UKIAH POST ACUTE

1349 SOUTH DORA ST., UKIAH, CA 95482 (707) 462-8864
For profit - Limited Liability company 57 Beds THE ENSIGN GROUP Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
15/100
#1142 of 1155 in CA
Last Inspection: January 2025

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

Overview

Ukiah Post Acute has received a Trust Grade of F, indicating significant concerns about the quality of care provided. With a state ranking of #1142 out of 1155, they are in the bottom half of California facilities, and they rank last in Mendocino County. The facility is worsening, with the number of reported issues increasing sharply from 1 in 2024 to 12 in 2025. Staffing is below average, rated at 2 out of 5 stars, and the turnover rate of 53% is concerning, significantly higher than the state average. Notably, the facility has incurred $64,635 in fines, which is a red flag, as it is higher than 92% of California facilities. While the quality measures score is relatively good at 4 out of 5 stars, there are serious issues regarding resident care. For example, one resident developed a severe pressure injury due to a lack of proper skin assessments, while another resident experienced unrelieved pain from a foot ulcer and deep vein thrombosis. Additionally, the facility failed to provide adequate supervision for residents, leading to repeated falls and injuries. Overall, families should carefully consider these strengths and weaknesses when researching this nursing home.

Trust Score
F
15/100
In California
#1142/1155
Bottom 2%
Safety Record
High Risk
Review needed
Inspections
Getting Worse
1 → 12 violations
Staff Stability
⚠ Watch
53% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
Penalties
✓ Good
$64,635 in fines. Lower than most California facilities. Relatively clean record.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 12 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for California. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
⚠ Watch
47 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★☆☆☆☆
1.0
Overall Rating
★★☆☆☆
2.0
Staff Levels
★★★★☆
4.0
Care Quality
★☆☆☆☆
1.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2024: 1 issues
2025: 12 issues

The Good

  • 4-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record

Facility shows strength in quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

1-Star Overall Rating

Below California average (3.1)

Significant quality concerns identified by CMS

Staff Turnover: 53%

Near California avg (46%)

Higher turnover may affect care consistency

Federal Fines: $64,635

Above median ($33,413)

Moderate penalties - review what triggered them

Chain: THE ENSIGN GROUP

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 47 deficiencies on record

3 actual harm
Mar 2025 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

ADL Care (Tag F0677)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to provide scheduled showers for one resident (Resident 1) of three sampled residents when Resident 1 received one shower or bed bath of nine ...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to provide scheduled showers for one resident (Resident 1) of three sampled residents when Resident 1 received one shower or bed bath of nine scheduled opportunities while in the facility. This failure increased the potential for delayed wound healing of Resident 1's wounds due to poor personal hygiene (the practice of maintaining cleanliness of the body to promote comfort, health, and well-being). Findings: A review of Resident 1's face sheet indicated Resident 1 was admitted to the facility in January 2025 with diagnoses including fracture of right femur (bone in upper part of leg), orthopedic (related to bones or muscles) aftercare, contusion (bruise) of scalp, pain in right knee, presence of right artificial knee joint, weakness, and need for assistance with personal care. A review of Resident 1's Minimum Data Set (MDS– a federally mandated resident assessment tool) Section GG – Functional Abilities, dated January 11, 2025, indicated Resident 1 was fully dependent (staff does all of the effort and resident does none of the effort to complete the activity) for showering/ bathing and personal hygiene. A review of Resident 1's care plan dated 1/6/25, indicated, has actual impairment to skin integrity related to surgical wound . ADL [Activities of Daily Living] self-care performance deficit related to weakness, impaired balance, pain, and poor endurance .[Interventions included] .requires one staff participation with bathing. During an interview on 3/25/25 at 4:25 p.m., Resident 1 stated he received only one shower during his six weeks in the facility. Resident 1 stated he did not receive any bed baths during that time. During a concurrent interview and record review on 3/27/25 at 10:50 a.m., Certified Nurse Assistance (CNA) A stated a binder which stored resident shower sheets (documentation of skin assessments and shower/bed bath refusals) was located at each nurse station. A review of the shower schedule, located at the nurse station in a binder, indicated each resident was scheduled for a shower twice per week. CNA A stated residents received a shower at least twice per week unless they requested a third shower day. During an interview on 3/27/25 at 3:05 p.m., the Medical Records Director (MRD) stated she was unable to locate any shower sheets for Resident 1. During a concurrent interview and record review on 3/27/25 at 3:40 p.m., the MRD stated a facility record titled ADL indicated what type of bathing was completed for Resident 1 from 1/6/25 through 2/7/25. The ADL record indicated Resident 1 received a shower on 1/12/25, refused a bath on 1/17/25, 2/4/25, and 2/7/25, and was unavailable for bath on 1/21/25 and 2/7/25. The ADL record indicated Resident 1 was scheduled to receive a shower/bath on Tuesdays and Fridays. The ADL record indicated NA (Not Applicable) for Resident 1's scheduled shower dates of: 1/7/25, 1/10/25, 1/14/25, 1/24/25, 1/28/25, and 1/31/25. During a concurrent interview and record review on 3/27/25 at 3:45 p.m., CNA B confirmed the document titled, ADL indicated Resident 1 was given one shower on 1/12/25, refused bathing on 1/17/25, 2/4/25, and 2/7/25 in the morning, and was unavailable for bathing on 1/21/25 and 2/7/25 in the afternoon. CNA B stated he charted NA if it was not an assigned resident's shower day, or they were unavailable for a shower. CNA B reviewed the abbreviations used for the ADL sheet and indicated the following were used when CNAs charted what type of bathing activity was completed: SH for a shower given, FB for a full body bath, SB for sponge bath, RU for resident unavailable, RR for resident refused, and NA for not applicable. The charting on the ADL document included only the abbreviations for the bathing type completed and did not include any details. During a concurrent interview and record review on 3/27/25 at 4:30 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) verified the document titled, ADL indicated Resident 1 was given one shower on 1/12/25, refused bathing on 1/17/25, 2/4/25, and 2/7/25 in the morning, and was unavailable for bathing on 1/21/25 and 2/7/25 in the afternoon. During a concurrent interview and record review on 4/7/25 at 1:43 p.m., the Director of Staff Development (DSD) stated the residents in the facility were scheduled to receive showers at least two times per week. Residents could have requested more showers, but the minimum had been two times per week. The DSD stated the facility had a policy and procedure for baths and showers, but it did not indicate the frequency of baths or showers. The DSD stated the scheduling of twice per week bathing was a standard of care at the facility. The DSD also stated cleanliness was very important for wound healing.
Jan 2025 11 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0554 (Tag F0554)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interviews and record reviews, the facility allowed one out of two sampled residents (Resident 11) to self-administer medications without the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT, a colla...

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Based on observation, interviews and record reviews, the facility allowed one out of two sampled residents (Resident 11) to self-administer medications without the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT, a collaborative approach that combines data, techniques, and perspectives from multiple disciplines) determining if self-administration was clinically appropriate for Resident 11. This failure was a safety issue which could lead to dosing errors and ineffective symptom management. Findings: A review of Resident 11s face sheet (demographics) indicated an admission date of 10/25/24 with a diagnoses of Weakness, Hypertension (HTN, high blood pressure) and Hyperlipidemia (HLP, high levels of fat particles (lipids) in the blood. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 10:36 a.m., there was a medicine cup with 4 ½ tablets noted on top of Resident 11's overbed table. Resident 11 stated the morning nurse left it there. Resident 11 could not recall the name of the pills but knew one of them was tramadol (opioid analgesic and had high potential for misuse and abuse). Resident 11 stated nurses occasionally would leave medications at her bedside and allowed her to self-administer her medications. Resident 11 stated staff did not perform any assessments to determine whether it was safe and appropriate for her to self-administer her medications. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 11:21 a.m., when shown a photograph of the medication cup containing 4 ½ tablets on top of Resident 11s overbed table, Registered Nurse (RN) I verified these medications were Resident 11s medications and the 1/2 pill was tramadol. RN I stated she could not recall why the medications were left at Resident 11s overbed table. RN I stated leaving medications at bedside should not happen and was a safety issue as other residents may accidentally take the medications, residents may not take the medications and could end up having pain. RN I could not recall whether an assessment was done to check if Resident 11 was safe to self-administer her medications. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 12:07 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) stated medications should not be left at bedside if they did not have an order and if they did not have an assessment indicating they were safe to self-administer their medications. The DON stated leaving medications at bedside was a safety issue and could lead to other residents accidentally ingesting medications not meant for them. During an interview on 1/24/25 at 9:10 a.m., the DON verified there were no assessment done to determine if Resident 11 was safe to self-administer her medications. The DON verified there were no IDT assessment or progress note that would indicate Resident 11 was assessed for safety and appropriateness to self-administer her medications. A review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Self-Administration of Medication, revised 8/2024, the P&P indicated .if a resident desires to participate in self administration, the IDT will assess and periodically re-evaluate the resident based on change in resident status .
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0761 (Tag F0761)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure: 1. the opthalmic (eye) suspension medication of one out of two sampled residents (Resident 4) was labeled properly w...

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Based on observation, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure: 1. the opthalmic (eye) suspension medication of one out of two sampled residents (Resident 4) was labeled properly when the physician's order had changed. 2. the discontinued level II-V medications (drugs with a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence) were stored in a permanently affixed compartment prior to destruction. These failures had the potential to cause medication errors and/or lead to drug diversion. 1. Findings: A review of Resident 4s face sheet (demographics) indicated an admission date of 3/17/23 with a diagnoses of Low Back Pain and Weakness. A review of Resident 4s Physician Order Summary (POS, a written physician order/instruction for staff to follow) indicated an order of ophthalmic (eye) suspension 1 percent (%, one part in every hundred) instill 1 drop (gtt) in left eye two times a day dated 1/20/25 for herpes viral keratitis (infection of the eye caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 9:38 a.m., Registered Nurse (RN) I confirmed the label on the ophthalmic suspension 1% indicated to instill 1 gtt on left eye three times daily. RN I stated this label was inaccurate since the order was changed to instill 1 gtt in left eye two times daily with a start date on 1/21/25. RN I confirmed the label for the ophthalmic suspension 1% was incorrect. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 11:21 a.m., RN I stated the medication orders in the POS, electronic medication administration record (EMAR, digital version of the traditional paper medication administration records) and the medication label should all match to prevent confusion and medication error. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 12:00 p.m., the Infection Preventionist (IP) stated labels on medications including instructions should match what was on EMAR and POS to ensure safe medication administration, to ensure right dose was being administered to the resident and to prevent medication error. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 12:06 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) stated medication labels should match the POS and EMAR to prevent medication error and to ensure residents were receiving the correct medication and dose. A review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Medication Ordering and Receiving From Pharmacy updated 9/2019, the P&P indicated .only the dispensing pharmacy /registered pharmacist can modify, change or attach prescription labels .if the physician's directions for use have changed, the nurse may place change of order- check chart label on the container indicating there is a change in directions for use. 2. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/23/25 at 8:34 p.m. it was noted the discontinued controlled drugs/narcotics were stored in a safe not permanently affixed to a compartment. The Director of Nursing (DON) verified the discontinued controlled drugs were kept in this safe. The DON confirmed the safe was not in a permanently affixed compartment. A review of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1976 indicated the facility must provide separately locked, permanently affixed compartments for storage of controlled drugs listed in Schedule II and other drugs subject to abuse.
CONCERN (E)

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

Resident Rights (Tag F0550)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to promote resident respect and dignity when three out of eight residents (Resident 36, 10 and 154) were served their lunch trays...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to promote resident respect and dignity when three out of eight residents (Resident 36, 10 and 154) were served their lunch trays late when others in the dining room were already eating. This failure had the potential to impact the three residents' self-esteem and self-worth. Findings: During an observation on 1/21/25 at 10:00 a.m., a posted sign at the nursing station 2 read the lunch meal would be served at 11:30 a.m. daily. The sign indicated dining room was first served. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 11:30 a.m., eight residents were seated at three different tables in the dining room. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 11:49 a.m., a food cart arrived in the dining room. Five residents seated at different tables were served and started eating. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 12:07 p.m., a second food cart arrived in the dining room. The remaining three residents were served. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 12:09 p.m., Resident 36 indicated she frequently had to wait because meals were not served at the same time in the dining room. Resident 36 stated it bothered her and made her sad to wait and watch others eat. During a record review of policy Meal Service dated 2023 indicated All residents at the same table should be served at the same time. During a record review of Resident Council Meeting Minutes dated 7/17/24, three residents voicing concern over trays being delivered at very different times.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure medications were administered timely for three out of three sampled residents (Residents 11, 32 and 45). This failure put Resident...

