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, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure safe infection control practices to prevent sp...
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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 safe infection control practices to prevent spread of infection when:
1. The blood pressure (BP) cuff was not effectively sanitized in-between resident care use on two out of two sampled residents (Resident 16 and Resident 19).
2. Licensed Nurse H (LN) touched medications with bare hands on two out of two sampled residents (Resident 16 and Resident 19).
3. a. Oxygen tubing was found on floor, outdated, and or undated for one out of two residents (Resident 43).
b. Oxygen tubing was undated for one out two residents (Resident 38).
c. Oxygen tubing was unlabeled for one out of one resident (Resident 77) while using a portable oxygen tank.
4. Staff failed to wear the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE, face shield or goggles, gloves, gown) in the facility's yellow zone (area used to quarantine new admissions who require isolation)
These failed practices may pose health and infection risk to facility's residents potentially leading to negative clinical outcomes.
Findings:
1. During an observation, in Unit Three, on 8/10/22, at 8:14 am, LN F used a BP cuff sitting on top of the medication cart to check Resident 16's BP. After checking Resident 16's BP, LN F wiped the BP cuff with two alcohol pads and did not wear gloves. Not all areas of the BP cuff had been cleaned. LN F placed the BP cuff on top of the medication cart.
During an observation, in Unit Three, on 8/10/22, at 8:48 am, LN F used a BP cuff sitting on top of the medication cart to check Resident 19's BP. LN F was observed walking out of Resident 19's room with the BP cuff on top of a clip board and the unclean BP cuff was resting against LN F's chest. LN F wiped the BP cuff with two alcohol pads and did not wear gloves. Not all areas of the BP cuff had been cleaned. LN F placed the BP cuff on top of the medication cart.
During an interview on 8/10/22, at 9:00 am, LN F confirmed placing dirty BP cuff against chest, not properly sanitizing the BP cuff in between resident use, not wearing gloves, and stated the expectation is to clean with a bleach wipe and let sit for two minutes prior to next resident use.
During an interview on 8/10/22 at 10:49 am, Director of Nurses (DON) stated the expectation for cleaning the BP cuff was to use a bleach wipe and let BP cuff sit for three minutes between resident use. DON stated staff should not use alcohol wipes to clean BP cuff.
A review of the Clorox disinfectant wipes, indicated a three-minute wait time between each resident use.
During a review of the facility's policies and procedures (P&P) titled Cleaning and Disinfection of Resident-Care Items and Equipment, revised 10/2018, the P&P indicated medical equipment must be cleaned and disinfected before reuse by another resident.
2. During an observation, in Unit Three, on 8/10/22, at 8:14 am, LN H was preparing Resident 16's medications. LN H cut a medication in half, broke open a capsule, and touched each of Resident 16's medications without using gloves.
During an observation, in Unit Three, on 8/10/22, at 8:48 am, LN H was counting Resident 19's medications prior to administering. LN H began touching the pills without using gloves and then stopped. LN H retrieved a spoon and used the spoon to remove the remaining pills being counted.
During an interview on 8/10/22, at 10:49 am, DON confirmed nursing should not touch medications without wearing gloves.
A review of the facility's policies and procedures (P&P) titled: Administering Medications, revised 3/22/18, the P&P indicated Staff shall follow established facility infection control procedures (e.g., hand washing, antiseptic technique, gloves, isolation precautions, etc.) when these apply to the administration of medications.
3. (a) A review of Resident 43's record indicated admission to the facility on 3/26/21 and a readmission on [DATE]. Resident 43 had the diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, lung disease that makes breathing difficult). Resident 43 did not make her own medical decisions.
A review of the record titled General Order, dated 4/7/22, indicated Resident 43 had an order for oxygen at 3 liters/min via nasal cannula (NC, oxygen tube that is placed in the nostrils) (continuous) for COPD. Requested all oxygen orders including an order to change oxygen tubing was made on 8/10/22. The order to change oxygen tubing weekly was not provided.
During an interview and observation on 8/8/22, at 9:53 am, the NC including entire oxygen tubing was observed to be laying on the floor of Resident 43's room. The yellow sticker on the oxygen tubing was dated 7/11/22 with a time of 5:00 am. The oxygen tubing had been in use for 28 days. The oxygen tubing and face mask used for Resident 43's breathing treatments (medication that is placed in a nebulizer machine and inhaled into lungs) was not dated. The face mask, medication holder (place to insert liquid medication), and oxygen tubing was in separate pieces laying on a dirty, cluttered table. Resident 43 stated using the nebulizer and equipment daily and did not know if or when the tubing had been changed.
During an interview and observation on 8/8/22, at 11:46 am, LN L confirmed the sticker on Resident 43's oxygen tubing was dated 7/11/22, the oxygen tubing on the nebulizer did not have a sticker, and that night shift should change and date all oxygen tubing every Sunday. LN L stated it was everyone's responsibility to make sure the tubing was labeled for their residents. It was observed that Resident 43 was wearing the oxygen tubing on her face. LN L stated no knowledge of who placed the tubing on the resident and was not aware the tubing was on the floor. LN L stated that the tubing would be replaced right away and confirmed the oxygen tubing found on the floor should be replaced and not used on residents.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:13 pm, DON confirmed nursing staff is expected to change and date all oxygen and nebulizer tubing every Sunday on the night shift.
(b) A review of Resident 38's record indicated admission to the facility on 2/18/22 with a readmission on [DATE]. Resident 38 had the diagnosis of COPD and did not make his own medical decisions.
A review of the Physician Order Report indicated Resident 38 had an order for oxygen, dated 5/11/22 that reads: Oxygen at 2 liters/min via nasal cannula.
A review of the Physician Order Report indicated Resident 38 had an order for oxygen, dated 8/8/22 that read: change nasal cannula and nebulizer tubing every week and PRN (as needed) once a day on Sun; NOC (every Sunday on night shift).
During an interview and observation on 8/8/22, at 10:49 am, Resident 38's oxygen and nebulizer tubing did not have a sticker and was not dated. Resident 38 stated I don't know if they ever change the tubing and staff is busy and doesn't always have time to do their job.
During an interview and observation on 8/8/22, at 11:46 am, LN L confirmed the oxygen and nebulizer tubing did not have a sticker, was not dated, and that night shift should change and date all oxygen tubing every Sunday. LN L stated it was everyone's responsible to make sure the tubing was labeled for their residents.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:13 pm, Director of Nurses confirmed nursing staff was expected to change and date all oxygen and nebulizer tubing every Sunday on the night shift.
(c) During an observation and interview on 8/8/22, at 12:05 pm, Resident 77 was observed in the dining room with a portable oxygen tank. Restorative Nurse Assistant confirmed there was no label or date on Resident 77's oxygen tube.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:13 pm, Director of Nurses confirmed nursing staff is expected to change and date all oxygen and nebulizer tubing every Sunday on the night shift.
4. A record review indicated that Resident 63 was placed on Covid - 19 (SARS-CoV-2 or Covid-19 is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system) quarantine for possible exposure on 8/9/22. Resident 63 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses that included after surgical care on digestive system, muscle weakness and respiratory failure with hypoxia (low oxygen level). Resident 63 was placed in a yellow zone to indicate she was on Covid-19 precautions for an exposure.
During an observation on 8/10/22 at 9:30 am, a staff member was noted to be going into a marked isolation room. No eye protection was noted. Signage on the wall outside of the room, indicated N95 mask, gown, gloves and eye protection were to be worn.
During an interview with Licensed Nurse (LN) E, the staff member observed, on 8/10/22 at 9:35 am when she exited the room of Patient 63, LN E stated the resident was in isolation for Covid precautions. LN E stated she had been wearing gown, gloves and mask when in the room. She confirmed she was not wearing eye protection. The facility Infection Preventionist (IP) was in the hallway and verified LN E should have been wearing eye protection. IP verified that Resident 63 had recently had a possible exposure to Covid -19 and was not vaccinated for Covid 19 requiring precautions for Covid-19.
Guidance written by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention titled, Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations to Prevent SARS-CoV-2 Spread in Nursing Homes, updated 2/2/22 read, Manage Residents who had Close Contact with Someone with SARS-CoV-2 Infection .Residents who are not up to date with all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses and who have had close contact with someone with SARS-CoV-2 infection should be placed in quarantine after their exposure, even if viral testing is negative. HCP caring for them should use full PPE (gowns, gloves, eye protection, and N95 or higher-level respirator).
In general, all residents who are not up to date with all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses and are new admissions and readmissions should be placed in quarantine, even if they have a negative test upon admission, and should be tested as described in the testing section above; COVID-19 vaccination should also be offered .Guidance addressing duration and recommended PPE when caring for residents in quarantine is described in Section: Manage Residents who had Close Contact with Someone with SARS-CoV-2 Infection.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0558
(Tag F0558)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide full visual privacy to one out of two sampled residents (Resident 67) when a privacy curtain had been missing for one ...
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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to provide full visual privacy to one out of two sampled residents (Resident 67) when a privacy curtain had been missing for one month.
This failure had the potential to cause a decline in Resident 67's mental health and cause psychosocial harm.
Findings:
A review of the records indicated Resident 67 was admitted to the facility 1/29/21 with the diagnoses of generalized anxiety disorder (extreme worrying that interferes with daily activities), cognitive communication impairment (inability to interact meaningfully with others), and bipolar disorder, current episode mixed, moderate (mood disorder that can cause rapid speech, racing thoughts, and agitation). Resident 67 was her own responsible party and could make her own medical decisions.
During a concurrent interview and observation on 8/9/22, at 9:24 am, Resident 67 was sitting in a wheelchair in the hallway, had rapid speech, an elevated tone (variations in speech), and was waving arms in the air. Resident 67 stated being upset because the privacy curtain in her room had been missing. Resident 67 stated staff knew the privacy curtain had been missing and while trying to verbalize feelings, Resident 67 's speech became more rapid with an even higher elevation of tone. At 9:30 am Housekeeper Director (HD) came into room upon hearing Resident 67 from hallway. Resident 67 became louder, pointing finger at ceiling where the privacy curtain was missing. Resident 67 was observed to have exaggerated body movements, slanted eyebrows, a creased forehead, squinting eyes, and down turned lips. After several moments, Resident 67 was able to verbalize frustration without rapid speech to HD about the missing privacy curtain. HD stated awareness about the missing privacy curtain and had been trying to purchase the correct hooks needed for one month.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:02 pm, HD stated two staff members took extra hooks off of tracks in other rooms today to get the privacy curtain up in Resident 67's room. When asked what the plan was to provide privacy for other rooms (if there was a privacy curtain concern) while needed hooks were unavailable to purchase, HD stated the facility would need to purchase new tracks. Social Services Assistant walked up during interview and stated no knowledge of anyone offering Resident 67 a new room that provided privacy.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:27 pm, HD stated a new track for the privacy curtain had been ordered.
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/9/22, at 4:21 pm, Social Services Director was not able to produce documentation that Resident 67 had been offered a new room with privacy curtains.
A review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Dignity, revised 10/17, indicated the resident has the right to use of privacy curtains.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0565
(Tag F0565)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to address and resolve Resident Council identified issues and concerns for the past four months This failure resulted in pain management needs...
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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to address and resolve Resident Council identified issues and concerns for the past four months This failure resulted in pain management needs not to be met, call lights remained being unanswered for an extended amount of time, nutritional needs not to be met and residents felt their grievances were not listened to.
Findings:
The facility used a form titled Resident Council Minutes that kept attendance of the participants in resident council and tracked their grievances. This form also discussed old business, and new business, including resolutions the facility department related to any issues were responsible for addressing the concerns.
Review of Resident Council Minutes, dated 06/23/2022, had a section titled Old Business - Any new business identified at the last council meeting must be addressed here - either as resolved or unresolved. Five out of six items in this list are marked as resolved, with one unresolved. The unresolved items are as follows - Food comes out cold sometimes. However, PM janitor could use more training especially with using the floor machine, is deemed as resolved. There is no indication, nor documentation, between the two resident council meetings in May and June that this was in fact resolved. It is placed on the Resident Council Attendance, that there is no group resident council due to Covid-19. Residents were interviewed individually in their room. No follow up was done with residents regarding their concerns. No signatures or dates of implementation and completion were noted.
Review of Resident Council Minutes, dated 07/15/2022, indicated there were 2 unresolved concerns from May resident council meeting, food comes out cold sometimes. Upon review of May Resident Council Minutes, dated 05/19/2022, it is indicated the two unresolved issues remain as, food sometimes comes out cold. The department response from dietary in relation to cold food was marked as unresolved with a new plan in progress. The department response with no date indicating the new plan to be implemented stated, DSS ordered new dome lids for plates. Will continue to monitor tray pass for timely delivery. No more paper on isolation. PM janitor could use more training, especially with using the floor machine. The department response was, Will have PM janitor use mop and bucket instead of auto scrubber. Also talk to him about checking rooms, bathrooms, and employee bathrooms and stocking. This has been marked unresolved due to a new plan in progress, per department head of housekeeping. No further follow up was observed or completed with residents regarding their concerns.
During a confidential resident group interview on 08/09/2022 at 10:07 am, six out of eight residents reported the food was still cold, stating We get the same food a lot. The taste is not good. Four out of eight residents stated the food was not in the form of their preference - in reference to palatability. Six out of eight residents complained of the taste. Seven out of eight residents stated their wait time for call light response is more than 5-15 minutes, which they deemed 5-15 minutes is reasonable. Six out of eight residents have explained having issues with receiving showers at appropriate times, while three out of eight residents complained of cold showers. Six out of eight residents complain, It is too cold, which was observed with residents wearing blankets and/or several layers of clothing. Per resident, Ice machine has been a problem here for years. Goes up and down, up and down. The ice machine has been broken. It's been a few weeks. Four out of eight residents did not get ice when they wanted. Resident stated, Takes them an hour and a half to get me a pain pill sometimes. One resident stated sometimes grievances are not responded to. Like answering call bells. The group was asked how many have had issues with call lights. Seven of the eight raised their arms in response.
During an interview on 08/10/2022 at 11:16 am, Administrator (ADMIN), voiced understanding of the need for better written communication between departments for issues that arise in resident council. ADMIN stated currently bringing in ice physically for residents; however, residents stated they have not had ice recently. ADMIN explained he was unaware of multiple problems with food (in reference to palatability, temperature). ADMIN not aware of lack of pain medications being given to residents, in regard to hospice residents. ADMIN did not see official report of minutes, was told by other staff of the issues that arose during resident council at morning stand up. Requested for call light audits several times, did not receive. ADMIN unaware of call lights being turned off and having such a long response time.
CONCERN
(E)
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 ensure that two of eighteen smoking residents (Reside...
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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 that two of eighteen smoking residents (Resident 74 and 49) smoked safely in the designated supervised area, securing smoking supplies, and use of safety equipment.
This resulted in unsupervised smoking, hazards including cigarettes not properly being disposed of, lack of safety equipment, and had a potential to put all residents at risk for fire hazard and injuries.
Findings:
1. A review of the facility's policy titled, Smoking Policy - Residents, revised in April 2012, it is listed under Policy Interpretation and Implementation, that smoking is only permitted in designated resident smoking areas, which are located outside of the building. It also states that all residents will have a smoking agreement signed upon admission and quarterly - which includes a statement saying that residents who had smoking privileges may not have or keep any smoking articles, including cigarettes, tobacco, etc., except when they are under direct supervision of staff. The facility maintained the right to confiscate smoking articles found in violation of the smoking policies.
A review of Resident 74's record indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses which included heart failure, lung disease, and palliative hospice (end of life) care. Resident 74 was able to make his own health care decisions.
During an interview on 8/8/22 11:30 am, Resident 74 stated they smoked. Resident 74 stated they, do not have a can to put cigarettes in but keeps cigarette butts in one place. Explains that they will go out to smoke a couple of times a day (regardless of the set smoking schedule) and keeps cigarettes and supplies in room. Resident 74 confirmed they smoked on their patio, which was supported with observation of approximately thirty cigarettes on the ground in resident's patio in the bark under a tree approximately two feet away from dry brush.
A record review of a Quarterly Clinical Assessment Review, dated with an observation date of 7/13/22, Resident 74 agreed to smoke in designated area, place cigarettes in proper receptacle, and agreed to have smoking items stored by staff with supervised smoking times. A review of the medical record titled Safe Smoking Risk, included an observation on 6/24/22 at 2:41 PM, indicated Resident 74 was not currently on oxygen. There is a prompted question stating, Does resident understand and agree that smoking materials will be secured by facility staff? with an answer of No - patient prefers holding cigarettes. For the IDT template note it states, Resident demonstrated safe smoking per policy. Activities staff will observe and assist supervised smoking.
In the care plan, it was noted with a problem start date of 6/24/22, Resident 74 had a history of long-term smoking - with a long-term goal for having resident smoke in designated area, practice safe smoking, will participate with smoking schedule, and will have reduce episodes of smoking related injuries daily.
During a concurrent observation and interview dated 8/8/22 at 1:35 pm, with the Director of Nursing (DON) and Administrator (ADMIN), both individuals stated they were unaware that Resident 74 smoked; however, upon further investigation it was noted in social workers notes, care plans, assessments, and this individual's name was written on the smoking list provided by the facility. Both ADMIN and DON were shown the list provided by the facility of the smoking list and they were able to identify two out of eighteen residents that they were aware that smoked on their patio, an undesignated area, without staff or proper safety equipment present.
During interview on 8/9/22 at 9:10 am, DON stated he was now aware of Resident 74 who does not smoke in the designated smoking area and instead smoked on his patio off his room. DON agreed that the patio area behind resident room, have dry brush throughout. DON stated Resident 74 does keep own smoking supplies in room and smokes on back patio. DON states there are some residents that are independent smokers that were deemed so, but they must smoke by the gazebo a designated smoking area which had the appropriate safety equipment, including a fire extinguisher, fire blanket, and smoking apron. When asked for any interventions that were done for this resident that was smoking on their own in the back patio, DON stated that education had been done towards this resident several times, but the resident does not listen. With review of the policy, it stated that the facility maintains the right to confiscate smoking articles found in violation with the policy. It is determined that the policy and procedure titled, Smoking Policy,
A review of a progress note dated 8/9/22 at 5:22 pm, that was written by Social Service Director (SSD) stated that, Patient agrees to smoke in designated areas, understands safety related to smoking. Resident 74 understood that smoking is a privilege and if smoking policy is not followed smoking privileges can be taken away. Resident comments: I am not putting my signature anywhere; you can put verbal. I am going to start looking for a place to go if that's the case. Resident was not happy with conversation and hospice was notified as well of patient's comments to assist if needed. Resident 74 did not allow Social Services Assistant (SSA) to go through his belongings.
During an interview on 8/10/22 at 11:43 am, Administrator (ADMIN) stated the resident was spoken to in regards to smoking at designated gazebo area. Stated all residents are now out to the gazebo during arranged smoking times. Upon later observation during smoking schedule breaks, it was noted that Resident 74 was not participating in set smoke breaks.
