CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE CENTER

300 CHERRY CREEK RD, CLOVERDALE, CA 95425 (707) 894-5201
For profit - Limited Liability company 72 Beds THE ENSIGN GROUP Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
85/100
#49 of 1155 in CA
Last Inspection: January 2025

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

Overview

Cloverdale Healthcare Center has a Trust Grade of B+, which means it is above average and recommended for families considering care options. It ranks #49 out of 1,155 nursing homes in California, placing it in the top half, and is the best facility out of 18 in Sonoma County. The facility's performance is improving, having reduced its issues from 7 in 2022 to 2 in 2025. However, staffing is an area of concern, with a 3/5 star rating and a 43% turnover rate, which is average but indicates some instability. While there are no fines recorded, the RN coverage is less than that of 93% of California facilities, which could impact the quality of care. Specific incidents noted include a failure to properly label medications, which raises the risk of administering the wrong drugs to residents, and issues with food safety during preparation and storage, exposing residents to potential health risks from expired food or contaminated ingredients. Overall, while Cloverdale Healthcare Center shows strengths in its ranking and lack of fines, families should be aware of the staffing and medication management challenges.

Trust Score
B+
85/100
In California
#49/1155
Top 4%
Safety Record
Low Risk
No red flags
Inspections
Getting Better
7 → 2 violations
Staff Stability
○ Average
43% 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 15 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for California. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
⚠ Watch
13 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★☆☆
3.0
Staff Levels
★★★★★
5.0
Care Quality
★★★★★
5.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2022: 7 issues
2025: 2 issues

The Good

  • 5-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover below average (43%)

    5 points below California average of 48%

Facility shows strength in quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 43%

Near California avg (46%)

Typical for the industry

Chain: THE ENSIGN GROUP

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 13 deficiencies on record

Mar 2025 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D) 📢 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

Notification of Changes (Tag F0580)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to notify a Responsible Party (RP, a person appointed to make healthcare decisions for a person who is unable) for one resident (Resident 1)...

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Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to notify a Responsible Party (RP, a person appointed to make healthcare decisions for a person who is unable) for one resident (Resident 1) of three sampled residents when Resident 1 fell. This failure resulted in Resident 1's RP not knowing Resident 1's pain was a result of the fall. Findings: A review of Resident 1's admission Record indicated admission to the facility in January 2025 with diagnoses which included cerebral infarction due to embolism (the lack of oxygen to the brain due to a blockage in a blood vessel from a blood clot) and cognitive communication deficit (difficulty communicating caused by brain injury). The admission record also indicated Resident 1's wife was his, Emergency Contact #1. A review of a facility document titled Facility Verification of Informed Consent dated 1/23/25, indicated, [Resident 1] .DOES NOT [check marked as option] have the capacity to understand and consent .If not, see name and phone number of resident's surrogate .[Resident 1's RP signed the document] .Date 1/23/25 .[Physician also signed the document] .Date 1/24/25 . A review of Resident 1's Progress Notes dated 2/14/25 at 1:31 a.m., indicated, COC [Change of Condition] Day 1 Fall: Resident [Resident 1] was found by a CNA [Certified Nursing Assistant] trying to get out of bed, when resident fell against the standing pole next to his bed .causing an abrasion to his forehead, right side and shoulder right side .after helping him back to bed .had a C/O [complained of] 7/10 [severe pain on a pain scale out of 10] pain to his right shoulder .DON [Director of Nursing] was contacted as well as [the Physician]. This progress note did not indicate nursing staff notified Resident 1's RP of Resident 1's fall. During a concurrent record review and interview on 3/5/25 at 4:20 p.m., the DON verified the licensed nurse did not complete a Situation, Background, Appearance, Review and Notify (SBAR) Communication Form for Resident 1's fall. The DON reviewed Resident 1's progress dated 2/14/25 at 1:31 a.m. and confirmed the progress note did not indicate Resident 1's RP was notified of the fall. The DON stated the licensed nurse was expected to have notified Resident 1's RP of the fall and have documented it. A review of a facility policy and procedure titled Change of Condition Reporting dated 2/2025 indicated, Acute Medical Change .The responsible party will be notified that there has been a change in the resident's condition and what steps are being taken .All nursing actions will be documented in the licensed progress notes .Routine Medical Change .Document resident change of condition and response in nursing progress notes .All attempts to reach the .responsible party will be documented in the nursing progress notes. Documentation will include time and response.
Jan 2025 1 deficiency
MINOR (B)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Deficiency F0912 (Tag F0912)

Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and document review, the facility failed to ensure residents' rooms measured at least 80 square...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and document review, the facility failed to ensure residents' rooms measured at least 80 square (sq) feet (ft) per resident in 14 (room [ROOM NUMBER], room [ROOM NUMBER]. Rooms 7 through 14, and Rooms 19 through 22) of 22 resident rooms in the facility. Findings included: The Client Accommodations Analysis, dated 01/08/2025, revealed the facility had 14 rooms (Rooms 1-2, 7-14, and 19-22) with an approved capacity of four beds that each measured 307.8 sq ft, which yielded a total 76.95 sq ft for reach resident. On 01/08/2025 at 10:02 AM, the Maintenance Supervisor measured the following rooms and confirmed the following dimensions: - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. - In room [ROOM NUMBER], there was 76.95 sq ft for each resident. During an interview on 01/09/2025 at 8:37 AM, the Director of Nursing (DON) stated the minimum requirement was based on square footage in residents' rooms and she did not know what the exact minimum requirement was. The DON stated she expected residents' rooms to have enough space for their belongings, care to be provided, and mobility in and around the room. During an interview on 01/09/2025 at 8:42 AM, the Operations Manager (OM) stated the facility did not have a room size policy, but private room had to measure 100 sq ft and rooms with multiple residents had to measure 80 sq ft for each resident. The OM confirmed the facility had 14 rooms that housed four beds in each room. According to the OM, he expected residents' rooms to meet the minimum requirements.
Oct 2022 7 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