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Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure medications were administered timely for three out of three sampled residents (Residents 11, 32 and 45). This failure put Residents 11, 32 and 45 at significantly increased risk of worsened health condition, untreated symptom, and complications from untreated symptoms. Findings: A review of Resident 11s face sheet indicated an admission date of 10/25/24 with a diagnoses of Weakness, Hypertension (HTN, high blood pressure) and Hyperlipidemia (HLP, high levels of fat particles (lipids) in the blood. Resident 11s BIMS dated 11/19/24 score was 15 indicating intact cognition. A review of Resident 11s MAAR indicated 2 medications were administered late on 1/19/25: Insulin injection scheduled time was 6:30 a.m. and was not administered until 8:15 a.m. and Insulin injection scheduled time was 4:30 p.m. and was not administered until 5:41 p.m., A review of Resident 11s MAAR indicated at least 2 medications were administered late on 1/21/24: Vasoconstrictor scheduled time was 6:30 a.m. and was not administered until 08:25 a.m., and Insulin injection scheduled time was 6:30 a.m. and was not administered until 8:19 a.m. A review of Resident 32s face sheet indicated an admission date of 8/17/23 with a diagnoses of Weakness, HTN, and HLP. Resident 32s BIMS dated 11/7/24 score was 15 indicating intact cognition. A review of Resident 32s MAAR indicated 2 medications were administered late on 12/6/24: 2 antidiabetic medications were scheduled at 7:00 a.m. but was not administered until 8:07 a.m. A review of Resident 45s face sheet indicated an admission date of 12/23/24 with a diagnoses of Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), Insomnia (a sleep disorder where a person have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both). Resident 45s BIMS dated 12/30/24 score was 12 indicating moderately impaired cognition. A review of Resident 45s MAAR indicated at least 8 medications were administered late on 1/19/25: Insulin injection scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. and was not administered until 12:10 p.m., 2 Antihypertensive medication scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. 1 was not administered until 12:16 p.m. and the other was not administered until 12:17 p.m., Antiarrhythmic medications (used to treat abnormal heart beats) medication scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. and was not administered until 12:16 p.m., Blood thinner medication scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. and was not administered until 12:16 p.m., water pill medication scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. and was not administered until 12:16 p.m., The afternoon medications potassium supplement scheduled time was 4:00 p.m. and was not administered until 6:41 p.m., Antihypertensive medication scheduled time was 4:00 p.m. and was not administered until 6:41 p.m., A review of Resident 45s MAAR indicated at least 6 medications were administered late on 1/20/25: 2 Antihypertensive medication scheduled time was 8:00 p.m. and was not administered until 9:48 a.m. and 9:49 a.m., water pill medication scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. and was not administered until 9:49 a.m., Potassium supplement scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. and was not administered until 9:46 a.m., blood thinner scheduled time was 8:00 p.m. and was not administered until 9:49 a.m., Antiarrhythmic medication scheduled time was 8:00 a.m. and was not administered until 9:49 a.m., During an interview on 11/23/25 at 10:15 a.m., Resident 45 stated staff were usually late in administering her medications. Resident 45 stated she wished staff were more cognizant of giving her medications timely. During an interview on 1/22/25 10:36 a.m., Resident 11 stated staff would give her medications late most of the time. Resident 11 stated it was important for her to receive her medications timely. During a concurrent interview and Residents 11, 32 and 45s MAAR record review on 1/23/25 at 2:14 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) verified there were medications that were administered late for Resident 11 on 1/19/25 and 1/21/25, Resident 32 on 12/6/24 and Resident 45 on 1/19/25 and 1/20/25. The DON stated it was important to follow the physician's orders and to administer medications on time to prevent medication errors and for residents' safety. The DON stated to consider a medication was administered timely, a medication should be given within 1 hour before and 1 hour after the scheduled time. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 2:10 p.m., Licensed Nurse (LN) K stated, in order for a medication to be administered timely, the medications should be administered 1 hour before up to 1 after the scheduled time. LN K stated it was important to follow this time frame because it was a physician's order and for residents' safety. LN K also stated giving the medications timely reduced the risk of error in drug administration. A review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Medication Administration-Oral, revised 11/2019, the P&P indicated . the purpose was to ensure safe, accurate, and effective administration of medication while maintaining compliance with state, federal including California Department of Health guidelines .no medication is to be administered without a physician's written order .Accurate and timely administration according to MD (physician) order is essential. California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CANHR), published on 10/24/22 indicating the time frame for medication administration. It stated A drug, whether prescribed on a routine, emergency, or as needed basis, must be provided in a timely manner. Doses shall be administered within one hour of the prescribed time unless otherwise indicated by the prescriber. https://canhr.org/nursing-home-care-standards/#
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0802 (Tag F0802)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure sufficient and competent staff were scheduled to carry out the functions of the food and nutrition service safely when: ...

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Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure sufficient and competent staff were scheduled to carry out the functions of the food and nutrition service safely when: 1. Two staff members worked tray line affecting timeliness of meal delivery. 2. One dietary aide (DA B) could not verbalize or demonstrate proper method to check sanitizing solution. 3. Presentation of pureed food was not appetizing. Findings: 1. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 10:00 a.m., a posted sign at the nursing station 2 read: breakfast served at 7:30 a.m., lunch at 11:30 a.m. and dinner at 5:30 p.m. daily. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 11:49 a.m., a food cart arrived in the dining room. Five residents seated at different tables were served and started eating. The second cart arrived at 12:07 p.m. During an observation on 1/22/25 at 12:11 p.m., the lunch food cart was delivered to nursing station 2. During an observation on 1/22/25 at 7:15 a.m., breakfast trayline was in progress. [NAME] (CK) C plated entrees and sides while Dietary Aide (DA) B placed drinks, condiments, extra items and silverware on tray. During an observation on 1/23/25,dietary leadership assisting with the following tasks: At 10:28 a.m., Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS) held strainer for CK 3 allowing meat juice to be strained. At 10:32 a.m., Registered Dietitian (RD) retrieved an ivory scoop for CK 3. At 10:57 a.m., RD washed Robo Coupe bowl for CK 3. At 11:03 a.m., DSS placed rice and beans in oven. At 11:10 a.m., RD washed blender. At 11:23 a.m., DSS made gravy on stovetop from strained meat juices. RD washed teal scoop. At 11:46 a.m., DSS plated Caeser Salad during trayline. RD replaced sanitizer bucket. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 2:58 p.m., CK B stated there are normally only 2 dietary personnel to plate all meals with no additional help from dietary leadership. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 3:01 p.m., RD confirmed there are normally only 2 people on trayline for all meals. She stated she is not normally the runner or helper during trayline. During a record review of a document titled Trayline Setup Procedure: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner dated 2023, a diagram depicts 4 dietary staff for trayline. 2. During a record review of document titled Verification of Job Competency dated August 2024, DA B was granted competency of Sanitizing Solution; test concentration and record results; when to replace solution by demonstration and verbalization. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 8:50 a.m., Dietary Aide (DA) B stated the cleaning procedure in the kitchen consisted of washing, rinsing and sanitizing. DA B then demonstrated testing of sanitizer solution. DA B held the strip for four seconds, when RD corrected DA B by stating to hold the strip for 10 seconds. DA B repeated the demonstration a second time with a new testing strip, holding it in the sanitizer solution for 7 seconds. DA B was unable to verbalize proper test result range of strip or demonstrate proper testing method of sanitizer solution despite showing competency on his job competency checklist. During a record review of document titled Job Description: Dietary Aide dated 2023, a duty and responsibility of the DA is cleaning as assigned on cleaning schedule. During a record review of document titled AM Dietary Aide, undated, a posted sign in the kitchen indicates at 5:30 a.m., the dietary aide is assigned to prepare the quat bucket, use the quat strip to test the ppm. During a record review of the Food and Nutrition Department Cleaning Schedule (undated), sanitizing the tray carts had been assigned to dietary aide. During a document review from Ecolab titled Oasis 146 Multi-Quat Sanitizer dated 2016 indicated the testing strip is to be held in the sanitizer solution for 10 seconds. Result range for testing solution should be between 150-400 ppm. 3. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 9:47 a.m., in the kitchen, CK C pureed Caeser salad. Excess dressing added to the mixture resulted in a runny texture. CK C added croutons and stated he would check before serving the salad to ensure proper consistency. Pureed Caeser salad was not rechecked prior to trayline start. The texture was observed to be not fully formed. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 10:50 a.m., CK C pureed carrots with parsley by adding ¾ cup warmed milk. The texture was observed to be not fully formed. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 11:05 a.m., CK C pureed rice and beans, then added ½ cup warm milk. The texture was observed to be not fully formed. CK C stated that Rice is tricky. It looks right but then it seizes up when it sits. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 12:15 p.m., the pureed test tray was inspected. Pureed rice & beans and pureed carrots spread across plate due to thin consistency. During a record review of a document titled Regular Pureed Diet/IDDSI Level #4, dated 2024 indicated the texture of pureed food items should .hold their shape .and should not weep.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0806 (Tag F0806)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to accommodate resident food preferences or offer snacks to seven of 46 residents (Resident 154, Resident 36, Resident 1, Resident...

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Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to accommodate resident food preferences or offer snacks to seven of 46 residents (Resident 154, Resident 36, Resident 1, Resident 3, Resident 27, Resident 11, Resident 29), when alternate menu items were continuously repeated, and snacks were not offered to all residents in the facility. This failure had the potential for residents in the facility to experience weight loss and become malnourished. Findings: During an interview with Resident 154, on 1/21/25 at 3:54 p.m., Resident 154 stated the food at the facility was not very good. She stated substitutions were limited to cheese based options that did not taste good and was served cold. She stated too much cheese created a constipation problem. She stated she was not offered snacks ever. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 8:21 a.m., Resident 154 and Resident 36 stated they were not offered snacks last night. Resident 36 stated the facility had never offered bedtime snacks. During an observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 8:24 a.m., Certified Nurses Aid (CNA) N was observed to exit Resident 1's room with a breakfast tray that indicated the resident had not eaten anything. He stated Resident 1 had told him the breakfast was cold and tough. He stated he did not ask her if she wanted a substitute breakfast tray or if she wanted him to heat it up for her. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 8:39 a.m., Resident 3 stated he was not offered snacks last night. He stated the staff do not provide bedtime snacks. He stated staff have never asked him if he wanted a meal substitution if he did not like something. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 9:09 a.m., Certified Nurse Assistant N stated Resident 27 had refused her breakfast and did not eat anything. He stated he did not offer her another breakfast substitution. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 11:50 a.m., in resident's room, Resident 11 stated that she wants snacks but does not like what they send her, because it is normally a half sandwich. She stated she dislikes sandwiches. She would like to have raw vegetables with hummus for a snack. She stated she often does not like the meat served for meals because it is often dry and tough. The alternate menu for meals is never different, always sandwiches. She stated that she is hungry all the time, and that the facility does not give them very much to eat. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 9:10 a.m.,Resident 29 stated last night the nurse promised her a bag of chips but she never got it. She stated she was mad because they never offer snacks before bed. She stated she was really excited about the snack of chips and then mad because she never got them. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 2:33 p.m., Registered Nurse (RN) I stated that resident snacks come out in between meals. Snacks consists of half sandwiches, juices, cheese and crackers. All snacks come out from the kitchen with a name label. She stated that nursing staff do not go around and offer snacks to resident and that they can request to be placed on a snack list through the kitchen. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 2:35 p.m., the Registered Dietitian (RD) stated that upon admission the resident can request to have snacks ,choose what they want to eat, and they can update as needed. Residents who wish to change their snack or wish to begin receiving a snack would tell their CNA, Nurse or contact the RD. During a record review of the Meal Service Alternatives choices for Spring 2024, Summer 2024 and Fall 2024, a grilled cheese sandwich (or ungrilled) is offered on each menu. Fall 2024 has 2 sandwich options: grilled cheese or turkey. Winter 2024-2025 has 2 sandwich options: grilled ham and cheese or tuna salad. During a record review of responses to facility document Resident Council, an email, dated 6/24/24, was sent to RD stating that residents are requesting more drinks and snacks to the day room. Record review of Resident Council meeting minutes dated 9/20/24 , indicated they would like to switch alternating meals. Minutes from 10/15/24 indicate that residents would like to add resident choice meal to the calendar, and to replace the set menu. A review of a facility minutes document titled Resident Council, dated 12/7/24, indicated Department: Dietary Issues: More fresh fruit, too much pork, protein substitution/not grilled cheese, alternative always out . Record review of a document titled Food Preferences, dated 2023, indicated resident's food preferences will be adhered to within reason. Record review of document titled Food Substitutes for Residents who Refuse the Meal, dated 2023, indicated residents will be provided a suitable nourishing alternate meal after the served planned meal has been refused. According to this document, nursing staff would ask those residents who refused the meal why they are not eating, and offer a food substitution in accordance with the resident's diet order.
CONCERN (E)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observations, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure: 1. Staff were following the Enhanced Barrier Precaution (EBP, an infection control intervention designed to reduce ...