2. A review of the record indicated Resident 49 was admitted to the facility 2/20/22 with diagnoses of cerebral infarction, unspecified (stroke, disrupted blood flow to the brain), other sequelae of cerebral infarction, (side effects from a stroke that can occur minutes to years after a stroke occurred) and muscle weakness. Resident 49 was his own RP and can make his own medical decisions.
A review of the smoking assessment, dated 2/23/22, an assessment section titled smoking materials will be secured by facility staff, indicated Resident 49 prefers holding own cigarettes.
A review of the smoking assessment, dated 5/27/22, an assessment section titled smoking materials will be secured by facility staff, indicated Resident 49 prefers holding own cigarettes.
A review of the record titled Functional Status, Section G, dated 6/17/22, indicated Resident 49 required one-person physical assist while dressing, using the toilet, and performing personal hygiene (combing hair, brushing teeth, shaving, washing/drying face and hands).
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 10:33 am, Resident 49 stated the facility had four smoking times, located outside at the smoking area, but will smoke just outside of his room when he wants a cigarette. Resident 49 pointed to a patio area just past the sliding glass door in his room.
During an observation on 8/9/22, at 9:40 am, an empty pack of cigarettes was observed in a garbage can. The garbage can was against the building, directly in between Resident 49 and Resident 67's doors that lead to an adjoined patio area. The patio area that belongs to Resident 67 had dirty linen scattered on the ground and the area was cluttered with miscellaneous items including trash. Resident 67 had an overgrown garden area with wooden planks on the ground. This posed as a fire danger due to Resident 49 not having a receptacle to extinguish his cigarettes when smoking outside on the patio.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0697
(Tag F0697)
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 follow physician orders when the pain management needs...
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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 follow physician orders when the pain management needs for one of four sampled Hospice (supportive care to terminally ill residents that focuses on their comfort, quality of life, and being pain free) residents when; Resident 281 received a lower than the ordered dose of morphine (a strong pain medication) on 12 of 20 occasions.
This failure had the potential for Resident 281 to have uncontrolled moderate or severe pain.
Findings:
1. A review of Resident 281's admission record, indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included prostate (a small gland in men) cancer, brain cancer, spine cancer and palliative care (specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness, such as cancer or heart failure). Resident 281 expired on [DATE].
A review of Resident 281's Minimum Data Set (MDS, a standardized resident assessment), dated [DATE], indicated Resident 281's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS, a number value between 00-15 with 13-15 cognitively intact, 08-12 moderately impaired, and 00-07 severe impairment) score was 0 (severe impairment). Resident 281 was not able to make his own healthcare decision.
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated, [DATE] - [DATE], showed Pain-Monitor for presence of pain, every shift, using scale 0-10. 0 = no pain; 1-2 = least pain; 3-4 = mild pain; 5-6 = moderate pain; 7-8 = severe pain; 9-10 very severe/horrible/worst pain.
A review of Resident 281's Medication admission Records (MARS) for Pain-Monitor for presence of pain, every shift, using scale 0-10, from [DATE] to [DATE], a total of 69 shifts, showed:
1). Pain level was assessed as 0 for 63 times.
2). Pain level was assessed as 5 in the afternoon (PM) shift on [DATE].
3). Pain level was assessed as 5 in the morning (AM) shift and7 in the night (NOC) shift on [DATE].
4). Pain level was assessed as 4 in AM shift and 6 in PM shift on [DATE].
5). Pain level was assessed as 7 in PM shift on [DATE].
A review of Resident 281's Pain-Monitor for presence of pain, every shift, using scale 0-10, from [DATE] to [DATE], a total of 8 shifts, showed
1). Pain level was assessed as 0 for 7 times.
2). Pain level was assessed as 5 in AM shift on [DATE].
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated, [DATE] - [DATE], Morphine concentrate - Schedule II solution (a concentrated liquid morphine), 20 milligram (mg)/milliliter (ml), amount to administer: 0.25 ml, oral, every 2 hours as needed, give 0.25 ml as needed for mild pain (pain level = 3-4) was ordered.
A review of the resident's MARS from [DATE] - [DATE], showed that this medication was only given once on [DATE], at 4:57 am on NOC shift, for a pain level of 6 (moderate pain). The resident was given a dose pain medication which was ordered to be given for a mild pain when he had a moderate pain.
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated, [DATE], Lorazepam (a medication to relieve anxiety) 2 mg/ml, not to exceed 10 mg daily, give 0.25 ml, oral, every 4 hours as needed for mild anxiety, shortness of breath; give 0.5 ml, every 4 hours as needed for moderate/severe anxiety, shortness of breath.
A review of Resident 281's progress note on [DATE] at 3:27 pm by LN U, indicated that Resident 281 complained of pain, pain level 8, given PRN Lorazepam 0.5. This pain level was identified in a progress note, but not recorded in the resident's pain assessment monitoring sheet.
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated, [DATE] - [DATE], Morphine concentrate - Schedule II solution, 20 mg/ml, amount to administer: 1 ml, oral, every 2 hours as needed, give 1 ml as needed for severe pain seven to ten out of ten was ordered.
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated, [DATE] - [DATE], Morphine concentrate - Schedule II solution, 20 mg/ml, amount to administer: 0.5 ml, oral, every 2 hours as needed, give 0.5 ml as needed for moderate pain four to six out of ten was ordered.
A review of the resident's MARS from [DATE] - [DATE], indicated:
1). Morphine concentrate 0.5 ml was given on [DATE], at 4:43 pm, in PM shift, the resident's pain level was 8, not 4-6.
2). Morphine concentrate 0.5 ml was given twice on [DATE]. Once at 12:01 pm, in AM shift, the resident's pain level was 8; once at 4:28 pm, in PM shift, the resident's pain level was 8. The resident's pain level was at a severe level, but he was given a medication that was ordered for moderate pain.
3). Morphine concentrate 0.5 ml was given on [DATE], at 1:49 pm, in AM shift, the resident's pain level was 9, per physician pain assessment order, a pain level at 9-10 was rated as very severe/horrible/worst pain. But the resident was again, given a medication that was ordered for moderate pain.
4). Morphine concentrate 0.5 ml was given on [DATE] at 9:29 am, the resident's pain level was 9. He had a severe/horrible/worst pain and was given a medication that was ordered for moderate pain.
5). Morphine concentrate 0.5 ml was given on [DATE] at 8:54 am, in AM shift, the resident's pain level was 9. He had a severe/horrible/worst pain and was given a medication that was ordered for moderate pain.
6). Morphine concentrate 0.5 ml was given on [DATE], at 5:37 pm, in PM shift, the resident's pain level was 9. He had a severe/horrible/worst pain and was given a medication that was ordered for moderate pain.
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated, [DATE] - [DATE], Morphine concentrate - Schedule II solution, 20 mg/ml, amount to administer: 0.25 ml, oral, every 2 hours as needed, give 0.25 ml as needed for mild pain 1-3/10 was ordered.
A review of the resident's MARS from [DATE] - [DATE], it showed:
1). Morphine concentrate 0.25 ml was given on [DATE], at 5:31 pm, in PM shift, the resident's pain level was 8. He had a severe pain and was given a medication that was ordered for mild pain.
2). Morphine concentrate 0.25 ml was given on [DATE], at 1:08 pm, in PM shift, the resident's pain level was 8. He had a severe pain and was given a medication that was ordered for mild pain.
3). Morphine concentrate 0.25 ml was given on [DATE], at 10:39 am, in AM shift, the resident's pain level was 6. He had a moderate pain and was given a medication that was ordered for mild pain.
During an interview with RP on [DATE] at 4:05 pm, stated my chief complaint is that they did not follow the orders from the Hospice order . HN S said that she met with Director of Nursing (DON) and to discuss the issues of Resident 281 not being given pain medication. RP said DON told me that [Resident 281] was over medicated. They could not sedate [Resident 281], so he won't be falling. DON said to RP Your idea of medicating [Resident 281] and let him fall is not going to happen.
During an interview with DON on [DATE] at 2:38 pm, He admitted that Staff is fearful of overmedicating and killing the residents. I told them that you aren't overmedicating them, you need to make sure their pain is covered. DON stated that Resident 281 attempted to self-transfer a lot when he was agitated. Pain was not identified as a root cause of [Resident 281's] falls.
During an interview on [DATE] at 10:15 am, DON stated his expectation would be a nursing progress note denoting post pain assessments. DON confirmed a problem with residents' getting pain medications timely (CNAs tell the nurse and it takes too long), he stated registry nurses and new nursing staff were hesitant to give too much narcotic medication (morphine) due to fear of overmedicating them and was not aware residents were receiving a lower incorrect dose for severe pain levels.
During an interview on [DATE] at 9:30 am, ADMIN was aware back in 4/2022, about the pain issues for Resident 281, SSD informed him of the Resident 281's family member's concerns, they did an in-service just surrounding this particular resident, it mainly focused on non-pharmacy interventions, not the pain medication administration and assessment, wrong medication issues, they did not address the entire program.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0725
(Tag F0725)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 11. A review of Resident 27 record indicates upon admission on [DATE] at 6:48 PM, Resident 27 had admitting diagnoses of lung di...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 11. A review of Resident 27 record indicates upon admission on [DATE] at 6:48 PM, Resident 27 had admitting diagnoses of lung disease, Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, and difficulty with walking.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 10 am, Resident 27 stated it takes 1.5 hours to get changed. Resident was in tears and upset in regard to not being changed on time.
12. During confidential resident interviews on 8/9/22 at 10:07 AM, one resident stated, Takes them an hour and a half to get me a pain pill sometimes. One resident stated sometimes grievances are not responded to. Like answering call bells. The group was asked how many have had issues with call lights not being answered timely more than 20 minutes, seven of the eight raised their arms in response. Another resident stated sometimes I say, forget it. they don't pay attention to me anyhow.
7. A review of the records indicated Resident 67 was admitted to the facility 1/29/21 with the diagnoses of generalized anxiety disorder (extreme worrying that interferes with daily activities), cognitive communication impairment (inability to interact meaningfully with others), and bipolar disorder, current episode mixed, moderate (mood disorder that can cause rapid speech, racing thoughts, and agitation). Resident 67 was her own responsible party and made her own medical decisions.
During a concurrent interview and observation on 8/8/22, at 9:18 am, Resident 67 stated asking Certified Nurse Assistant I (CNA) for a shower this morning and was told no because it was not Resident 67's shower day. Resident 67's was observed to be disheveled, wearing dirty clothes, and had oily hair. CNA I confirmed Resident 67 asked for a shower and had been denied. When asked why Resident 67 could not have a shower, CNA I placed a hand on her hip, rolled her eyes and stated, we have other showers to do and today is not Resident 67's shower day. CNA I was not aware if there was a policy that spoke to shower requests and stated the need to seek out clarification. Resident 67 became agitated, speaking with a rapid rate, threw her hands in the air, stated no one listens, then went back to her room.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 9:48 am, CNA I stated, the Director of Staff Development (DSD) was unaware of policy and since another resident refused a shower, Resident 67 could have a shower.
During a concurrent interview and observation on 8/8/22, at 10:47 am, Resident 67 was observed sitting in room, eating an apple, wearing clean clothes, and had wet hair. Resident 67 stated feeling better since CNA I had provided a shower and if you had not been here, she would not of received a shower.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 12:26 pm, DSD stated residents have scheduled shower days and it was not Resident 67's shower day. DSD stated CNA I should not decline giving Resident 67 a shower. DSD confirmed staff should honor resident preferences, staff needed to provide scheduled residents with shower first then work in requested showers if able.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 10:13 pm, Director of Nurses (DON) stated if a resident requested a shower, it was a preference, and should be accommodated. DON stated if staff was not able to provide the resident with a shower that morning, staff should work with resident and offer a different time during the day that the resident agrees on.
A review of the policies and procedures (P&P) titled Dignity, revised 10/17, indicated individual needs, preferences and dignity shall be accommodated to the extent possible.
8. A review of the records indicated Resident 19 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with the diagnoses of end stage renal disease (kidney failure), hypertensive urgency (emergent, elevated blood pressure), and major depressive disorder (sad mood). Resident 19's preferred language is Panjabi/[NAME] and Resident 19's daughter was her responsible party (medical decision maker).
During a concurrent interview and observation on 8/10/22, at 8:48 am, Licensed Nurse H (LN) was administering Resident 19's morning medication with LN F in attendance. LN F was providing training to LN H who was a new nurse to the facility. During the medication administration LN H was speaking English to Resident 19. Resident 19 was speaking in broken English and [NAME] (preferred language). Resident 19 and LN H were observed to be frustrated and not understanding each other. Resident 19 continued to attempt communication and LN H continued to offer Resident 19 medication. LN F left the room approximately four to five minutes later and returned with a nurse who spoke [NAME] to translate. LN F stated Resident 19's usual nurse speaks [NAME]. LN F and LN H confirmed there was a communication barrier, and a translator should be used.
During an interview on 8/11/22, at 11:46 pm, Director of Nurses (DON) stated translator services should be utilized when staff is not present to translate for residents and there are staff members available who speak [NAME].
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/12/22, at 3:30 pm, Social Services Director (SSD) confirmed Resident 19 needed assistance with communication. SSD confirmed a care plan was in place and additional communication methods were available in Resident 19's room to assist with communication between resident and staff. SSD stated there was a picture board, staff that spoke [NAME], and a translator line. SSD confirmed multiple interventions were in place for communication and staff did not always utilize them.
A review of the facility's policy and procedure titled Translation and/or Interpretation of Facility Services, revised 3/18, indicated The facility's language access program will ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) shall have meaningful access to information and services provided by the facility.
5. Resident 39's record was reviewed. Resident 39 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses that included, Parkinson's disease (uncontrollable tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination), and history of falling. The most recent Minimum Data Set (MDS, a standardized resident assessment) dated 6/9/22, indicated that Resident 39 was cognitively intact.
During a review of Resident 39's MDS section G, Functional status dated 6/9/22, The MDS indicated, Resident 39 requires one-person physical assist with dressing.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:06 a.m., with Resident 39, Resident 39 stated, They never answer my call light when I turn it on, so I just don't use it. In the morning when I try to get dressed, I get my shirt on halfway then I must go out into the hallway with my shirt half on and try to wave someone down to help me. There are a lot of males around and its embarrassing to be in the hall half naked.
6. Resident 50's record was reviewed. Resident 50 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with a diagnosis that included, Fractured hip, hearing loss, and unsteadiness on feet. The most recent MDS dated [DATE] indicated that Resident 50 was cognitively intact.
During a review of Resident 50's MDS section G Functional status, dated 6/17/22, The MDS indicated, Resident 50 requires one-person physical assist with toileting.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:30 a.m., with Resident 50, Resident 50 stated, I turn my call light on, but they never answer it. It somehow gets turned off and I have too repeatedly push it repeatedly, about 5 or 6 times until someone comes and finally answers it. I need a little help to get up to go to the bathroom and sometimes I don't make it. It is very embarrassing.
Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to provide direct care staff to meet the needs of the residents when call lights were not answered timely. This resulted in dependent residents not to receive the assistance they need for activities of daily living, resident felt their dignity was not honored during care, communication was not provided in their native language, and pain management needs were not met.
Findings:
1. A review of Resident 66's record indicated diagnoses that include low back pain, difficulty walking, and hypertension. Resident 66 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score (a number value between 00-15 with 13-15 cognitively intact, 08-12 moderately impaired, and 00-07 severe impairment) of 15 on 6/24/22 and Section G of the MDS indicated one-to-two-person assistance with most activities and one person assistance for setup for eating and drinking.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 11:20 am, Resident 66 stated it can sometimes be difficult to get help from staff. She stated call bells take a long time to be answered and sometimes this leaves her sitting in her own urine. She stated she now calls the nurses station on her telephone to get someone to at least answer her call light. She stated last night, 8/7/22, she called the nurses station 15 times on her telephone with no answer. She stated a CNA came in and she stated what had happened. The CNA stated to call again, and she would go to desk to see what the issue was. She called and the CNA answered the phone. The CNA informed Resident 66 that the ringer was turned off of the telephone at the nurse's station.
2. A review of Resident 44's record indicated diagnoses that include transient cerebral ischemic attack (a stroke - damage to the brain from interruption in its blood supply), difficulty walking, respiratory failure with hypoxia. Resident 44 had a BIMS score of 15 on 6/9/22 and Part G on the facility Minimum Date Set (MDS) (provides a comprehensive assessment of the resident's functional capabilities. (Section G is specific to Functional Status) of the MDS indicated Resident 44 needed supervision for activities.
During an interview on 08/08/22 at 10:20 am, Resident 44 stated she frequently has pain and will ask for pain medications. Stated it takes a long time to get the medications. She stated the pain will sometimes be much worse because the wait time is so long.
3. A review of Resident 76's record indicated diagnoses that include hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction (blockage in the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder), difficulty walking, heart failure (heart is unable to pump blood to meet the body's need). Resident 76 had a BIMS score of 14 on 7/20/22 and Section G of the MDS indicated one-to-two-person assistance with most activities and one person assistance for setup for eating and drinking.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 10:29 am, resident 76 stated she has poor pain control. She stated that she will ask for pain medication and sometimes it takes up to 2 hours to get the medications. Sometimes it will be time for the next dose before you get the one you are waiting for.
4. A review of Resident 56's record indicated diagnoses that include convulsions (a sudden, violent movement of the body), cognitive communication deficit (an impairment in thought organization, attention, memory, problem solving, and safety awareness), and respiratory failure with hypoxia (failure to provide body with enough oxygen to the body). Resident 56 had a BIMS score of 14 on 6/20/22. Section G on MDS on 6/20/22 indicated Resident 56 needed two people to assist with bed mobility and transfers and one person assistance to setup for eating and drinking.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 3:16 pm, Resident 56 complained of a long wait time to receive pain medication.
9. During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/8/22 at 11:30 am, Resident 74 stated pain medications are late and looked in his journal and gave examples. On 8/1/22 at 9:30 am, CNA showed up at 10 am, then another correct CNA comes at 10:19 am, then he called another CNA at 10:40 am then by 11:50 am, he received his pain medication. On 8/5/22, Resident 74 called CNA at 10:40 am due to reporting pain level was a 7/10 (severe) and by 11:50 am he received his pain medication. Resident 74 stated his pain level right now was a 7/10. Resident 74 stated it makes him feel not happy, frustrated and causes anxiety. Resident 74 stated his pain level after receiving medication is usually a level of 4-5 and was tolerable at that level. Resident 74 stated I'm not the waiting type and stand in the hallway. Resident 74 stated The Hospice nurse was aware. Resident 74 stated Timeliness could be improved; they should hire more people.