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to follow professional standards of practice for one Resident (Resident 41) when: 1) there was no formalized process for nursing ...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to follow professional standards of practice for one Resident (Resident 41) when: 1) there was no formalized process for nursing to communicate with the RD to provide assessments for residents who had pressure or diabetic ulcers; and, 2) there was lack of inclusion of the RD in relevant patient care committees, in accordance with the approved job description. Resident 41 had a diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus (Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of diseases that affect how the body uses blood sugar--glucose) and a Pressure ulcer. This failure resulted in a nutritional assessment not being completed, which had the potential to contribute to the wound not healing. Findings: It is estimated that up to 50% of hospitalized patients are malnourished. Malnutrition can lead to longer hospital stays, altered immune function, and impaired skin integrity and wound healing. Malnutrition has been found to be a significant factor influencing pressure injury (PI) risk and wound healing. While PI prevention requires multidimensional complex care using a variety of evidence-based strategies, hospitalized patients benefit from interventions that focus on improving oral nutrition to reduce PI risk and enhance wound healing. Unfortunately, malnutrition is often under-recognized and inadequately managed in hospitalized patients and this can lead to higher rates of complications such as PI. Recent Advances: Recent studies suggest that nutritional care has a major impact in PI prevention and management. Strategies, including early identification and management of malnutrition and provision of specially-formulated oral nutritional interventions to at-risk patients, optimization of electronic health record systems to allow for enhanced administration, monitoring, and evaluation of nutritional therapies, and implementation of protocol-based computerized decision support systems, have been reported to improve outcomes. Optimizing Nutrition Care for Pressure Injuries in hospitalized Patients. (2019) Advances in wound care, 8(7), 309-322.https://doi.org/10.1089/wound.2018.0925 During a review of Resident 41's clinical record, indicated Resident 41 had an acute care hospital office visit and saw a Doctor of Podiatry Medicine (DPM) on 3/1/22. The following issues were addressed: Diabetes Type 2 with peripheral neuropathy, Diabetes Type 2 with Diabetic Ulcer of right heel, and pressure ulcer of the right heel Stage 3. During a further review of the clinical record, it indicated Resident 41 had a diet order of CCHO (Consistent Carbohydrate Controlled) diet for diabetics. Resident 41 needed 75g protein for wound healing. Review of Documentation of Survey Report v2, dated 10/19/22, indicated Resident 41's average meal intake for August, September and October 2022, Resident 41's average intake was 56% of her meals. Her caloric needs were 1678-1845 Kcals. If she was only eating 939.68 kcals and 42g protein, she was not meeting her caloric needs. During an interview with the RD on 10/19/22 at 11:28 AM, she stated she started in 2019. Apparently, it was missed by me. I wasn't notified of that change. I don't attend the meetings. The Interdisciplinary Team is nursing, DFS (Director of Food Services) The Care planning and weight committee is limited to DFS and nursing. During an interview and concurrent record review with the RD on 10/20/22 at 10:30 AM, showed the baseline care plan, dated 9/25/17, which documented a recommended intervention for the RD to do an assessment. The RD stated she did not know why she was not notified. During an interview with DFS on 10/21/22 at 1:38 p.m., when asked how the RD was notified of residents, she stated change of condition, onsite, weekly weights, staff can reach out, all new admissions. During a review of the job description for the Registered Dietitian, not dated, it indicated the RD was hired on 3/13/20. The primary purpose of the job position was to, .plan, organize, develop, and direct the overall operation of the Dietary Department . to assure that quality nutritional services are provided on a daily basis and that the dietary department is maintained in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner. It further indicated the RD assist the Quality Assessment and Assurance committee in developing and implementing appropriate plans of actions to correct dietary deficiencies. The RD serves on, participates in, and attends the various committees of the facility (i.e. Infection Control, Policy Advisory, Pharmaceutical, Budget, Quality Assessment and Assurance, etc.) as required, and as appointed by the Administrator. The facility policy and procedure titled, Quality of Care - Skin Management System, dated 5/2019, indicated, It is the policy of this facility that any resident who enters the facility without pressure ulcers will have appropriate preventative measures taken to ensure that the resident does not develop pressure ulcers. It further indicated the Registered Dietitian would provide nutritional support when appropriate. The facility policy and procedure titled Pressure Ulcers/Skin Breakdown-Clinical Protocol, not dated, indicated under, Treatment and Management: a. Although poor nutritional status is associated with increased risk of pressure ulcer development, no specific nutritional interventions clearly prevent or heal pressure ulcers. b. Beyond trying to maintain a stable weight and providing approximately 1.2-1.5 gm/kg protein daily, there are no routine pressure ulcer-specific nutritional measures for those with or at risk for developing a pressure ulcer. The facility policy was not reflective of accepted standards of professional practice. It was also noted that the policy did not indicate a professional reference for the practice statement discounting the benefit of nutritional interventions in wound healing.
CONCERN (D)

