag. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/2/21, at 2:35 p.m., with CNA 6, in Resident 32's room, Resident 32's catheter bag was touching the ground. CNA 6 stated, the catheter bag should not be on the ground because there was a risk for infection and cross contamination. During a review of Resident 32's Care Plan, dated 11/2/21, the Care plan indicated, .Alteration in elimination of bowel and bladder .Keep drainage bag of catheter below the level of the bladder at all times and off floor . During concurrent interview and record review on 11/3/21, at 3:46 p.m., with the DON, the facility policy and procedure titled Catheter-Care of dated 6/2020 indicted, .Take care to ensure the collection bag does not touch the floor at any time . The DON stated, the catheter bag should not touch the ground at any time because it was an infection control issue. During an interview on 11/09/21, at 1:48 p.m., with LVN 10, LVN 10 stated, she had been working at the facility for four years and did not remember the last time she had an in-service training for urinary catheter care. During a concurrent interview and record review on 11/9/21, at 2:18 p.m., with the DSD, in-service titled [facility name] of Chowchilla Meeting/In-Services dated 6/21/21 indicated, .Urinary tract infection (UTI) .If a resident has a foley ensure that is anchored, and that the catheter remains below the level of the bladder . The DSD reviewed the sign in sheet and stated, LVN 10's name was not on the sign in sheet and that LVN 10 did not have any competency in-service training for urinary catheter care. Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure Licensed Nurses have the competencies necessary to meet the needs of the residents for three of 43 sampled residents (Resident 110, 56 and 32) when: 1. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 8 administered insulin (medication used to treat high blood sugar) by way of an insulin pen (a device used to inject insulin) to Resident 110 without priming (a method to remove air bubbles from the pen to ensure it is working, and provides insulin full dose administration) the insulin pen and without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. These failures placed Resident 110 at risk for an inaccurate insulin dosage and impaired insulin absorption (movement of a medication from the site of administration to bloodstream). 2. LVN 3 administered insulin by way of an insulin pen to Resident 56 without disinfecting the insulin pen rubber seal prior to attaching the needle, did not prime the insulin pen, and did not allow the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. These failures placed Resident 56 at risk for an inaccurate insulin dosage and impaired insulin absorption and cross contamination. 3. Resident 32's urinary catheter (a tube placed in the body to drain and collect urine from the bladder) bag was touching the floor. This failure placed Resident 32 at risk for cross contamination. Findings: 1. During a medication administration observation, on 11/4/21, at 10:08 a.m., LVN 8 administered NovoLOG insulin (rapid-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 6 units (unit of measurement) by way of an insulin pen to Resident 110. LVN 8 did not prime the NovoLOG insulin pen prior to the insulin administration to Resident 110. LVN 8 injected the insulin to Resident 101's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 110's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. During a review of Resident 110's, the admission Record (a document containing resident profile information) dated 11/3/21, the admission Record indicated, Resident 110 was admitted to the facility with diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (a long-term disorder that is characterized by high blood sugar). During a review of Resident 110, Order Summary Report dated 8/21/19, the Order Summary Report indicated, Insulin NovoLOG Solution Inject as per sliding scale: 0-200 = 0; 201-250 = 2; 251-300 = 4; 400 = 6; 401- 450 = 8, subcutaneously (under the skin) one time a day related to Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar in the blood). During an interview on 11/4/21, at 10:11 a.m., with LVN 8, LVN 8 stated he did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 110's arm after injection. LVN 8 stated he had been a license nurse for 25 years and never heard of priming the insulin pen. LVN 8 stated he was not provided in-service (education) on insulin pen administration. During an interview with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), on 11/4/21, at 3:02 p.m., The DSD stated she did not provide competencies for insulin pen administration to the license nurses. During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 11/9/21, at 4:26 p.m., she stated the license nurse should have primed the insulin pen prior to administration. The DON stated the nurse should have kept the pen needle under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds after injecting the insulin to ensure the insulin was absorbed. During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration Subcutaneous Insulin dated 5/2016, the P&P indicated, . Always perform the safety test before each injection. Performing the safety test ensures that you get an accurate dose by: ensuring that pen and the needle work properly. Removing air bubbles . Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards. Tap the insulin reservoir so that air bubbles rise up towards the needle. Press the injection button all the way in. Check if insulin comes out of the needle tip. You may have to perform the safety test several times before insulin seen. If no insulin comes out, check for air bubbles and repeat the safety test two more times to remove them. If no insulin comes out, the needle may be blocked .Deliver the dose by pressing the injection button in all the way . Keep the injection button pressed all the way. Slowly count to 10 before you withdraw the needle from the skin. This ensures that the full dose will be delivered . During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, the Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION indicated, Principal Responsibilities . Responsible for ensuring the delivery of efficient and effective nursing care while achieving positive clinical outcomes and resident/family satisfaction in accordance with accepted standards of practice, stated and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Ability to administer medications and treatment timely and according to facility policy . During a review of the facility document titled, Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION undated, the Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION indicated, Responsible for planning, implementing and maintaining of professional development in the clinical department in accordance with current Federal, State and company standards, guidelines, and regulations. Demonstrates and teaches resident care in classroom and clinical units to nursing staff . Assess the training of nursing staff to develop, implement, evaluate and document staff development programs including General orientation, Job specific Orientation, In-Service, and continuing Education Programs for nursing department personnel . During a review of the facility document titled, Director of Nursing Job Description undated, the Director of Nursing Job Description indicated, .Responsible for administration and management of Nursing Services to residents in accordance with orders of the physician's and total needs of the residents. Responsible for 24-hour supervision of Nursing Services and directs the Nursing Department to maintain quality standards of care in accordance with the current Federal, State and the Company standards guidelines and regulations .Assumes ultimate responsibility for coordinating plans for total care of each residents which comply with physician's order, government regulations, and facility resident care policies . Responsible for competency testing on registered licensed, certified, non-certified nursing personnel . During a review of the professional reference titled, Risk associated with the use of Insulin pens and Vials dated 2017, found at https://www.ismp.org/sites/default/files/attachments/2017-11/ISMP138-Insulin%20Guideline-051517-2-WEB.pdf), indicated, . nurses have reported seeing a wet spot on the skin post injection due to insulin leaking from the injection site because the needle was not left in place for 5-10 seconds after injection . During a review of the professional reference titled, Severe hyperglycemia in patients incorrectly using insulin pens at home dated 10/2017, (found at https://www.ismp.org/alerts/severe-hyperglycemia-patients-incorrectly-using-insulin-pens-home), indicated, . Prior to injection, the pen should be primed using 2 to 3 units of insulin to make certain that the needle is correctly attached and to remove any air bubbles or pockets in the insulin cartridge. This is known as an air shot and the patient should see about 2 drops of insulin come out of the needle . 