10. During an interview on 8/9/22 2:53 pm, CNA Y stated she works with Resident 57 often and Be as gentle as I can. We try to get her out as much as we can because she gets depressed. CNA Y stated, I can tell by the way she talks (wants to talk to son etc) when in pain. CNA Y stated she has to remind nurses often that Resident 57 was due for pain medication. CNA Y stated, nurses get super overwhelmed and get super behind. CNA Y described that Resident 57 grinds her teeth and scratches her arm when in pain, and it gave her skin tears from rubbing too hard. CNA Y stated LN Z and LN AA take 20-30 mins
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0726
(Tag F0726)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 5. During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/18/22, at 9:33 am, Director of Staff Development (DSD) stated an in-serv...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 5. During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/18/22, at 9:33 am, Director of Staff Development (DSD) stated an in-service for Hospice, Death and Dying was provided to each shift on 11/22/21. (Hospice is a special kind of care that focuses on the quality of life for people who are experiencing an advanced, life-liming illness. Hospice care provides compassionate care for people in the last phases of incurable disease so that they may live as fully and comfortably as possible) A review of the record titled: Education Program Lesson Plan, dated 11/22/21, indicated the in-service provided education on: Why plan for hospice, More care, not total care from hospice, Staff working with outside companies to provide resident care, Dying process, and stages of grief. A review of the record titled In-Service Sign In Sheet, dated 11/22/21, indicated five Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA) attended the in-service. DSD confirmed in-services are open for Licensed Nurses (LN) to attend; however, was not required. DSD stated pain was discussed during the in-service and confirmed pain was not listed under course content (bullet point list of education provided).
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/18/22, at 9:33 am, DSD stated on 12/9/21 an in-service for Hospice, Death and Dying was provided to each shift. DSD stated a hospice representative (someone who worked for hospice) provided the in-service to help make aware of the peaceful, comfort aspect of hospice. A review of the record titled: Education Program Lesson Plan, dated 12/9/21, indicated in-service provided education on Dying Process, Stages of Grief, and Respecting Family Wishes. A review of the record titled Continuing Education Sign-In Sheet indicated 13 CNAs attended the in-service along with the Social Services Director (SSD). DSD confirmed in-services are open for Licensed Nurses (LN) to attend; however, was not required. DSD stated pain was discussed during the in-service and confirmed pain was not listed under course content (bullet point list of education provided). A review of the power point (method of teaching, utilizes pictures and words), DSD confirmed that pain was discussed, but the power point was not specific for treating end of life pain.
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/18/22, at 9:33 am, DSD provided two additional in-services titled: Behavioral Management-Aggressive Behavior in Aging Adult, dated 11/11/21 and Change of Condition & Reporting, dated 11/30/21. DSD stated pain was discussed during these two in-services; however, pain was not listed under the course content section. Requested in-services for pain/pain control requested, no in-services were provided.
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/18/22, at 9:33 am, DSD and surveyor reviewed course content for an in-service provided to facility staff on 4/26/22 titled: PRN Medications/Hospice and Pain (PRN means as needed). DSD confirmed the record titled PRN Medications/Hospice/Pain, dated 4/26/22 had extensive bullet points that reviewed non-pharmacological pain interventions (trying alternate methods to relieve pain before providing pain medication) and extensive bullet points that reviewed: hospice patients, communication and assessing. DSD confirmed the section titled PRN MEDS had one sentence, indicating that a PRN medication should be given if non-pharmacological approaches and scheduled pain medication did not work. DSD stated pain management was discussed during the in-service, the education was patient specific and use of Morphine (narcotic to treat moderate to severe pain, usually given to hospice patients for end of life pain management) was reviewed with staff.
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/18/22, at 10:32 am, Minimum Data Set (MDS) stated involvement with the in-service titled: PRN Medications/Hospice and Pain. MDS stated there was only one place for the instructor to sign the form, so MDS signed in the space provided for staff who attended the in-service. MDS stated the agenda is a cue card, and pain was discussed in more detail than the agenda suggested. MDS stated SSD asked MDS to perform the hospice in-service due to concerns about a resident and wanted to make sure everything was in place for the resident. MDS stated barriers for nursing staff who care for hospice residents included nurses not wanting to give that dose that kills a patient. MDS state education is ad-lib, happens continuously, as issues arise, and is not documented. MDS confirmed the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Pain Assessment and Management, revised 3/15, was provided during the in-service and did not address specific hospice pain management.
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/18/22, at 11:43 am, Director of Nurses (DON) stated the DSD provided most of the in-services for LN and DON provided more on-the-spot in-services if there is an issue. DON stated on-the-spot in-services (an informal educational conversation) are not documented. DON stated to assure staff understood the education provided about pain, the DON will check resident Medication Administration Records (MARS) daily to assess if LN are providing pain medication adequately and keeping resident pain under control. DON stated if the residents are not being provided pain medication, DON will follow up with LN and provide additional education. DON stated LN meetings are mandatory and as far as I know they are attending. Inservice sign in sheets reviewed with DON. DON stated unawareness that LN had not been attending in-services. DON stated, pain assessments are nursing basic 101, if you can't manage pain, you shouldn't be a nurse. DON and surveyor reviewed course content for an in-service provided 4/26/22 titled: PRN Medications/Hospice and Pain. DON stated CNA will alert LN when residents are having pain, the LN will assess pain and use their nursing judgement if the pain medication should be given. DON used Resident 281 as an example to clarify nursing judgement. DON stated resident 281 was confused, he was not really in pain, and Resident 281's daughter insisted he get morphine. DON stated the need to provide nursing staff more education to alleviate the fear of causing resident death from administering pain medication. DON stated the in-service was provided to staff on 4/26/22 to educate staff on how to deal with Resident 281's family, what needed to be done to provide care for Resident 281, and the in-service was focused on one resident, not how to care for all hospice residents or how to treat all hospice resident's pain. DON reviewed sign in attendance log and stated the sheet was accurate, looked like 44 signatures. DON was asked why non direct care staff attended (the facility housekeeper, business office manager, admissions, etc). DON stated, they were in the building.
A review of the three-page record titled: In-Service Sign In Sheet, dated 4/26/22, indicated 45 staff members attended the PRN Medications/Hospice and Pain in-service. 14 out of 45 staff members who attended the in-service did not provide direct patient care, 7 Licensed Nurses who provide direct care staff attended, two of those nurses signed the record twice (resulting in 9 Licensed Nurse signatures), 16 Certified Nursing Assistants attended the in-service, and 6 Nurse Assistants (student CNA). 67.44 % (percent) of staff that attended the in-service did not provide direct patient care.
Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to ensure nursing staff had appropriate competencies and skills sets for assessing and implementing plan of care for four of four sampled residents (Resident 281, 58, 74 and 57). Refer to F 697, F 849
This resulted in
1. a Resident 281 was given wrong dosage, wrong pain medication for the wrong pain level. Refer to F 697, F 849.
1. b Resident 281 wasn't provided with Oxygen concentrator on 4/15/22, 4/22/22 and 4/23/22 per physician ordered and hospice plan of care.
2. Resident 58 wasn't given his pain medication per physician order when he asked for it. Resident 58 was upset and had to suffer a longer pain.
3. Resident 74 was given incorrect dose of medication for severe pain, pain medications were administered late, and medications available for anxiety/cough were not given when symptoms present.
4. Resident 57 pain management program was not adjusted when she reported it was ineffective, when her swallowing was declining, and medications were not available for administration.
5. Nursing leadership and Medical Director did not evaluate staff skills levels and provide individualized competency based training to deliver quality of care.
Finding:
1.a. A review of Resident 281's admission record, indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included prostate cancer, brain cancer, spine cancer and palliative care (specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness, such as cancer or heart failure). The resident expired on 5/3/2022.
A review of Resident 281's Minimum Data Set (MDS - an assessment and care screening tool), dated 4/15/2022, indicated Resident 281's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) scored was 0 (severe impairment). Resident 281 was not able to make his own healthcare decision.
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/22/22 at 4:30 pm by HN R, indicated that the resident's pain level was not acceptable to the resident, it showed Resident appeared to be experiencing more pains on his abdomen (the part of the body between the chest and the hips), right upper abdomen, both feet and his back this time. Pain intensity was 5 - medium. PRN (pain medication given as needed) not being given . The note also indicated that a verbal education was provided to LN U about end-of-life sign/symptoms, respiratory distress and use of oxygen and/or morphine to relieve symptoms of distress. HN R discussed the resident's recent falls with LN U.
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/24/22 at 3:30 pm by HN S, indicated that Responsible Party (RP) was present and distressed. The note indicated RP stating patient is not being medicated appropriately. Patient resting quietly. Staff requested PRN opioid frequency to be increased to every two hours. Upon review PRN, opioid already scheduled every two hours as needed. Agency nurse practitioner informed.
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit notes and progress notes indicated that the resident fell on 4/10/22, 4/22/22, 4/25/22 and 4/29/22.
A review of Resident 281's physician pain medication orders and Medication admission Records (MARS) from 4/8/22 to 5/3/22, indicated:
1. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/10/22 at 4:47 am.
2. The resident was given Lorazepam (ordered for anxiety) when his pain level was 8 on 4/10/22 at 3:27 pm.
3. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/17/22 at 5:31 pm.
4. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/19/22 at 12:01
pm and 4:28 pm.
5. The resident was not given prn pain medication when his pain level was assessed on 4/25/22 and 4/28/22.
6. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/25/22 at 12:10 am.
7. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/25/22 at 1:08 pm.
8. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/26/22 at 10:39 am .
9. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/27/22 at 1:49 pm.
10. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/28/22 at 9:29 am.
11. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/29/22 at 8:54 am.
12. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/30/22 at 5:37 pm.
1.b. A review of Resident 281's Hospice initial admission assessment record, dated, 3/31/22, indicated that Resident 281 was dyspneic (difficult, painful breathing or shortness of breath) or noticeably Short of Breath with minimal exertion (e.g. while eating, talking, or performing other ADLs (activities of daily living) ) or with agitation.
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated 4/11/22 - 5/3/22, indicated Oxygen (O2) - @ 2-5 Liters/Min via nasal cannula (a device used to deliver supplemental oxygen or increased airflow to a patient or person in need of respiratory help). Goal to maintain Oxygen saturation (Sats) above 90%. Monitor O2 Sats every shift, NOC (night shift), AM (morning, day shift), PM (afternoon shift). (Oxygen saturation is the measure of how much oxygen is traveling through the body. Normal oxygen saturation for healthy adults is usually between 95% and 100%. Low oxygen level, also called hypoxemia (is low levels of oxygen in your blood. It causes symptoms like headache, difficulty breathing, anxiety, rapid heart rate and bluish skin) is considered a reading between 90% and 92%.)
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/15/22 at 7:20 pm by HN R, indicated that the resident's O2 Sats level was down to 88 % due to no concentrator. The note showed Patient is pale with pallor (an unhealthy pale appearance). Skin is cool and dry. There was not an oxygen concentrator (a type of medical device used for delivering oxygen to a patient with breathing issues) in patient's room. This nurse notified the Charge nurse about the patient's oxygen Sats level, and she said she couldn't get a concentrator, and she would let patient's assigned nurse know when she came back from lunch After visiting all of my patients, circled back to speak with patient's assigned nurse and she had not been notified about patient's oxygen Sats level. HN R indicated on her note that a verbal instruction to charge nurse and assigned nurse regarding shortness of breath, O2 Sats parameters and when to apply O2 .
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/22/22 at 4:30 pm by HN R, indicated that the resident's O2 Sats level was 86% and there was no O2 concentrator in his room. The note showed skin was dry and cool with pallor .Spoke with his assigned nurse and requested that she obtain the oxygen concentrator and placed patient on 2 Liter via nasal cannula . HN R indicated on her note that a verbal instruction to assigned nurse about End-Of-Life signs and symptoms. Respiratory distress and use of Oxygen and /or Morphine to relieve symptoms of distress.
A review of Resident 2281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4//23/22 at 11:15 am by HN R, indicated that the resident's O2 Sats level was 85 % and he was wearing a NC (nasal cannula) that was attached to an empty back-up cylinder (an oxygen tank that containing oxygen under pressure. It often was used for transporting patients or was provided when there was a power outage or problems with the O2 concentrator). HN R indicated on her note that a verbal instruction to assigned nurse regarding importance of making sure patient has an oxygen concentrator, as opposed to a back-up tank which is unsafe . The note also indicated that the need for comfort care for the resident, the staff needed to minimize adverse effects of .dyspnea, and to relieve the symptoms of dyspnea, O2 Sats level needed to be maintained greater than 88%.
During an interview with HN R on 8/4/22 at 8:21 am, stated I remembered that I told the nurse just take me to where I can get the concentrator for him. At that point, the nurse did know where to find the concentrator. HN R stated my expectation was if they noticed that he needed oxygen, they should have it done! I was told, well sometimes, the CNA(Certified Nursing Assistant) came in, they put the person on Oxygen and they did not check. I told them, You guys are responsible to check and see whether the CNAs know there's Oxygen running to the patients.
2. A review of Resident 58's admission record, indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included amputation of left leg below knee, kidney problem, stroke and palliative care (specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness, such as cancer or heart failure).
A review of Resident 58's MDS, dated [DATE], indicated Resident 58's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) scored was 15 (intact cognitive response). He was not able to make his own healthcare decision.
A review of Resident 58's physician order and MARS from 4/2022 and 7/2022, indicated that he had prn (as needed) Morphine concentrate orders for pain medication every hour and he was only given one time for his prn pain medication for the entire months of April and July in 2022. 3. A review of Resident 74's record indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses which included heart failure, lung disease, and palliative hospice (end of life) care. Resident 74 was able to make his own health care decisions.
A review of physician order dated 4/13/22, Morphine Sulfate Continuous release (MS Contin- a strong, long-acting narcotic pain medication) 15 milligrams (mg) every 12 hours for chronic pain. Morphine concentrate (liquid) 100 mg/5 milliliter (ml), administer 0.25 ml every 2 hours for mild pain (1-3 on pain scale), 0.5 ml orally every 2 hours for moderate pain (pain scale 4-6) and 1 ml every 2 hours for severe pain (pain scale number 7-10).
A review of the MAR History dated 4/1-4/30/22, indicated Morphine Concentrate 0.5 ml for moderate pain levels 4-6 was administered 16 opportunities when Resident 74 reported severe pain levels at 7-8 out of ten. On 4/19/22 late administration was documented for the as needed dose. On 4/28/22 at 1:06 am, the post pain assessment for Resident 74 was reported at a level 6 moderate pain, all the other 15 post pain assessment (one hour post pain medication administration) indicated a 0 or no pain.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 7/16/22, indicated Resident 74 reported having some pain, it's usually my ribs and my back but lately my hips and my shoulder. I have been having little spells of shortness of breath but that's now how I felt when I went into the hospital. I felt like I was suffocating/drowning. HN R reminded Resident 74 that the morphine liquid (pain) and Lorazepam (anxiety) can be taken together to when needed to alleviate the feelings of shortness of breath/suffocation. Resident 74 told HN R that sometimes more often than not, he has trouble getting his pain medication. He will request it, then he is told they are at lunch.
During an interview on 7/28/2022 at 12:41 pm, SSD stated she did not know Resident 74 had issues about his pain medication. SSD stated Registry (contract) nursing staff have some issues, because they aren't familiar with the residents.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 7/30/22, indicated, upon entering Resident 74's room, he slammed the door, as HN R was entering the room. He was very agitated, when asked if everything was OK, he stated nothing is OK! Life is not OK! I guess I just have to deal with this! Resident 74 stated he was having severe pain, 7 out of 10, and wanted his morphine. HN R asked Resident 74 if he had taken any Lorazepam for his anxiety, he stated I did not know that I had any available. HN R spoke with LN L about the orders for Lorazepam. LN L could not find the as needed order for Lorazepam in the system, only the routine. HN R pulled up the original hospice admission orders and then LN L was able to add this, as needed Lorazepam, to the medication administration system and was able to give it to the agitated resident.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 8/4/22, indicated Resident 74 was not receiving pain medications, making pain worse, and reported pain level at 7, a severe level. The pain level was not acceptable to resident. HN R documented that Resident 74's needs were not being met. Resident 74 stated He is not feeling as angry as last time, but would like to know Why I cannot get my pain medication and the one you said I can have for anxiety. Resident 74 informed HN R that he requested the cough medicine and was told it was not ordered. HN R went to speak with LN L about the orders for cough medicine and anxiety. LN L informed HN R that the order for the cough medicine had an end dated for 3 days and the Lorazepam as needed order was no longer in the system, although HN R had reviewed this on 7/30/22 and had LN L correct the orders in the system. LN L explained she tried to add the orders back, for cough medication and Lorazepam, but her tablet battery went dead.
During an interview on 8/4/22 at 8:21 am, HN R explained that she texted the SSD at the facility and reported that Resident 74 had multiple complaints about not getting his pain medication and had other issues about pain medications. HN R stated she explained to Resident 74 I want you to talk to the social worker and Director of Nursing. Resident 74 told HN R that happened a lot, that the nurse did not know his medications. HN R stated this made Resident 74 really angry. He said he wasn't getting his medication. I told him that I would talk to his nurse. About the as needed Lorazepam. We checked the order, it was there. It was in the system. Wherever she was showing me. It was not there. But I have access to their system, I can check on my end, I have done the reconciliation, it was there. I pulled the order that I faxed to the facility, it was there. I just did the reconciliation.
A review of Resident 74's physician orders dated 4/11/22 open ended, indicated Lorazepam (antianxiety) 0.5 mg tablet every eight hours for anxiety as exhibited by (AEB) terminal agitation.
A review of the MARs for July 2022, indicated Resident 74 was given Lorazepam late on 16 opportunities. The MAR had monitoring for Resident 74 related to Lorazepam for anxiety related to terminal agitation, the number of episodes charted were 0 for the entire month.
A review of the Resident 74's physician order dated 4/11/22 open ended, indicated Resident 74 could have Lorazepam 0.5 mg one tablet every four hours as needed for anxiety.
A review of the MAR for August 2022 indicated Resident 74 received one dose of as needed Lorazepam on 8/5/2022 at 1:35 am.
A review of Resident 74's physician orders dated 8/1/22 with an end date of 8/3/22, indicated he received one dose of Robitussin (cough chest congestion) 5 ml as needed four times a day for cough/chest congestion on 8/3/22 at 3:40 pm.
4. A review of Resident 57's record indicated she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included chronic pain syndrome, lung disease, aftereffects of stroke and was on palliative hospice care (end of life).
A review of the physician order report dated 6/1-8/10/22, indicated an order for morphine tablet extended release 7.5 mg oral for moderate to severe pain (4-10) hold for sedation and respiratory rate less than 12 (low) every eight hours, nothing to indicated to not crush the medication. There were no pain medications in liquid form indicated on the physician orders.
A review of Lexicomp, an online drug reference guide indicated, morphine extended-release formulations are to be swallowed whole, chewing, crushing, or dissolving any of these extended-release preparations (including capsule beads or pellets) could result in rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of morphine.