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Based on observations, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure: 1. Staff were following the Enhanced Barrier Precaution (EBP, an infection control intervention designed to reduce transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms that employs targeted gown and glove use during high contact resident care activities) when administering medications via feeding tube (tube inserted into the stomach to provide a patient with enteral nutrition, used when someone is unable to eat or drink safely by mouth). This failure could lead to spread of infection, increased complications and adverse events. 2. Staff were performing hand hygiene (HH, cleansing of your hands with soap and water, antiseptic hand washes, antiseptic hand rubs such as alcohol-based hand sanitizers) prior to donning gloves. These failures could lead to spread of infection, increased complications and other adverse events. Findings: A review of Resident face sheet (demographics) indicated an admission date of 12/23/24 with a diagnoses of Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and Esophagitis (an inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach). Resident 45 had a feeding tube and was on EBP. During an observation on 1/22/25 at 8:09 a.m., Licensed Nurse (LN) J provided Resident 45s medications via feeding tube without wearing a gown. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 11:21 a.m., Registered Nurse (RN) I stated EBP must be followed when giving medications to the residents via feeding tube to protect the staff and the resident. RN I stated it was also to prevent spread of infection at the facility. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 12:05 p.m., the Infection Preventionist stated nurses had to follow the EBP when administering medications to residents via feeding tube. The IP stated this was for infection control and residents' safety to prevent spread of infection. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 12:07 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) stated nurses had to follow EBP whenever giving medications to a resident via feeding tube. The DON stated this was an infection control measure and was used to prevent spread of infection. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 10:18 a.m., LN J verified she did not follow the EBP when she administered Resident 45s medications via feeding tube. LN J verified nurses should follow the EBP when administering Resident 45s medications. LN J stated not following EBP when administering medications via feeding tube was an infection control issue. A review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Policy on Enhanced Barrier Precaution, effective date 8/2024, it stated EBPs must be implemented for residents who have wounds or indwelling medical devices such as urinary catheters (a tube placed in the body to drain and collect urine from the bladder), feeding tubes .EBPs apply during device care or handling .gowns and gloves must be worn during all high contact care activities . 2. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 7:56 a.m., Licensed Nurse (LN) J removed her gloves and wore new gloves with no HH. LN J stated she should have performed HH prior to donning new gloves. LN J stated this was important for infection control and to prevent spread of infection. During an interview on 1/23/25 2:10 p.m., Licensed Nurse (LN) K stated staff were required to perform HH prior to donning gloves and after removing gloves. LN K stated if this was not done, then it was an infection control issue which could lead to spread of infection. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 4:15 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) stated staff should be performing HH prior to donning gloves. The DON stated if HH was not done prior to donning gloves, then it was an infection control issue. The DON stated performing HH prior to gloving decreases the risk of spread of infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that healthcare workers (HCWs) wash their hands before and after putting on gloves, and after removing gloves.
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0804 (Tag F0804)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

During an interview on 1/23/25 at 10:40 a.m., Operations Manager stated the Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) Committee met in January and had had discussed resident dissatisfaction wit...

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During an interview on 1/23/25 at 10:40 a.m., Operations Manager stated the Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) Committee met in January and had had discussed resident dissatisfaction with meals. He stated QAPI had a plan to test meal trays and audit resident meals. He stated QAPI had not started the process yet and there were no performance improvement projects that included resident food palatability, temperature of food or temperature of the ambient temperature of facility areas. A review of the Resident Council meeting minutes from 10/24 indicated resident grievances included the resident rooms temperatures were cold for rooms 1, 2, 3, 9, 11, 15, 19, 24, 27, 28, 30. Grievances from resident included complaints that food temperatures were cold. The Resident Council meeting minutes from 11/24 did not indicate follow up from the facility administration for the grievances that included cold resident rooms and cold meals. Review of the minutes for the last year indicated resident complaints about their rooms being cold were discussed at Resident Council on 1/24, 2/24, 4/24, 6/24, 10/24, 11/24 and 12/24. Based on observation, interview and record review the facility failed to ensure that food was prepared by methods that preserved nutrition, palatability and served at an appetizing temperature when eight out of 46 residents (Resident 4,Resident 11, Resident 253, Resident 29, Resident 35, Resident 154, Resident 36, Resident 1) received meals that were cold, flavorless and overcooked. This failure had the potential to decrease nutritive content and decrease meal intake by the residents eating meals served by the kitchen and adversely affecting their health. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/21/25 at 11:59 a.m., in the dining room, Resident 4 stated the chicken served for lunch was too dry, she couldn't chew it and didn't want it. Chicken was observed partially cut up on Resident 4's plate and appeared dry. Resident 4 stated they do not provide gravy for chicken. She asked for some refried beans in place of chicken. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 11:53 a.m., in residents' room, Resident 11 was just served her lunch tray. Resident 11 had only eaten approximately 25% of her lunch. She stated that lunch was cold and that meals were frequently delivered cold, and that she would not be eating a lot of the food that was served to her for lunch. She also stated the eggs are terrible. She had informed the RD of the issues with the food but had not seen any changes. She further stated she liked everything about the facility except the food. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 12:05 p.m., in residents' room, Resident 253 was just served her lunch tray. Resident 253 had only taken a few bites and stated she was finished. She stated the food was bland and cold and she was not interested in any of the alternate meal choices. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 9:56 a.m., Resident 29 stated the meals were not like home cooking. During an interview with Resident 35 on 1/21/25 at 12:10 p.m., she stated her meals were not like home cooking. She stated the food was bland and did not taste as good as it could. She stated cold food was Not very appetizing. During an interview with Resident 4, on 1/21/25 at 12:22 p.m., she stated she was the president of the Facility Resident Council, and consistent issues brought up by residents was dissatisfaction with meal menus and the temperature of food. She stated her meals are never served hot and were warm at best. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 3:54 p.m. , Resident 154 stated the food at the facility was not very good. She stated substitutions were limited to cheese based options that did not taste good and was served cold. She stated too much cheese created a constipation problem. Cold food is not appetizing and not like home cooking. She stated it made her feel like the food was from an institutional cafeteria. During an observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 8:21 a.m., Resident 154 and Resident 36 both stated the room felt cold. Resident 154 stated breakfast was French Toast, and it was cold and tough. She stated she did not finish her breakfast, and her plate was observed to have 25% of her French Toast not eaten. She stated she lost her desire to eat when food is cold and tough. Resident 36 stated her French Toast was cold and tough. She stated she did not have teeth, and it was difficult to chew. She pointed to her breakfast plate that indicated she had eaten 25% and stated she missed hot food, and the meals were not like being at home. She was observed to be tearful when she stated she was not able to enjoy her breakfast but all the meals in general. During an observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 8:24 a.m., Certified Nurses Aid (CNA) N was observed to exit Resident 1's room with a breakfast tray that indicated the resident had not eaten anything. He stated Resident 1 had told him the breakfast was cold and tough. He stated he did not ask her if she wanted a substitute breakfast tray or if she wanted him to heat it up for her. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 8:28 a.m., Resident 29 stated her breakfast was French Toast that she never ordered. She stated I have no teeth, and the French Toast was cold and tough. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 9:10 a.m., Resident 29 stated she was very upset about her breakfast. She stated she had requested oatmeal, and they served her cold cream of wheat. She had refused another tray because they told her there was no oatmeal and they would have to cook it for her. She stated she needed her breakfast in the morning because she needed it to take with her morning medications because she could not take them on an empty stomach. She stated when dietary did not serve her food that she requested and that was hot, it made her feel unimportant. She stated this is my home and it is not right. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 9:45 a.m., in the kitchen, carrots were boiling on the stove in a large amount of water. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 10:44 a.m., in the kitchen, carrots were drained. Carrots were pale in color. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/23/25 at 11:05 a.m., small portions of boneless, skinless chicken breast were removed from the oven. They appeared dry. When [NAME] (CK) D was asked what time they were placed in the oven, he stated I placed the chicken in the oven at 9:45 a.m. During a record review of document titled Recipe: Baked Chicken, dated 2024, indicate that chicken breasts should be placed in the oven for 30-40 minutes. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/23/25 at 10:09 a.m., all three steam wells were off. Registered Dietitian (RD) stated that they were usually kept on at a low temperature to keep them warm. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 10:23 a.m., temperature on the wall clock above the window in the kitchen reads 57.3 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Following observations of time and temps follow: 10:57 a.m.: 57.7 degrees F, 11:12 a.m.: 57.9F 11:29 a.m.: 58.2 F 11:43 a.m.: 58.6 F 11:56 a.m.: 59 F. Fans and vents are running the entirety of lunch plating. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 11:43 a.m., plate warmer had 5 plates standing above rim on both sides during trayline service. This left the higher plates to be exposed to the cold air in the kitchen. During an observation of temperatures during test trays on 1/23/25 at 12:15 p.m., the following foods were tested for temperature by RD using facility thermometer: Pureed Regular Roast Beef RD 100.2F RD 118 F Carrots RD 94.6 F RD 107.4 F Rice & Beans RD 95.1 F RD 104.5 F Survey team observed the test trays for taste, palatability and appearance. Pureed carrots and pureed rice and bean dishes spread across plate due to the thin consistency. Test trays for both regular and pureed meals were lukewarm. Survey team members stated carrots had very little flavor. The carrots are watery. RD stated Our recipes don't use much salt. During a record review of document titled Meal Service dated 2023, food items are recommended to be delivered to the residents at the following temperatures: Hot entrée at or above 120F Starch at or above 120F Vegetables at or above 120F Record review of Resident Council Meeting Minutes, dated 1/20245 to 10/2024, revealed residents voicing concern over vegetables being either overcooked or undercooked, tough meat, and meals that are often served cold. During a record review of Food & Nutrition: Test Tray Evaluation Log, completed independently by RD on 10/16/24, 10/17/24, 10/23/24, 10/31/24 and 1/14/25 indicated a temperature drop from trayline to resident delivery ranging from a 38-degree temperature drop to a 70- degree. Comments from residents included toast was cold.; Weird seasoning on broccoli.; My meat was dry and tough.
CONCERN (F)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure that food was stored, prepared and served safely in accordance with professional standards of food service when: 1. Ki...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure that food was stored, prepared and served safely in accordance with professional standards of food service when: 1. Kitchen staff improperly restrained facial hair and hair net use. 2. Kitchen staff Improperly used gloves. 3. Dietary staff observed to wear jewelry while at work in the kitchen. 4. Kitchen staff did not monitor ambient food cooling. 5. Expired food found in the reach in refrigerator and dry storage area. 6. Condiment containers found with drip residue in caps and along sides of containers. 7. Soiled equipment observed in a food prep area. 8. Resident refrigerator did not have a cleaning process. 9. Cross contamination of products in the resident refrigerator in the nutrition room. These failures posed the risk for food borne illness for 46 of 46 residents that resided in the facility and consumed food prepared in the kitchen. Findings: 1. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 11:06 a.m., in the kitchen, Dietary Aide (DA) A wore a baseball cap with hair restraint underneath that did not cover the entirety of his hair. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 2:00 p.m., in the kitchen, [NAME] (CK) B wore a hair restraint on his beard. His mustache was not covered. During an observation on 1/22/25 at 7:15 a.m., in the kitchen, CK D wore a baseball cap with no hair restraint underneath. His hair was curling up over the bottom of the cap. During an observation on 1/22/25 at 2:48 p.m., in the kitchen, CK B wore a baseball cap with no hair restraint underneath. The hair at the back of the head was exposed. A beard restraint was worn. His mustache was exposed. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 8:30 a.m., in the kitchen, DA F had hair protruding from the bottom of the hair restraint around her entire head. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 3:01 p.m., Registered Dietitian (RD) stated she would look at the policy regarding hair restraint use. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 9:44 a.m., in the kitchen, a sign posted by the handwashing sink stated that hairnets and beard coverings must be worn while in the kitchen. During a record review facility policy titled Dress Code, dated 2023, indicated that if hair is short, staff may wear a hat that completely covers the hair. If hair is long, use hair restraint. Staff with beards and mustaches (any facial hair) must wear beard restraint. According to FDA Food Code 2022 2-402.11 (A) showed Food employees shall wear hair restraints such as hats, hair coverings or nets, beard restraints, and clothing that covers body hair, that are designed and worn to effectively keep their hair from contacting exposed food; clean equipment, utensils, and linens; and unwrapped single service and single-use articles. 2. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 2:00 p.m., in the kitchen, CK B opened the kitchen entry door with gloved hand and resumed cooking without washing hands and changing gloves. During an observation on 1/22/25 at 7:15 a.m., DA E retrieved an item from freezer #2 with gloved hands. Did not change gloves or wash hands before resuming plating items for trayline. During a record review of facility policy titled Glove Use Policy dated 2023, employees need to wash their hands and change their gloves when starting a different task and/or when touching non-food items. According to the FDA Food Code 2022, Section 2-301.14 Food employees shall clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms .(A) After touching bare human body parts other than clean hands and clean, exposed portions of arms and (E) After handling soiled equipment or utensils. 3. During an observation on 1/23/25 at 8:30 a.m., in the kitchen, DA C wore nose piercings, ear piercings, necklace and a large, loose ring during meal prep and trayline. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 3:12 p.m., RD stated that she would have to review the policy regarding jewelry in the kitchen. During a record review of document titled Dress Code, dated 2023, indicated no facial jewelry no excessive jewelry. According to FDA Food Code 2022, Section 2-303.11, Jewelry indicates that except for a plain ring such as a wedding band, while preparing food, food employees may not wear jewelry including medical information jewelry on their arms and hands. 4. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/21/25 at 10:28 a.m., in the walk-in refrigerator, prepared tuna salad was observed in a container labeled made on 1/21/25. When asked for a cooling logs, Registered dietitian (RD) stated the facility did not use cooling logs for ambient foods. We pull everything from the can at room temp and stick it right in the refrigerator. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 2:55 p.m., Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS) confirmed that no ambient cooling logs were kept because mayonnaise and pickles were pulled from the refrigerator. He acknowledged tuna is pulled from dry storage and is at room temp when made. During a record review of facility policy titled Cooling and Reheating of Potentially Hazardous or Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food dated 2023, indicated, PHF (Potentially Hazardous Food) or TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) food shall be cooled within 4 hours to 41 degrees or less, if prepared from ingredients at ambient temperature, such as reconstituted food and canned tuna. According to FDA Food Code 2022, 3-501.14 Cooling. (B) TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD shall be cooled within 4 hours to 5oC (41oF) or less if prepared from ingredients at ambient temperature, such as reconstituted FOODS and canned tuna. 5. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/21/25 at 10:28 a.m., in the reach in refrigerator 2 bowls of soup were found, labeled Prepared 1/12/25. Use by 1/15/25. RD confirmed these were expired and should have been thrown out. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/21/25 at 10:48 a.m., in the dry storage area, a container of sesame oil with expiration date of 11/24 was seen. RD confirmed this was expired and should have been thrown out. The facility did not have a policy regarding expired foods. 6. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 10:25 a.m., in the kitchen, a container of BBQ sauce had dried drips of sauce on the outside of the container. The cap of the container had residue on the outside of the container rim. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/21/25 at 10:26 a.m., in the dry storage area, a container of vanilla had dried drips of contents on the outside of the container. RD confirmed risk of bacteria growth and stated she would clean off the container. According to the FDA Food Code 2022, 4-601.11 (A) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces and Utensils shall be clean to sight and touch. 7. During an observation while on initial tour of kitchen on 1/21/25 at 10:15 a.m., the following equipment was observed to be soiled: grill has black residue; slotted compartment under griddle has debris and dust; stovetop has black residue and debris in burner wells; ovens have black residue; blender base was not clean; top of dishwasher has tan, flaky debris; dishwasher has hard, white buildup on corners and crevices; silverware dispenser was not clean; can opener was not clean. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 10:15 a.m., CK D stated he cleans the grill portion of the stove after every use. During a record review of document titled Food Nutrition Department: Cleaning Schedule dated from October 2024 to January 22, 2025, indicates all equipment named above is listed and assigned to dietary staff. According to the FDA Food Code 2022, Section 4-601.11, Food Contact Surfaces, Nonfood Contact Surfaces, and Utensils (A) Equipment, food contact surfaces, and utensils shall be clean to sight and touch, (B) The food contact surfaces of cooking equipment and pans shall be kept free of encrusted grease deposits and other soil accumulations.(C) Nonfood contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris. 8. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 2:50 p.m., the resident refrigerator in nutrition room had brown residue in crevices of door gasket. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 9:18 a.m., Housekeeping Tech (Hskg) M stated that she does not clean the resident refrigerator in the nutrition room. She only mops the floor in the nutrition room. She stated the kitchen clean the resident refrigerator. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 2:50 p.m., RD stated that the cooks spot clean the resident refrigerator and monitors the temperatures. Housekeeping helps with cleaning and deep cleaning of the refrigerator. On 1/22/25 at 3:50 p.m., a schedule or a log of cleaning and deep cleaning the resident refrigerator in the nutrition room was requested from RD and Maintenance Director (MND). During an interview on 1/23/25 at 12:45 p.m., MND stated there was not a deep cleaning or cleaning schedule for the resident refrigerator in the nutrition room, and that it was done on an as needed basis only. According to the FDA Food Code 2022, Section 4-601.11, Food Contact Surfaces, Nonfood Contact Surfaces, and Utensils (A) Equipment, food contact surfaces, and utensils shall be clean to sight and touch, (C) Nonfood contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris. 9. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 2:52 p.m., in the nutrition room, Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) H removed a half gallon of milk from the resident refrigerator, dated and labeled the milk and handed to a family member of Resident 12. Milk was observed to be poured into a glass for resident and left on the bedside table with resident's other personal belongings. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 3:00 p.m., the opened half gallon of milk remains on bedside table of Resident 12. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 4:00 p.m., the opened half gallon of milk was placed back in resident refrigerator. Facility did not have policy regarding food removed and returned to the resident refrigerator.
CONCERN (F)