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

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the environment was safe for residents and visitors, when a known tripping hazard, located in the parking lot, was not ...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the environment was safe for residents and visitors, when a known tripping hazard, located in the parking lot, was not repaired timely. Facility staff were aware of the tripping hazard for more than two months, had purchased asphalt for its repair, and did not execute the repair until after a visitor tripped and fell. This failure: 1) Caused potential for resident falls, and subsequent injury, for one unidentified resident know to wheel himself (in a wheelchair) outside independently (without supervision), 2) Caused potential for resident falls, and subsequent injury, for eight sampled residents (Resident 25, Resident 144, Resident 29, Resident 16, Resident 8, Resident 36, Resident 28, and Resident 39) and six Unsampled residents (Resident 27, Resident 17, Resident 9, Resident 34, Resident 55, and Resident 56), known to ambulate with physical therapy staff inside and potentially outside, the building, and 3) Caused one Confidential Visitor (CV) to trip, fall and sustain injuries while walking through the parking lot. Findings: During an observation on 10/17/22 at 1:25 p.m., a Confidential Visitor (CV) to the facility was walking to their car in the parking lot. The CV tripped (and subsequently fell) on a three-to-four-inch-deep drop in the pavement. The surrounding pavement (next to the drop) was cracked; the area was located near a corner of the building, near the physician's designated parking spot. Pictures were taken of the uneven, cracked pavement. During an observation and concurrent interview on 10/17/22 at 1:35 p.m., the three-to-four-inch-deep drop in the pavement (and visitor fall) was reported to the Director of Nursing (DON). The DON and the CV went to the uneven pavement site (where the fall occurred), and the DON stated she had not been aware of the uneven pavement and stated the area was, large. Director A was nearby and stated the cement had, shifted. During an observation on 10/17/22 at 2:10 p.m., the CV and three of their confidential coworkers were walking in the parking lot toward their cars. As the CV and their coworkers approached the uneven pavement site, the DON, Administrator and Director A were standing there. A bag of asphalt was on the ground, and Director A was using a shovel to fill in the three-to-four-inch-deep drop with asphalt. During a telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 10:43 a.m., the Activity Director (Director B) was asked about types of activities offered to residents at the facility. Director B stated the facility offered multiple activities including walking. Director B stated a, couple of residents, participated in morning or after meal walks. Director B stated approximately three residents were able to walk independently, but they ambulated with supervision (of staff). Director B stated Physical Therapy (staff) would walk additional residents. When asked where residents walked outside of the building, Director B stated residents could walk on the sidewalk, from one side of the building to the other. Director B stated the sidewalk had a railing, and the parking lot was on the other side of the railing. When asked if residents walked on the other side of the railing (in the parking area), Director B stated, Yes, it depends. Director B was asked if residents walked near the physician's parking space (near the visitor fall site), and she stated she did not like them to walk there but if they asked to walk around the entire building (which included walking in the parking lot), Director B stated, We would take them. During a telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 11:01 a.m., Physical Therapy Assistant C (PTA C) stated his job duties included assisting residents with Ambulation Goals (Physical Therapy targeting improvement of ambulation/walking). PTA C stated residents who had Ambulation Goals as part of their therapy program, were assisted by Physical Therapy staff with walking. PTA C stated twenty-five residents currently received Physical Therapy services at the facility, and north of (more than) 80% of them (approximately twenty residents) had Ambulation goals (indicating they walked with Physical Therapy staff). During the same telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 11:01 a.m., PTA C was asked where therapy staff took residents to ambulate. He stated PT staff walked residents inside and outside the building, and the location could depend on the resident's goals and the type of terrain (stretch of land, especially its physical features) needed to achieve those goals. PTA C stated indoor terrain (inside the facility) provided a more even surface for walking. He stated outdoor terrain had some smooth pavement but also had bumpy and rough surfaces (for more challenging walking surfaces). He stated, We have a parking lot that is bumpy, and areas outside with rougher asphalt. When asked what he would do if he encountered a tripping hazard with a resident, PTA C stated, We would navigate away from it. PTA C stated the facility had had tripping hazards in the parking lot in the past. PTA C stated, if the tripping hazard needed to be fixed, he would report it to Director A and stated they were good about fixing issues. When asked if he was aware of any (outside) tripping hazards that needed repair lately, PTA C stated, No. During a telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 11:29 a.m., the Director of Plant Management (Director A) was asked about the uneven, three-to-four-inch-deep drop in pavement located in the parking lot. Director A stated the facility had fixed the concrete (in the parking lot) in 2012, and at some point the, concrete shifted. Director A stated the shifting concrete caused a, lip to occur. When asked when the lip occurred, Director A stated it was, more than a couple of months (ago), but less than, a year. When asked why the lip had not been repaired if the facility was aware of its existence for at least a couple of months, Director A stated the facility had identified the hazard and had purchased asphalt to repair it, but the visitor had tripped and fallen over the site before he fixed it. During the same telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 11:29 a.m., Director A was asked about the repair work he had done on the uneven pavement after the visitor fall on 10/17/22. Director A stated he used the asphalt the facility had onsite to make the repair (a patch). When asked if the asphalt patch was a cold patch (filling a pothole with asphalt material without heating it), Director A stated the repair was a cold patch and confirmed it was a temporary fix. He stated he could grind down the cement to create a permanent fix, but he did not have a cement grinder. Director A stated the facility was working on a permanent fix, and he would need to consult with the corporate owners (regarding the permanent fix). During the same telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 11:29 a.m., Director A was asked if he was aware of any other visitors falling in the parking lot in the past years. Director A stated he was working at the facility (years ago) when a visitor had fallen in the parking lot and broken her wrist. Director A stated that past fall (resulting in the broken wrist) was not related to the cement, lip, but was due to a, loose bolt on metal in the driveway, which was removed after the fall. During a telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 3:34 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) was asked if she was aware residents ambulated in the parking lot, and she stated, Yes she was aware. The DON stated residents usually used the sidewalk (adjacent to the parking lot) and walked along the fence; she stated they did not usually walk where the cars parked. The DON stated residents were, mostly supervised, and stated one wheelchair-bound resident independently went outside and wheeled around. The DON stated residents went outside and looked at the flowers, used the sidewalk area, and did not wheel around the driveway. During the same telephone interview on 10/20/22 at 3:34 p.m., the DON was asked to provide a list of residents whose Physical Therapy included ambulation goals and walking around the facility. Review of multiple resident medical records (provided by the DON) titled, Physical Therapy, subtitled, PT Recert, Progress Report & Updated Therapy Plan, indicated approximately fourteen residents currently had Ambulation Goals as part of their Physical Therapy treatment program. Residents 25, 144, 27, 17, 29, 34, 55, 16, 8, 36, 28, 9, 39, and Resident 56 each had documented ambulation goals ranging from 10 - 200 feet of walking around the facility. Review of facility policy titled, Nursing, subtitled, Resident Assessment, subtitled, Fall Management System, further subtitled, Standard (undated) indicated, This facility is committed to .providing an environment that remains as free of accident hazards as possible . Policy and procedures for Environment and for Safety were requested from facility leadership; the requested policies and procedures were not provided during the survey.
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 observation, interview, and record review, one of two sampled Diet Aides was not able to verbalize or demonstrate how to properly test the chemical strength of the sanitation bucket in the ki...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, one of two sampled Diet Aides was not able to verbalize or demonstrate how to properly test the chemical strength of the sanitation bucket in the kitchen. This failure had the potential for this Diet Aide not to have the correct concentration and would potentially result in ineffective sanitization of food service equipment. Findings: During an observation and concurrent interview on 10/18/22 at 3 PM, Diet Aide H was scooping ice cream. Upon completion of the task, Diet Aide H was asked to describe how surfaces were sanitized. Diet Aide H could not verbalize or demonstrate proper test procedure. The Director of Food Services (DFS) intervened and assisted Diet Aide H to find the correct measuring strips. Diet Aide H stuck the test strip in the solution in the red bucket for 10 seconds, read the strip on the back of the bottle of test strips, which showed Test 400. During a review of the department document titled, Verification of Job Competency-Cooks, dated 9/2/22, for Diet Aide H, it showed she was able to verbalize sanitizing solution; test concentration and record results and when to replace the solution. The competency was signed/verified by the Director of Food Services (DFS). During a review of the Job Description for Dietary Aides, not dated, indicated to assist in daily or scheduled cleaning duties, in accordance with established policies and procedures.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0805 (Tag F0805)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to puree two food items per the recipe. This failure caused one puree item not to hold its shape and the other to taste grainy. F...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to puree two food items per the recipe. This failure caused one puree item not to hold its shape and the other to taste grainy. Findings: The International Dysphagia Diet Standardization (IDDSI) Framework July 2019, provides a common terminology to describe food textures. Foods are measured from Levels 3 - 7. Level 4 Pureed Usually eaten with a spoon (a fork is possible) o Cannot be drunk from a cup because it does not flow easily o Cannot be sucked through a straw o Does not require chewing o Should be smooth and can be piped, layered or molded because it retains its shape, but should not require chewing if presented in this form o No lumps o Not sticky o Liquid must not separate from solid. Cohesive enough to hold its shape on a spoon. During a tray line observation on 10/17/22 at 11:40 AM, [NAME] E was pureeing meatballs. [NAME] E stated he could add chicken broth or beef broth if he needed to. He pureed just the meatballs with nothing added. A taste test was conducted, based on surveyor observation of pureed food production practices, on 10/17/22 at 12:36 PM, and the pureed meatball did not hold its shape. The pureed meatball looked like ground beef and fell apart in the surveyor's mouth. It tasted like ground meat. The DFS tasted the pureed meatball and stated, It is crumbly because it didn't have any gravy. The DFS confirmed the meatball was crumbly. A test tray, in the presence of the Director of Food Service (DFS), was conducted on 10/18/22 at 8:33 AM, based on resident concerns. The test tray included an evaluation of pureed items. It was noted the pureed eggs tasted grainy and bland. Review of the Recipe: Pureed Meats, not dated, indicated the [NAME] should puree on low speed to a paste consistency before adding any liquid. Gradually add warm liquid (low sodium broth or gravy). Starting with the smaller amount and adding more as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Puree should reach a consistency slightly softer than whipped topping. During a review of the Recipe: Pureed Eggs, not dated, indicated the [NAME] should puree on low speed to a paste consistency before adding any liquid. Gradually add warm milk. Starting with the smaller amount and adding in more as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Puree should reach a consistency slightly softer than whipped topping.
CONCERN (E)

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

Pharmacy Services (Tag F0755)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observations, interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident when: 1. The facility pharmacist failed to identify a r...