A review of Resident 57's nursing progress notes indicated:
On 7/14/22, IDT note reviewed resident weight loss. No medication reviews. A goal of resident was needs for comfort.
On 7/28/22 at 11:29 am, resident complained of pain ten out of 10 (worst pain), routine medication 15 mg given, ineffective, offered as needed morphine 7.5 mg, resident refused stated 7.5 mg does not help me, I need my 15 mg morphine.
On 7/28/22 at 10:30 pm, resident having difficulty swallowing big pills and notified Hospice. A new physician order to crush medications related to difficulty swallowing.
On 7/31/22, LN noted resident was annoyed because her routine pain medication was held earlier today, held due to respiration and heart rate low, and she was hallucinating.
On 8/2/22, LN noted resident refusing to be changed during shift and repositioned in bed, stated I feel too much pain to move.
On 8/5/22, resident assessed by Hospice and LN, her breathing slow, oxygen given, improved, hard to arouse, and morning medication held due to condition. New orders were for diet only. No medication order changes to liquid form.
On 8/9/22, LN noted resident having difficulties swallowing medication, no medication changes for a liquid morphine.
A review of a Hospice plan of care review dated 8/10/22, indicated Resident 57's pain management was scheduled morphine extended release 15 mg six hours and Morphine 7.5 mg as needed every eight hours for breakthrough pain. Resident 74 put on schedule Methadone (pain medication) 5 mg daily for severe pain in July 2022. Resident 74 had a hard time swallowing whole medication and food, in July 2022 medication orders were to crush medications.
During an interview on 8/09/22 2:53 pm, CNA Y stated she works with Resident 57 often and Be as gentle as I can. We try to get her out as much as we can because she gets depressed. CNA Y stated, I can tell by the way she talks (wants to talk to son etc.) when in pain. CNA Y stated she has to remind nurses often that Resident 57 was due for pain medication. CNA Y stated, nurses get super overwhelmed and get super behind. CNA Y described that Resident 57 grinds her teeth and scratches her arm when in pain, and it gave her skin tears from rubbing too hard. CNA stated LN Z and LN AA take 20-30 mins to get pain medications to Resident 57. CNA Y stated Resident 57's pain affects her sleep and caused depression. CNA Y stated Resident 57 was always on her call light if she was in pain. CNA Y stated one day Resident 57 was acting strange, she told the nurse, the nurse said, well she just received medications. CNA Y had not participated in an IDT meeting related to Resident 57's pain and hospice care needs.
During an interview on 8/9/22 at 3:17 pm, LN AA explained there were many medication changes for Resident 57 and she was still in pain, mainly in her back, but all over. LN AA stated as needed morphine did not help. LN AA stated Resident 57 wanted a stronger pain medication, she believed Percocet was better just started on methadone and morphine, but it is more of a short-term relief. LN AA stated Resident 57 said 7.5 mg of morphine was not working. LN AA stated DON was aware of any changes with Resident 57. LN AA was asked if medications were given timely and stated, if taking care of one resident and this one asks for pain medications, may have to wait, we do our best to be timely with pain medications.
During an observation on 8/10/22 at 3 pm, Resident 57 was observed sleeping in bed, laying at an angle. Resident 57 was observed to be moaning (sign of pain) while asleep, this continued for a minute, and she continued to appear more uncomfortable.
During an interview on 8/11/22 at 10:15 am, DON confirmed he was responsible for the hospice clinical nursing coordination, recently added a Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) issue for late medication administration issues, had difficulty reaching some of the hospice nurses, they currently have 3 different contracts. DON confirmed when asked about the multiple entries on post pain medication assessments being a 0 for residents, he stated that was his error in instructing staff nurses to just put a 0 (no pain) when pain was under control after pain medication administration, not the actual pain level they report, to the nurse. Asked DON how does Nursing staff, Hospice nursing, and IDT evaluate the effectiveness of the pain medication if all entries are 0? DON stated there would be no way to know, the hospice medications are entered into the MAR as routine even though they are as needed and do not require a post assessment. DON stated his expectation would be a nursing progress note denoting post pain assessments. DON confirmed a problem with residents' getting pain medications timely (CNAs tell the nurse and it takes too long), he stated registry nurses and new nursing staff were hesitant to give too much narcotic medication (morphine) due to fear of overmedicating them and was not aware residents were receiving a lower incorrect dose for severe pain levels. DON stated no recent IDT team meetings have been held to discuss the varied issues of residents surrounding coordinating hospice care. DON stated Hospice was responsible for educating nurses. DON stated the changes in MD 1 who left June 2022, MD 2 picked up recently. DON stated Resident 57 was complicated and sometimes did not want to take some of her pain medications or changed her mind about her regimen. DON stated Resident 57 will go back and forth on what medications she wants. Resident 57 only wanted the liquid form of morphine or only Percocet, etc. DON just recently became aware that Resident 57 had trouble swallowing, so now Resident 57 will proceed to liquid medications.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 9:30 am, ADMIN explained the issues around implementing the hospice program at the facility, he stated accessibility to a medical director/physician coverage, new DON, the previous DON not effective, consistent IDT meetings, and communication amongst the facility nursing staff and hospice staff. ADMIN was aware back in April 2022, about the hospice management and pain issues for Resident 281, SSD informed him of the daughter's concerns, they did an in-service just surrounding this particular resident, it mainly focused on non-pharmacy interventions, not the pain medication administration and assessment, wrong medication issues, they did not address the entire program. ADMIN brought and met with hospice agencies to correct communication issues. Hospice coordination was not in QAPI. The last education provided by hospice was 12/2021, no education was provided to registry staff.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 10:45 am, SSD was asked about the issues with hospice care coordination and setting goals. SSD stated it was hard to coordinate hospice care when there was no consistent staff, issues with communication and competencies. SSD stated new nursing staff, short direct care staffing, registry staff, SSD informed the ADMIN of the family issue with Resident 281. SSD was listed as the instructor of the education about pain management, inquired if she was qualified to present, she indicated that the MDS nurse was present, not DON or DSD.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 12:20 pm, Medical Director (MD 2) stated the Hospice program was responsible for educating staff, inquired if he or DON could educate, yes of course, and agreed ultimately implementing the plan of care was the responsibility of the facility staff. MD 2 stated The nursing staff, and the Interdisciplinary care team should have provided me with a change of condition or issues surrounding pain or other symptom management.
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 observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to ensure:
1. Accurate accountability and disposition of the medications awaiting final disposition (means destroying the unused ...
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Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to ensure:
1. Accurate accountability and disposition of the medications awaiting final disposition (means destroying the unused medications to render it ineffective and prevent abuse or diversion) in the facility with a census of 76,
2. The facility's Consultant Pharmacist (CP) documented medication refrigerator temperatures were checked and logged for three out of three months (April, May, and June) when the facility temperature logs had missing data.
3. Routine medications (medications given daily) were not available for use for three out of four residents.
These failed practices could contribute to unsafe medication use and prevention of drug diversion in the facility which could lead to negative outcomes.
Findings:
1. During a concurrent interview, observation and review on 8/9/22, 2:30 pm, of the facility's medication destruction binder, accompanied by the Director of Nurses (DON), narcotic sheets (documentation with name of narcotic, resident name, instructions for use, and the total number of individual pills remaining) were provided for review. DON stated narcotic sheets were the official destruction record, signed and dated by both DON and CP when a narcotic is destroyed. Three out of seven narcotic sheets were missing one out of two required signatures. The receptacle containing narcotics awaiting final disposition had eight or more loose narcotic pills on the top that were available for use. No free-flowing liquid was observed on are around the loose narcotics. DON confirmed the findings.
During a concurrent observation and interview at the nurse's station on 8/10/22, at 10:46 am, a review of the binder that contained more than 100 consolidated delivery sheets (CDS, an itemized list of medication being delivered to the facility for resident use, including narcotics) was not signed or dated by a Licensed Nurse (LN) accepting the delivery. LN C stated there were two CDS sheets provided during medication delivery. One CDS would be signed by staff and returned to the facility's pharmacy and the facility's copy of the CDS was placed in the binder at the nurse's station. LN C stated if there was a discrepancy and we need to know who accepted the medication, someone can call the pharmacy and request a copy of the signed document.
During a concurrent record review and interview on 8/10/22, at 10:49 am, DON stated expectations were for staff to sign both CDS. DON confirmed missing signatures, dates, and lack of accountability for receiving all medication including narcotics.
A review of the facility's policies and procedures (P&P) titled Discarding and Destroying Medications, revised 10/2014, indicated The receiving pharmacist and a Registered Nurse employed by the facility sign a separate log . and the medication disposition will contain the following information .reason for disposition and signature of witness.
2. During a concurrent observation, interview and record review in the facility's locked medication supply room, on 8/9/22, at 10:29 am, LN E confirmed the medication refrigerator log was missing temperature entries for: 3/26/22, 3/27/22,4/2/22, 4/3/22, 4/16/22, 4/17/22, 4/23/22, 4/24/22, 5/1/22, 5/20/22-5/22/22, 7/25/22, and 7/26/22. DON arrived at medication storage room and confirmed missing temperature entries. DON stated the expectation was that the night shift nurses monitored and entered the refrigerator temperatures onto the log nightly.
A review of the records titled Consulting Services Provided this Month, completed by the facility's CP, dated 4/22, 5/22, and 6/22, indicated the medication refrigeration log was reviewed and temperatures were logged.
A review of the facility's policies and procedures (P&P) titled: Storage of Medications, revised 11/17, indicated Drugs shall be stored in appropriate temperatures and Drugs requiring refrigeration shall be stored in a refrigerator between 36 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and 46 degrees F.
3a. During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/10/22, at 8:14 am, LN H was being trained by LN F during the facility's morning medication administration round. LN H was not able to find Resident 16's morning dose of Keppra (seizure medication) in the medication cart. LN H stated this was not the first time the facility was out of Keppra. LN F and LN H confirmed Resident 16 did not receive the morning dose of Keppra. LN F stated sometimes the pharmacy does not send medication when requested.
A review of the Medication Administration History indicated two orders for Keppra: Keppra 1,000 milligrams (mg, unit of measure), 1 tablet, once a day, staring 9/17/21 and Keppra 500 mg, one tablet, at bedtime, starting 5/14/22.
A review of a Pharmacy's record titled Refill Order Form indicated the facility requested a refill for Keppra 1,000 mg on 12/20/21 for Resident 16. A note from the pharmacist, faxed back to the facility, indicated it was too soon to order Keppra 1,000mg.
A review of Pharmacy's record titled Refill Order Form dated 5/5/22 indicated the pharmacy faxed the facility seeking clarification for Resident 16's Keppra doses.
During a concurrent record review and interview on 8/10/22, at 1:45 pm, Pharmacist (PHAR) consultant from the facility's pharmacy, stated the facility requested Keppra 1,000mg on 8/10/22, PHAR stated the last request for Keppra 1,000mg was made on 12/21/21. PHAR stated due to the facility not requesting Keppra 1,000 mg for a period of time, the pharmacy sent the facility a request to clarify Resident 16's Keppra order. PHAR stated the facility replied with an order for Keppra 500mg to be administered at bedtime. This led PHAR to believe the Keppra 1,000 mg order had been discontinued. PHAR stated that the facility will often request Keppra 500mg early and could see a trend that the medication had been ordered earlier and earlier over the last several months. PHAR stated, if Resident 16's Keppra 500mg dose was being used for the 1,000mg dose, the nurse would need to administer two every morning and one at bedtime to receive the ordered doses. PHAR stated that would explain why the facility was running out of Keppra 500mg so early. PHAR stated there should be two blister packs (package medication is in), one blister pack with Keppra 1,000mg to be administered in the morning and one blister pack for Keppra 500 mg to be administered at bedtime. PHAR stated a one-month supply is sent to the facility at a time.
During a concurrent record review and interview on 8/11/22, at 11:46 am, DON confirmed both Keppra orders and doses for Resident 16 and stated the blister pack label should match the physician's order. DON unaware that staff had been using Keppra 500mg tablets and not ordering Keppra 1,000mg dose from the facility's pharmacy. DON confirmed facility inability to provide Resident 16 with ordered Keppra on 8/10/22 could be a result of not having both ordered doses on hand.
3b. During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/10/22, at 8:48 am, LN H was being trained by LN F during the facility's morning medication administration round. LN H was not able to find Resident 19's Eliquis (blood thinner) and megestrol (appetite stimulant). The blister pack for Resident 19's Eliquis and megestrol was missing. LN F stated, when the sticker is missing, it means the medication has been requested. LN F stated having a difficult time administering medications due to the pharmacy not sending medication when requested.
A review of the facility's record titled Refill Order Form indicated Eliquis for Resident 19 was requested on 7/30/20.
A review of Pharmacy's CDS indicated a 14-day supply of Eliquis had been delivered to the facility for Resident 19 on 7/31/22.
A review of Pharmacy's CDS indicated a 14-day supply of Eliquis had been delivered to the facility for Resident 19 on 8/10/22.
A review of Pharmacy's Refill Order Form indicated megestrol for Resident 19 was requested on 7/17/22.
A review of Pharmacy's CDS indicated a 10-day supply of megestrol had been delivered to the facility for Resident 19 on 7/18/22.
A review of Pharmacy's CDS indicated a 10-day supply of megestrol had been delivered to the facility for Resident 19 on 8/10/22.
During an interview on 8/10/22, at 10:49 am, DON stated medications were not always being provided to the facility on time. DON stated a known issue with missing medications was the medication might have been ordered from the facility's pharmacy too early. DON stated if a nurse ordered the medication and it was too early to fill the prescription, the pharmacy would notify the facility when the medication can be ordered. The DON stated, then it falls off and the medication never shows up.
A review of Resident 56's record indicated diagnoses that include convulsions (a sudden, violent movement of the body), cognitive communication deficit (an impairment in thought organization, attention, memory, problem solving, and safety awareness), and respiratory failure with hypoxia (failure to provide body with enough oxygen to the body). Resident 56 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score (a number value between 00-15 with 13-15 cognitively intact, 08-12 moderately impaired, and 00-07 severe impairment) of 14 on 6/20/22. Section G on the facility Minimum Date Set (MDS) (provides a comprehensive assessment of the resident's functional capabilities. Section G is specific to Functional Status) on 6/20/22 indicated Resident 56 needed two people to assist with bed mobility and transfers and one person assistance to setup for eating and drinking.
During a record review of Resident 56's Medication Administration Record (MAR), it was noted that Resident 56 was taking Renvela every day with meals (three times per day). The medication was due to be given at 9 am, 1 pm and 5 pm with food. Renvela is given to control phosphorus levels in the blood in adults/children who were on dialysis. It was noted that the 1 pm doses were not being given on dialysis days. On further review, from 6/1/22 through 8/10/22, the resident was not given 30 doses in a 71-day period.
During an observation and interview on 8/10/22 at 9:45 am, Licensed Nurse (LN) H was medicating residents with their morning medications with LN F orienting her. Resident 56 was waiting for her medications while sitting in her wheelchair. Transportation was waiting to take Resident 56 to dialysis. LN F stated that the Renvela was not currently available. LN F agreed that the MAR indicated that 1 pm dose has not been being given on dialysis days and that the order does state that resident can self-administer and that today resident will not receive 9 am or 1 pm dose as medication is not available.
During an interview on 8/10/22 at 12:15 pm, LN C agreed he cared for Resident 56 on 8/8/22. He agreed he did not send 1 pm dose with Resident 56 to dialysis as she does not bring food and it is to be given with food. He stated that the prior Medical Doctor (MD) was aware that 1 pm doses were not being given, but he doesn't know if current MD has been informed.
During an interview on 8/10/22 at 2:30 pm with LN's F and H, LN F stated that Resident 56 was given her 9 am dose of Renvela before she left for dialysis. LN H indicated how medication was in an overflow drawer on the medication cart that she did not look in originally. LN F stated they did not give the 1 pm dose to the resident to take with her.
During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 8/10/22 at 2:40 pm, DON agreed that the 1 pm dose is being charted as not being administered because the staff sends the medication to dialysis in a Ziplock bag. DON stated that nursing does not chart that they gave it, as the resident gives it to herself. Asked if she is sent with food to dialysis, and DON stated that dialysis gives her food to take with the medication.
During a telephone interview on 8/10/22 at 3:03 pm, Dialysis Staff (DS) stated that Resident 56 does not take medication while at dialysis. DS stated that clients are not allowed to eat or drink at dialysis and haven't been allowed to that she is aware of since at least October 2021. She stated clients are not supplied food and that some medications can be given by staff with a MD order but stated that Renvela is not one of them. She stated that she has never seen Resident 56 attempt to take a medication while she is receiving dialysis.
During a telephone interview on 8/10/22 at 4:15 pm, MD stated he was not aware that Resident 56 was not receiving her 1 pm dose of Renvela on dialysis days.
A review of the facility policy titled, Administering Medications with a revision date of 3/22/2018, read, Medications must be administered in accordance with the orders, including any required time frame.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Unnecessary Medications
(Tag F0759)
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 had a 17.24 % (percent) medication error rate, when five medicat...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility had a 17.24 % (percent) medication error rate, when five medication errors out of 29 opportunities were observed during medication pass for two out of three residents (Resident 16 and Resident 19).
These failures resulted in four medications not given and one medication administered at an incorrect dose, which did not follow physician orders. This had the potential for residents to have a decrease of therapeutic medication effects (symptoms the medication is treating), a decline in health status, and negative psychosocial outcomes.
Findings:
During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/10/22, at 8:14 am, Licensed Nurse (LN) F was orientating LN H on medication cart #3 (a locked cart on wheels, resident medications were stored in). LN H was not able to locate the blister pack (medication storage device) for Keppra (seizure medication). LN H stated, this is not the first time we were out of Keppra. LN H stated, if a surveyor was not watching the medication pass, LN H would borrow the medication from another resident. LN H and LN F confirmed Resident 16 received all morning medications except for the 9:00 am dose of Keppra.
A review of Resident 16's record indicated admission to the facility on [DATE] with the diagnoses of hypertension (high blood pressure) and epilepsy, unspecified, not intractable, without status epilepticus (seizures). Resident 16's son was listed as the responsible party (person who makes medical decisions).
A review of the record titled Prescription Order, dated 9/17/21, indicated the physician wrote an order for Keppra 1,000 milligrams (mg, unit of measure) to be given once a day, at 9:00 am for seizure disorder.
During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/10/22, at 8:48 am, LN F was orientating LN H on medication cart #3. LN H was preparing morning medications for Resident 19. During the medication preparation, LN H was not able to find the morning dose of Eliquis (blood thinner to prevent blood clots) and megestrol (appetite stimulation). LN H counted each medication provided to Resident 19 prior to administration. There were 11 pills, two liquid medications and one topical pain patch. Each medication prepared for Resident 19 was photographed using the surveyors State iPhone. Both LN F and LN H confirmed Resident 19 did not receive Eliquis and megestrol during the morning medication pass.