2. During a medication administration observation, on 11/4/21, at 12:33 p.m., LVN 3 administered insulin Lispro (fast-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults) 5 units by way of an insulin pen to Resident 56. LVN 3 did not disinfect the insulin pen rubber seal prior to attaching the needle and did not prime the insulin Lispro pen prior to the insulin administration to Resident 56. LVN 3 injected the insulin on to Resident 56's arm and quickly removed the needle from Resident 56's arm without allowing the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 seconds. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 12:50 p.m., with LVN 3, LVN 3 stated she did not prime the insulin pen, and did not wait 5 seconds to remove the needle from Resident 56 after injection. LVN 3 stated she was not provided in-service on insulin pen administration. During a review of Resident 56, admission Record dated 1/17/20, the admission Record indicated, Resident 56 was admitted to the facility with diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. During a review of Resident 56, Order Summary Report dated 10/12/21, the Order Summary Report indicated, Insulin Lispro Solution Pen-Injector 100 UNIT/ML [milliliter] inject 5 unit subcutaneously with meals related Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus . During an interview with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), on 11/4/21, at 3:02 p.m., The DSD stated she did not provide competencies for insulin pen administration to the license nurses. During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 11/9/21, at 4:26 p.m., she stated the license nurse should have primed the insulin pen prior to administration. The DON stated the nurse should have kept the pen needle under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds after injecting the insulin to ensure the insulin was absorbed. The DON stated the insulin pen rubber seal should be disinfected prior to attaching the needle to prevent cross contamination. During a review of the facility Policy and Procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration Subcutaneous Insulin dated 5/2016, the P&P indicated, . Always perform the safety test before each injection. Performing the safety test ensures that you get an accurate dose by: ensuring that pen and the needle work properly. Removing air bubbles . Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards. Tap the insulin reservoir so that air bubbles rise up towards the needle. Press the injection button all the way in. Check if insulin comes out of the needle tip. You may have to perform the safety test several times before insulin seen. If no insulin comes out, check for air bubbles and repeat the safety test two more times to remove them. If no insulin comes out, the needle may be blocked .Deliver the dose by pressing the injection button in all the way . Keep the injection button pressed all the way. Slowly count to 10 before you withdraw the needle from the skin. This ensures that the full dose will be delivered . During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, the Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION indicated, Principal Responsibilities . Responsible for ensuring the delivery of efficient and effective nursing care while achieving positive clinical outcomes and resident/family satisfaction in accordance with accepted standards of practice, stated and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Ability to administer medications and treatment timely and according to facility policy . During a review of the facility document titled, Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION undated, the Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION indicated, Responsible for planning, implementing and maintaining of professional development in the clinical department in accordance with current Federal, State and company standards, guidelines, and regulations. Demonstrates and teaches resident care in classroom and clinical units to nursing staff . Assess the training of nursing staff to develop, implement, evaluate and document staff development programs including General orientation, Job specific Orientation, In-Service, and continuing Education Programs for nursing department personnel . During a review of the facility document titled, Director of Nursing Job Description undated, the Director of Nursing Job Description indicated, .Responsible for administration and management of Nursing Services to residents in accordance with orders of the physician's and total needs of the residents. Responsible for 24-hour supervision of Nursing Services and directs the Nursing Department to maintain quality standards of care in accordance with the current Federal, State and the Company standards guidelines and regulations .Assumes ultimate responsibility for coordinating plans for total care of each residents which comply with physician's order, government regulations, and facility resident care policies . Responsible for competency testing on registered licensed, certified, non-certified nursing personnel . During a review of the professional reference titled, Risk associated with the use of Insulin pens and Vials dated 2017, found at https://www.ismp.org/sites/default/files/attachments/2017-11/ISMP138-Insulin%20Guideline-051517-2-WEB.pdf), indicated, . nurses have reported seeing a wet spot on the skin post injection due to insulin leaking from the injection site because the needle was not left in place for 5-10 seconds after injection . During a review of the professional reference titled, Severe hyperglycemia in patients incorrectly using insulin pens at home dated 10/2017, (found at https://www.ismp.org/alerts/severe-hyperglycemia-patients-incorrectly-using-insulin-pens-home), indicated, . Prior to injection, the pen should be primed using 2 to 3 units of insulin to make certain that the needle is correctly attached and to remove any air bubbles or pockets in the insulin cartridge. This is known as an air shot and the patient should see about 2 drops of insulin come out of the needle .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to store, prepare, and serve food in accordance with professional standards for food safety when two spices were expired, one app...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to store, prepare, and serve food in accordance with professional standards for food safety when two spices were expired, one applesauce container was not labeled and did not contain the use by date (last date recommended for the use of a product while at peak quality). These food items were available in the kitchen for use to prepare food for 57 out of 57 residents. This failure placed 57 residents at risk for foodborne illnesses (illnesses caused by consuming contaminated food or drink) from consuming potentially contaminated food (unclean) and exposure to harmful pathogens (bacteria or viruses that can cause illness) and decrease palatability of the food. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/2/21, at 11:13 a.m., with Dietary Supervisor (DS), in the kitchen, the refrigerator had a small container of applesauce that had the open date of 10/30/21 and due date of 11/1/21. The DS stated the applesauce should not be used after the written date on the container. The DS threw away the applesauce. There were 2 spices on the shelf: The container of ground all spice had an open date of 10/28/20 and expiration date of 10/28/21 written on the container. The container of oregano had a written opened date of 4/27/21 and an expiration date of 10/27/21. The DS stated the spices should have been discarded after the expiration date. The DS stated that expired spices and food could cause food borne illnesses and change the taste of a resident's food. During an interview on 11/4/21 at 10:00 a.m. with [NAME] (CK) 1, CK 1 stated expired spices added to food could cause a bad taste for residents. CK1 stated expired applesauce could cause residents to get sick. During an interview on 11/4/21, at 10:10 a.m. with the DS, the DS stated the evening shift staff was responsible for making sure there was no expired food in the kitchen. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/5/21, at 12:02 p.m., with DS, the policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Canned and Dry Goods Storage, dated 2018 was reviewed. The P&P indicated, .All opened food items will have an open and use-by-date .Spices (ground) 6-12 months . The DS stated the spices should have been discarded after the expiration date. During a phone interview on 11/05/21, at 1:36 p.m., with the Registered Dietician (RD-a skilled health care professional who is an expert in the field of nutrition), RD stated that it is the responsibility of all staff that works in the kitchen to check for expired food items. RD stated expired spices and applesauce could compromise residents' health status and could change the palatability of food or make the resident potentially sick. The RD stated it should not be the standard of food handling in the kitchen. RD stated the kitchen staff should follow the facility's P&P. During an interview on 11/10/21, at 12:20 p.m., with the ADM, ADM stated it was DS's responsibility to check foods in kitchen for the use by or expiration dates. During a review of Food Safety and Inspection Service titled Food Product Dating undated, indicated, .If a product has a use by date, follow that date During a review of the professional reference titled USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service's Food Product Dating retrieved from https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/food-product-dating dated 10/2/2019, indicated, .Microorganisms such as molds, yeasts, and bacteria can multiply and cause food to spoil. Viruses are not capable of growing in food and do not cause spoilage. There are two types of bacteria that can be found on food: pathogenic bacteria, which cause foodborne illness, and spoilage bacteria, which do not cause illness but do cause foods to deteriorate and develop unpleasant characteristics such as an undesirable taste or odor making the food not wholesome. When spoilage bacteria have nutrients (food), moisture, time, and favorable temperatures, these conditions will allow the bacteria to grow rapidly and affect the quality of the food. Food spoilage can occur much faster if food is not stored or handled properly .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0813 (Tag F0813)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to develop a policy and procedure allowing residents to have outside food brought in by the family and/or visitors ensuring sanitary and safe ...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to develop a policy and procedure allowing residents to have outside food brought in by the family and/or visitors ensuring sanitary and safe food storage for six of six sampled residents (18, 19, 35, and 51) when residents were informed, they were not allowed to store and/or reheat prepared food brought to them by family. This failure had the potential for unsafe and unsanitary food storage and handling brought from outside for later consumption and placed Residents 18, 19. 35 and 51at high risk for food borne illnesses. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/02/21, at 3:37 p.m., with Resident 18 and Resident 18's Responsible Party (RP) 2, RP 2 brought in carrot cake. Resident 18's RP 2 stated food could be brought in for Resident 18, if eaten during the visit. Resident 18's RP 2 stated there was no refrigerator to store foods brought from home. During Resident Council Meeting (an organized group of residents who meet regularly to discuss concerns about their rights) and interviews on 11/03/21, at 10:36 a.m., with Residents 18, 19, 35 and 51, Residents 18, 19, 35 and 51 stated they were not allowed to use the microwave or store any personal foods in the facility's refrigerator. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/04/21, at 10:13 a.m., with the Dietary Supervisor (DS), the DS stated residents were not allowed to bring anything that need to be microwaved or cooked. The DS stated residents were supposed to keep the foods in their room. DS stated food could not be kept in the kitchen. The DS stated there was no space to put the residents' foods in the facility's refrigerators. The DS stated the Activities Director (AD-oversees the therapeutic and recreational activities) was responsible for not allowing to use the microwave or store any personal foods in the facility's refrigerator. The DS stated former residents misused the microwave in the past. During an interview on 11/04/21, at 10:33 a.m. with the AD, the AD stated that families can bring food to residents from the outside. AD stated the facility would like the resident to eat the food brought to them during their visit. AD stated the food must be discarded after two hours if the food is not eaten. During an interview on 11/05/21, at 1:36 p.m., with Registered Dietician (RD-a skilled health care professional who is an expert in the field of nutrition), the RD stated there was no space in the facility refrigerators to store the residents' foods from outside. RD stated food left at room temperature had the potential to grow bacteria which could lead to food borne illnesses. During an interview on 11/5/21, at 4:08 p.m., with the Administrator (ADM), the ADM stated that the facility had a policy and procedure titled Food brought in by visitors. ADM stated the policy was current even though there was a part of the policy that is marked through with a permanent marker. The ADM stated she knew the residents had the right to bring in food, but the facility did not have space to refrigerate them. During a review of the facility policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Food Brought in by Visitors, dated 8/2020, indicated, .Perishable food requiring refrigeration will be discarded after two hours at bedside . During a review of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guideline titled Four Steps to Food Safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill, dated 10/15/21, The Guideline indicated, .Bacteria can multiply rapidly if left at room temperature or in the Danger Zone between 40°F and 140°F. Never leave perishable food out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if exposed to temperatures above 90°F) .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Administration (Tag F0835)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on interview, and record review, the facility's Administrator (ADM) failed to ensure effective oversight and necessary resources to ensure resident care services were met to attain or maintain t...