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Based on observations, interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident when: 1. The facility pharmacist failed to identify a risk for a potential medication administration error for one resident, Resident 144. The medication label on a controlled medication, Hydromorphone (Hydromorphone is used as a pain reliever. Hydromorphone is two to eight times more potent than morphine but shorter duration and greater sedation), was not the indication for use as written by Resident 144's physician. This failure had the potential to result in ineffective pain management or overdosing that could adversely affect the health and safety of Resident 144; and, 2. The facility failed to implement a system to consistently and accurately reconcile its inventory of Fentanyl Transdermal Patches (a potent opioid pain medication that is given and absorbed through the skin), which had the potential to result in medication diversion going unnoticed for an extended amount of time. Findings: 1. During a review of Resident 144's, Order Summary Report, dated 10/21/22, at 10:54 a.m., the report indicated Resident 144 had medical diagnoses that included Secondary Malignant Neoplasm of Bone (Secondary bone cancer refers to a cancer that has started in another part of the body and has spread (metastasized) to the bone via the bloodstream or lymph nodes). The report indicated Resident 144's Physician wrote an order for Hydromorphone HCL (Hydrochloride) 4 mg, give 1 tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for Moderate Pain and Hydromorphone HCL 1.5 tablets (6 mg) by mouth every four hours as needed for Severe Pain. During an observation on 10/19/22, at 11:32 a.m., inside Resident 144's room, Resident 144 was sitting in his wheelchair, and a physical therapist came in to get him ready for Physical Therapy. Resident 144 screamed in pain as he was getting repositioned in his wheelchair. During a review of Resident 144's, Care Plan, for pain, the care plan indicated Resident 144 had pain related to left total knee replacement and left femur (thigh bone) replacement on 8/1/22. The care plan indicated Resident 144 had a history of cancer that metastasized to his left femur. The goal for the care plan was Resident 144 would not have an interruption in normal activities due to pain. The care plan indicated one of the interventions was to follow the pain scale and to medicate as ordered. Another intervention on the care plan indicated, Serious, life threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with the use of Hydromorphone. Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of hydromorphone or following a dose increase. During a concurrent observation and interview on 10/20/22, at 3:58 p.m., with Licensed Staff O, a blister pack (A blister pack is a form of tamper-evident packaging where an individual pushes individually sealed tablets through the foil in order to take the medication) for Resident 144's Hydromorphone HCL 4 mg tablets, indicated on the label, take 1(4 mg) to 1.5 (6 mg) tablets by mouth every 4 hours as needed for pain. It was shown to Licensed Staff O that the medication label did not indicate when to give 1 tablet or 1.5 tablets. Licensed Staff O was asked, when she would administer 1 tablet and when would she administer 1.5 tablets, because it was not specified on the label. Licensed Staff O stated she would ask Resident 144, and if his pain was moderate (level 4-6), she would administer 1 tablet and give 1.5 tablets if Resident 144's pain was severe (level 7-10). The blister pack for the Hydrocodone HCL had a written warning that this medication was an opioid: (Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription). Risk of overdose and addiction. During a review of Resident 144's, Medication Administration Record (MAR) for October 2022, the MAR indicated, Resident 144 was being monitored for pain every shift, pain level 0 was no pain, 1-3 was mild pain, 4-6 was moderate pain, and 7-10 was severe pain. On 10/11/22, at 11 p.m., Licensed Staff P assessed Resident 144's pain level at 6, moderate pain, and he was administered Hydromorphone HCL 1.5 tablets (6mg). On 10/18/22, at 7 p.m., Resident 144's pain level was 5, moderate pain, Licensed Staff P administered Hydromorphone HCL 1.5 tablets (6mg). The Physician's Order on the Order Summary Report, transcribed to the MAR, indicated Hydromorphone HCL 4 mg, 1.5 tablets (6mg) would be administered as needed every 4 hours for severe pain, not for moderate pain. On 10/11/22, at 3:54 p.m., Resident 144's pain level was assessed at 7, severe pain, Licensed Staff P administered Hydromorphone HCL 1 tablet (4mg). On 10/14/22, at 12:37 p.m., Resident 144's pain level was assessed at an 8, Licensed Staff Q administered Hydromorphone HCL 1 tablet (4mg). The MAR indicated, if Resident 144's pain was severe, per Physician's Order, he should have received Hydromorphone HCL 1.5 tablets (6mg). During an interview on 10/21/22, at 11:31 a.m., with the facility Pharmacist, she stated she had reviewed Resident 144's medication regimen and was not concerned about how the label was written for Hydromorphone. During a review of the, Consultation Report, dated 10/10/22, by the facility Pharmacist, the report indicated, Based upon the information available at the time of the review, and assuming the accuracy and completeness of such information, it is my judgement that at such time, the resident's medication contained no new irregularities. During an interview on 10/21/22, at 11:49 a.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), the DON stated she was not concerned about the medication label for Hydromorphone. The DON stated Resident 144 had a pain monitoring scale on the MAR and that was what the nurses followed in assessing Resident 144 for his pain. During a concurrent observation and interview on 10/21/22, at 5:01 p.m., with Resident 144 was lying in bed, in his hospital gown. When Resident 144 was asked how he was feeling that day, he stated he may need to be transferred to the hospital because he was not tolerating his Physical Therapy. When asked if he got his pain medication when he needed it, he stated he got them but sometimes it helped with the pain and sometimes it did not. A facility document titled, LTC (Long Term Care) Facility's Pharmacy Services and Procedures Manual, dated 4/5/19, indicated, Facility should request that Pharmacy perform a routine nursing unit inspection for each station in facility to assist facility in complying with its obligations pursuant to applicable law relating to the proper storage, labeling, security, and accountability of medications and biologicals. 2. Controlled Medications, are substances that have an accepted medical use (medications which fall under US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Schedules II-V), have a potential for abuse, ranging from low to high, and may also lead to physical or psychological dependence. Disposition, is the process of returning and/or destroying unused medications. Diversion of medications, is the transfer of a controlled substance or other medication from a lawful to an unlawful channel of distribution or use, as adapted from the Uniform Controlled Substances Act. During a Medication Administration Cart (Med Cart) inspection and concurrent interview with Licensed Nurse M (LN M), on 10/17/22, at 12:51 p.m., there was a drawer in the cart that had a separate lock which required a key in order to access the drawer. LN M stated controlled medications were stored in the double locked drawer. LN M unlocked the drawer and pulled the drawer open for inspection. In the drawer were two boxes with labels indicating they contained fentanyl transdermal patches. The prescription label on the boxes indicated an old patch would be removed and replaced every 72 hours. LN M stated she was the nurse normally responsible for applying and removing the patches. LN M was asked to describe, in detail, the steps taken from administration to eventual discontinuance of the medication. During an interview with LN M, on 10/17/22, at 12:55 p.m., she described the facility process of handling used fentanyl patches. LN M stated she wore gloves and removed the old patch from the resident. LN M stated she folded the old patch to ensure both sticky sides were touching each other. LN M stated she put the folded patch into a thick plastic sleeve used to hold tablets that needed to be crushed. LN M stated she took the sleeve and smashed it with the pill crusher. LN M stated she put the plastic sleeve into the sharps container attached to her Medication Administration Cart (Med Cart). LN M stated that was the entire process for used fentanyl patches. LN M confirmed she carried out this procedure by herself every 72 hours. LN M stated there was no documentation requirement for this process. LN M stated she remembered a different process that required a second nurse as a witness and a signature page for used patches, but that process had not been used in a very long time. During an interview, on 10/19/22, at 2:10 p.m., with the Pharmacist Consultant (PC), she stated the facility had a new policy for Fentanyl Patches that had gone into effect this year. The PC stated used Fentanyl patches did not require any documentation and could be thrown in the regular trash bin on the Med Cart. When asked to provide a professional reference for her statement, the PC stated she would get back with the information. During an interview, on 10/20/22, at 3 p.m., with the Director of Nursing (DON), she stated she was responsible for medication disposition in the facility. The DON stated medication that was no longer needed should be removed from the Med Cart. The DON stated the facility expectation for controlled medication was to remove the medication and the corresponding Drug Count Sheet from the Med Cart and pass them to the DON for storage prior to destruction. The DON stated she and the Pharmacist Consultant (PC) reviewed all controlled medications and documentation at least once a month to destroy the controlled medications. During an interview, on 10/20/22, at 3:05 p.m., with the DON, she stated the facility had a procedure in place all Licensed Nurses were expected to follow if a controlled medication was removed from its packaging and not given to the resident. The DON stated the medication needed to be wasted. The DON stated two Licensed Nurses had to verify the controlled medication was removed and sign the Drug Count Sheet with the phrase, wasted. The DON stated the medication was disposed of into a container designed to store pills safely until they could be destroyed. During an interview, on 10/20/22, at 3:10 p.m., with the DON, she stated the facility had a procedure for the disposal of used Fentanyl Patches. The DON stated the Licensed Nurse was expected to fold the used patch so that the sticky sides adhered to each other. The DON stated the patch would be put into a plastic sleeve, and the sleeve would be crushed with the pill crusher. The DON stated the plastic sleeve was disposed of into the sharps container on the Med Cart. The DON confirmed there was no Drug Count Sheet to document or monitor the disposal of used Fentanyl patches. The DON confirmed the facility did not require a second Licensed Nurse to witness the disposal of the used Fentanyl patch. When asked how did she know the used patches were going into the sharps container and not being diverted into someone's pocket, the DON stated she did not know. During a review of the facility policy and procedure titled, 3.12 Prescribing, Administration and Disposal of Fentanyl Transdermal Systems, dated 1/22, the policy indicated this was a new policy for the facility and would be in effect 4/1/22. The policy indicated, 14. Fentanyl Disposal: Used transdermal system should be folded so that the adhesive side of the system adheres to itself, or per applicable state or local regulations. 14.1. Dispose in trash receptacle on cart in such a way to restrict access by staff, residents and visitors. Remove trash receptacle immediately after each medication pass, or 14.2. Make the patch unusable by mixing the folded patch with an undesirable substance such as kitty litter or wet coffee grounds and place in trash, or 14.3. Place folded patch in commercially available disposal kit and dispose per package directions, or 14.4. Store used and unwanted systems securely until facility ships to a DEA approved reverse distributor or 14.5. Place used and unwanted systems in a DEA approved mail-back program and ship via U.S. Mail NOTE: Fentanyl patches are not biohazard waste. Fentanyl patches are not considered hazardous pharmaceutical waste by the U.S. EPA. 15. Any unused systems should be removed from their pouch folded so that the adhesive side of the system adheres to itself before disposal/destruction. 