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

QAPI Program (Tag F0867)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on interview and record review the failed to ensure a Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) plan that resolved consistent complaints from residents about environmental temperatures, f...

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Based on interview and record review the failed to ensure a Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) plan that resolved consistent complaints from residents about environmental temperatures, food temperatures, food palatability, and food preferences. This failure resulted in the lack of a systematic approach to determine underlying causes of problems impacting temperature of the environment, food palatability, medication errors; and no guidance on how the facility will monitor the effectiveness of its performance improvement activities to ensure that improvements are sustained. Findings: (Reference F837, F804, F806) During an interview on 1/21/25 at 9:56 a.m., Resident 29 stated the meals were not like home cooking. During an interview with Resident 35 on 1/21/25 at 12:10 p.m., she stated her meals were not like home cooking. She stated the food was bland and not taste as good as it could. She stated cold food was Not very appetizing. During an interview with Resident 4, on 1/21/25 at 12:22 p.m., She stated she was the president of the Facility Resident Council, and consistent issues brought up by residents was dissatisfaction with meal menus and the temperature of food. She stated her meals are never served hot and were warm at best. During an interview with Resident 154, on 1/21/25 at 3:54 p.m. , Resident 154 stated the food at the facility was not very good. She stated substitutions were limited to cheese based options that did not taste good and was served cold. She stated too much cheese created a constipation problem. Cold food is not appetizing and not like home cooking. She stated it made her feel like the food was from an institutional cafeteria. During an observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 8:21 a.m., Resident 154 and Resident 36 both stated the room felt cold. Resident 154 stated breakfast was French Toast, and it was cold and tough. She stated she did not finish her breakfast, and her plate was observed to have 25% of her French Toast not eaten. She stated she lost her desire to eat when food is cold and tough. Resident 36 stated her French Toast was cold and tough. She stated she did not have teeth, and it was difficult to chew. She pointed to her breakfast plate that indicated she had eaten 25% and stated she missed hot food, and the meals were not like being at home. She was observed to be tearful when she stated she was not able to enjoy her breakfast but all the meals in general. During an observation and interview on 1/22/25 at 8:24 a.m., Certified Nurses Aid (CNA) N was observed to exit Resident 1's room with a breakfast tray that indicated the resident had not eaten anything. He stated Resident 1 had told him the breakfast was cold and tough. He stated he did not ask her if she wanted a substitute breakfast tray or if she wanted him to heat it up for her. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 8:28 a.m., Resident 29 stated her breakfast was French Toast that she never ordered. She stated I have no teeth, and the French Toast was cold and tough. During an interview on 1/22/25 at 2:41 in the back hallway nursing station, License Nurse I stated she did not know much about QAPI except that they meet on Mondays. She stated she was not aware of any performance improvement projects or what QAPI does. During an interview on 1/23/25 at 9:10 a.m., Resident 29 stated she was very upset about her breakfast. She stated she had requested oatmeal, and they served her cold cream of wheat. She had refused another tray because they told her there was no oatmeal and they would have to cook it for her. She stated she needed her breakfast in the morning because she needed it to take with her morning medications because she cannot take them on an empty stomach. She stated when dietary does not serve her food that she requested that was hot made her feel unimportant. She stated this is my home and it is not right. During an interview and record review on 1/23/25 at 10:40 a.m., Operations Manager stated the Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) Committee met in January and had had discussed resident dissatisfaction with meals. He stated QAPI had a plan to test meal trays and audit resident meals. He stated QAPI had not started the process yet and there were no performance improvement projects that included resident food palatability, temperature of food or temperature of the ambient temperature of facility areas. Operations Manager was asked to provide the policy and procedures for the QAPI Committee. He stated everything for QAPI was in the 2024 Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Plan. During a review of the document he stated there were no policy and procedures for QAPI. He stated he did not know what Appendix PP (Appendix PP to a section within the State Operations Manual published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which provided detailed guidance that outlined the standards and expectations for nursing homes facilities. Nursing homes needed to be familiar with the guidelines in Appendix PP to ensure they are operating in compliance with CMS standards.) was or how to access the regulations. He stated QAPI was going to start a process to improve resident satisfaction with meal preferences. He stated there was no documentation that a performance improvement plan (PIP) had started yet. He stated there were no PIP's for resident complaints for consistent resident complaints about the cold temperatures in the facility or cold food. He stated he was unsure if QAPI had monitored any pharmacy or resident medication issues. During a phone interview on 1/23/25 at 1:07 pm Administrator stated Operations Manager was not a licensed Skilled Nursing Home Administrator. Administrator stated There is no governing body. He stated he lived in Southern California. During an interview on 1/24/25 at 10:00 a.m., Operations Manager stated there was no documentation of any audits or monitoring. He stated he was unsure if the QAPI had monitored any pharmacy or resident medication issues. He stated QAPI tracks adverse events by when the Director of Nursing presented them to the QAPI and then she would investigate and present her findings at the meeting. He stated there was no QAPI policy and procedures for root cause analysis or investigation of adverse events. When asked how those processes occurred he stated the Director of Nursing was responsible. Operations Manager stated there were only two PIPs; one for resident falls and one for wound care documentation. He stated the PIPs collection of data was from informal observations and not on a documentation form. He stated the Director of Nursing was responsible for collecting and calculating everything. He stated the 2024 QAPI plan was not approved by the Governing Body. A request at the survey entrance for the QAPI minutes and membership was made 1/21/25. No QAPI policy and procedures, QAPI minutes, QAPI Agendas were provided by the end of survey. A review of the Resident Council meeting minutes from 10/24 indicated resident grievances included the resident rooms temperatures were cold for rooms 1, 2, 3, 9, 11, 15, 19, 24, 27, 28, 30. Grievances from resident included complaints that food temperatures were cold. The Resident Council meeting minutes from 11/24 did not indicate follow up from the facility administration for the grievances that included cold resident rooms and cold meals. Review of the minutes for the past year indicated resident complaints about their rooms being cold were discussed at Resident Council on 1/24, 2/24, 4/24, 6/24, 10/24, 11/24 and 12/24. A review of a facility document titled 2024 Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Plan, indicated The Administrator has direct oversight responsibility for all functions of the QAPI Committee and reports directly to the governing body. QAPI Governance: The governing body is ultimately responsible for overseeing the QAPI Committee. At a minimum, the QAPI Committee will report the progress on the established QAPI goals and current data trends to the following: Governing Body . The QAPI Committee, which includes the Medical Director, is ultimately responsible for assuring compliance with federal and state requirements and continuous improvement in quality of care and customer satisfaction. A review of a facility document titled 2024 Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Plan, indicated QAPI PLAN REVIEWED & APPROVED BY: Governing Body-Member _____ Sginature__________ Date______. The two Governing Body-Member signature lines indicated no signature. A review of a facility document titled 2024 Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Plan, indicated REFERENCES: CMS QAPI Website: quality Assurance & Performance Improvement. Effective QAPI programs are critical to improving the quality of life, and quality of care and services delivered in nursing homes. https://www.cms.gov/medicare/provider-enrollment-and-certifications/qapi/downloads/qapifiveelements.pdf. Element 5: Systematic Analysis and Systemic Action The facility uses a systematic approach to determine when in-depth analysis is needed to fully understand the problem, its causes, and implications of a change. The facility uses a thorough and highly organized/ structured approach to determine whether and how identified problems may be caused or exacerbated by the way care and services are organized or delivered. Additionally, facilities will be expected to develop policies and procedures and demonstrate proficiency in the use of Root Cause Analysis. Systemic Actions look comprehensively across all involved systems to prevent future events and promote sustained improvement. This element includes a focus on continual learning and continuous improvement.
CONCERN (F)