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Based on interview, and record review, the facility's Administrator (ADM) failed to ensure effective oversight and necessary resources to ensure resident care services were met to attain or maintain the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident when the ADM did not provide oversight to the facility's day to day operations when: 1. The facility failed to ensure five of five Residents (Residents 6, 8, 11, 16, and 55) were assessed for the risk of entrapment (resident caught, trapped, or entangled in the space in or about the bed and side rail) from bed (side) rails (adjustable metal or rigid plastic bars in various sizes that attach to the bed, and can be placed in a guard (raised) or lowered) prior to installation and had no consent (form signed by resident or family explaining the risks of side rail use), physician order, indication for use, and care plans prior to the use of side rails. These failures had the potential to cause entrapment, serious harm, injury, or death to Residents 6, 8, 11, 16, and 55. (Cross reference F700). 2. Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) 8 and LVN 7 did not receive annual competency training on insulin pen administration and administered insulin (medication used to treat high blood sugar) by way of an insulin pen (a device used to inject insulin) to Resident 110 and Resident 56 without disinfecting the insulin pen rubber seal prior to attaching the needle, did not prime (a method to remove air bubbles from the pen to ensure it is working, and provides insulin full dose administration) the insulin pen and did not allow the pen needle to remain under the skin for 5 to 10 seconds. These failure placed Resident 110 and Resident 56 at risk for an inaccurate insulin dosage and impaired insulin absorption (movement of a medication from the site of administration to bloodstream) and cross contamination. (Cross reference 726). 3. The facility failed to ensure the designated Infection Preventionist (IP-professional who ensures healthcare workers and patients are doing all the things they should to prevent infections) completed the specialized training for IP certification program in accordance with the facility's policy and procedure and CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) guidelines. This failure resulted in the IP not meeting the qualifications that would ensure residents were provided with quality care to prevent or minimize the transmission or spread of COVID-19 (a contagious serious respiratory infection transmitted from person to person) and/or other infections to all residents and staff. (Cross reference F882). 4. LVN 6 did not receive annual mandatory training on Abuse Prevention and HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act- is a federal law that required the creation of national standards to protect sensitive patient health information from being disclosed without the patient's consent or knowledge) training for 2020 and 2021, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 1 did not have HIPPA training for 2020 and 2021. These failure had the potential for the residents to be cared for by LVN's and CNAs' inadequately trained. 5. The ADM was aware of the facility's staffing needs and did not implement interventions to address the facility staffing needs. This failure had the potential for all residents needs not being met. Findings: 1. During an interview on 11/10/21 at 4:43 p.m., with the ADM, the ADM stated staff yearly competencies were not discussed in Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI- is a data driven and pro-active approach to quality improvement). The ADM stated restraint competency had not been done in 2 years. The ADM stated the used of bed rails as restraints was a bigger systemic facility issue. During a review of the facility document titled, Administrator undated, indicated, The Administrator oversees the day to day operations of the facility to meet State and Federal regulations and supervise all department managers to ensure the facility is in compliance. The Administrator is responsible for the delivery of clinical service . meeting or exceeding quality . Ensures the highest quality in Standards of Care and services provided . Conducts continuing education programs and special in-service training to all departments' managers and special in-service for all staff . 2. During an interview with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), on 11/4/21, at 3:02 p.m., The DSD stated she did not provide competencies for insulin pen administration to the license nurses. During a review of the facility document titled, Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION undated, the Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION indicated, Responsible for planning, implementing and maintaining of professional development in the clinical department in accordance with current Federal, State and company standards, guidelines, and regulations. Demonstrates and teaches resident care in classroom and clinical units to nursing staff . Assess the training of nursing staff to develop, implement, evaluate and document staff development programs including General orientation, Job specific Orientation, In-Service, and continuing Education Programs for nursing department personnel . During an interview on 11/10/21 at 4:43 p.m., with the Admistartor (ADM), the ADM stated staff annual mandatory training and nursing competencies was not discussed during QAPI. The ADM stated nursing staff should receive annual competency training. The ADM stated she was responsible to make sure the DSD was providing the annual nursing competencies. During a review of the facility document titled, Administrator undated, indicated, The Administrator oversees the day to day operations of the facility to meet State and Federal regulations and supervise all department managers to ensure the facility is in compliance. The Administrator is responsible for the delivery of clinical service . meeting or exceeding quality . Ensures the highest quality in Standards of Care and services provided . Conducts continuing education programs and special in-service training to all departments' managers and special in-service for all staff . 3. During an interview on 11/10/21 at 2:08 p.m., with the IP, the IP stated she does not have an IP certification and was in the process of getting certified. The IP stated the ADM was aware she does not have an IP certification. During an interview on 11/10/21, at 4:43 p.m., with the ADM, the ADM stated she was aware the IP was not certified. The ADM stated she told the IP to complete her IP certification a week upon hire, but it was not done. During a review of the facility document titled, Infection Control Preventionist-LVN undated, the Infection Control Preventionist-LVN indicated, .Position Job Description. Responsible for assuming the responsibility for the Infection Control Program of the facility in accordance with the accepted standards of practice, state and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Qualifications . Certified in Infection Control . 4. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 11/10/21, 10:16 a.m., with the DSD, The DSD reviewed LVN 6's mandatory in-service training. The DSD stated LVN 6 did not have mandatory in-service training for Abuse Prevention and HIPPA for the year 2020 and 2021. The DSD stated she was not aware why LVN 6 did not receive the mandatory in-service training. The DSD stated LVN 6 should have receive the Abuse Prevention and HIPPA mandatory in-service training. The DSD reviewed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 1's mandatory in-service training. The DSD stated CNA 1 did not receive mandatory in-service training for HIPPA for the year 2020 and 2021. The DSD stated CNA 1 should have receive the mandatory in-service training. The DSD stated the mandatory in-service for Abuse Prevention and HIPPA should have been done yearly. The DSD stated she was responsible to ensure all staff completes the mandatory in-service trainings. During a review of the facility document titled, Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION undated, the Staff Development Coordinator JOB DESCRIPTION indicated, Responsible for planning, implementing and maintaining of professional development in the clinical department in accordance with current Federal, State and company standards, guidelines, and regulations. Demonstrates and teaches resident care in classroom and clinical units to nursing staff . Assess the training of nursing staff to develop, implement, evaluate and document staff development programs including General orientation, Job specific Orientation, In-Service, and continuing Education Programs for nursing department personnel . During an interview on 11/10/21 at 4:43 p.m., with the Admistartor (ADM), the ADM stated staff annual mandatory training and nursing competencies was not discussed during QAPI. The ADM stated nursing staff should receive annual competency training. The ADM stated she was responsible to make sure the DSD was providing the annual nursing competencies. During a review of the facility document titled, Administrator undated, indicated, The Administrator oversees the day to day operations of the facility to meet State and Federal regulations and supervise all department managers to ensure the facility is in compliance. The Administrator is responsible for the delivery of clinical service . meeting or exceeding quality . Ensures the highest quality in Standards of Care and services provided . Conducts continuing education programs and special in-service training to all departments' managers and special in-service for all staff . 5. During a concurrent interview and record on 11/10/21, at 11:32 a.m., with the Director of Staff Development (DSD), the facility document titled Nursing Staffing Worksheet Patient Per Day (PPD) nursing hours for 8/21, 9/21, 10/21, and 11/21 was reviewed. The DSD stated staffing had been difficult and the facility hardly ever met the required nursing hours. The DSD stated, the facility did not have staffing waiver. The DSD stated, the staffing shortage started with COVID-19 (a contagious serious respiratory infection transmitted from person to person), the facility just became short staffed and had not been able to build their team. The DSD stated, the facility had less staffing hours for the resident and that resident's would occasionally miss showers. The DSD stated, the facility staffed 2 LVNs on am, pm and noc (night) shifts. The DSD stated, the facility was not using a registry agency. The DSD stated, the facility had to do something because it was hard on the staff and hard on the residents. For 8/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 11 of 31 days. For 9/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 21 of 30 days. For 10/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 25 of 31 days For 11/21 the facility had not met the minimum required nursing contact hours on 10 of 10 days During an interview on 11/10/21, at 4:43 p.m., with the Administrator (ADM), the ADM stated, it was hard to retain staff. During an interview on 11/10/21, at 4:49 p.m., with the ADM, the ADM stated, staffing was discussed at QAPI (Quality Assurance & Performance Improvement) meeting in September and there were no notes on discussion of ideas to improve the facility's staffing. The ADM stated, the facility needed 6 CNA's to be fully staffed and staffing needed improvement. During a review of the facility policy titled Staffing dated 10/2017, indicated .Our facility provides sufficient numbers of staff with the skills and competency necessary to provide care and services for all residents in accordance with the resident care plans and the facility assessment .Staffing numbers and the skill requirement of direct care staff are determined by the needs of the residents based on each resident's plan of care .Inquiries or concerns relative to our facility's staffing should be directed to the Administrator or his/her designee .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