A review of Resident 19's record titled Medication Administration History (MAR), dated 8/10/22, Indicated Resident 19 had an order for Eliquis 5 milligrams (unit of measure), one tablet every 12 hours for clot prevention. The MAR indicated the medication was given at 9:00 am.
A review of Resident 19's MAR, dated 8/10/22, indicated Florajen Acidophilus (supplement), 20 billion cell, one capsule to be given once a day. The MAR indicated the medication had been provided to Resident 19.
A review of the photographs taken 8/10/22, at 8:48 am, during LN H's medication pass, indicated Florajen Acidophilus was not administered to Resident 19. A review of the MAR, dated 8/10/22, at 9:00 am, indicated Florajen Acidophilus was not administered because the medication was not available.
A review of Resident 19's MAR, dated 8/10/22, indicated megestrol suspension 400 mg/10 milliliters (ml, unit of measure), (40 mg/ml) give 200 mg, once a day was not administered: drug unavailable.
A review of Resident 19's MAR, dated 8/10/22, indicated Prozac (medication to treat depression/sadness) 60 mg, one tablet, was to be given once a day. A review of the instructions located on the blister pack (device that contains medication with the medication order and instructions) containing Prozac, indicated fluoxetine HCL (generic name for Prozac) 20 mg caps, take three (3) capsules (60 mg) daily. A review of the photograph containing all medications administered to Resident 19, showed one capsule of Prozac, not three, per the label's instructions. Resident 19 received 20 mg of Prozac, not the ordered 60 mg.
During a concurrent interview and record review, on 8/10/22, at 10:49 am, Director of Nurses (DON) stated missing meds happen. DON stated the expectation is for the nurses to tell the DON when medications are missing or not ordered. DON reviewed photographs taken of medications prepared and administered for Resident 19 and confirmed Prozac was not administered at the correct dose, and Florajen Acidophilus was not provided to Resident 19. DON confirmed LN F informed him of missing medications for Resident 16 and Resident 19. DON stated the pharmacy had been called and all missing medications would be administered to Residents 16 and 19 when the pharmacy delivers them. DON stated the physician had been notified and a one-time order had been placed, allowing staff to administer the medications late. DON was not able to provide documentation for medication administration in-services. DON stated expectation is for nursing to compare the medication label on the blister pack to the order in the computer. DON confirmed the order in the computer should match the label on the medication's blister pack.
During an interview on 8/11/22, at 10:40 am, Quality Assurance Nurse (QAN, nurse who works for facility's pharmacy, can observe medication pass and provide unbiased insight on deficient practices), stated the facility had not requested QAN services in over a year.
A review of the document titled: Consulting Services Provided this Month, dated 4/22, 5/22, and 6/22, indicated the facility's Consultant Pharmacist (CP) recommended the facility utilize the QAN for a more thorough review and in-depth medication pass audit.
During an interview on 8/11/22, at 11:46 pm, DON confirmed knowledge of access to pharmacy's QAN and not utilizing QAN services.
A review of the facility's policies and procedures (P&P) titled Medication Administration, revised 3/22/18, the P&P indicated when staff administered medications, The individual administering the medication must check the label to verify the right medication, right dose, right time, right method .before giving the medication. The P&P indicated Medications ordered for a particular resident may not be administered to another resident.
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 observations, interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to provide safe storage and labeling of medications and medical supplies when:
1a. the refrigerator and room temperatures wer...
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Based on observations, interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to provide safe storage and labeling of medications and medical supplies when:
1a. the refrigerator and room temperatures were not consistently monitored in one out of one medication storage rooms.
1b. an unlabeled medication with wet, deteriorated packaging located in medication refrigerator was available for use.
2a. expired medication stored in one out of four medication carts (a locked cabinet on wheels where resident medication is stored).
2b. one out of four medication carts where medication was stored contained loose debris and was dirty.
2c. Expired and unlabeled medication were stored in one out of one treatment cart.
These failures had the potential for unsafe medication use, and the use of medical supplies which would no longer be effective, which could lead to negative clinical outcomes.
Findings:
1a. During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/9/22, at 10:29 am, Director of Nurses (DON) and Licensed Nurse H (LN) confirmed medication refrigerator temperature logs were missing temperature entries on: 3/26/22, 3/27/22,4/2/22, 4/3/22, 4/16/22, 4/17/22, 4/23/22, 4/24/22, 5/1/22, 5/20/22-5/22/22, 7/25/22, and 7/26/22. DON stated the expectation was that LN working the night shift monitored and entered refrigerator temperatures onto the temperature log nightly.
A review of the facility's policies and procedures (P&P) titled: Storage of Medications, revised 11/17, indicated Drugs shall be stored in appropriate temperatures and Drugs requiring refrigeration shall be stored in a refrigerator between 36 degrees F and 46 degrees F.
1b During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/9/22 at 10:29 am, DON and LN H confirmed a metal box with liquid Lorazepam (medication used to treat anxiety and restlessness) was missing the resident's name on the medication packaging, the packaging was wet and deteriorated. There was ice and liquid inside the metal storage box the Lorazepam was stored in. The DON confirmed findings and stated the Lorazepam package should not look like that and instructed LN H to call the pharmacy and reorder the medication. DON placed the metal lock box back into the medication refrigerator after removing the ice, leaving the liquid inside the metal box.
A review of the facility's P&P titled Medication Labels, dated 3/18, the P&P indicated the labels are permanently affixed to the outside of the prescription container and Medication containers having soiled, incomplete, illegible .labels are returned to the dispensing pharmacy for re-labeling or destroyed in accordance with the medication destruction policy.
A review of the facility's P&P titled Storage of Medication, revised 11/17, the P&P indicated The nursing staff shall be responsible for maintaining storage .areas in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner.
2a During a concurrent interview and observation of Unit Three's medication cart (locked cart on wheels containing resident medication) on 8/9/22, at 2:51 pm, LN J confirmed a bottle of Prostate Formula (men's health, supplement) had been expired. LN J stated the medication belonged to a resident who had recently been discharged and someone forgot to give the medication back to the resident. LN J stated it was every nurse's responsibility to maintain the medication carts and remove expired medications.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:13 pm, DON stated the expectation was for nursing to inspect the medication carts weekly. DON stated the medication carts had been inspected by himself, this week, and DON checked medication carts routinely every other week. DON confirmed the expired medication should have been removed and not available for use.
A review of the facility's P&P titled Storage of Medication, revised 11/17, the P&P indicated The facility shall not use discontinued, outdated, or deteriorated drugs or biological's and All such drugs shall be returned to the dispensing pharmacy or destroyed as soon as possible.
2b. During a concurrent interview and observation of Unit Three's medication cart on 8/9/22, at 2:51 pm, LN J confirmed 2 of the drawers that medications were stored in had loose debris, dirty, and had loose medication. LN J stated it was every nurse's responsibility to maintain the medication carts and keep them cleaned. LN J confirmed the medication cart should be clean, free of debris and not contain loose pills.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:13 pm, DON stated the expectation was for nursing to inspect the medication carts weekly. DON stated the medication carts had been inspected by himself, this week, and DON checked medication carts routinely every other week. DON confirmed the medication cart should be clean, free of debris and not contain loose pills
A review of the facility's P&P titled Storage of Medication, revised 11/17, the P&P indicated The nursing staff shall be responsible for maintaining storage .areas in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner.
2.c During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/9/2022, at 2:33 pm, of the facility's treatment cart (a locked cart that contains wound care supplies and medication), LN K confirmed an open bottle of saline (used to clean wounds) had been dated 8/4. LN K was not able to state how long the saline was able to be used once opened. LN K confirmed two open bottles of acetic acid (used to clean wounds) had been missing pharmacy labels due to the labels being removed. LN K stated the resident no longer used the medication and the acetic acid was being saved incase another resident needed it. LN K confirmed 20 dressings, with the brand name Gentell, Hydrogel Saturated Gauze (used in wound care) had expired 7/2022. LN K confirmed one package with the brand name Gentell, Hydrogel Saturated Gauze had expired 12/2020, and was available for use. LN K stated all staff, including the treatment nurse was responsible for the monitoring of expired medication and supplies in the treatment cart.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 3:13 pm, DON stated the expectation for LN was to inspect the treatment cart weekly. DON confirmed that open saline found in treatment cart was no longer available for use. DON stated once saline had been opened, it needed to be dated and discarded 24 hours after it was opened. DON confirmed resident labels on acetic acid should not have been removed, stating the medication was to be used on the resident it was ordered for and cannot be used for another resident. DON confirmed the expired Hydrogel dressings should have been removed from the treatment cart and not available for use.
A review of the facility's P&P titled Storage of Medication, revised 11/2017, the P&P indicated The nursing staff shall be responsible for maintaining storage .areas in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner.
A review of the facility's P&P titled Storage of Medication, revised 11/2017, the P&P indicated The facility shall not use discontinued, outdated, or deteriorated drugs or biological's and All such drugs shall be returned to the dispensing pharmacy or destroyed as soon as possible.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0804
(Tag F0804)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 7. Review of Resident Council Minutes, dated 6/23/22 had a section titled Old Business - Any new business identified at the last...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 7. Review of Resident Council Minutes, dated 6/23/22 had a section titled Old Business - Any new business identified at the last council meeting must be addressed here - either as resolved or unresolved. Five out of six items in this list are marked as resolved, with one unresolved. The unresolved items are as follows - Food comes out cold sometimes.
Review of Resident Council Minutes, dated 7/15/22, indicated there were 2 unresolved concerns from May resident council meeting, food comes out cold sometimes. Upon review of May Resident Council Minutes, dated 5/19/22, it was indicated the two unresolved issues remained as, food sometimes comes out cold. The department response from dietary in relation to cold food was marked as unresolved with a new plan in progress. The department response with no date indicating the new plan to be implemented stated, DSS ordered new dome lids for plates. Will continue to monitor tray pass for timely delivery.
During a confidential resident group interview on 8/9/22 at 10:07 am, six out of eight residents reported the food was still cold, stating We get the same food a lot. The taste is not good. Four out of eight residents stated the food was not in the form of their preference - in reference to palatability. Six out of eight residents complained of the taste.
During an interview on 8/10/2022 at 11:16 am, Administrator (ADMIN), voiced understanding of the need for better written communication between departments for issues that arise in resident council. ADMIN stated currently bringing in ice physically for residents; however, residents stated they have not had ice recently. ADMIN explained he was unaware of multiple problems with food (in reference to palatability, temperature).
4. A review of the records indicated Resident 21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with the diagnoses of type two diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure). Resident 21 was not her own decision maker.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 10:12 am, Resident 21 stated the kitchen staff did not know how to cook and the food was not good at all. Resident 21 stated the vegetables were not fully cooked and the meat was dry. Resident 21 stated that sometimes meals were not eaten due to the poor quality and staff did not always offer anything else to eat.
5. A review of the records indicated Resident 33 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and had a return admission on [DATE]. Resident 33 had the diagnoses of contracture of left hand and left knee (inability to move) and major depressive disorder (a sad mood). Resident 33 was her own responsible party and made her own decisions.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:29 am, Resident 33 stated the food was lousy, strawberries and cantaloupe were never ripe. Resident 33 stated the kitchen gets my tray and food preferences mixed up a lot.
6. A review of the records indicated Resident 49 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and had a readmission on [DATE]. Resident 49 had the diagnoses of cerebral infarction (stroke) and muscle weakness and was his own decision maker.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 10:33 am, Resident 49 stated, food is what it is and does not eat breakfast at the facility because it is never good. Resident 49 stated asking for other food when the provided meal was not appealing. When asked if alternate meals were provided, Resident 49 stated good luck, they don't give it.
8. Resident 39's record was reviewed. Resident 39 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with a diagnosis that included, Parkinson's disease (uncontrollable tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination), and history of falling. The most recent Minimum Data Set (MDS, a standardized resident assessment) dated 6/9/22, indicated that Resident 39 was cognitively intact.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:10 a.m., with Resident 39, Resident 39 stated, The food here is terrible and cold most of the time. They serve the same bland stuff every day, and sometimes I just don't eat it. I didn't even know I could ask for something else than what was brought out on my tray.
9. Resident 50's record was reviewed. Resident 50 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with a diagnosis that included, Fractured hip, hearing loss, and unsteadiness on feet. The most recent MDS dated [DATE] indicated that Resident 50 was cognitively intact.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:40 a.m., Resident 50 stated, the food is unappetizing and tastes terrible and was always cold. I usually only eat a few bites of the lunch and dinner because it is so bland. They just come and grab the tray whether I have eaten any of it or not and have never offered me anything different to eat.
Based on interview and record review the facility did not ensure the food service met resident needs as evidenced by unresolved food complaints surrounding the form, taste and temperature of the food that was served. These failures had the potential to result in decreased resident meal intakes, negatively impact their nutritional health status and quality of life.
Findings:
1. A review of Resident 44's record indicated diagnoses that include transient cerebral ischemic attack (a stroke - damage to the brain from interruption in its blood supply), difficulty walking, respiratory failure with hypoxia. Resident 44 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score (a number value between 00-15 with 13-15 cognitively intact, 08-12 moderately impaired, and 00-07 severe impairment) score of 15 on 6/9/22 and Part G of the facility's Minimum Data Set (MDS) (provides a comprehensive assessment of the resident's functional capabilities. Section G is specific to Functional Status) on 6/20/22 indicated Resident 44 needed supervision for activities.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 10:20 am, Resident 44 stated that the food stinks and that sometimes it is cold and just doesn't taste good. She stated, I wished they had better food.
2. A review of Resident 76's record indicated diagnoses that include hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction (blockage in the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder), difficulty walking, heart failure (heart is unable to pump blood to meet the body's need). Resident 76 had a BIMS score of 14 on 7/20/22 and Section G of the MDS indicated one-to-two-person assistance with most activities and one person assistance for setup for eating and drinking.
During an interview on 08/08/22 at 10:31 am, resident 76 stated the food is lousy. She stated that they frequently are not given what is on the menu.
3. A review of Resident 56's record indicated diagnoses that include convulsions (a sudden, violent movement of the body), cognitive communication deficit (an impairment in thought organization, attention, memory, problem solving, and safety awareness), and respiratory failure with hypoxia (failure to provide body with enough oxygen to the body). Resident 56 had a BIMS score of 14 on 6/20/22. Section G on MDS on 6/20/22 indicated Resident 56 needed two people to assist with bed mobility and transfers and one person assistance to setup for eating and drinking.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 3:13 pm, resident 56 stated that the food is terrible and that sometimes it is cold. The food is bad.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0806
(Tag F0806)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. A review of Resident 27 record indicated upon admission on [DATE] at 6:48 pm, Resident 27 had admitting diagnoses of lung dis...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. A review of Resident 27 record indicated upon admission on [DATE] at 6:48 pm, Resident 27 had admitting diagnoses of lung disease, Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, and difficulty with walking.
A review of a physician order report dated 5/27-8/10/22, indicated Resident 27's diet order had no added salt.
Upon an interview with Resident 27 on 8/8/22 10:00 am, Resident 27 stated they did not like the food that was offered. Resident 27 stated if they request a different meal due to not liking the current meal, she was always given sandwiches - no variety seen with the substitutions. Resident 27 explained she does not like fish and still received fish often, regardless of having it written in her chart as a dislike. Resident 27 explained she had other staff members verify it was still on her chart as a dislike, Resident 27 complained on never having enough salt. According to Resident 27, each of these issues lead made her feel depressed and upset, as
observation, visible tears were in Resident 27's eyes.
Upon record review, Resident 27 had lost weight since admission. Resident 27 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with a weight of 281 pounds. The most current weight taken was on 8/0/22, at 266 pounds. This equated to a weight loss of 15 pounds over a span of approximately two months.
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/11/22 at 9:50 am with the Registered Dietician (RD) and Dietary Manager (DM) weights of Resident 27 were reviewed. It was concluded Resident 27 had lost 15 pounds since admission and dietary staff did not trigger for weight loss. RD and DM confirmed Resident 27 was not at risk for issues related to sodium packets and could have a liberalized diet and will ask physician for new order. Both RD and DM confirmed not having alternatives and salt packets could have contributed to her weight loss and depression surrounding her food preferences. Resident 27's intake was less than 75 percent. Resident 27 had told many staff about wanting salt and alternatives, not just sandwiches, and no changes were made. They now have a new form developed to give to residents to request alternatives so now the communication will get to the kitchen. DM stared using a new form for alternative requests this week for direct care staff to give to kitchen when residents meal change request.
An observation and interview were conducted on 8/11/22 at 3:00 pm, CNA X stated Resident 27 now had alternative food request slips in her room in reach to request for different food. CNA X stated resident requested food with more salt and for lunch today received a hamburger with tomatoes and no bun.
4. A record review of a Skilled Nursing Hospice Note dated 8/4/22, Resident 74 stated the ice machine was broken so the staff here do not see a need to bring water anyhow and bring ice, why does it take four days to get the ice machine fixed?
During a confidential resident group interview on 8/9/22 at 10:07 am, one resident, stated Ice machine has been a problem here for years. Goes up and down, up and down. The ice machine has been broken. It's been a few weeks. Four out of eight residents did not get ice when they wanted.
During interview on 8/9/22 at 4:07 pm, ADMIN stated ice machine down, due to project for laundry room, which has been almost a year ago. The electrical panel for the ice machine was being used for the mobile laundry room outside. ADMIN stated ice was ordered and being brought in for staff to use and distribute.
9. A review of the records indicated Resident 67 was admitted to the facility 1/29/21 with the diagnoses of generalized anxiety disorder (extreme worrying that interferes with daily activities), cognitive communication impairment (inability to interact meaningfully with others), and bipolar disorder, current episode mixed, moderate (mood disorder that can cause rapid speech, racing thoughts, and agitation). Resident 67 was her own responsible party and made her own medical decisions.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 9:18 am, Resident 67 stated the ice machine was not working. Resident 67 pointed to the end of the hall where an ice chest sat and stated, before you came, they didn't have ice for 10 days. Resident 67 stated when asking for ice, she was told they do not have any.
10. A review of the records indicated Resident 21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with the diagnoses of type two diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure). Resident 21 was not her own decision maker.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 10:12 am, Resident 21 stated the kitchen staff did not know how to cook and the food was not good at all. Resident 21 stated the vegetables were not fully cooked and the meat was dry. Resident 21 stated that sometimes meals were not eaten due to the poor quality and staff did not always offer anything else to eat.
11. A review of the records indicated Resident 33 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and had a return admission on [DATE]. Resident 33 had the diagnoses of contracture of left hand and left knee (inability to move) and major depressive disorder (a sad mood). Resident 33 was her own responsible party and made her own decisions.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:29 am, Resident 33 stated the food was lousy, strawberries and cantaloupe were never ripe. Resident 33 stated the kitchen gets my tray and food preferences mixed up a lot.