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

Room Equipment (Tag F0908)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain essential patient care equipment in safe operating condition when: 1. The air conditioner in dry storage room is soi...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain essential patient care equipment in safe operating condition when: 1. The air conditioner in dry storage room is soiled. 2. The walk-in refrigerator condenser fans are dripping soiled water on food box. 3. Freezer number 2 had frozen ice drips on ceiling. 4. Ice machine and ice chest cleaning process is unsafe. 5. Resident refrigerator in nourishment room had a damaged gasket. These failures have the potential to contaminate food and pose a risk for food borne illness for 46 of 46 residents that reside in the facility. Findings: 1. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 10:48 a.m., in the dry storage area, the air conditioner had black and brown grime and matter underneath the vent and on the locking mechanism. During the same observation, food was stored beneath the air conditioner. A sign was placed across from air conditioner that stated Do not place objects on shelf under air conditioning unit. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 2:25 p.m., Maintenance Director (MND) stated he was responsible for maintaining and cleaning vents, sprinklers, refrigerator and freezer components. He confirmed the air conditioner could be cleaner. According to FDA Food Code 2022, Section 4-601.11, Food Contact Surfaces, Nonfood Contact Surfaces and Utensils (A) Equipment shall be clean to sight and touch. Nonfood contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue and other debris. According to FDA Food Code 2017, FDA Food Code 2017 - 6-202.12 Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning System Vents; Heating ventilating and air conditioning systems shall be designed and installed so that make-up air intake and exhaust vents do not cause contamination of food, food-contact surfaces, equipment or utensils. 2. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 10:28 a.m., water was dripping from condenser fans in walk in refrigerator making a box bottom of sliced cheese wet. Upon closer observation, the blades of the condenser fans have brown colored grime. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 2:27 p.m., MND acknowledged condenser fan leaking water and soiled areas of fans. According to FDA Food Code 2022, Section 4-601.11, Food Contact Surfaces, Nonfood Contact Surfaces and Utensils (A) Equipment shall be clean to sight and touch. Nonfood contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue and other debris. 3. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 10:38 a.m., in the kitchen, ice was observed hanging from the ceiling of freezer #2. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 2:29 p.m., MND stated the filters in the freezer needed to be changed or cleaned. MND acknowledged the presence of ice hanging from the ceiling. 4. During a concurrent observation and interview on 1/21/25 at 2:10 p.m., MND demonstrated and stated the process for cleaning the ice machine. MND provided surveyor with instructions and stated he follows these instructions exactly. MND brought chemical Manitowoc Ice Machine Sanitizer which he stated he uses for entire process, and stated The sanitizer also cleans. MND confirmed he used no other chemicals. He stated after following the cleaning process is completed, he dilutes the sanitizer solution with water and sprays on every inch of ice machine. After machine has air dried, he will spray water on the machine to rinse off the sanitizer. Prior to cleaning process, he stated the current ice is removed into sanitized ice chests. Ice chests are cleaned with facility wide multipurpose sanitizer from Ecolab by first spraying with water, spraying with facility wide sanitizer, then air dry. The final step to clean the ice chests was to rinse off. During a record review of document titled Section 4 Maintenance. Cleaning and Sanitizing dated 4/2014, step 3 indicated when water trough refills, the proper amount of ice machine cleaner is to be added prior to sanitizer solution in step 9. Step 11 of the same document indicated Do not rinse sanitized areas. 5. During an observation on 1/21/25 at 2:50 p.m., resident refrigerator gasket located in nutrition room was pulling away from door at top outer portion of door. During an interview on 1/21/25 at 3:55 p.m., MND stated he was not aware of damaged gasket and will replace soon. According to FDA Food Code 2022, Section 4-501.11, (A) Equipment shall be maintained in a state of repair and condition (B) Equipment components such as doors, seals .shall be kept intact, tight and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer's specifications.
Apr 2024 1 deficiency
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0726 (Tag F0726)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure: 1.there were adequate staff to care for the residents at ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure: 1.there were adequate staff to care for the residents at the facility when three out of three sampled residents (Residents 1, 2 and Anonymous 1) complained the facility was short staffed and staff would take a long time to answer their call lights. 2.the Abuse Policy and Procedure (P&P) were updated to reflect correct reporting guidelines and staff were aware on which agencies to report abuse allegations and the reporting time frame for abuse allegations. These failures: 1a. resulted in residents feeling frustrated, upset and worried nobody will answer their call light on time in case of emergency. This also had the potential for neglect, late provision of care or care not being provided at all. 2a. had the potential for abuse to not be reported to the appropriate agency timely and could result in ongoing abuse and safety risk for the resident. Findings: A review of Resident 1's face sheet (demographics) indicated she was initially admitted to the facility on [DATE]. His diagnoses included Essential Hypertension (high blood pressure), Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM, a chronic (long-lasting) health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy) and Primary Osteoarthritis (OA, a type of arthritis that only affects the joints, usually in the hands, knees, hips, neck). His Minimum Data Sheet Assessment (MDS, a federally mandated process for clinical assessment of all residents in Medicare and Medicaid certified nursing homes) dated 3/22/24, Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS, a mandatory tool used to screen and identify the cognitive condition of residents) score was 12 indicating moderately impaired cognition (the mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses). A review of Resident 2's face sheet (demographics) indicated she was initially admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Her diagnoses included Type 2 DM, Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS, pain lasting for more than 3 months, symptoms include pain, itching, numbness, and loss of sensation) and Gout ( a painful form of arthritis- joint inflammation caused by uric acid crystals a chemical created when the body breaks down substances called purines) that form in and around the joints. Her MDS, dated [DATE], BIMS score was 15 indicating intact cognition. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 1:09 p.m. Unlicensed Staff A stated the facility was short staff especially on the weekends and she usually had between 8 up to 12 residents to care for in the morning shift. Unlicensed Staff A stated it was hard to finish her task on time. Unlicensed Staff A stated short staffing could lead to residents' neglect, late provisions of care and increased fall incidents and injury. Unlicensed Staff A stated short staffing was a safety risk. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 1:46 p.m., Resident 1 stated he felt the facility could improve their staffing as sometimes staff takes a while to answer calls for help. Resident 1 stated it could be frustrating to wait for a long time when you needed help. Resident 1 stated he was worried nobody would see him and answer his call light on time in case of an emergency. During an interview on 4/11/24 1:58 p.m., Licensed Staff B stated the facility was short staffed when there were call off. Licensed Staff B stated short staffing meant little more time allotted per each resident. Licensed Staff B stated short staffing could lead to late provision of care and wait time for staff to answer residents call light could be longer. Licensed Staff B also stated short staffing was a safety risk for the residents. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 3:20 p.m., Licensed Staff C stated the facility was short staffed. Licensed Staff C stated it would be beneficial for the residents if the facility was adequately staffed. Licensed Staff C stated short staffing made it difficult for her to complete her task safely and timely. Licensed Staff C stated short staffing could lead to late provision of care, care not being rendered at all, residents' change of condition (COC, a change in the residents' health or functioning) could be missed which could be a safety issue for the resident. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 3:23 p.m., Resident 2 stated the facility was short staffed. Resident 2 stated there were not enough staff to care for the residents at the facility. Resident 2 stated during resident council (an independent group of long-term care facility residents who typically meet at a minimum of once a month to discuss concerns and suggestions in the facility and to plan activities that are important to them) meeting, she had also heard residents complained of short staffing and staff taking a long time to answer call lights. Resident 2 stated she felt frustrated and concerned about short staffing. Resident 2 stated despite being discussed in resident council, short staffing was still happening in the facility. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 3:40 p.m., Anonymous 3 stated the facility was short staffed. Anonymous 3 stated she had to wait for 1 up to 2 hours before staff answers her call light. Anonymous 3 stated staffing was bad at nighttime. Anonymous 3 stated about a month ago, she was left soiled on her brief, and it took about an hour for staff to change her brief. Anonymous 3 stated it was embarrassing and frustrating. Anonymous 3 stated she hoped the facility would have adequate staff to care for the residents. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 3:57 p.m., Unlicensed Staff D stated the facility was short staffed. Unlicensed Staff D stated taking care of 12 to 13 residents on morning shift was a lot. Unlicensed Staff D stated short staffing was a safety risk for the residents. Unlicensed Staff D stated short staffing could lead to late provision of care and staff rushing residents to complete their task. During a telephone interview on 4/11/24 at 4:14 p.m., the Interim Director of Nursing (DON) stated that at this time the facility was struggling with short staffing. The Interim DON stated some staff had left due to issues with short staffing. The Interim DON stated short staffing could result to decreased quality of care. Based on the staffing documentation provided by the facility, it indicated that on these dates, the CNAs had a higher number of residents to care for on these dates: 3/1/24 the facility had a census of 48, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. 3/2/24, the facility had a census of 48, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. 3/3/24 the facility had a census of 49, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. 3/6/24 the facility had a census of 48, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. 3/10/24 the facility had a census of 49, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. 3/15/16 the facility had a census of 48, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. 3/16/24 the facility had a census of 48, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. 3/24/24 the facility had a census of 48, there were only 4 CNAs in the morning shift, indicating the CNAs have about 12 to 13 residents to care for during their shift. A review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Staffing, Adequate , revised 1/2024, the P&P indicated it was the policy of the facility to provide adequate staffing to meet the needs of the resident population. B. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 1:14 p.m., Licensed Staff A stated abuse allegation should be reported as soon as possible within 4 hours. Licensed Staff A stated if an abuse allegation was not reported timely, it could lead to continued abuse, further abuse and worst case scenario, injury or death to the resident. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 1:30 p.m., the Occupational Therapist (OT) stated abuse allegations were only reported to the Ombudsman (an independent official who has been appointed to investigate complaints) and should be reported within 24 hours. The OT stated if an abuse allegation was not reported timely, it could result to further abuse, psychological harm and neglect. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 1:44 p.m., Unlicensed Staff A stated abuse allegations should be reported to the Ombudsman (an official who investigates complaints) and State (CDPH, the state department responsible for public health in California) within 24 hours. Unlicensed Staff A stated, if an abuse allegation was not reported timely, it could result to ongoing abuse. Unlicensed Staff A stated it was a safety issue to the resident if an abuse allegation was not reported timely. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 2:08 p.m. Licensed Staff B stated abuse allegation should be reported to the Ombudsman, the State and the local police as soon as possible within 24 hours. Licensed Staff B stated if an abuse allegation was not reported to the appropriate agencies and was not reported timely, residents could be at risk for neglect, ongoing abuse. Licensed Staff B stated not reporting an abuse timely was a safety risk, residents would not feel safe in the facility and residents would not feel staff were protecting them. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 2:33 p.m., the Interim DON stated abuse allegations with injury should be reported to the Ombudsman and the CDPH within 24 hours. The Interim DON stated if there was no injury, there would be no need to report the abuse allegation to the local police. The Interim DON stated if an abuse allegation resulted in injury, it should be reported to the Ombudsman, CDPH and the local police within 2 hours. During an interview on 4/11/24 at 3:57 p.m., Unlicensed Staff D stated abuse allegations should be reported to the Ombudsman within 24 hours. Unlicensed Staff D stated if an abuse allegation was not reported timely, it could lead to continued abuse and resident could get hurt. A review of the facility's policy and procedure (P&P) titled Abuse Prevention Program , revised 11/2022, the P&P indicated when an incident or allegation of resident abuse was reported, the allegation will be reported within 24 hours to the appropriate agency.
Sept 2023 7 deficiencies
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0804 (Tag F0804)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on food storage observations and resident interview the facility failed to store food in accordance with manufacturer ' s recommendations. Failure to follow manufacturer ' s recommendations may ...