3. During an observation on 11/9/21, at 9:41 a.m., in the front lobby, the front lobby door was left unlocked and accessible to anyone entering the building. The lobby had two offices with no staff pr...

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3. During an observation on 11/9/21, at 9:41 a.m., in the front lobby, the front lobby door was left unlocked and accessible to anyone entering the building. The lobby had two offices with no staff present and the screening station located across the lobby on the east side of the building and was left unattended. During an interview on 11/9/21, at 10:31 a.m., with Hospitality Aid/Screener (HASR), HASR stated, her duties included screening, stocking items, and answering call lights to assist resident such as providing water. HASR stated, she would step away from the screening station at times to perform other duties and would be alerted when someone needed to be screened because the east hallway entrance was locked and had a bell. HASR stated, the main lobby door was unlocked, and she was unaware of the reason it was unlocked. HASR stated, if business office staff were not in their office and when she was performing other tasks she would not know if someone entered the facility without getting screened. HASR stated, the lobby area was used at times by family for resident visitation and that the lobby door was left unlocked by the business office personnel. HASR stated, the purpose of screening was to keep everyone safe and prevent COVID-19 from entering the facility. During an interview on 11/9/21, at 10:42 a.m., with Infection Preventionist (IP), IP stated, the purpose of screening everyone entering the facility was to prevent the possibility of COVID-19 transmission. IP stated, there was a potential for someone to enter the facility through the lobby door without getting screened. During an interview on 11/9/21, at 10:49 a.m., with Administrator (ADM), ADM stated the lobby door remains unlocked when the business office personnel are at the facility. ADM Stated, there is a potential that someone could enter through the front lobby door without getting screened. During a review of the facility Mitigation Plan titled Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Mitigation Plan for skilled Nursing Facilities undated indicated, .The facility screens and documents every individual entering the facility for COVID-19 symptoms . During a review of the professional reference retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control-recommendations.html titled, Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic dated 11/10/2021 indicated, . 1. Recommended routine infection prevention and control (IPC) practices during the COVID-19 pandemic Establish a Process to Identify and Manage Individuals with Suspected or Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 Infection . Establish a process to identify anyone entering the facility, regardless of their vaccination status, who has any of the following so that they can be properly managed: 1) a positive viral test for SARS-CoV-2, 2) symptoms of COVID-19, or 3) who meets criteria for quarantine or exclusion from work. Options could include (but are not limited to): individual screening on arrival at the facility; or implementing an electronic monitoring system in which individuals can self-report any of the above before entering the facility . 4. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/2/21 at 2:26 p.m., with Resident 32, in Resident 32's room, Resident 32 was laying in bed with the catheter bag touching the ground. Resident 32 stated, after lunch the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) emptied his catheter bag. During a concurrent observation and interview on 11/2/21, at 2:35 p.m., with CNA 6, in Resident 32's room, Resident 32's catheter bag was touching the ground. CNA 6 stated, the catheter bag should not be on the ground because there was a risk for infection and cross contamination. During a review of Resident 32's Care Plan, dated 11/2/21, the Care plan indicted, .Alteration in elimination of bowel and bladder .Keep drainage bag of catheter below the level of the bladder at all times and off floor . During concurrent interview and record review on 11/3/21, at 3:46 p.m., with the DON, the facility policy and procedure titled Catheter-Care of dated 6/2020 indicted, .Take care to ensure the collection bag does not touch the floor at any time . The DON stated, the catheter bag should not touch the ground at any time because it was an infection control issue. During a review of the professional reference titled, GUIDELINE FOR PREVENTION OF CATHETER-ASSOCIATED URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS 2009 dated 6/19, from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/cauti/ indicate, . Proper Techniques for Urinary Care Maintenance . Keep the collecting bag below the level of the bladder at all times. Do not rest the bag on the floor . Empty the collecting bag regularly using a separate, clean collecting container for each patient . Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to maintain an effective infection control program when: 1.One of three sampled residents (Resident 27's) gastrostomy tube (a tube inserted through the wall of the abdomen directly into the stomach. The tube allows patients to receive nutrition directly through stomach) gravity bag (gravity feeding is a way to deliver feeding formula through the feeding tube. With this feeding method, formula flows out of a bag and into the tube by gravity) lid was left open when the feeding formula was being administered. This failure had the potential to result in Cross contamination for Resident 27. 2. Certified Nursing Assistant did not disinfect the mechanical lift (used to move patients who are unable to stand on their own or whose weight makes it unsafe to move or lift them manually) in between used for Resident 3, Resident 41 and Resident 20. These failures placed Resident 3, 41 and 20 at risk for cross contamination. 