12. A review of the records indicated Resident 49 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and had a readmission on [DATE]. Resident 49 had the diagnoses of cerebral infarction (stroke) and muscle weakness and was his own decision maker.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 10:33 am, Resident 49 stated food is what it is and does not eat breakfast at the facility because it is never good. Resident 49 stated asking for other food when the provided meal was not appealing. When asked if alternate meals were provided, Resident 49 stated good luck, they don't give it.
During a review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled, Food Preferences, dated 2018, the P&P indicated, Resident food preferences will be adhered to within reason. Substitutes for all foods disliked will be given from the appropriate food group. Food preferences can be obtained from the resident, family, or staff members. Updating of food preferences will be done as residents' needs change and/or during the quarterly review.
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure that resident preferences were honored and offered substitutes of similar nutritive value for 10 of 10 sampled residents (Residents 21, 33, 39, 44, 49, 50, 56, 66, 67, and 76) and four out of eight confidential resident interviews.
This failure not to provide food in accordance with resident preferences may result in decreased meal satisfaction and overall caloric intake.
Findings:
1. Resident 39's record was reviewed. Resident 39 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with a diagnosis that included, Parkinson's disease (uncontrollable tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination), and history of falling. The most recent Minimum Data Set (MDS, a standardized resident assessment) dated 6/9/22, indicated that Resident 39 was cognitively intact.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:10 a.m., with Resident 39, Resident 39 stated, The food here is terrible and cold most of the time. They serve the same bland stuff every day, and sometimes I just don't eat it. I didn't even know I could ask for something else than what was brought out on my tray.
2. Resident 50's record was reviewed. Resident 50 was admitted to the facility 7/18/22, with a diagnosis that included, fractured hip, hearing loss, and unsteadiness on feet. The most recent MDS dated [DATE] indicated that Resident 50 was cognitively intact.
During an interview on 8/8/22, at 11:40 a.m., with Resident 50, Resident 50 stated, The food is unappetizing and tastes terrible and is always cold. I usually only eat a few bites of the lunch and dinner because it is so bland. They just come and grab the tray whether I have eaten any of it or not and have never offered me anything different to eat.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 10:00 a.m., with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA N), CNA N stated, if a resident doesn't like the food I would just go to the kitchen and get them a sandwich, I don't know what else there is for them to pick.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 10:15 a.m., with CNA O, CNA O stated, No one has ever asked me for something different but if they did, I guess I would go to the kitchen and ask them for a sandwich.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 10:30 a.m., with CNA P, CNA P stated, If a resident didn't like the food I would just go to the kitchen and get them something else. I have never heard of an alternate ticket.
During an interview on 8/9/22, at 11:00 a.m., with CNA Q, CNA Q stated, I guess I would just go to the kitchen and ask them for a substitute, I don't know what an alternative ticket is.
During a concurrent interview and record review on 8/10/22, at 3:30 p.m., with Dietary supervisor (DS), the facility's alternate meal ticket was reviewed. The Alternate meal ticket indicated the staff were supposed to circle lunch or dinner, indicate room number, diet texture, date and mark which substitute the resident wanted out of the four offered, chicken breast, grilled cheese, hamburger, or a chef salad. DS stated, The staff get an alternative ticket and fill it out, depending on which substitute they want according to the meal choices on the ticket. The staff know to do this if they don't like the food or if they eat less than half.
5. A review of Resident 44's record indicated diagnoses that include transient cerebral ischemic attack (a stroke - damage to the brain from interruption in its blood supply), difficulty walking, respiratory failure with hypoxia. Resident 44 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score (a number value between 00-15 with 13-15 cognitively intact, 08-12 moderately impaired, and 00-07 severe impairment) score of 15 on 6/9/22 and Part G of the facility's Minimum Data Set (MDS) (provides a comprehensive assessment of the resident's functional capabilities. Section G is specific to Functional Status) on 6/20/22 indicated Resident 44 needed supervision for activities.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 10:20 am, Resident 44 stated that the food stinks and that sometimes it is cold and just doesn't taste good. She stated, I wished they had better food.
6. A review of Resident 76's record indicated diagnoses that include hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction (blockage in the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder), difficulty walking, heart failure (heart is unable to pump blood to meet the body's need). Resident 76 had a BIMS score of 14 on 7/20/22 and Section G of the MDS indicated one-to-two-person assistance with most activities and one person assistance for setup for eating and drinking.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 10:31 am, resident 76 stated the food is lousy. She stated that they frequently are not given what is on the menu.
7. A review of Resident 66's record indicated diagnoses that include low back pain, difficulty walking, and hypertension. Resident 66 had a BIMS score of 15 on 6/24/22 and Section G of the MDS indicated one-to-two-person assistance with most activities and one person assistance for setup for eating and drinking.
During an observation and interview on 8/8/22 at 11:20 am, Resident 66 stated she didn't have any ice in her water. Her water cup was observed to just have water. Resident 66 stated she has difficulty swallowing and needs water to facilitate swallowing. Resident 66 stated she does not like room temperature water, and she needs ice for the water. Resident 66 stated the facility ice machine has not worked for a while and getting ice can be very difficult. She stated that staff will either say they do not have any or that it is not available. She stated that night shift is most difficult as they state they can't get into the kitchen to get her any ice.
8. A review of Resident 56's record indicated diagnoses that include convulsions (a sudden, violent movement of the body), cognitive communication deficit (an impairment in thought organization, attention, memory, problem solving, and safety awareness), and respiratory failure with hypoxia (failure to provide body with enough oxygen to the body). Resident 56 had a BIMS score of 14 on 6/20/22. Section G on MDS on 6/20/22 indicated Resident 56 needed two people to assist with bed mobility and transfers and one person assistance to setup for eating and drinking.
During an interview on 8/8/22 at 3:13 pm, resident 56 stated that the food is terrible and that sometimes it is cold. The food is bad.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0849
(Tag F0849)
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 implement Hospice agreements and Hospice program ((a ...
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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 implement Hospice agreements and Hospice program ((a program designed to provide a caring environment for meeting the physical and emotional needs of the terminally ill) policy and procedures, and collaborate in the development of a coordinated plan of care, to ensure the physical, psychosocial, spiritual, and emotional needs were meet for four of four sample residents (Resident 57, 58, 74 and 281) when:
1.a. Resident 281 was given wrong dosage, wrong pain medication for the wrong pain level.
This resulted in agitation and four falls.
1.b. Resident 281 wasn't provided with Oxygen concentrator on 4/15/22, 4/22/22 and 4/23/22 per physician ordered and hospice plan of care.
This could potentially cause respiratory distress for Resident 281.
2. Resident 58 wasn't given his pain medication per physician order when he asked for it. Resident 58 was upset and had to suffer a longer pain.
3. Resident 74 was given incorrect dose of medication for severe pain, pain medications were administered late, and medications available for anxiety/cough were not given when symptoms present.
This resulted in Resident 74 to have severe pain, anger, anxiety, and feelings of suffocation/drowning.
4. Resident 57 pain management program was not adjusted when she reported it was ineffective, when her swallowing was declining, and medications were not available for administration.
This resulted in severe pain, depression, feeling miserable and sleep disturbances (moaning in her sleep).
This failure resulted in Hospice residents not receiving the quality of care to meet their physical, psychosocial and emotional needs at end of life. Refer to F 697 and F 726.
Findings:
A review of the Hospice Agreement between the facility and Advanced Hospice, Inc., title Hospice Service Agreement, signed in 3/2016, indicated that the facility will provide Residents who have elected Hospice care with the following basic services that includes:
a. Pharmacy Services: Prescription and non-prescription drugs that are not for treatment of the terminal illness and related conditions as determined by the Hospice Interdisciplinary Team (IDT). Pharmacy Service provided by the Facility will be available on a 24 hour a day 7 days a week basis.
b. Durable medical equipment (DME) Services: Supervision and assistance in the use of any durable medical equipment and prescribed therapies that are not related to the terminal illness and related conditions.
c. Supervision of Facility staff providing services under the plan of care established by Hospice team.
A review of the facility's policy, titled Hospice Program, revised in 7/2017, indicated that it is the responsibility of the facility to meet the resident's personal care and nursing needs in coordination with the hospice representative, and ensure that the level of care provided is appropriately based on the individual resident's need. There included:
a. Twenty-four-hour room and board care.
b. Administering prescribed therapies, including those therapies determined appropriate by the hospice and delineated in the hospice plan of are.
A review of the facility's policy, titled Hospice Program, revised in 7/2017, indicated:
a. In general, it is the responsibility of the facility to meet the residents' personal care and nursing needs in coordination with the hospice representative and ensure that the level of care provided is appropriately based on the individual resident's needs.
b. Coordinated care plans for residents receiving hospice services will include the most recent hospice plan of care as well as the care and services provided by our facility (including the responsible provider and discipline assigned to specific tasks) in order to maintain the resident's highest practicable physical, mental and psychosocial well-being.
c. The coordinated care plan will reflect the resident's goals and wishes, as stated in his or her advance directives and during ongoing communication with the resident or representative, including:
- Palliative goals and objectives.
- Palliative interventions .
1.a. A review of Resident 281's admission record, indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included prostate cancer, brain cancer, spine cancer and palliative care (specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness, such as cancer or heart failure). The resident expired on 5/3/2022.
A review of Resident 281's Minimum Data Set (MDS - an assessment and care screening tool), dated 4/15/2022, indicated Resident 281's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) scored was 0 (severe impairment). Resident 281 was not able to make his own healthcare decision.
A review of Resident 281's Hospice initial admission assessment record, dated, 3/31/2022, indicated that his pain was an active problem for the patient. A comprehensive pain assessment was performed and indicated that his primary pain was from his head and was intermittent. It increased by pressure and could be relieved by medication. A plan of care for pain was initiated and the goal was to improve in pain level to be 0/10 (no pain) on the pain scale. A fall assessment was also performed and indicated that his pain was affecting his level of function - Pain often affects the resident's desire or ability to move or pain can be a factor in depression or compliance with safety recommendations.
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing Visit note on 4/8/22 at 7:48 pm by Hospice Nurse (HN) R, indicated that the resident was disoriented, forgetful and lethargic. He had generalized pain and his pain was interfering with his activity/ movement daily. It could be managed by prn (as needed) medication. The care plan for his pan was the same as the date it was initiated on 3/31/22, as to improve in pain level to be 0/10 (no pain).
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/22/22 at 4:30 pm by HN R, indicated that the resident's pain level was not acceptable to the resident, it showed Resident appeared to be experiencing more pains on his abdomen (the part of the body between the chest and the hips), right upper abdomen, both feet and his back this time. Pain intensity was 5 - medium. PRN (pain medication given as needed) not being given . The note also indicated that a verbal education was provided to LN U about end-of-life sign/symptoms, respiratory distress and use of oxygen and/or morphine to relieve symptoms of distress. HN R discussed the resident's recent falls with LN U.
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/24/22 at 3:30 pm by HN S, indicated that Responsible Party (RP) was present and distressed. The note indicated RP stating patient is not being medicated appropriately. Patient resting quietly. Staff requested PRN opioid frequency to be increased to every two hours. Upon review PRN, opioid already scheduled every two hours as needed. Agency nurse practitioner informed.
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit notes and progress notes indicated that the resident fell on 4/10/22, 4/22/22, 4/25/22 and 4/29/22.
A review of Resident 281's physician pain medication orders and Medication admission Records (MARS) from 4/8/22 to 5/3/22, indicated:
1. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/10/22 at 4:47 am.
2. The resident was given Lorazepam (ordered for anxiety) when his pain level was 8 on 4/10/22 at 3:27 pm.
3. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/17/22 at 5:31 pm.
4. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/19/22 at 12:01 pm and 4:28 pm.
5. The resident was not given prn pain medication when his pain level was assessed on 4/25/22 and 4/28/22.
6. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/25/22 at 12:10 am.
7. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/25/22 at 1:08 pm.
8. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/26/22 at 10:39 am .
9. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/27/22 at 1:49 pm.
10. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/28/22 at 9:29 am.
11. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/29/22 at 8:54 am.
12. The resident was given wrong pain medication with wrong pain level on 4/30/22 at 5:37 pm.
1.b. A review of Resident 281's Hospice initial admission assessment record, dated, 3/31/22, indicated that Resident 281 was dyspneic (difficult, painful breathing or shortness of breath) or noticeably Short of Breath with minimal exertion (e.g. while eating, talking, or performing other ADLs (activities of daily living) ) or with agitation. The treatment for shortness of breath was initiated on 3/31/22 and the resident needed Oxygen 2 - 5 Liter /Min for comfort, symptom control and dyspnea (difficult breathing).
A review of Resident 281's physician order, dated 4/11/22 - 5/3/22, indicated Oxygen (O2) - @ 2-5 Liters/Min via nasal cannula (a device used to deliver supplemental oxygen or increased airflow to a patient or person in need of respiratory help). Goal to maintain Oxygen saturation (Sats) above 90%. Monitor O2 Sats every shift, NOC (night shift), AM (morning, day shift), PM (afternoon shift). (Oxygen saturation is the measure of how much oxygen is traveling through the body. Normal oxygen saturation for healthy adults is usually between 95% and 100%. Low oxygen level, also called hypoxemia (is low levels of oxygen in your blood. It causes symptoms like headache, difficulty breathing, anxiety, rapid heart rate and bluish skin) is considered a reading between 90% and 92%.)
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/15/22 at 7:20 pm by HN R, indicated that the resident's O2 Sats level was down to 88 % due to no concentrator. The note showed Patient is pale with pallor (an unhealthy pale appearance). Skin is cool and dry. There was not an oxygen concentrator (a type of medical device used for delivering oxygen to a patient with breathing issues) in patient's room. This nurse notified the Charge nurse about the patient's oxygen Sats level, and she said she couldn't get a concentrator, and she would let patient's assigned nurse know when she came back from lunch After visiting all of my patients, circled back to speak with patient's assigned nurse and she had not been notified about patient's oxygen Sats level. HN R indicated on her note that a verbal instruction to charge nurse and assigned nurse regarding shortness of breath, O2 Sats parameters and when to apply O2 .
A review of Resident 281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4/22/22 at 4:30 pm by HN R, indicated that the resident's O2 Sats level was 86% and there was no O2 concentrator in his room. The note showed skin was dry and cool with pallor .Spoke with his assigned nurse and requested that she obtain the oxygen concentrator and placed patient on 2 Liter via nasal cannula . HN R indicated on her note that a verbal instruction to assigned nurse about End-Of-Life signs and symptoms. Respiratory distress and use of Oxygen and /or Morphine to relieve symptoms of distress.
A review of Resident 2281's Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note on 4//23/22 at 11:15 am by HN R, indicated that the resident's O2 Sats level was 85 % and he was wearing a NC (nasal cannula) that was attached to an empty back-up cylinder (an oxygen tank that containing oxygen under pressure. It often was used for transporting patients or was provided when there was a power outage or problems with the O2 concentrator). HN R indicated on her note that a verbal instruction to assigned nurse regarding importance of making sure patient has an oxygen concentrator, as opposed to a back-up tank which is unsafe . The note also indicated that the need for comfort care for the resident, the staff needed to minimize adverse effects of .dyspnea, and to relieve the symptoms of dyspnea, O2 Sats level needed to be maintained greater than 88%.
During an interview with HN R on 8/4/22 at 8:21 am, stated I remembered that I told the nurse just take me to where I can get the concentrator for him. At that point, the nurse did know where to find the concentrator. HN R stated my expectation was if they noticed that he needed oxygen, they should have it done! I was told, well sometimes, the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) came in, they put the person on Oxygen and they did not check. I told them, You guys are responsible to check and see whether the CNAs know there's Oxygen running to the patients.
2. A review of Resident 58's admission record, indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included amputation of left leg below knee, kidney problem, stroke and palliative care (specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness, such as cancer or heart failure).
A review of Resident 58's MDS, dated [DATE], indicated Resident 58's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) scored was 15 (intact cognitive response). He was not able to make his own healthcare decision.
A review of Resident 58's physician order and MARS from 4/2022 and 7/2022, indicated that he had prn (as needed) Morphine concentrate orders for pain medication every hour and he was only given one time for his prn pain medication for the entire months of April and July in 2022.
3. A review of Resident 74's record indicated he was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses which included heart failure, lung disease, and palliative hospice (end of life) care. Resident 74 was able to make his own health care decisions.
A review of a physician order dated 4/8/22, indicated Resident 74 was admitted to Hospice service with a terminal diagnosis of heart failure.
A review of Resident 74's MDS dated [DATE], indicated he had pain, occasionally, and on a pain scale at a 7 (severe pain). MDS dated [DATE], Resident 74 indicated he had pain frequently at a moderate level.
A review of a hospice/palliative care plan dated 4/7-7/28/22, indicated Resident 74 was to have optimal relief from pain and to coordinate all plans of care with the Hospice team. Observe for efficacy of pain regimen.
A review of physician order dated 4/13/22, Morphine Sulfate Continuous release (MS Contin- a strong, long-acting narcotic pain medication) 15 milligrams (mg) every 12 hours for chronic pain. Morphine concentrate (liquid) 100 mg/5 milliliter (ml), administer 0.25 ml every 2 hours for mild pain (1-3 on pain scale), 0.5 ml orally every 2 hours for moderate pain (pain scale 4-6) and 1 ml every 2 hours for severe pain (pain scale number 7-10).
A review of the MAR History dated from 4/1-4/20/22, indicated the MS Contin was administered late 8 times, from one to one and one/half hours.
A review of the MAR History dated 4/1-4/30/22, indicated Morphine Concentrate 0.5 ml for moderate pain levels 4-6 was administered 16 opportunities when Resident 74 reported severe pain levels at 7-8 out of ten. On 4/19/22 late administration was documented for the as needed dose. On 4/28/22 at 1:06 am, the post pain assessment for Resident 74 was reported at a level 6 moderate pain, all the other 15 post pain assessment (one hour post pain medication administration) indicated a 0 or no pain.
A review of the pain monitoring by shift from 4/7-4/30/22, indicated Resident 74, reported severe pain 43 times, moderate pain 7 times, and mild or no pain 22 times.
A review of a quarterly clinical observation detail report dated 7/13/22, indicated Resident 74 had pain frequently at a level 6 (moderate) aching pain. Resident 74 indicated his pain comes and goes. Resident 74 verbally identifies pain and anxiety may affect his pain.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 7/16/22, indicated Resident 74 reported having some pain, it's usually my ribs and my back but lately my hips and my shoulder. I have been having little spells of shortness of breath but that's now how I felt when I went into the hospital. I felt like I was suffocating/drowning. HN R reminded Resident 74 that the morphine liquid (pain) and Lorazepam (anxiety) can be taken together to when needed to alleviate the feelings of shortness of breath/suffocation. Resident 74 told HN R that sometimes more often than not, he has trouble getting his pain medication. He will request it, then he is told they are at lunch.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 7/21/22, indicated Resident 74 had pain in his wrist, back and hips sometimes shoulders, he rated his pain level to be severe, 8 out of ten. Resident 74 requested pain medication but stated he was having a hard time getting it.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 7/26/22, Resident 74 indicated, what makes pain worse, was the time between doses. Resident 74 had a productive cough and HN R received a new physician order for Robitussin DM 10 mg/200 ml, 5 ml every four hours as needed for cough.