16. Facility staff should routinely reconcile the inventory of fentanyl transdermal systems by comparing the countdown sheets, to the number of systems on hand, to medication administration records. A document request was made for the professional guidance used to create the new policy titled, 3.12 Prescribing, Administration and Disposal of Fentanyl Transdermal Systems, dated 1/22. At the time of exit no documentation was provided. During a review of the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) recommendations titled, Safe Medicine Disposal Options, reviewed on 11/10/22, indicated the disposal method for used medication patches. The recommendation indicated, To dispose of a drug patch, carefully remove it by the edges and avoid touching the used medicine pad; then fold the patch in half, sticky sides together . Fentanyl patches should be flushed immediately. During a review of the document titled, Federal Register Vol. 79, No. 174, dated 9/9/14, the Rules and Regulations section indicated clarification was needed for the proper procedures of dealing with transdermal patches in an institutional setting. The document indicated after administration, if some of the medication was left on the transdermal patch but could not be further utilized; such remaining substance must be properly recorded, stored, and destroyed in accordance with Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations and all applicable Federal, State, tribal, and local laws. During a review of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21 Chapter II titled, Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Justice, last updated 10/25/22, indicated part 1317 Disposal contained Subpart C Destruction of Controlled Substances which included section 1317.95 Destruction Procedures. This section indicated the destruction of any controlled substance shall be in accordance with the following requirements, (d) If the controlled substances are destroyed at a registrant's registered location utilizing an on-site method of destruction, the following procedures shall be followed: (1) Two employees of the registrant shall handle or observe the handling of any controlled substance until the substance is rendered non-retrievable; and (2) Two employees of the registrant shall personally witness the destruction of the controlled substance until it is rendered non-retrievable.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0761 (Tag F0761)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to implement its medication labeling and medication storage policies and procedures, when: 1. One vial and two boxes of medicat...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to implement its medication labeling and medication storage policies and procedures, when: 1. One vial and two boxes of medication, which had no prescription labels attached to them, were found among the active supply (current prescription) of medications in the Medication Storage Refrigerator. This failure had the potential to result in administration of the wrong medication to the wrong resident; and, 2. Three liquid medications, which had been previously opened, did not have a label to indicate the date opened and/or any changes to the medication use-by date. These failures had the potential to result in administration of deteriorated medications and increased risk for ineffective treatments, resulting in residents' lower quality of life. Findings: 1. During a Medication Storage Room inspection and concurrent interview with the Infection Prevention Nurse (IP), on 10/17/22, at 10:48 a.m., the IP stated the refrigerator inside the Medication Storage Room was used to store temperature-sensitive medications. The IP opened the refrigerator door, inside the refrigerator there were several blue plastic bins filled with insulin pens, boxes, bags, and vials of various medications. During a Medication Storage Room inspection and concurrent interview with the IP, on 10/17/22, at 10:53 a.m., inside the Medication Storage Refrigerator there was a glass vial with a green label. The IP read the label on the vial and stated the medication was Levemir (a man-made long-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes) for injection, 100 U/mL 10 ml total volume. The label on the vial indicated the medication expired 3/21/24. The vial had no prescription information attached to it. The vial had no indication of who's medication it was. The IP stated she was not sure who was prescribed the vial she was holding. There were several other insulins located in the refrigerator, the vials were all secured inside a cardboard box package. The cardboard box outer packaging had prescription stickers attached to them. The IP stated she did not know why the vial was stored with no prescription information. During a Medication Storage Room inspection and concurrent interview with the IP, on 10/17/22, at 10:56 a.m., inside the Medication Storage Refrigerator there were two white boxes, approximately 3 inches by 3 inches by 1 inch tall. The IP read the label on the boxes, and stated the medication was Genotropin (an injectable form of human growth hormone important for the growth of bones and muscles). There was no prescription information on either box. The IP stated she would have to look through the Medication Administration Reports (MAR) to figure out whose medication it was. During a review of the facility policy and procedure titled, Storage and Expiration Dating of Medications, Biological, last revised on 7/21/22, the policy indicated the facility should destroy and reorder medications and biologicals with soiled, illegible, worn, makeshift, incomplete, damaged or missing labels. 2. During a Medication Administration Cart (Med Cart) inspection and concurrent interview with Licensed Nurse M (LN M), on 10/17/22, at 12:41 p.m., there was one open bottle of liquid Gabapentin (a medication approved to prevent and control partial seizures, relieve postherpetic neuralgia after shingles and moderate-to-severe restless legs syndrome) in the cart. LN M inspected the label on the bottle, and stated there was no open date documented on the bottle. LN M stated the only date on the bottle was the expiration date on the manufacturer's label During a review of the medication insert titled, Package Leaflet: Patient information, last revised 5/19, the document indicated Gabapentin had specific storage instructions. The document indicated the medication should be discarded 30 days after opening. During a Med Cart inspection and concurrent interview with LN M, on 10/17/22, at 12:43 p.m., there was one open bottle of liquid Metoclopramide Hydrochloride Solution (a medication used to treat certain conditions of the stomach and intestines) in the cart. The label on the bottle indicated the medication expired on 9/23. LN M read the label, and stated there was no open date on the bottle. LN M stated the medication was good until 9/1/2023. During a review of the medication insert titled, Package Leaflet: Patient information, last revised 5/22, the document indicated Metoclopramide Hydrochloride Solution had specific storage instructions. The document indicated the medication should be used within one month of opening the bottle. During a Med Cart inspection and concurrent interview with LN M, on 10/17/22, at 12:44 p.m., there was one open bottle of liquid Valproic Acid (used to treat seizure disorders, mental/mood conditions, and to prevent migraine headaches. The medication works by restoring the balance of certain neurotransmitters (natural substances) in the brain) in the cart. The label on the bottle indicated the medication expired on 4/24. LN M read the label, and stated there was no open date on the bottle. LN M stated the medication was good until 4/1/2024. During a review of the medication insert titled, Package Leaflet: Patient information, last revised 1/22, the document indicated liquid Valproic Acid had specific storage instructions. The document indicated after first opening, discard any unused medication after 50 days. During a review of the facility policy and procedure titled, Storage and Expiration Dating of Medications, Biological, last revised on 7/21/22, the policy indicated once any medication or biological package was opened, the facility should follow manufacturer/supplier guidelines with respect to expiration dates for opened medications. The policy indicated the facility staff should record the date opened on the primary medication container (vial, bottle, inhaler) when the medication had a shortened expiration date once opened or opened.
CONCERN (E)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to follow food safety requirements during food prep and food storage, when: 1. The facility stored flour in the bag it was delive...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to follow food safety requirements during food prep and food storage, when: 1. The facility stored flour in the bag it was delivered in, opened in a plastic tub; 2. One Cook, [NAME] E, was not wearing a beard cover for two days; 3. The North nursing unit resident refrigerator contained 15 expired Nutritional supplements; and, 4. The South nursing unit resident refrigerator contained an employee lunch bag in the freezer and an unlabeled/undated pink water pitcher. These failures put residents at risk for consuming food prepared with contaminated flour, hairs falling into resident food, risk for consuming expired nutritional supplements, which could lead to dyspepsia (Dyspepsia is another word for indigestion. People with indigestion often report feelings of stomach pain, over-fullness and bloating during and after eating. Other common symptoms include acid reflux, heartburn, and excessive burping), as well as infection control concerns. Findings: 1. During a tour of the dry storage on 10/17/22 at 10:35 AM, flour, still in the bag it was delivered in, was opened and stored inside plastic tub with a id. In a concurrent interview, the DFS (Director of Food Services) confirmed the bag was the original shipping bag which would not have been protected from dirt or dust during transportation. The facility policy and procedure titled, Storage of Food and Supplies, dated 2020, indicated in item #6. Dry bulk foods (flour, sugar, dry beans, food thickener, spices, etc.) should be stored in seamless metal or plastic containers with tight covers, or in bins which are easily sanitized. 2. During a kitchen tour on 10/17/22 at 10:05 AM, [NAME] E was wearing a surgical mask which did not cover the hairs on his neck. During a kitchen tour on 10/18/22 at 9:46 AM, [NAME] E was again wearing a surgical mask which did not cover the hairs on his neck. During an observation and interview with the DFS on 10/19/22 at 2:30 PM, it was noted there was a sign on the kitchen door displaying a picture and indicating hair covering was mandatory. When the DFS was asked about the expectation, relative to beard covers related to [NAME] E, she stated, It is usually covered with a mask. The facility policy and procedure titled, Dress Code for Dietary Staff, not dated, indicated, Purpose: Appropriate dress in the Food and Nutrition Department; under Clothing: 7. [NAME] cover for facial hair, if applicable. 3. During a review of the resident refrigerator on the South side nurses' station on 10/19/22 at 8:51 AM, there were 15 expired nutritional supplements in the refrigerator. This was verified with Licensed nurse L on duty. 4. During a review of the resident refrigerator on the North side on 10/19/22 at 10:30 AM, the freezer contained a black canvas bag labeled, nurse. Inside was a foil wrapped food. There was no name or date on the bag. In addition, a pink water pitcher, with no name or date, was located in the freezer. The refrigerator and freezer were not clean. During an interview with Licensed Nurse M on 10/19/22 at 10:34 AM, when shown the nurse's bag and water pitcher in the freezer, she stated, That is not mine. That is a water pitcher we give residents water. I don't know why it is in there. It is the kitchen who stocks the refrigerator. During an interview with the DFS on 10/19/22 at 11 AM, when shown the nurse's bag and the water pitcher, she stated, It is not the kitchen's responsibility to clean the refrigerator, it is housekeeping. During an interview with Director A on 10/19/22 at 11:15 AM, he stated he was aware of what the surveyor found, his staff was cleaning the refrigerator now, and the housekeeping staff were to wipe down the refrigerator daily. The facility policy and procedure titled, Food for Residents From Outside Sources, dated 2018, indicated: Prepared foods, beverages, or perishable food that requires refrigeration, can be stored for the resident in the facility kitchen, nursing station refrigerator or in the residents' personal refrigerator. In the food service department, the policy on food storage will apply. Otherwise, if unopened, refrigerated, or frozen items will be disposed of by the expiration date on the container.
Dec 2019 4 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0645 (Tag F0645)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to complete the Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASARR) accurately for two out of fifteen sampled residents (Resident 34 and 49)....