3. The facility lobby door was left unlocked, with access to anyone to enter the facility without getting screened for Corona Virus (COVID-19- a contagious serious respiratory infection transmitted from person to person) and COVID-19 symptoms. This failure had the potential to place all residents and staff at increased risk of transmission of COVID-19 infection. 4. One of three sampled residents (Resident 32's) urinary catheter (a tube placed in the body to drain and collect urine from the bladder) bag was touching the ground. This failure had the potential for cross contamination. Findings: 1. During an observation on 11/2/21, at 11:45 a.m., in Resident 27's room, Resident 27 was laying in bed with the head of bed elevated. Resident 27's gastrostomy-tube feeding was administered with the use of a gravity feeding bag. Resident 27's gravity feeding bag lid was left open. During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/2/21, at 3:57 a.m., with License Vocational Nurse (LVN) 6. LVN 6 verified the gravity feeding bag lid was open while Resident 27 was receiving the feeding formula. LVN 6 stated the gravity feeding bag lid should remain close to prevent cross contamination. During a review of Resident 27's admission Record dated 12/18/14, the admission Record indicated Resident 27 had a diagnoses of Huntington's disease (is a genetic disorder. It affects the brain that can lead to problems with moving, memory loss as well as thinking skills) and Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). During an observation on 11/3/21 at 8:35 a.m., in Resident 27's room, Resident 27 was laying in bed with the head of bed elevated. Resident 27's gastrostomy-tube feeding was being administered with the use of a gravity feeding bag. Resident 27's gravity feeding bag lid was left open. During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/3/21, at 10:28 a.m., with LVN 7. LVN 7 verified the gravity feeding bag lid was open while Resident 27 was receiving the feeding formula. LVN 7 stated the gravity feeding bag lid should remain close to prevent contaminants causing infections from entering the gravity feeding bag, mixing with the feeding formula, and directly flow to Resident 27's stomach. During an interview on 11/09/21 4:26 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated the gravity feeding bag lid should be closed to prevent cross contaminations. The facility did not provide the policy and procedure for G Tube feeding. During a review of the facility document titled, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse JOB DESCRIPTION undated, indicated, Principal Responsibilities . Demonstrates knowledge and appropriate use of the Company Infection Control Manual . Special Nursing Care Responsibilities . Demonstrates knowledge and ability to work with: Tube feeding hanging and labeling . During a review of the professional reference titled Tube Feeding: How to Gravity Feed, retrieved from http://www.shieldhealthcare.com/community/nutrition/2015/10/23/tube-feeding-how-to-gravity-feed-2/ dated 10/23/15, indicated, .regular gastrostomy tube, flush your tube with water to prime the tubing. Remove the plunger from the syringe, attach the syringe to your feeding tube, pour 10-15 milliliters of water into the syringe and let it flow through your tube. Clean off the outside of your formula container with a clean towel and open it. Closed the clamp on the gravity feeding bag. Open the bag and pour in the desired amount of feeding formula. Carefully squeeze the air out of the bag and close it . 2. During an observation on 11/3/21, at 8:40 a.m., in the hallway, Central Supply Staff (CSS) brought the mechanical lift out from Resident 3's room, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 4 took the lift from CSS, did not disinfect the lift and placed the lift outside of Resident 41's room. During an observation on 11/3/21, at 8:56 a.m., in the hallway, CNA 4 took the mechanical lift placed outside of Resident 41's room, did not disinfect the lift and together with CNA 1 used the lift to weigh Resident 41. CNA 4 after weighing Resident 41, placed the lift in the hallway without disinfecting the lift. During an observation on 11/3/21, at 9:34 a.m., in the hallway, CNA 1 took the mechanical lift, did not disinfect the lift and together with CNA 4 used the lift to transfer Resident 20 from bed to her wheelchair. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 9:54 a.m., with CNA 1, CNA 1 stated the mechanical lift should have been disinfected in between residents used to prevent cross contamination. CNA 1 stated the lift should have been disinfected in between used for Resident 3, Resident 41 and Resident 20. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 9:57 a.m., with CNA 4, CNA 4 stated the mechanical lift should be disinfected in between residents used to prevent cross contamination. CNA 4 stated nursing staff touched the lift during care and residents sometimes would hold on to the lift during care. CNA 4 stated the lift should have been disinfected in between used for Resident 3, Resident 41 and Resident 20. During an interview on 11/3/21, at 10:56 a.m., with the CCS, the CCS stated she was helping transfer Resident 3 using the mechanical lift. The CCS stated she did not disinfect the lift after use to Resident 3, and should have disinfected the lift to prevent cross contamination. During an interview on 11/09/21, at 4:26 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated the mechanical lift should have been disinfected between used for Resident 3, 41, and 20. The DON stated the facility did not have a policy and procedure on disinfecting the mechanical lift in between residents use. During a review of the professional reference titled Patient Lifts Safety Guide, undated, retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/files/medical%20devices/published/Patient-Lifts-Safety-Guide.pdf, the Patient Lifts Safety Guide, indicated, .Patient lift care . Always clean lift before and after each patient use, disinfect all lift surfaces, Wipe off traces of disinfectant .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0882 (Tag F0882)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure the designated Infection Preventionist (IP-professional who ensures healthcare workers and patients are doing all the things they s...