During an interview on 7/28/2022, 10:49 am, Resident 74, stated I told a CNA that I was in pain, I needed my pain medicine. The CNA said OK, she would tell the nurse. A half hour after, no one came. I pushed the call light again and a CNA stated she would tell the nurse, and still no one came. I had to push the call light 3 times and I finally got my pain medicine. The longest wait was about 2 hours. I told the Hospice nurse, they said they will look into it .
During an interview on 7/28/2022 at 12:41 pm, SSD stated she did not know Resident 74 had issues about his pain medication. SSD stated Registry (contract) nursing staff have some issues, because they aren't familiar with the residents.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 7/30/22, indicated, upon entering Resident 74's room, he slammed the door, as HN R was entering the room. He was very agitated, when asked if everything was OK, he stated nothing is OK! Life is not OK! I guess I just have to deal with this! Resident 74 stated he was having severe pain, 7 out of 10, and wanted his morphine. HN R asked Resident 74 if he had taken any Lorazepam for his anxiety, he stated I did not know that I had any available. HN R spoke with LN L about the orders for Lorazepam. LN L could not find the as needed order for Lorazepam in the system, only the routine. HN R pulled up the original hospice admission orders and then LN L was able to add this, as needed Lorazepam, to the medication administration system and was able to give it to the agitated resident.
A review of a Hospice Skilled Nursing visit note dated 8/4/22, indicated Resident 74 was not receiving pain medications, making pain worse, and reported pain level at 7, a severe level. The pain level was not acceptable to resident. HN R documented that Resident 74's needs were not being met. Resident 74 stated He is not feeling as angry as last time, but would like to know Why I cannot get my pain medication and the one you said I can have for anxiety. Resident 74 informed HN R that he requested the cough medicine and was told it was not ordered. HN R went to speak with LN L about the orders for cough medicine and anxiety. LN L informed HN R that the order for the cough medicine had an end dated for 3 days and the Lorazepam as needed order was no longer in the system, although HN R had reviewed this on 7/30/22 and had LN L correct the orders in the system. LN L explained she tried to add the orders back, for cough medication and Lorazepam, but her tablet battery went dead.
During an interview on 8/4/22 at 8:21 am, HN R explained that she texted the SSD at the facility and reported that Resident 74 had multiple complaints about not getting his pain medication and had other issues about pain medications. HN R stated she explained to Resident 74 I want you to talk to the social worker and Director of Nursing. Resident 74 told HN R that happened a lot, that the nurse did not know his medications. HN R stated this made Resident 74 really angry. He said he wasn't getting his medication. I told him that I would talk to his nurse. About the as needed Lorazepam. We checked the order, it was there. It was in the system. Wherever she was showing me. It was not there. But I have access to their system, I can check on my end, I have done the reconciliation, it was there. I pulled the order that I faxed to the facility, it was there. I just did the reconciliation.
A review of Resident 74's physician orders dated 4/11/22 open ended, indicated Lorazepam (antianxiety) 0.5 mg tablet every eight hours for anxiety as exhibited by (AEB) terminal agitation.
A review of a Nurse Practitioner (NP) progress note dated 5/9/22, indicated Resident 74 was on hospice, he reported fatigue, no shortness of breath and reported a cough. Resident 74 reported pain managed. There were no other NP or MD progress notes found in the record.
A review of the MARs for July 2022, indicated Resident 74 was given Lorazepam late on 16 opportunities. The MAR had monitoring for Resident 74 related to Lorazepam for anxiety related to terminal agitation, the number of episodes charted were 0 for the entire month.
A review of the Resident 74's physician order dated 4/11/22 open ended, indicated Resident 74 could have Lorazepam 0.5 mg one tablet every four hours as needed for anxiety.
A review of the MAR for August 2022 indicated Resident 74 received one dose of as needed Lorazepam on 8/5/2022 at 1:35 am.
A review of Resident 74's physician orders dated 8/1/22 with an end date of 8/3/22, indicated he received one dose of Robitussin (cough chest congestion) 5 ml as needed four times a day for cough/chest congestion on 8/3/22 at 3:40 pm.
During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/8/22 at 11:30 am, Resident 74 stated pain medications were late and looked in his journal and gave examples. On 8/1/22 at 9:30 am, CNA showed up at 10 am, then another correct CNA comes at 10:19 am, then he called another CNA at 10:40 am then by 11:50 am, he received his pain medication. On 8/5/22, Resident 74 called a CNA at 10:40 am due to reporting pain level was a 7/10 (severe) and by 11:50 am he received his pain medication. Resident 74 stated his pain level right now was a 7/10. Resident 74 stated it made him feel not happy, frustrated and caused anxiety. Resident 74 stated his pain level after receiving medication is usually a level of 4-5 and was tolerable at that level. Resident 74 stated I'm not the waiting type and I stand in the hallway. Resident 74 stated the Hospice nurse was aware. Resident 74 stated timeliness could be improved, they should hire more people.
There were no Interdisciplinary team (IDT, a group of multidisciplinary staff who meet to discuss resident plan of care) meeting notes found in the record related to Resident 74's Hospice plan of care since April 2022.
4. A review of Resident 57's record indicated she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included chronic pain syndrome, lung disease, aftereffects of stroke and was on palliative hospice care (end of life).
A review of Resident 57's MDS dated [DATE], indicated she was cognitively intact. Resident 57 had a decision maker for health care concerns.
A review of a NP progress note dated 6/16/22, indicated Resident 57 had chronic pain, continue to use Percocet (strong narcotic medication) and will work with hospice for better pain management. There were no other NP or MD progress notes found in the record.
A review of the physician order report dated 6/1-8/10/22, indicated an order for morphine tablet extended release 7.5 mg oral for moderate to severe pain (4-10) hold for sedation and respiratory rate less than 12 (low) every eight hours, nothing to indicated to not crush the medication. There were no pain medications in liquid form indicated on the physician orders.
A review of Lexicomp, an online drug reference guide indicated, morphine extended-release formulations are to be swallowed whole, chewing, crushing, or dissolving any of these extended-release preparations (including capsule beads or pellets) could result in rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of morphine.
A review of Resident 57's nursing progress notes indicated:
On 7/14/22, IDT note reviewed resident weight loss. No medication reviews. A goal of resident was needs for comfort.
On 7/28/22 at 11:29 am, resident complained of pain ten out of 10 (worst pain), routine medication 15 mg given, ineffective, offered as needed morphine 7.5 mg, resident refused stated 7.5 mg does not help me, I need my 15 mg morphine.
On 7/28/22 at 10:30 pm, resident having difficulty swallowing big pills and notified Hospice. A new physician order to crush medications related to difficulty swallowing.
On 7/31/22, LN noted resident was annoyed because her routine pain medication was held earlier today, held due to respiration and heart rate low, and she was hallucinating.
On 8/2/22, LN noted resident refusing to be changed during shift and repositioned in bed, stated I feel too much pain to move.
On 8/5/22, resident assessed by Hospice and LN, her breathing slow, oxygen given, improved, hard to arouse, and morning medication held due to condition. New orders were for diet only. No medication order changes to liquid form.
On 8/9/22, LN noted resident having difficulties swallowing medication, no medication changes for a liquid morphine.
A review of the Hospice Care visit note dated 7/29/22 and 8/5/22, indicated Resident 57 stated her pain medications are ineffective. HN documented upon interviewing the staff they are giving all pain medications as ordered and does not complain in between doses. HN noted Case Manager and DON notified.
A review of a Hospice Care visit note dated 8/6/22, HN indicated Resident 57 was out of Lorazepam and morphine, refills were requested and I picked up the medication from a local pharmacy and delivered them to the facility.
During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/8/22 at 10:01 am Resident 57 stated her pain was depressing and terrible. Resident 57 was lying on her right side with the head of her bed elevated. Resident 57 stated I have throbbing pain to my stomach (both sides).
A review of a Hospice plan of care review dated 8/10/22, indicated Resident 57's pain management was scheduled morphine extended release 15 mg six hours and Morphine 7.5 mg as needed every eight hours for breakthrough pain. Resident 74 put on schedule Methadone (pain medication) 5 mg daily for severe pain in July 2022. Resident 74 had a hard time swallowing whole medication and food, in July 2022 medication orders were to crush medications.
During an interview on 8/09/22 2:53 pm, CNA Y stated she works with Resident 57 often and Be as gentle as I can. We try to get her out as much as we can because she gets depressed. CNA Y stated, I can tell by the way she talks (wants to talk to son etc.) when in pain. CNA Y stated she has to remind nurses often that Resident 57 was due for pain medication. CNA Y stated, nurses get super overwhelmed and get super behind. CNA Y described that Resident 57 grinds her teeth and scratches her arm when in pain, and it gave her skin tears from rubbing too hard. CNA stated LN Z and LN AA take 20-30 mins to get pain medications to Resident 57. CNA Y stated Resident 57's pain affects her sleep and caused depression. CNA Y stated Resident 57 was always on her call light if she was in pain. CNA Y stated one day Resident 57 was acting strange, she told the nurse, the nurse said, well she just received medications. CNA Y had not participated in an IDT meeting related to Resident 57's pain and hospice care needs.
During an interview on 8/9/22 at 3:17 pm, LN AA explained there were many medication changes for Resident 57 and she was still in pain, mainly in her back, but all over. LN AA stated as needed morphine did not help. LN AA stated Resident 57 wanted a stronger pain medication, she believed Percocet was better just started on methadone and morphine, but it is more of a short-term relief. LN AA stated Resident 57 said 7.5 mg of morphine was not working. LN AA stated DON was aware of any changes with Resident 57. LN AA was asked if medications were given timely and stated, if taking care of one resident and this one asks for pain medications, may have to wait, we do our best to be timely with pain medications.
During an observation on 8/10/22 at 3 pm, Resident 57 was observed sleeping in bed, laying at an angle. Resident 57 was observed to be moaning (sign of pain) while asleep, this continued for a minute, and she continued to appear more uncomfortable.
During an interview on 8/11/22 at 10:15 am, DON confirmed he was responsible for the hospice clinical nursing coordination, recently added a Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) issue for late medication administration issues, had difficulty reaching some of the hospice nurses, they currently have 3 different contracts. DON confirmed when asked about the multiple entries on post pain medication assessments being a 0 for residents, he stated that was his error in instructing staff nurses to just put a 0 (no pain) when pain was under control after pain medication administration, not the actual pain level they report, to the nurse. Asked DON how does Nursing staff, Hospice nursing, and IDT evaluate the effectiveness of the pain medication if all entries are 0? DON stated there would be no way to know, the hospice medications are entered into the MAR as routine even though they are as needed and do not require a post assessment. DON stated his expectation would be a nursing progress note denoting post pain assessments. DON confirmed a problem with residents' getting pain medications timely (CNAs tell the nurse and it takes too long), he stated registry nurses and new nursing staff were hesitant to give too much narcotic medication (morphine) due to fear of overmedicating them and was not aware residents were receiving a lower incorrect dose for severe pain levels. DON stated no recent IDT team meetings have been held to discuss the varied issues of residents surrounding coordinating hospice care. DON stated Hospice was responsible for educating nurses. DON stated the changes in MD 1 who left June 2022, MD 2 picked up recently. DON stated Resident 57 was complicated and sometimes did not want to take some of her pain medications or changed her mind about her regimen. DON stated Resident 57 will go back and forth on what medications she wants. Resident 57 only wanted the liquid form of morphine or only Percocet, etc. DON just recently became aware that Resident 57 had trouble swallowing, so now Resident 57 will proceed to liquid medications.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 9:30 am, ADMIN explained the issues around implementing the hospice program at the facility, he stated accessibility to a medical director/physician coverage, new DON, the previous DON not effective, consistent IDT meetings, and communication amongst the facility nursing staff and hospice staff. ADMIN was aware back in April 2022, about the hospice management and pain issues for Resident 281, SSD informed him of the daughter's concerns, they did an in-service just surrounding this particular resident, it mainly focused on non-pharmacy interventions, not the pain medication administration and assessment, wrong medication issues, they did not address the entire program. ADMIN brought and met with hospice ag[TRUNCATED]
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0865
(Tag F0865)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure care and services met accepted standards of quality when the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) did not identify a...
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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure care and services met accepted standards of quality when the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) did not identify and correct quality deficiencies when:
1. Pain management and Hospice services were not coordinated and monitored to meet the needs of residents. Refer to F 697, F 726 and F 849.
2. Pharmacy services related to administration, labeling, and storage did not meet standards. Refer to F 755, F 759, F 880
3. Resident council complaints were unresolved. Refer to F 565
4. Ensure safe smoking practices in the facility. Refer to F 689
This failure resulted in substandard quality of care and had the potential to put all residents at risk for safety and decreased quality of care and life.
Findings:
A Review of the facility's policy, titled 2022 Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Plan, updated on 7/28/2022, showed:
- Guiding:
a. The organization uses quality assurance and performance improvement to make decisions and guide their day-to-day operations.
b. The outcome of QAPI in the organization is to improve the quality of care and the quality of life of the residents.
c. In this organization, QAPI includes all employees, all departments, and all services provided.
d. The organization makes decisions based on data, which includes the input and experience of caregivers, residents, health care practitioners, families, and other stakeholders.
- Scope: The scope of the QAPI program encompasses all segments of care and services provided by the facility that impact clinical care, quality of life, resident choice, and care transitions with participation from all departments.
a. Clinical Care Services: We provide comprehensive clinical care to resident with acute and chronic disease, rehabilitative needs, as well as end-of-life care. All care is resident-centered and focused around choice and individualized treatment plans.
b. Dietary: We provide nutrition's meals under the supervision of a licensed dietician. The facility considers resident choices and preferences by providing several options for meals and embrace open dinning hours.
c. Pharmacy Services: We provide supervision and collaborate with the medical and nursing team at the facility by reviewing, dispensing, and monitoring medication effectiveness to ensure therapeutic goals are maintained for each resident.
d. Plant Operations and Maintenance: We provide comprehensive building safety, repairs, and inspections to ensure all aspects of safety are enforced, assuring the safety and well-being for each resident, visitor, and staff who enters the building.
The facility's governing body is ultimately responsible for overseeing the QAPI Committee. The Administrator has direct oversight responsibility for all functions of the QAPI Committee and reports directly to the governing body. The QAPI Committee, which includes the medical director, is responsible for assuring compliance with federal and state requirements and continuous improvement in quality of care and customer satisfaction.
During a concurrent interview and QAA meeting minutes record review with Administrator (ADMIN) on 8/11/22 at 2 pm, stated that the members of QAA are ADMIN, Director of Nursing (DON), Medical Director (MD), and three others, typically are the heads of the department, such as Social Service Director (SSD), dietary - Registered Dietitian (RD), Director of Staff Development (DSD), Infection Preventionist (IP), Pharmacist, Medical Records, depends on what issues were identified and what needed to be discussed during the meeting. ADMIN stated that the meeting minutes showed call light answering issue was identified, and he explained that a plan to audit the call light issues was under development. There was no meeting minutes record indicating that the issues with Pain management and Hospice services, Pharmacy services, Dietary services, Resident Council and Unsafe smoking practices were ever been identified or discussed.
1. The staff did not coordinate and implement the person-centered hospice care plan and follow the physician orders that met the needs for four of four sampled Hospice (a special kind of care that focuses on the quality of life for people who are experiencing an advanced, life-limiting illness during last phases of incurable disease) residents (Residents 57, 58, 74 and 281) when Resident 281's pain level was not properly assessed. He was given wrong dosage, wrong pain medication for the wrong pain level. The staff did not follow the physician order to provide pain medication to Resident 58 when he was asking. The order indicated that Resident 58 could have pain medication every one hour, but the staff told him that it was for every four hours. Resident 74 was given incorrect dose of medication for severe pain, pain medications were administered late, and medications available for anxiety/cough were not given when symptoms present. Resident 57 pain management program was not adjusted when she reported it was ineffective, when her swallowing was declining, and medications were not available for administration.
During an interview on 8/11/22 at 10:15 am, DON confirmed he was responsible for the hospice clinical nursing coordination, recently added a Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) issue for late medication administration issues, had difficulty reaching some of the hospice nurses, they currently have 3 different contracts. DON confirmed when asked about the multiple entries on post pain medication assessments being a 0 for residents, he stated that was his error in instructing staff nurses to just put a 0 (no pain) when pain was under control after pain medication administration, not the actual pain level they report, to the nurse. Asked DON how does Nursing staff, Hospice nursing, and IDT evaluate the effectiveness of the pain medication if all entries are 0. DON stated there would be no way to know, the hospice medications are entered into the MAR as routine even though they are as needed and do not require a post assessment. DON stated his expectation would be a nursing progress note denoting post pain assessments. DON confirmed a problem with residents' getting pain medications timely (CNAs tell the nurse and it takes too long), he stated registry nurses and new nursing staff were hesitant to give too much narcotic medication (morphine) due to fear of overmedicating them and was not aware residents were receiving a lower incorrect dose for severe pain levels. DON stated no recent IDT team meetings have been held to discuss the varied issues of residents surrounding coordinating hospice care. DON stated Hospice was responsible for educating nurses. DON stated the changes in MD 1 who left June 2022, MD 2 picked up recently. DON stated Resident 57 was complicated and sometimes did not want to take some of her pain medications or changed her mind about her regimen. DON stated Resident 57 will go back and forth on what medications she wants. Resident 57 only wanted the liquid form of morphine or only Percocet, etc. DON just recently became aware that Resident 57 had trouble swallowing, so now Resident 57 will proceed to liquid medications.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 9:30 am, ADMIN explained the issues around implementing the hospice program at the facility, he stated accessibility to a medical director/physician coverage, new DON, the previous DON not effective, consistent IDT meetings, and communication amongst the facility nursing staff and hospice staff. ADMIN was aware back in April 2022, about the hospice management and pain issues for Resident 281, SSD informed him of the daughter's concerns, they did an in-service just surrounding this particular resident, it mainly focused on non-pharmacy interventions, not the pain medication administration and assessment, wrong medication issues, they did not address the entire program. ADMIN brought and met with hospice agencies to correct communication issues. Hospice coordination was not in QAPI. The last education provided by hospice was 12/2021, no education was provided to registry staff.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 10:45 am, SSD was asked about the issues with hospice care coordination and setting goals. SSD stated it was hard to coordinate hospice care when there was no consistent staff, issues with communication and competencies. SSD stated new nursing staff, short direct care staffing, registry staff, SSD informed the ADMIN of the family issue with Resident 281. SSD was listed as the instructor of the education about pain management, inquired if she was qualified to present, she indicated that the MDS nurse was present, not DON or DSD.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 12:20 pm, Medical Director (MD 2) explained the Hospice program goal was symptom management, if pain control was not attainable, hospitalize. MD 2 stated that MD 1 left on June 13-14, 2022, he was not aware that there were any problems with the hospice program related to implementing the plan of care. MD 2 confirmed he was late in getting his monthly assessments and notes in the system for the past couple of months due to transitioning medical directors. MD 2 stated the Hospice program was responsible for educating staff, inquired if he or DON could educate, yes of course, and agreed ultimately implementing the plan of care was the responsibility of the facility staff. MD 2 stated The nursing staff, and the Interdisciplinary care team should have provided me with a change of condition or issues surrounding pain or other symptom management.