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Based on food storage observations and resident interview the facility failed to store food in accordance with manufacturer ' s recommendations. Failure to follow manufacturer ' s recommendations may affect meal palatability resulting in decreased resident meal satisfaction. Findings: Scientific evidence has shown that storage of bakery products such as bread and muffins change the structure of the starches, causing it to crystalize which in turn makes the bread hard and stale (Food Science, 2023). During initial tour of the kitchen on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., there were greater than 6 cases of baked goods including bread and desserts in the walk-in refrigerator. The manufacturer ' s guidance on each of the cases was listed as Keep Frozen at 0°F (degrees Fahrenheit) or below. During food production observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 3:30 p.m., noted DS was preparing the soy glazed pork for the evening meal. DS 2 was observed sautéing onions in oil. After a few minutes she added pre-cooked diced pork cubes. In a concurrent interview DS 2 stated she has not been trained in quantity cooking so is trying to follow the recipes by carefully measuring ingredients. DS also stated while the recipe called for uncooked pork cubes, she has only seen pre-cooked cubes. Concurrent review of the standardized recipe title Soy Glazed Pork called for raw, rather than pre-cooked, pork cubes. On 9/11/23 at 5:15 p.m., the surveyor tasted the pork. While the soy glaze was flavorful the meat tasted bland and watery. In an interview on 9/12/23 beginning at 9:30 a.m., Resident 4 stated on occasion she received a palatable meal, however overall food palatability was poor. Resident 4 gave the example that the entrée for yesterday ' s dinner (Soy glazed pork) had very little flavor. She also gave a second example that the toast this morning (9/12/23) was hard and stale.
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Safe Environment (Tag F0921)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on facility observations and administrative staff interview the facility failed to provide a functional space for the Director of Food Services to effectively provide supervision, guidance and o...

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Based on facility observations and administrative staff interview the facility failed to provide a functional space for the Director of Food Services to effectively provide supervision, guidance and oversight to the day-to-day operations of dietetic services. Findings: During an interview on 9/12/23 beginning at 11:55 p.m., the Administrator indicated the workspace for the Director of Food Services (DFS) was not within the Skilled Nursing Facility, rather was in a house adjacent to the facility. In a concurrent interview Regional Dietary Staff (RDS) indicated she had worked in the facility in the past and at that time the workspace was in the Dry Food Storage area within the kitchen. The DTR also indicated at some point the facility closed off one of the exit doors in the kitchen and placed a 2-door freezer unit in front of the opening. The purpose of the DFS is to provide day to day guidance and oversight in all aspects of food storage, production, and distribution. Relocation of a workstation for the DFS, to an offsite location, would not support effective oversight and availability for consultation and guidance to food production staff, residents, or nursing staff.
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0801 (Tag F0801)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on dietetic services observations and administrative and dietetic staff interview the facility failed to ensure frequent a...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on dietetic services observations and administrative and dietetic staff interview the facility failed to ensure frequent and comprehensive consultative departmental oversight by a Registered Dietitian and to employ a qualified Director of Food Services for day-to-day management duties. Failure to provide an organizational structure led by qualified staff, in a consistent manner, resulted in lapses related to staff competency, safe food handling practices, ineffective meal distribution and poor sanitation practices in dietetic services. Failure to develop staff and systems in accordance with regulatory requirements and professional standards may result in practices that put residents at risk for foodborne illness, decreased meal intake further compromising the medical status of 44 residents receiving meals from the facility dietetic services. Findings: During the abbreviated survey on 9/11/23 between the hours of 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., and on 9/12/23 between the hours of 9:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m., there were multiple lapses in dietetic services oversight by qualified individuals (Cross Reference F 812, F802, and 808). During entrance on 9/11/23 at 12:30 p.m., the Administrator indicated the Director of Food Services (DFS) was not in the facility, however, would return on 9/12/23. As of 9/12/23 at 12:30 p.m., the DFS was unavailable. Cross Reference 812 1. Foods which require time/temperature control for food safety include protein-based products such as meat as well as starch-based products such as cooked rice. These foods are often called potentially hazardous foods (PHFs) and have the capability of supporting bacterial growth associated with foodborne illness. The temperature range of 41°F (degrees Fahrenheit) to 135°F is the range when PHFs are most susceptible to bacterial growth. When evaluating the safety of a 4-hour limit for food with no temperature control, products and environmental parameters must be selected to create a worst-case scenario for pathogens growth and possible toxin production (USDA Food Code Annex, 2022). During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., there was a one-half deep steam pan as well as a one-quarter deep pan on the steam table containing fried rice. In a concurrent interview Dietary Staff (DS) 2 stated the item was just prepared. The smaller pan was for residents with fruit allergies and the larger one was for the remaining diets. DS 2 stated the items were for dinner meal distribution which would start at 5:15 p.m. In a follow up observation on 9/11/23 at 3:05 p.m., the internal temperature of the rice was 102°F. An additional observation on 9/11/23 at 5:20 p.m., revealed the temperature of the rice was 168°F. In a concurrent interview DS 2 indicated she has been working at the facility for approximately 2 months. She also stated her work experience was primarily in the retail sector and except for working with another cook for several days she has not received any training and was never instructed on what time to begin preparing meals. 2. During cold food production observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 4 p.m., DS 2 was observed preparing a salad for the evening meal. DS 2 obtained cucumbers and tomatoes from the walk-in refrigerator, placed them on the food production counter, placed pre-washed lettuce in small bowls and proceeded to peel the cucumbers and cut the tomatoes without prior washing. 3. Multiuse equipment is subject to deterioration because of its nature, i.e., intended use over an extended period. Inability to effectively wash, rinse and sanitize the surfaces of food equipment may lead to the buildup of pathogenic organisms transmissible through food. During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., in the kitchen, the following was observed: a. The shelving in the walk-in refrigerator was not clean. The shelves had a black fuzzy material resembling mold, on all the shelves, which was wipeable with a paper towel. Similarly, the floor was soiled with unidentified food particles and dried on liquids. There were also multiple areas that had a brown material resembling rust on the walls of the unit. The crevices and wall projections had a buildup of brown, sticky unidentified material. b. In the walk-in refrigerator there were 2 nutritional supplements in a steam pan, with ice that were undated. It was also noted there was an opened case, containing greater than 10 supplements, which were thawed and undated. In an interview on 9/12/23 at 11:45 a.m., Regional Dietary Administrative Staff acknowledged stored items needed to be labeled with a use by date. c. There were multiple pieces of equipment and areas of the kitchen that were not clean. Examples include but are not limited to the plate warmer, steam table, clear food storage containers, grey material, resembling dust, on all protruding surfaces such as light and electrical switches, plumbing and electrical cords on equipment, the floor sinks in the kitchen were not clean, food production equipment and surfaces, walls and ceilings were not clean, multiple portable ventilation units all of which were covered with unidentified food particles or a grey fuzzy material resembling dust. In an interview on 9/11/23 beginning at 4:45 p.m., DS 2 stated each employee is responsible for cleaning their own area, however, was unfamiliar whether there was a cleaning checklist. In an interview on 9/12/23 at 10:45 a.m., the Administrator stated to his knowledge there was no outside vendor contract for deep cleaning dietetic services. In an interview on 9/12/23 at 11:45 a.m., Regional Dietary Administrative Staff stated she was unable to locate any current cleaning logs but was able to offer two untitled documents dated February/March and February 2023. Cross Reference 802 4a. During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., there was a one-half deep steam pan as well as a one-quarter deep pan on the steam table containing fried rice. In a concurrent interview Dietary Staff (DS) 2 stated the item was just prepared. The smaller pan was for residents with fruit allergies and the larger one was for the remaining diets. DS 2 stated the items were for dinner meal distribution which would start at 5:15 p.m. In a interview n 9/11/23 at 5:20 p.m., DS 2 stated she turned down the temperature of the steam table then turned it back up around 4:30 p.m. DS 2 also indicated she has been working at the facility for approximately 2 months. She stated her work experience was primarily in the retail sector and except for working with another cook for several days she has not received any training and was never instructed on what time to begin preparing meals. b. It is the standard of practice to utilize and follow standardized recipes. A standardized recipe is a set of written instructions used to consistently prepare a known quantity and quality of food for a specific location. A standardized recipe will produce a product that is close to identical in taste and yield every time it is made, no matter who follows the directions (University of Pennsylvania, Introduction to Food Production and Preparation, 2023). During food production observations on 9/11/23 beginning at 2:25 p.m., DS 2 was preparing the evening meal which consisted of soy glazed pork as an entrée. DS 2 was observed placing 10 pounds of pre-cooked, diced pork, in a stock pot that contained sauteed onions. In a concurrent interview DS 2 indicated she was instructed to use a pre-cooked product. Concurrent review of departmental document titled Soy Glazed PorK guided staff to use raw pork cubes and browning them with the onions. Review of food invoices dated 9/4, 9/9 and 9/11/23 failed to indicate raw pork cubes were ordered in accordance with the standardized recipe. c. During cold food production observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 4 p.m., DS 2 was observed preparing a salad for the evening meal. DS 2 obtained cucumbers and tomatoes from the walk-in refrigerator, placed them on the food production counter and proceeded to peel the cucumbers and cut the tomatoes without prior washing. d. It is the standard of practice to ensure cloths in-use for wiping counters and other equipment surfaces shall be held between uses in a chemical sanitizer solution (USDA Food Code, 2023). During intermittent food production and meal distribution observations on 9/11/23 from 2:35 p.m., through 6:15 p.m., there were two dry [NAME] towels on the food production counter. It was noted that both DS1 and DS2 would intermittently use these towels to wipe food particles from food production surfaces. 5. During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., in the dry storage area, there was a plastic thermometer hanging on the wall, however the glass tube containing the red dye colored alcohol liquid, which depicts the room temperature, was missing. In a follow up observation on 9/11/23 at 1:30 p.m., it was there was a document titled Dry Food Storage Temperature Log dated September 2023 hanging on the wall next to the door. There were 2 entries for each day (morning and evening). The entries were consistently 61°F (degrees Fahrenheit). It was also noted above the log there was an electronic remote digital device that was labeled kitchen. The device indicated a reading of 61°F. In an interview on 9/11/23 at 4 p.m., Dietary Staff (DS) 1 indicated the log was filled out twice daily by the diet aides. DS 1 stated the log was put up recently and he was told to just record the temperature on the device. DS 1 stated he was not provided any additional guidance or training. Cross Reference F808 6. During meal distribution observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 5:15 p.m., the evening meal consisted of soy glazed pork, pineapple fried rice, spinach salad and fresh fruit. It was noted except for the texture altered diets all residents received the same meal tray. In a concurrent interview the surveyor asked DS 2 the meaning of fortified on the tray tickets. DS 2 stated the terminology indicated residents were losing weight and needed to gain fat. In an interview on 9/11/23 at 4:30 p.m., DS 2 indicated she has been working at the facility for approximately 2 months. She also stated her work experience was primarily in the retail sector and except for working with another cook for several days she has not received any additional training, was not given guidance for food preparation, however, was interested in acquiring the skills necessary to do her job well. Review of posted document titled Fortified Foods-Week 2 guided staff to add an extra tablespoon of whipped topping to the fresh fruit dessert. Review of the facility diet list revealed there were 5 residents with physician ordered fortified diets. In an interview on 9/12/23 beginning at 9:45 a.m., the surveyor asked the Registered Dietitian (RD)to describe her typical tasks within the facility. The RD indicated she has been with the facility approximately 2 months, spending 10-12 hours per week. The RD described her duties as clinical, completing individual nutrition assessments as well as attending weight and skin committee meetings. The RD also indicated she attempted to connect with the DFS and was told by the DFS her guidance was not necessary as she was responsible for the kitchen. The RD also stated the kitchen door had a lock that required a code, she was not given and did not have access to the kitchen, therefore has not done an evaluation of the service, any staff training or provided guidance to the DFS. On 9/12/23 at 10:20 a.m., the qualifications of the DFS were reviewed in the presence of the Administrator and the RD. The Administrator presented copies of a State University diploma indicating the DFS had a Master of Science (M.S.) in Health Sciences awarded on 12/1/91; a private school of medicine certificate indicating she was a physician, a certificate with a diploma in holistic nutrition as well as a copy of an official transcript titled fitness and nutrition. None of these degrees/certificates would meet State regulatory qualifications for the DFS. In a concurrent interview the Administrator acknowledged the facility had not completed source verification of the presented educational degrees/certificates and thought a M.S. in health sciences would meet educational qualifications. He also stated human resources (HR) would have completed official verification of any educational materials presented. In an interview on 9/13/23at 2:13 p.m., the Activities Director whose position also incorporated HR duties indicated she does not do any verification for supervisory staff and provided a corporate contact. In an interview on 9/19/23 at 2:39 p.m., Administrative Staff 2 stated it is the responsibility of individual facilities to ensure staff are qualified for the positions hired. In a written communication from the State University Campus dated 9/13/23 at 11:56 a.m., ' .without any specific information about the person, we cannot specifically verify their degree but at this time we can verify from 1987 to current there was no Masters in Health Sciences offered . Review of departmental document titled Sanitation and Food Safety Checklist dated 7/27, 6/23 and 6/1/23 revealed during the previous 3 months the Registered Dietitian (RD) identified issues with cleanliness of the kitchen floors and equipment, labeling and dating of products, storage of scoops, the janitorial area was listed as a mess on the 6/23/23 report. The 6/1/23 report also indicated there were issues with dating, however there was no indication the identified issues were addressed or resolved by the facility.
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0802 (Tag F0802)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on dietetic services observations, dietary and administrative staff interview and departmental document review the facilit...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on dietetic services observations, dietary and administrative staff interview and departmental document review the facility failed to ensure staff competency as evidenced by lack of training and orientation of 2 of 2 dietary staff (Dietary Staff 1 and 2) members present during the abbreviated survey. Findings: 1. During meal distribution observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 5:15 p.m., the evening meal consisted of soy glazed pork, pineapple fried rice, spinach salad and fresh fruit. It was noted except for the texture altered diets all residents received the same meal tray. In a concurrent interview the surveyor asked DS 2 the meaning of fortified on the tray tickets. DS 2 stated the terminology indicated residents were losing weight and needed to gain fat. In an interview on 9/11/23 at 4:30 p.m., DS 2 indicated she has been working at the facility for approximately 2 months. She also stated her work experience was primarily in the retail sector and except for working with another cook for several days she has not received any additional training, was not given guidance for food preparation, however, was interested in acquiring the skills necessary to do her job well. Departmental job description titled Cook dated 12/27/21 indicated it was the responsibility of this position to prepare food for therapeutic diets. 2a. During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., there was a one-half deep steam pan as well as a one-quarter deep pan on the steam table containing fried rice. In a concurrent interview Dietary Staff (DS) 2 stated the item was just prepared. The smaller pan was for residents with fruit allergies and the larger one was for the remaining diets. DS 2 stated the items were for dinner meal distribution which would start at 5:15 p.m. In a follow up observation on 9/11/23 at 3:05 p.m., the internal temperature of the rice was 102°F. An additional observation on 9/11/23 at 5:20 p.m., revealed the temperature of the rice was 168°F. In a concurrent interview DS 2 stated she turned down the temperature of the steam table then turned it back up around 4:30 p.m. DS 2 also indicated she has been working at the facility for approximately 2 months. She also stated her work experience was primarily in the retail sector and except for working with another cook for several days she has not received any training and was never instructed on what time to begin preparing meals. Departmental job description titled Cook dated 12/27/21 indicated it was the responsibility of this position to prepare food in accordance with sanitary regulations. b. During cold food production observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 4 p.m., DS 2 was observed preparing a salad for the evening meal. DS 2 obtained cucumbers and tomatoes from the walk-in refrigerator, placed them on the food production counter and proceeded to peel the cucumbers and cut the tomatoes without prior washing. Departmental job description titled Cook dated 12/27/21 indicated it was the responsibility of this position to prepare food in accordance with sanitary regulations. c. It is the standard of practice to ensure cloths in-use for wiping counters and other equipment surfaces shall be held between uses in a chemical sanitizer solution (USDA Food Code, 2023). During intermittent food production and meal distribution observations on 9/11/23 from 2:35 p.m., through 6:15 p.m., there were two dry [NAME] towels on the food production counter. It was noted that both DS1 and DS2 would intermittently use these towels to wipe food particles from food production surfaces. Departmental job description titled Cook dated 12/27/21 indicated it was the responsibility of this position to prepare food in accordance with sanitary regulations. 3. During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., in the dry storage area it was noted there was a plastic thermometer hanging on the wall, however the glass tube containing the red dye colored alcohol liquid, which depicts the room temperature, was missing. In a follow up observation on 9/11/23 at 1:30 p.m., it was there was a document titled Dry Food Storage Temperature Log dated September 2023 hanging on the wall next to the door. There were 2 entries for each day (morning and evening). The entries were consistently 61°F (degrees Fahrenheit). Above the log there was an electronic remote digital device that was labeled kitchen. The device indicated a reading of 61°F. The surveyor placed a thermometer on the electrical outlet underneath the document, registering a temperature of 73°F. In an interview on 9/11/23 at 4 p.m., Dietary Staff (DS) 1 indicated the log was filled out twice daily by the diet aides. The surveyor indicated this device was a remote-control unit for the air conditioner, rather than a room temperature monitoring device. DS 1 stated the log was put up recently and he was told to just record the temperature on the device. DS 1 stated this was his first employment position and he was not provided any additional guidance or training. Facility policy titled Storage of Food and Supplies dated 2023 noted 1 .Thermometers should be placed in all storage areas and checked frequently . Review of facility training transcript for DS 1 revealed general standardized training modules, eight of which had a foodservice component. It was also noted the cumulative time spent in the eight modules was recorded as less than 2 hours. The facility was unable to provide any additional training documentation. The facility also presented a document titled Verification of Job Competency Demonstration-Diet Aides dated 2023 listed DS 1 as verbally competent, however there was no evidence to support any formal training. There was no indication on what the verbal confirmation consisted of, the specific date, time and duration of the competency determination. The competency documents for DS 1 also included a Competency Test for Cools and FNS [food and nutrition staff] dated 7/14/23. It was noted 3 of 12 questions had an incorrect answer, however the supervisor marked that 12 out of 12 questions were correct. An identical test was given to DS 2 who did not answer one question, yet the test was marked as 12 out of 12 correct. Review of the training record for DS 2 indicated the training was limited to administrative topics such as caring for those with cognitive impairment, drug diversion in healthcare, abuse and sexual harassment training. There was no documentation of any training related to dietetic services. The facility presented a Verification of Job Competency Demonstration-Cooks dated 2023, listing competency was primarily determined through verbal confirmation, however there is no indication on what the verbal confirmation consisted of or the specific date, time and duration of the competency determination. Review of positions description titled Cook indicated one year of dietary experience in a licensed facility was desired, but not necessary. The position description titled Dietary Aide indicated there was no required education or experience required and On the job training provided. While the facility provided check off lists for competency assessment there was no indication of comprehensive training for Dietary staffs 1 or 2.
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Menu Adequacy (Tag F0803)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on dietetic services observations, resident interview and departmental document review the facility failed to consistently follow the menu and when menus were altered did not have a method to ad...