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Based on interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure the designated Infection Preventionist (IP-professional who ensures healthcare workers and patients are doing all the things they should to prevent infections) completed the specialized training for IP certification program in accordance with the facility's policy and procedure and CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) guidelines. This failure resulted in the IP not meeting the qualifications that would ensure residents were provided with quality care to prevent or minimize the transmission or spread of COVID-19 (a contagious serious respiratory infection transmitted from person to person) and/or other infections to all residents and staff. Findings: During an interview on 11/10/21 at 2:08 p.m., with the Infection Preventionist (IP), the IP stated she does not have an IP certification and was in the process of getting certified. The IP stated the Administrator (ADM) was aware she does not have an IP certification. During an interview on 11/10/21, at 4:43 p.m., with the ADM, the ADM stated she was aware the IP was not certified. The ADM stated she told the IP to complete her IP certification a week upon hire, but it was not done. During a review of the facility document titled, Infection Control Preventionist-LVN undated, the Infection Control Preventionist-LVN indicated, .Position Job Description. Responsible for assuming the responsibility for the Infection Control Program of the facility in accordance with the accepted standards of practice, state and federal regulations and licensing requirements . Qualifications . Certified in Infection Control . During a Professional Reference review retrieved on 8/21/2020 from https://www.cms.gov, titled, Specialized Infection Prevention and Control Training for Nursing Home Staff dated 3/11/19, indicated, . Specialized Training for Infection Prevention and Control . CMS and the CDC collaborated on the development of a free online training course in infection prevention and control for nursing home staff. The course includes information about the core activities of an infection prevention and control program, with a detailed explanation of recommended practices to prevent pathogen transmission and reduce health-care associated infections and antibiotic resistance in nursing homes . Completion of this course will provide specialized training in infection prevention and control . The content of the training covers the following topics . Infection and Prevention Control Program Overview . Infection Preventionist responsibilities . Infection Surveillance . Outbreaks . Principles of Standard Precautions . Principles of Transmission-Based Precautions . Hand Hygiene . Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette .
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Safe Environment (Tag F0921)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure emergency exit routes must be clear and unblocked to allow quick and safe exit for facility residents, staff and visit...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure emergency exit routes must be clear and unblocked to allow quick and safe exit for facility residents, staff and visitors in case of an emergency when mechanical lifts, wheelchairs, shower beds where stored in front of the emergency exit doors in the hallway. This failure had the potential to create delay, panic, and confusion to residents, staff, and visitors in case of an emergency. Findings: During an observation on 11/3/21, at 8:55 a.m., in the hallway the mechanical lift was stored in front of the emergency exit door. During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/3/21, at 9 a.m., with the Director of Maintenance (DOM) in the hallway, the DOM verified the mechanical lift was stored in front of the emergency door and was blocking the emergency exit door. The DOM stated the emergency exit door should be unblocked. During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/3/21, at 3:02 p.m., with License Vocational Nurse (LVN) 4 in the hallway, LVN 4 verified one shower chair, two wheelchair, and one mechanical lift was blocking the emergency exit door. LVN 4 stated the emergency exits door should be unblocked to allow quick access in the event there is a fire. During a concurrent observation and interview, on 11/3/21, at 3:09 p.m., with the Administrator (ADM) in the hallway, the ADM verified the facility equipment was blocking the emergency exit door. The ADM stated the emergency exit door should be unblocked. During a review of the facility policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Operational Manual-Physical Environment dated 8/2020, the P&P indicated, .To ensure sufficient and accessible exits to all for rapid, safe, and orderly evacuation of the facility. The facility has designated exits for each area of the building to enable rapid evacuation. Exits are to be kept clear of obstructions that block the entire exit . Facility staff is responsible for ensuring exits are cleared .If a Facility Staff member discovers a blocked exit, he or she will clear it . and will report the finding to his or her immediate supervisor .
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