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to complete the Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASARR) accurately for two out of fifteen sampled residents (Resident 34 and 49). This failure resulted in the prevention of further evaluation to identify any specialized services required to meet individual needs in a population of residents with mental illness. Findings: During an interview on 12/3/19, at 4:03 p.m., with The Minimum Data Set Coordinator (MDS Coordinator), she stated she completed the PASARR assessments for every resident in the facility. The MDS Coordinator stated she submitted the Level 1 Screening Documents during the admission process, when a resident had a significant change in their health condition, when a resident had a change in medical diagnosis, and annually. During review, Resident 34's admission Record, dated 12/4/19, indicated Resident 34 had active medical diagnoses including: Dementia (an overall term for diseases and conditions characterized by a decline in memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills which affect a person's ability to perform everyday activities), Schizophrenia (a chronic and severe mental disorder which affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves), and cognitive communication deficit. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 12/4/19, at 4 p.m., with the MDS Coordinator, Resident 34's PASARR Level 1 Screening Document, dated 5/7/19, was reviewed. The document indicated, Resident 34 did not have serious difficulty communicating needs as a result of a cognitive deficit. The MDS Coordinator stated the question had been marked based on Resident 34's ability at the time of assessment. The MDS Coordinator stated Resident 34's ability to communicate varied from day to day. The MDS Coordinator confirmed Resident 34 did have times where she had serious difficulty communicating needs. The MDS Coordinator stated the question should have been answered yes, to indicate Resident 34 had serious difficulty communicating needs as a result of a cognitive deficit. During a review of Resident 49's admission Record, dated 12/4/19, indicated Resident 49 had active medical diagnoses including: Dementia with Behavioral Disturbance, Parkinson's disease (a disorder affecting the brain and spinal cord, causing gradual loss of the ability to control body movements), and Schizophrenia. During a concurrent interview and record review, on 12/4/19, at 3:16 p.m., with the MDS Coordinator, Resident 49's PASARR Level 1 Screening Document, dated 8/26/19, was reviewed. The document indicated Resident 49 did not have any neurocognitive disorders, which included Dementia. The MDS Coordinator stated the question was answered incorrectly. The MDS Coordinator stated the question should have been marked yes, to indicate Resident 49 had Dementia. During a review of the facility's policy and procedure titled, PASARR, dated 8/19, indicated the facility would ensure each resident was properly screened using the state specific PASARR.
CONCERN (D)