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Based on dietetic services observations, resident interview and departmental document review the facility failed to consistently follow the menu and when menus were altered did not have a method to advise residents of the changes. Failure to follow menus as outlined may result in decreased resident meal satisfaction, nutritional value of meals which in turn may result in decreased meal intake leading to weight loss, further compromising medical status. Findings: 1. During initial kitchen tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., dietary staff had just completed the noon meal service and were cleaning up. In a concurrent interview Dietary Staff 3 stated they switched the noon meal and are serving the meals intended for Thursday (9/14) today and would serve Monday ' s (9/11) meal on Thursday. The surveyor inquired the process for informing residents and the Registered Dietitian when meals were altered. DS 3 stated he was not aware of any process. Concurrent review of the menu posted in the kitchen revealed the served lunch meal should have been zesty lasagna, Italian green beans, garlic bread and rainbow gelatin cake. During initial tour of the facility on 9/11/23 beginning at 1:40 p.m., the surveyor asked Resident 1 to describe the noon meal. Resident 1 stated she was served noodles with cheese and a warm green bean salad with garlic bread and cheesecake. Resident 1 stated she has no idea what is being served at each meal. Resident 2 stated he doesn ' t know what is coming and he is getting tired of only being offered grilled cheese sandwiches as a substitute. Resident 3 stated the noon meal was pasta salad, a hot 3 bean salad, and garlic bread. In an observation on 9/11/23 at 4:34 p.m., there was an uneaten patient meal tray outside of the kitchen. The meal consisted of cooked lasagna noodles and what appeared to be broccoli and carrots. The vegetables were a combination of wax, green and kidney beans served with a slice of garlic bread. In an interview on 9/11/23 at 4:45 p.m., DS 2 stated she was unaware of why the menu was not followed as she was the evening cook, and the morning cook was gone. The surveyor also asked DS 2 if there was a system or log to record when meals were not served as written. DS 2 indicated she was not advised of any required documentation when menus were altered. In a follow up observation on 9/12/23 beginning at 9 a.m., it was noted DS 3 was not available for the next several days. During an interview on 9/12/23 beginning at 9:30 a.m., with Resident 4 stated on occasion she received a palatable meal, however many of the items she received were not on her diet. Resident 4 also stated she had no mechanism to know what was served prior to receiving her meal tray. Review of the departmental document titled Zesty Lasagna required ground turkey, spices, tomato sauce and tomato paste, various types of cheeses and lasagna noodles. Review of facility invoices dated 9/7/23 revealed the DFS had not ordered the ingredients in accordance with the Registered Dietitian approved menu, rather ordered a vegetarian lasagna convenience product. The departmental document titled Italian [NAME] Beans required frozen green beans with Italian seasoning and margarine. Review of vendor food invoices dated 9/4, 9/7 and 9/9/23 did not list frozen green beans as part of the food order. 2. On 9/11/23 beginning at 4:15 p.m., the evening meal preparation and distribution was observed. It was noted the dinner entrée consisted of soy glazed pork, pineapple fried rice, a spinach salad, and fruit. DS 2 was observed placing lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and garbanzo beans in a small dish. The surveyor asked DS 2 about the menu as it listed a spinach salad. DS 2 stated she looked for the spinach but there was none. In a follow up observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 5:15 p.m., it was also noted there were 2 residents whose meal preference was vegetarian (Resident 11 and 13) and one resident (Resident 12) whose physician ordered diet was finger foods. The resident with the physician ordered finger food diet received 4 pieces of mini corn dogs, a green salad and fruit. There were no other entrée items offered. In a concurrent interview the surveyor asked DS 2 what she was planning to plate for the vegetarian diets. DS 2 replied they would get rice, mashed potatoes, green salad, and fruit. DS 2 stated she was not trained on the preparation of vegetarian diets and on occasion she would offer tofu if it was available. Facility document titled Fall Menu Week 2 for 9/11/23 revealed residents on a finger food diet should have received bite sized soy glazed pork, fries, vegetable sticks in addition to the fresh fruit. Additionally, residents with Vegetarian diets should have received a bean and cheese taco with rice as the entrée. During entrance on 9/11/23 at 12:30 p.m., the Administrator indicated the Director of Food Services (DFS) was not in the facility, however, would return on 9/12/23. As of exit on 9/12/23 at 12:30 p.m., the DFS had not returned to the facility, as a result was unavailable for interview.
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0808 (Tag F0808)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on meal plating observation, dietary staff interview and departmental document review the facility failed to ensure the standardized menu, approved by the Registered Dietitian, was followed resu...