2. Five medication errors out of 29 opportunities during medication administration observation, resulting in a medication error rate of 17.24 %. The facility's medication refrigerator temperatures logs had missing data for 3 months. Routine medications were not available for three residents. Failed to accurately dispose unused medications. Expired and unlabeled medications were found in medication cart.
3. Resident Council identified issues and concerns had not been addressed and resolved for the past four months when call lights being remained unanswered for an extended amount of time, nutritional needs not to be met (cold and bland food), preferences not honored and did not offer alternative with similar nutritive value. Residents felt their grievances were not listened and resolved.
During an interview with ADMIN on 08/10/2022 at 11:16 am, stated that he understood the need for better written communication between departments for issues that arise in Resident Council. ADMIN admitted that he was unaware of multiple problems with food (in reference to palatability, temperature). ADMIN stated that he did not see the official report of minutes and he was told by other staff of the issues that arose during Resident Council at morning stand up. Requested for call light audits several times, did not receive. ADMIN unaware of call lights being turned off and having such a long response time.
4. Two of eighteen smoking residents (Resident 74 and 49) admitted that they smoked on their patio and there were approximately thirty cigarettes found on the ground in the resident's patio in the bark under a tree approximately two feet away from dry brush.
During a concurrent observation and interview dated 8/8/22 at 1:35 PM, with the Director of Nursing (DON) and Administrator (ADMIN), both individuals stated they were unaware that this Resident 74 smoked; however, upon further investigation it was noted in social workers notes, care plans, assessments, and this individual's name was written on the smoking list provided by the facility. Both ADMIN and DON were shown the list provided by the facility of the smoking list and they were able to identify two out of eighteen residents that they were aware that smoked on their patio, an undesignated area, without staff or proper safety equipment present.
During an observation on 8/9/22, at 9:40 am, an empty pack of cigarettes was observed in a garbage can. The garbage can was against the building, directly in between Resident 49 and Resident 67's doors that lead to an adjoined patio area. The patio area that belongs to Resident 67 had dirty linen scattered on the ground and the area was cluttered with miscellaneous items including trash. Resident 67 had an overgrown garden area with wooden planks on the ground. This posed as a fire danger due to Resident 49 not having a receptacle to extinguish his cigarettes when smoking outside on the patio.
During an interview on 8/10/2022 at 11:43 AM, Administrator (ADMIN) stated the resident was spoken to in regard to smoking at designated gazebo area. Stated all residents are now out to the gazebo during arranged smoking times. Upon later observation during smoking schedule breaks, it was noted that Resident 74 was not participating in set smoke breaks.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
QAPI Program
(Tag F0867)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on interview and record review, the facility's Quality Assessment and Assurance (QAA) committee failed to develop and implement plans of action to correct identified facility issues related to:
...
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Based on interview and record review, the facility's Quality Assessment and Assurance (QAA) committee failed to develop and implement plans of action to correct identified facility issues related to:
1. Pain management and Hospice services were not coordinated and monitored to meet the needs of residents. Refer to F 697, F 726 and F 849.
2. Pharmacy services related to administration, labeling, and storage did not meet standards. Refer to F 755, F 759, F 880
3. Resident council complaints were unresolved. Refer to F 565
4. Ensure safe smoking practices in the facility. Refer to F 689
Findings:
A Review of the facility's policy, titled 2022 Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Plan, updated on 7/28/2022, showed:
a. QAPI Plan: The QAPI plan guides the facility's performance improvement efforts.
b. The QAPI team will review the sources of information to determine if gaps or patterns exist in the systems of care that could result in quality problems; or if there are opportunities to make improvements.
The facility's governing body is ultimately responsible for overseeing the QAPI Committee. The Administrator has direct oversight responsibility for all functions of the QAPI Committee and reports directly to the governing body. The QAPI Committee, which includes the medical director, is responsible for assuring compliance with federal and state requirements and continuous improvement in quality of care and customer satisfaction.
During a concurrent interview and QAA meeting minutes record review with Administrator (ADMIN) on 8/11/2022 at 2 pm, stated that the members of QAA are ADMIN, Director of Nursing (DON), Medical Director (MD), and three others, typically are the heads of the department, depends on what issues were identified and what needed to be discussed during the meeting. ADMIN stated that the meeting minutes showed call light answering issue was identified, and he explained that a plan to audit the call light issues was underdevelopment. There was no meeting minutes record indicated that the issues with Pain management and Hospice services, Pharmacy services, Dietary services, Resident Council and Unsafe smoking practices were ever been identified or discussed.
The staff did not coordinate and implement the person-centered hospice care plan and follow the physician orders that met the needs for four of four sampled Hospice (a special kind of care that focuses on the quality of life for people who are experiencing an advanced, life-limiting illness during last phases of incurable disease) residents (Residents 57, 58, 74 and 281) when Resident 281's pain level was not properly assessed. He was given wrong dosage, wrong pain medication for the wrong pain level. The staff did not follow the physician order to provide pain medication to Resident 58 when he was asking. The order indicated that Resident 58 could have pain medication every one hour, but the staff told him that it was for every four hours. Resident 74 was given incorrect dose of medication for severe pain, pain medications were administered late, and medications available for anxiety/cough were not given when symptoms present. Resident 57 pain management program was not adjusted when she reported it was ineffective, when her swallowing was declining, and medications were not available for administration.
During an interview on 8/11/22 at 10:15 am, DON confirmed he was responsible for the hospice clinical nursing coordination, recently added a Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) issue for late medication administration issues, had difficulty reaching some of the hospice nurses, they currently have 3 different contracts. DON confirmed when asked about the multiple entries on post pain medication assessments being a 0 for residents, he stated that was his error in instructing staff nurses to just put a 0 (no pain) when pain was under control after pain medication administration, not the actual pain level they report, to the nurse. Asked DON how does Nursing staff, Hospice nursing, and IDT evaluate the effectiveness of the pain medication if all entries are 0. DON stated there would be no way to know, the hospice medications are entered into the MAR as routine even though they are as needed and do not require a post assessment. DON stated his expectation would be a nursing progress note denoting post pain assessments. DON confirmed a problem with residents' getting pain medications timely (CNAs tell the nurse and it takes too long), he stated registry nurses and new nursing staff were hesitant to give too much narcotic medication (morphine) due to fear of overmedicating them and was not aware residents were receiving a lower incorrect dose for severe pain levels. DON stated no recent IDT team meetings have been held to discuss the varied issues of residents surrounding coordinating hospice care. DON stated Hospice was responsible for educating nurses. DON stated the changes in MD 1 who left June 2022, MD 2 picked up recently. DON stated Resident 57 was complicated and sometimes did not want to take some of her pain medications or changed her mind about her regimen. DON stated Resident 57 will go back and forth on what medications she wants. Resident 57 only wanted the liquid form of morphine or only Percocet, etc. DON just recently became aware that Resident 57 had trouble swallowing, so now Resident 57 will proceed to liquid medications.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 9:30 am, ADMIN explained the issues around implementing the hospice program at the facility, he stated accessibility to a medical director/physician coverage, new DON, the previous DON not effective, consistent IDT meetings, and communication amongst the facility nursing staff and hospice staff. ADMIN was aware back in April 2022, about the hospice management and pain issues for Resident 281, SSD informed him of the daughter's concerns, they did an in-service just surrounding this particular resident, it mainly focused on non-pharmacy interventions, not the pain medication administration and assessment, wrong medication issues, they did not address the entire program. ADMIN brought and met with hospice agencies to correct communication issues. Hospice coordination was not in QAPI. The last education provided by hospice was 12/2021, no education was provided to registry staff.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 10:45 am, SSD was asked about the issues with hospice care coordination and setting goals. SSD stated it was hard to coordinate hospice care when there was no consistent staff, issues with communication and competencies. SSD stated new nursing staff, short direct care staffing, registry staff, SSD informed the ADMIN of the family issue with Resident 281. SSD was listed as the instructor of the education about pain management, inquired if she was qualified to present, she indicated that the MDS nurse was present, not DON or DSD.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 12:20 pm, Medical Director (MD 2) explained the Hospice program goal was symptom management, if pain control was not attainable, hospitalize. MD 2 stated that MD 1 left on June 13-14, 2022, he was not aware that there were any problems with the hospice program related to implementing the plan of care. MD 2 confirmed he was late in getting his monthly assessments and notes in the system for the past couple of months due to transitioning medical directors. MD 2 stated the Hospice program was responsible for educating staff, inquired if he or DON could educate, yes of course, and agreed ultimately implementing the plan of care was the responsibility of the facility staff. MD 2 stated The nursing staff, and the Interdisciplinary care team should have provided me with a change of condition or issues surrounding pain or other symptom management.
2. Five medication errors out of 29 opportunities during medication administration observation, resulting in a medication error rate of 17.24 %. The facility's medication refrigerator temperatures logs had missing data for 3 months. Routine medications were not available for three residents. Failed to accurately dispose unused medications. Expired and unlabeled medications were found in medication cart.
3. Resident Council identified issues and concerns had not been addressed and resolved for the past four months when call lights being remained unanswered for an extended amount of time, nutritional needs not to be met (cold and bland food), preferences not honored and did not offer alternative with similar nutritive value. Residents felt their grievances were not listened and resolved.
During an interview with ADMIN on 08/10/2022 at 11:16 am, stated that he understood the need for better written communication between departments for issues that arise in Resident Council. ADMIN admitted that he was unaware of multiple problems with food (in reference to palatability, temperature). ADMIN stated that he did not see the official report of minutes and he was told by other staff of the issues that arose during Resident Council at morning stand up. Requested for call light audits several times, did not receive. ADMIN unaware of call lights being turned off and having such a long response time.
4. Two of eighteen smoking residents (Resident 74 and 49) admitted that they smoked on their patio and there were approximately thirty cigarettes found on the ground in the resident's patio in the bark under a tree approximately two feet away from dry brush.
During a concurrent observation and interview dated 8/8/22 at 1:35 PM, with the Director of Nursing (DON) and Administrator (ADMIN), both individuals stated they were unaware that this Resident 74 smoked; however, upon further investigation it was noted in social workers notes, care plans, assessments, and this individual's name was written on the smoking list provided by the facility. Both ADMIN and DON were shown the list provided by the facility of the smoking list and they were able to identify two out of eighteen residents that they were aware that smoked on their patio, an undesignated area, without staff or proper safety equipment present.
During an observation on 8/9/22, at 9:40 am, an empty pack of cigarettes was observed in a garbage can. The garbage can was against the building, directly in between Resident 49 and Resident 67's doors that lead to an adjoined patio area. The patio area that belongs to Resident 67 had dirty linen scattered on the ground and the area was cluttered with miscellaneous items including trash. Resident 67 had an overgrown garden area with wooden planks on the ground. This posed as a fire danger due to Resident 49 not having a receptacle to extinguish his cigarettes when smoking outside on the patio.
During an interview on 8/10/2022 at 11:43 AM, Administrator (ADMIN) stated the resident was spoken to in regard to smoking at designated gazebo area. Stated all residents are now out to the gazebo during arranged smoking times. Upon later observation during smoking schedule breaks, it was noted that Resident 74 was not participating in set smoke breaks.
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 observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide consistent administrative oversight to ensure the residents received the care and services to meet their needs when:
...
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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide consistent administrative oversight to ensure the residents received the care and services to meet their needs when:
1. Pain management and Hospice services were not coordinated and monitored to meet the needs of residents. Refer to F 697, F 726 and F 849.
2. Pharmacy services related to administration, labeling, and storage did not meet standards. Refer to F 755, F 759, F 880
3. Resident council complaints were unresolved. Refer to F 565
4. Ensure safe smoking practices in the facility. Refer to F 689
Findings:
A review of the facility's job description, titled Administrator, revised on 3/1/2014, indicated:
a. The Administrator (ADMIN) assumes full-time administrative authority, responsibility and accountability for the operations and for the financial viability of the nursing facility. Manages facility employees in the provision of care and services rendered in accordance with professional standards, and in compliance with county, state and federal laws and regulations, as applicable. Collaborates with consultants, contractors, referring physicians, facility resources, government agencies and advocacy groups. Implements operational and financial objectives of the Government Body and allocates resources in an efficient and economical manner to attain or maintain the highest practicable physical, mental and psychosocial well-being of each resident.
b. The essential job functions:
- Oversee daily facility operations and coordinates departmental organization, management and resource, allocation to provide care and services to residents and meet organizational objectives for revenue and growth.
- Communicate directly with residents, families, medical staff, nursing staff, interdisciplinary team members and Department Heads to coordinate care and services, improve organization and implementation of plans of care, to maintain quality of care, quality of life and a homelike environment for all residents.
- Ability to apply standards of professional practice to operations of nursing facility and to establish criteria to assure that care provided meets established standards of quality. Able to foster interdisciplinary cooperation and coordination of quality assurance and quality improvements goals.
- Carry out all duties in accordance with facility/home office policy and procedure.
1. A review of the facility's police, titled Pain Assessment and Management, revised in 3/2015, indicated The purposes of this procedure are to help the staff identify pain in the resident, and to develop interventions that are consistent with the resident's goals and needs and that address the underlying causes of pain. The guidelines also indicated that The pain management program is based on a facility-wide commitment to resident comfort. The monitoring and modifying approaches indicated that .If pain has not been adequately controlled, the multidisciplinary team, including the physician, shall reconsider approaches and make adjustments as indicated
A review of the facility's policy, titled Hospice Program, revised in 7/2017, indicated In general, it is the responsibility of the facility to meet the residents' personal care and nursing needs in coordination with the hospice representative, and ensure that the level of care provided is appropriately based on the individual resident's needs. The policy also indicated that a member of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT, team members include Administrator, Director of Nursing, Social Services Director, Medical Director, etc.) with clinical and assessment skills who is operating within the State scope of practice. He or She is responsible for the following:
a. Collaborating with hospice representatives and coordinating facility staff participation in the hospice care planning process for residents receiving these services.
b. Communicating with hospice representatives and other healthcare providers participating in the provision of care for the terminal illness, related conditions, and other conditions, to ensure quality of care for the resident and family.
c. Ensuring that the Long-Term Care facility communicates with the hospices medical director, the resident's attending physician, and other practitioners participating in the provision of care to the resident as needed to coordinate the hospice care with the medical care provided by other physicians.
The staff did not coordinate and implement the person-centered hospice care plan and follow the physician orders that met the needs for four of four sampled Hospice (a special kind of care that focuses on the quality of life for people who are experiencing an advanced, life-limiting illness during last phases of incurable disease) residents (Residents 57, 58, 74 and 281) when Resident 281's pain level was not properly assessed. He was given wrong dosage, wrong pain medication for the wrong pain level. The staff did not follow the physician order to provide pain medication to Resident 58 when he was asking. The order indicated that Resident 58 could have pain medication every one hour, but the staff told him that it was for every four hours. Resident 74 was given incorrect dose of medication for severe pain, pain medications were administered late, and medications available for anxiety/cough were not given when symptoms present. Resident 57 pain management program was not adjusted when she reported it was ineffective, when her swallowing was declining, and medications were not available for administration.
During an interview on 8/18/22 at 9:30 am, ADMIN explained the issues around implementing the hospice program at the facility, he stated accessibility to a medical director/physician coverage, new DON, the previous DON not effective, consistent IDT meetings, and communication amongst the facility nursing staff and hospice staff. ADMIN was aware back in April 2022, about the hospice management and pain issues for Resident 281, SSD informed him of the daughter's concerns, they did an in-service just surrounding this particular resident, it mainly focused on non-pharmacy interventions, not the pain medication administration and assessment, wrong medication issues, they did not address the entire program. ADMIN brought and met with hospice agencies to correct communication issues. Hospice coordination was not in QAPI. The last education provided by hospice was 12/2021, no education was provided to registry staff.
2. Five medication errors out of 29 opportunities during medication administration observation, resulting in a medication error rate of 17.24 %. The facility's medication refrigerator temperatures logs had missing data for 3 months. Routine medications were not available for three residents. Failed to accurately dispose unused medications. Expired and unlabeled medications were found in medication cart.
3. Resident Council identified issues and concerns had not been addressed and resolved for the past four months when call lights being remained unanswered for an extended amount of time, nutritional needs not to be met (cold and bland food), preferences not honored and did not offer alternative with similar nutritive value. Residents felt their grievances were not listened and resolved.
During an interview with ADMIN on 08/10/2022 at 11:16 am, stated that he understood the need for better written communication between departments for issues that arise in Resident Council. ADMIN admitted that he was unaware of multiple problems with food (in reference to palatability, temperature). ADMIN stated that he did not see the official report of minutes and he was told by other staff of the issues that arose during Resident Council at morning stand up. Requested for call light audits several times, did not receive. ADMIN unaware of call lights being turned off and having such a long response time.
4. Two of eighteen smoking residents (Resident 74 and 49) admitted that they smoked on their patio and there were approximately thirty cigarettes found on the ground in the resident's patio in the bark under a tree approximately two feet away from dry brush.
During a concurrent observation and interview dated 8/8/22 at 1:35 PM, with the Director of Nursing (DON) and Administrator (ADMIN), both individuals stated they were unaware that this Resident 74 smoked; however, upon further investigation it was noted in social workers notes, care plans, assessments, and this individual's name was written on the smoking list provided by the facility. Both ADMIN and DON were shown the list provided by the facility of the smoking list and they were able to identify two out of eighteen residents that they were aware that smoked on their patio, an undesignated area, without staff or proper safety equipment present.
During an observation on 8/9/22, at 9:40 am, an empty pack of cigarettes was observed in a garbage can. The garbage can was against the building, directly in between Resident 49 and Resident 67's doors that lead to an adjoined patio area. The patio area that belongs to Resident 67 had dirty linen scattered on the ground and the area was cluttered with miscellaneous items including trash. Resident 67 had an overgrown garden area with wooden planks on the ground. This posed as a fire danger due to Resident 49 not having a receptacle to extinguish his cigarettes when smoking outside on the patio.
During an interview on 8/10/2022 at 11:43 AM, Administrator (ADMIN) stated the resident was spoken to in regard to smoking at designated gazebo area. Stated all residents are now out to the gazebo during arranged smoking times. Upon later observation during smoking schedule breaks, it was noted that Resident 74 was not participating in set smoke breaks.