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

Quality of Care (Tag F0684)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based an interview and record review, the facility did not meet professional standards of practice when the intravenous (IV) med...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based an interview and record review, the facility did not meet professional standards of practice when the intravenous (IV) medication for one of one resident's, receiving IV medications (Resident 153) was not documented on the Medication Administration Record (MAR) clearly. This error made it appear Resident 153 was not getting his IV medication, as ordered. Findings: During a review of Resident 153's clinical record, the Order Summary Report, dated 12/6/19, documented Resident 153 was admitted on [DATE], with the diagnosis of Osteomyelitis of vertebra, and other infections, affecting his left knee. The orders included care of the IV line, the use of the CADD pump, (device to control the flow of IV fluids) and Cefazolin (antibiotic) 2 grams intravenously, three times a day for infection, until 12/25/19. During further review of the clinical record, the December 2019, MAR listed CADD Pump: Change Bag and Tubing every night shift, between 0400 and 0600 (4 a.m. and 6 a.m.), ordered 11/26/19; this was documented as done each night. The MAR also listed CADD Pump: Monitor Pump and ensure infusing every shift, ordered 11/14/19. This line was missing several signatures for day and evening shift, indicating the monitoring was not always done. Resident 153's 12/2019, MAR listed Cefazolin 1 gram, use 2-gram IV three times a day for infection, with times listed as 0300, 1100, and 1900 (3 a.m., 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.). The 0300 dose was documented each day. The 1100 and 1900 doses were not all documented as given every day. During an interview and concurrent observation on 12/4/19 at 11:30 a.m., the DON stated Resident 153's medication is on a CADD pump and is always connected. She stated the CADD pump bag and tubing were changed by an RN every morning, and the pump was programmed for 24-hour dosing. The CADD pump settings were looked at, and it was set to go at 83 ml an hour over 30 minutes, and the next dose was for 1900 (7 p.m.). The CADD pump was set by the pharmacy, based on the doctor's order for the IV medication. The Pharmacy prepared a 24-hour bag and tubing for the facility. During an interview on 12/4/19 at 11:30 a.m., the DON stated the MAR listed the CADD pump bag and tubing to be changed every night, and the Cefazolin IV medication to be given at 0300, 1100, and 1900. The DON acknowledged that the three doses were contained in the bag and tubing which was changed by the nurse at one time. The DON stated the medication and the CADD pump orders had to be listed out separately on the MAR. The DON stated she was responsible for documentation of the 1100 dose and monitoring the CADD pump when she worked, and stated she did not get to the MAR each day [to document]. During an interview on 12/4/19 at 11:30 a.m., the DON stated the documentation was the responsibility of the RN's, not the LVN's, who had the resident assigned to them. The DON stated the facility did not have RN coverage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The facility made sure an RN was available to change the CADD pump each day, and an RN was available by telephone.
CONCERN (D)

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

Pressure Ulcer Prevention (Tag F0686)

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 prevent the development of a pressure ulcer (area of damaged skin c...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to prevent the development of a pressure ulcer (area of damaged skin caused by staying in one position for too long; they commonly form where the bones are close to the skin) to the sacrum, (the triangular bone at the base of the spine), for one of fifteen sampled residents. Resident 46 developed a Stage 3 pressure ulcer to her sacrum, requiring surgical interventions. Findings: During an observation on 12/5/19 at 9:29 a.m., Resident 46 was lying on her right side. She stated the nurse had just cleaned up the sore on her bottom. During an interview 12/5/19 at 12:20 p.m., at nurse's station, Licensed Staff E stated she had changed Resident 46's dressing. She stated the dressing changes were done daily. She described the wound as healing, appeared covered with a layer of fragile skin. During a review of Resident 46's clinical record, the Order Summary Report, dated 12/6/19, documented Resident 46 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Admitting Diagnosis included Rhabdomyolysis (injury and destruction of muscle tissue and the releasing of proteins and minerals into the blood stream, overloading the kidneys and circulatory system), Diabetes, Acute kidney failure, and Acute respiratory failure. During continued review of Resident 46's clinical record, the Initial admission Record, dated 11/7/19, documented Resident 46 was, noted to have dark blanch-able redness to coccyx and bilateral buttocks, no open areas noted. (Blanch-able, discolored skin turns white when pressed down and returns to regular color when released. Skin which doesn't lighten to the touch is a sign of a pressure injury.) The initial care plan, dated 11/7/19, included: At risk for skin breakdown related to impaired mobility and incontinence. Interventions were to encourage repositioning every two hours, and as needed, to prevent skin breakdown, pressure reducing mattress to bed, and skin check two times a week and as needed. Resident 46's clinical record included the CNA [NAME], a report listing the care the resident needs, dated 12/6/19. The section titled, Skin, instructed low air loss mattress, the, Pain, section instructed positron for comfort, and under, Other, was the directive: Position Resident with proper body alignment for optimal breathing pattern. Review of the documentation of, Tasks (items CNA's were to do) for Resident 46, included the question: Did you turn and reposition resident? This question did not specify turn every two hours. The response consisted of a check mark for each shift. The date, 11/10/19, did not have any notation for night shift. Day staff documented the task was done for 11/8 through 11/10/19. The task was documented as not applicable for the day shift for the dates, 11/11/19, through 11/14/19, and no documentation was present for day shift on 11/15/19. The task with the question about urinary continence, indicated Resident 46 was incontinent of urine on 11/10/19, in the evening and incontinent during the night on 11/11/19 through 11/15/19. The question about bowel continence, indicated Resident 46 was incontinent of bowel once on 11/8/19, 11/9/19, 11/11/19, and 11/13/19 through 11/15/19. The task question for Resident 46, was what type of bathing activity was completed. This was marked as not applicable for 11/8 through 11/13/19; indicating six days without any type of bath. On 11/14/19 at 12:10 p.m., a check mark indicated a shower was given at this time. Resident 46's clinical record showed a first notation of a skin problem was the, Change of Condition, Progress Note, dated 11/15/19, and timed at 11:15 p.m. This indicated, Res has open area to right buttock. Barrier cream applied, dressing applied, all needs met. Turned q (every) 2 hours as allowed Clinician was notified on 11/15/19, at midnight. Resident 46's Treatment Administration Record (TAR) documented Barrier Cream to buttocks every shift, ordered by Clinician on 11/15/19, and administrated, as ordered, on 11/15/19 to 11/18/19. Resident 46's Surgical Consult was done 11/18/19. This documented a wound located on the right sacrum and called a Pressure Injury/Ulcer. The tissue type in the wound bed was 80% Granulation (the formation of minute, rounded, fleshy connective tissue projections on the surface of a wound) and 20% Necrotic (dead) tissue. The consultant debrided (removed) the devitalized (devoid of life) tissue of an estimated 8 millimeters (mm) by 8 mm by 1 mm deep. Resident 46's second Surgical Consult, dated 12/2/19, documented a wound on the right sacrum caused by a Pressure Injury/Ulcer which had devitalized tissue. The consultant preformed muscle tissue debridement by excision of devitalized subcutaneous, muscle, fascia, and tendon tissue for a total of 4 mm by 4 mm by 1 mm deep, excised. (Stage 3 involves the full thickness of the skin and may extend into the subcutaneous tissue layer. At this stage, there may be undermining that makes the wound much larger than it may seem on the surface. Stage 4 pressure ulcers are the deepest, extending into the muscle, tendon or even bone.) During review, Resident 46's Nursing Care Plan, dated 11/22/19, documented, Focus: Has Stage 3 pressure injury to right sacrum. Interventions included: Administer treatments as ordered, monitor for effectiveness, Assess and document wound size, give nutritional supplements for wound healing, low air loss mattress to bed and others. During an interview on 12/6/19 at 10 a.m., the MDS coordinator stated the wound was found on 11/15/19, and was seen by the specialist on 11/18/19. The staging of pressure injury/ulcers was done by the facility's wound care specialist. On 11/18/19, the specialist ordered: Clean wound with normal saline, pat dry, cover with foam dressing daily. On 11/22/19, the Skin Committee met and decided to add oral supplements for wound healing and a low air loss mattress. The low air loss mattress was put on Resident 46's bed 11/22/19. During an interview on 12/6/19 at 10:30 a.m., the DSD (Director of Staff Development) stated the wound was found by the nurse when she was giving Resident 46 an enema on 11/15/19. The wound bed was necrotic, and the skin around the area was inflamed/red. The wound care specialist, who came on Mondays, assessed and treated the wound and wrote wound care orders on 11/18/19. The DSD stated she saw the wound, with the specialist, and documented on Resident 46's Skin Pressure Ulcer Weekly Report, using the information from the specialist report on the wound. The facility's procedure, Skin and Wound Management Care Guidelines, dated 8/25/16, instructed to implement guidelines on Pressure Injury Prevention and Treatment, as indicated, such as, Preventive Skin Care, Nutritional Support for Pressure Injury, Educate Resident and Encourage Repositioning guidelines to prevent and manage Pressure Injury .
CONCERN (E)