  • "What changes have you made since the serious inspection findings?"
  • "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
  • "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most California facilities.
  • • 37% turnover. Below California's 48% average. Good staff retention means consistent care.
Concerns
  • • Multiple safety concerns identified: 1 life-threatening violation(s), 1 harm violation(s). Review inspection reports carefully.
  • • 39 deficiencies on record, including 1 critical (life-threatening) violation. These warrant careful review before choosing this facility.
  • • Grade C (53/100). Below average facility with significant concerns.
Bottom line: Mixed indicators with Trust Score of 53/100. Visit in person and ask pointed questions.

About This Facility

What is Palms's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns PALMS CARE CENTER an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which is considered above average nationally. Within California, this rating places the facility higher than 99% of the state's 100 nursing homes. This rating reflects solid performance across the metrics CMS uses to evaluate nursing home quality.

How is Palms Staffed?

CMS rates PALMS CARE CENTER's staffing level at 3 out of 5 stars, which is average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 37%, compared to the California average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Palms?

State health inspectors documented 39 deficiencies at PALMS CARE CENTER during 2021 to 2025. These included: 1 Immediate Jeopardy (the most serious level, indicating potential for serious harm or death), 1 that caused actual resident harm, and 37 with potential for harm. Immediate Jeopardy findings are rare and represent the most serious regulatory concerns. They require immediate corrective action.

Who Owns and Operates Palms?

PALMS CARE CENTER is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by AJC HEALTHCARE, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 65 certified beds and approximately 58 residents (about 89% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in CHOWCHILLA, California.

How Does Palms Compare to Other California Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in California, PALMS CARE CENTER's overall rating (4 stars) is above the state average of 3.2, staff turnover (37%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Palms?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "What changes have been made since the serious inspection findings, and how are you preventing similar issues?" "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" "Can I speak with family members of current residents about their experience?" These questions are particularly relevant given the facility's Immediate Jeopardy citations.

Is Palms Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, PALMS CARE CENTER has documented safety concerns. Inspectors have issued 1 Immediate Jeopardy citation (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death). The facility has a 4-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in California. Families considering this facility should ask detailed questions about what corrective actions have been taken since these incidents.

Do Nurses at Palms Stick Around?

PALMS CARE CENTER has a staff turnover rate of 37%, which is about average for California nursing homes (state average: 46%). Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Palms Ever Fined?

PALMS CARE CENTER has no federal fines on record. CMS issues fines when nursing homes fail to meet care standards or don't correct problems found during inspections. The absence of fines suggests the facility has either maintained compliance or corrected any issues before penalties were assessed. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review recent inspection reports for the full picture.

Is Palms on Any Federal Watch List?

PALMS CARE CENTER is not on any federal watch list. The most significant is the Special Focus Facility (SFF) program, which identifies the bottom 1% of nursing homes nationally based on persistent, serious quality problems. Not being on this list means the facility has avoided the pattern of deficiencies that triggers enhanced federal oversight. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review the facility's inspection history directly.