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

Safe Environment (Tag F0921)

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 provide at least 80 square feet, per resident, in 8 o...

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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 at least 80 square feet, per resident, in 8 of 21 sampled resident rooms (Rooms 07, 08, 09,10,12,13, 20, and 22), and bathroom availability was difficult for residents who must share bathrooms between two rooms. These failures caused residents to complain of feeling uncomfortable, cramped, unable to maneuver equipment, and to not have sufficient space to move about in their living spaces. Findings: During an initial tour and concurrent interview on 12/2/19 at 10:00 a.m., Resident 202 complained bathrooms were always in use since the bathroom was shared between two rooms, and she was particular how clean the toilets were with all the use. I prefer my own commode. Resident 202 also stated one concern she had was when staff left the commode full for a long period of time, It smells. During Resident Council Meeting on 12/3/19 at 10:09 a.m., Resident 23 stated he was in a room with four beds, and the other room had four beds, with eight people using the same bathroom. It created long periods of waiting to get his turn in the bathroom. During an interview on 12/3/19 at 11 a.m., Resident 30 complained the room was cramped with all the medical equipment. My wheelchair and bed are oversized and then you have the residents' equipment, it's very tight. The bathroom is always in use, we must share between two rooms. During an interview on 12/4/19 at 11 a.m., Resident 2 complained the bathroom was always full, and he had a Suprapubic catheter which needed to be drained often. The bathroom was always in use, we must share between two rooms. I pull the curtain when I need privacy. During an interview on 12/4/19 at 1:44 p.m., Resident 22 complained there was not enough room to walk around her bed, and privacy was an issue when the closets were inches from her bed. Resident 22 stated she must pull the curtain and take out her hearing aids, when residents' and staff were over by the closets, because of the noise. During an interview on 12/5/19 at 12:30 p.m., the Plant Supervisor was asked to measure Resident rooms [ROOM NUMBERS]. The measurements for room [ROOM NUMBER] was 16' by 19' with each resident area measuring 8' X 9'. There was 18 between the closets and Resident 204's bed. room [ROOM NUMBER]'s measurements were also 16' by 19', 8' x 9' for each resident area, with 20 between the closets and Resident 22's bed. These measurements resulted in <76 (less than) square feet of living space, per resident. During an interview on 12/6/19 at 9:57 a.m., Unlicensed Staff E, stated some residents had complained the rooms felt crowded. When questioning Unlicensed Staff E, what she did to reduce the feeling of crowding in residents' rooms, she stated she cleaned up the room and sometimes rearranged the furniture, when possible.
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

  • "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
  • "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Grade B+ (85/100). Above average facility, better than most options in California.
  • • No major safety red flags. No abuse findings, life-threatening violations, or SFF status.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most California facilities.
  • • 43% turnover. Below California's 48% average. Good staff retention means consistent care.
Concerns
  • • 13 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Cloverdale Healthcare Center's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE CENTER an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, which is considered much 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 Cloverdale Healthcare Center Staffed?

CMS rates CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE CENTER's staffing level at 3 out of 5 stars, which is average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 43%, compared to the California average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Cloverdale Healthcare Center?

State health inspectors documented 13 deficiencies at CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE CENTER during 2019 to 2025. These included: 12 with potential for harm and 1 minor or isolated issues.

Who Owns and Operates Cloverdale Healthcare Center?

CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE 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 THE ENSIGN GROUP, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 72 certified beds and approximately 47 residents (about 65% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in CLOVERDALE, California.

How Does Cloverdale Healthcare Center Compare to Other California Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in California, CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE CENTER's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 3.2, staff turnover (43%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (5 stars) is much above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Cloverdale Healthcare Center?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "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?"

Is Cloverdale Healthcare Center Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE CENTER has a clean safety record: no substantiated abuse findings (meaning no confirmed cases of resident harm), no Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death), and is not on the Special Focus Facility watch list (a federal program monitoring the lowest-performing 1% of nursing homes). The facility has a 5-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in California. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Cloverdale Healthcare Center Stick Around?

CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE CENTER has a staff turnover rate of 43%, 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 Cloverdale Healthcare Center Ever Fined?

CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE 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 Cloverdale Healthcare Center on Any Federal Watch List?

CLOVERDALE HEALTHCARE 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.