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Based on meal plating observation, dietary staff interview and departmental document review the facility failed to ensure the standardized menu, approved by the Registered Dietitian, was followed resulting in physician ' s orders not followed for six Residents (Residents 5,6,7,8,9 and 10) with fortified diet orders. Findings: During meal distribution observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 5:15 p.m., the evening meal consisted of soy glazed pork, pineapple fried rice, spinach salad and fresh fruit. It was noted except for the texture altered diets all residents received the same meal tray. In a concurrent interview the surveyor asked DS 2 the meaning of fortified on the tray tickets. DS 2 stated the terminology indicated residents were losing weight and needed to gain fat. In an interview on 9/11/23 at 4:30 p.m., DS 2 indicated she has been working at the facility for approximately 2 months. She also stated her work experience was primarily in the retail sector and except for working with another cook for several days she has not received any additional training, was not given guidance for food preparation, however, was interested in acquiring the skills necessary to do her job well. Review of posted document titled Fortified Foods-Week 2 guided staff to add an extra tablespoon of whipped topping to the fresh fruit dessert. Review of the facility diet list revealed there were 5 residents with physician ordered fortified diets.
CONCERN (F) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on dietetic services observations, dietetic staff and Registered Dietitian interview and departmental document review the ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on dietetic services observations, dietetic staff and Registered Dietitian interview and departmental document review the facility failed to ensure meals were prepared in a sanitary manner, in accordance with standards of practice and departmental procedures as evidenced by 1) holding of foods for extended periods of time at a temperature which may promote bacterial growth; 2) vegetable preparation without prior washing; 3) use of wiping cloths that were not immersed in a chemical sanitizer; 4) undated, thawed nutrition supplements; 5) multiple kitchen areas and equipment that were not clean and 5) storage of scoops in shelf stable foods. Failure to follow standardized sanitation practice may result in bacterial growth associated with foodborne illness, cross contamination of foods, retention of expired items and create an environment that supports a vermin infestation. Findings: 1. Foods which require time/temperature control for food safety include protein-based products such as meat as well as starch-based products such as cooked rice. These foods are often called potentially hazardous foods (PHFs) and have the capability of supporting bacterial growth associated with foodborne illness. The temperature range of 41°F (degrees Fahrenheit) to 135°F is the range when PHFs are most susceptible to bacterial growth. Food kept without temperature control allows products to warm or cool as it equilibrates with the environment. Each food incurs different risks regarding the type of foodborne pathogens able to grow and the rate of growth likely to occur. For both cooling and warming conditions, growth depends on the amount of time the food spends in an optimum growth temperature range. Several factors influence the rate of temperature change in a food, such as the type of food, thickness of the food, and temperature differential between the food and its surroundings. When evaluating the safety of a 4-hour limit for food with no temperature control, products and environmental parameters must be selected to create a worst-case scenario for pathogens growth and possible toxin production (USDA Food Code Annex, 2022). During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., there was a one-half sized deep steam pan as well as a one-quarter sized deep pan on the steam table containing fried rice. In a concurrent interview Dietary Staff (DS) 2 stated the item was just prepared. The smaller pan was for residents with fruit allergies and the larger one was for the remaining diets. DS 2 stated the items were for dinner meal distribution which would start at 5:15 p.m. In a follow up observation on 9/11/23 at 3:05 p.m., the internal temperature of the rice was 102°F. An additional observation on 9/11/23 at 5:20 p.m., revealed the temperature of the rice was 168°F. In a concurrent interview DS 2 stated she turned down the temperature of the steam table then turned it back up around 4:30 p.m. DS 2 also indicated she has been working at the facility for approximately 2 months. She stated her work experience was primarily in the retail sector and except for working with another cook for several days she has not received any training and was never instructed on what time to begin preparing meals. Departmental policy titled Food Preparation dated 2023 instructed staff to .5. Prepare food as close as possible to serving time .7. Hold foods prior to service for as short a time as practical. A maximum 1-hour holding time is recommended . 2. During cold food production observation on 9/11/23 beginning at 4 p.m., DS 2 was observed preparing a salad for the evening meal. DS 2 obtained cucumbers and tomatoes from the walk-in refrigerator, placed them on the food production counter, placed pre-washed lettuce in small bowls and proceeded to peel the cucumbers and cut the tomatoes without prior washing. Facility policy titled Food Preparation dated 2023 listed the process for preparation of vegetables as washing fresh vegetables thoroughly under running water before cutting or peeling. 3. It is the standard of practice to ensure cloths used for wiping counters and other equipment surfaces, shall be held between uses, in a chemical sanitizer solution (USDA Food Code, 2023). During intermittent food production and meal distribution observations on 9/11/23 from 2:35 p.m., through 6:15 p.m., there were two dry [NAME] towels on the food production counter. It was noted that both DS1 and DS2 would intermittently use these towels to wipe food particles from food production surfaces. 4. Multiuse equipment is subject to deterioration because of its nature, i.e., intended use over an extended period. Certain materials allow harmful chemicals to be transferred to the food being prepared which could lead to foodborne illness. In addition, some materials can affect the taste of the food being prepared. Surfaces that are unable to be routinely cleaned and sanitized because of the materials used could harbor foodborne pathogens. Deterioration of the surfaces of equipment such as pitting may inhibit adequate cleaning of the surfaces of equipment, so that food prepared on or in the equipment becomes contaminated. Inability to effectively wash, rinse and sanitize the surfaces of food equipment may lead to the buildup of pathogenic organisms transmissible through food. Studies regarding the rigor required to remove biofilms from smooth surfaces highlight the need for materials of optimal quality in multiuse equipment. The purpose of the requirements for multiuse food-contact surfaces is to ensure that such surfaces are capable of being easily cleaned and accessible for cleaning. Food-contact surfaces that do not meet these requirements provide a potential harbor for foodborne pathogenic organisms. Surfaces which have imperfections such as cracks, chips, or pits allow microorganisms to attach and form biofilms. Once established, these biofilms can release pathogens to food. Biofilms are highly resistant to cleaning and sanitizing efforts. The requirement for easy disassembly recognizes the reluctance of food employees to disassemble and clean equipment if the task is difficult or requires the use of special, complicated tools. The presence of food debris or dirt on nonfood contact surfaces may provide a suitable environment for the growth of microorganisms which employees may inadvertently transfer to food. If these areas are not kept clean, they may also provide harborage for insects, rodents, and other pests (USDA Food Code Annex, 2022). During initial tour on 9/11/23 beginning at 12:30 p.m., in the kitchen, the following was observed: a. The shelving in the walk-in refrigerator was not clean. The shelves had a black fuzzy material resembling mold, which was wipeable with a paper towel, on all the shelves. Similarly, the floor was soiled with unidentified food particles and dried on liquids. There were also multiple areas that had a brown material resembling rust on the walls of the unit. The crevices and wall projections had a buildup of brown, sticky unidentified material. b. In the walk-in refrigerator there were 2 nutritional supplements in a steam pan, with ice that were undated. It was also noted there was an opened case, containing greater than 10 supplements, which were thawed and undated. There was also an undated salad plate, where the edges of the lettuce turned brown; an undated cardboard box of approximately 4 cups of sliced mushrooms that were dark brown, rather than tan colored; a to-go container dated 9/11/23 with no label; and an employee ' s commercially prepared coffee drink dated 9/7/23. In an interview on 9/12/23 at 11:45 a.m., Regional Dietary Staff (RDS) acknowledged stored items needed to be labeled with a use by date. Facility policy titled Procedure for Refrigerated Storage dated 2023 indicated .14. Supplemental shakes which are taken from the frozen state and thawed in the refrigerator must be dated as soon as they are placed in the refrigerator. Follow the manufacturer ' s recommendations (specifications) for shelf life. c. There were multiple areas of the kitchen that were not clean. The plate warmer unit had a build-up of black grease-like material on the crevices around the plate holding chamber as well as around the rubber stoppers and indicator lights. There were greater than 5 clear food storage containers that had a build-up of labeling stickers on the outside. It was also noted the storage containers had dried, unidentified food particles. There was a buildup of grey material, resembling dust, on all protruding surfaces such as light and electrical switches, plumbing and electrical cords on equipment. The floor sinks in the kitchen were not clean. They contained unidentified food particles as well as brown and black discolorations. Floors throughout the kitchen had scattered food particles. The wall underneath the window had peeling paint exposing the drywall underneath. There were also towels on the floor underneath the wire rack adjacent to the dry storage area. The steam table was not clean, the knobs had a buildup of a tan/black stick substance resembling grease. The surfaces of the shelving beneath the steam table were also compromised as it had multiple areas of a brown material, resembling rust. Similarly, the drying mats underneath the steam table were not clean. There was a build-up of brown liquid resembling dried coffee on, behind and beneath the coffee maker. The integrity of the trays holding cleaned/sanitized serving items were not clean and were compromised in multiple areas with cuts, like a knife cut. There were multiple portable ventilation units all of which were covered with unidentified food particles and a grey fuzzy material resembling dust. The ceiling around the main vent in the kitchen was covered with grey fuzzy material, resembling dust. The light fixtures (ballast) adjacent to the window were not covered and appeared to have a retrofitted LED light strip, rather than the manufacturers specifications of fluorescent tubing with cover. The surface of greater than five baking sheets were black and brown resembling burned on oils and the byproduct of an aluminum oxidation process. On the food production surface adjacent to the steam wells there was a hole measuring approximately 1 inch in diameter in the countertop. There was a buildup of dried on food particles inside the hole. In an interview on 9/11/23 beginning at 4:45 p.m., DS 2 stated each employee is responsible for cleaning their own area, however, was unfamiliar whether there was a cleaning checklist. In an interview on 9/12/23 at 10:45 a.m., the Administrator stated to his knowledge there was no outside vendor contract for deep cleaning dietetic services. In an interview on 9/12/23 at 11:45 a.m., RDS stated she was unable to locate any current cleaning logs but was able to offer two untitled documents dated February/March and February 2023. While the department had two basic cleaning checklists, one for the cook and a second for the diet aide that included equipment surfaces such as cleaning the stove top, spice shelf, cleaning ovens and under the steam table, cleaning drains and wiping down multiple surfaces the checklist did not fully reflect the equipment present or the necessary cleaning tasks for the department. As an example, there was no mechanism to clean the shelving or floors in the walk in or other pieces of equipment. It was also noted for the cleaning list intended for the cook cleaning tasks were limited to 2 of 7 days. Departmental document titled Sanitation and Food Safety Checklist dated 7/27/23, which was not completed by the RD, rather by the RDS, noted there were multiple areas in the kitchen that were not clean, including but not limited to baseboards, dry storage area and food production related equipment. While the RDS identified the lapses in sanitation there was no indication the facility addressed the issues. Facility Policy titled Storage of Food and Supplies dated 2023 noted 4. All shelves and storage racks .and promote easy and regular cleaning .5. Routine cleaning and pest control procedures should be developed and followed . Facility document titled Work History Report dated 9/12/23 and beginning 9/30/22 revealed the only outside work orders for the department were listed as services related to the fire suppression system. Facility policy titled Sanitation dated 2023 indicated it was the Director of Food Services (DFS) who was responsible for comprehensive training for sanitation. The policy also indicated the Maintenance Department will assist in janitorial duties the dietary employees cannot do. The policy indicated ceilings and vents were to be cleaned by maintenance staff. Additionally, the policy indicated all areas of the kitchen, and equipment will remain clean, in good repair and free from breaks, corrosions and open seams. d. In the food production area, staff were storing serving scoops inside an unlabeled/undated container, identified by DS 1 as thickener. There was also an undated/unlabeled container containing a small tan pearl sized product, identified by DS 1 as mashed potatoes. Similarly, dietary staff were storing scoops in dry cereal, and flour. There was also a bag of flour in a rolling bin that was stored in the original shipping bag. Additionally, there was a box of lasagna noodles that was opened, and not resealed leaving it susceptible to contamination. Facility policy titled Storage of Food and Supplies dated 2023 guided staff to .7. Remove foods from packing boxes upon delivery .9. Dry food items which have been opened ., noodles, etc. will be tightly closed labeled and dated . Facility policy titled Ingredient Bins dated 2023 guided staff 6.If using a bag inside the bin it is to be of food grade quality. 7. Scoops used in bins must NOT be left in the bin .
Mar 2023 17 deficiencies 3 Harm
SERIOUS (G)

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Quality of Care (Tag F0684)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews and records review, the facility failed to assess and provide necessary services to one of twe...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews and records review, the facility failed to assess and provide necessary services to one of twelve sampled residents (Resident 38) when the facility did not ensure Resident 38 was free from pain due to left foot pressure ulcer and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT - a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs) to left leg. This failure resulted to Resident 38's inability to relax when she repeatedly called out for help and moaned (to make a long, low sound of pain, suffering). (Reference F686) Findings: During a record review for Resident 38, the Face sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indicated Resident 38 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Congestive Heart Failure (CHF - blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath); and Other Symptoms and Signs Involving Cognitive Functions and Awareness and Schizoaffective disorder (a mental health disorder). During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Progress Notes dated 3/9/23 at 3:54 p.m. indicated Resident 38 had a change of condition. The Progress Notes indicated Resident 38 had left hand and left leg swelling. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Progress Note dated 3/10/23 at 5:37 p.m. indicated doctor assessed Resident 38's swollen leg and ordered ultrasound (an imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of organs, tissues, and other structures inside the body) to rule out DVT. The Progress Note also indicated Resident 38 was on monitoring for left heel blister (a painful skin condition where fluid fills a space between layers of skin). During an observation and concurrent interview with Resident 38 in her room on 3/13/23 at 3:21 p.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair, awake wearing a Prevalon heel protection boot (help reduce the risk of pressure ulcer (also known as bedsore - damage to an area of the skin caused by constant pressure on the area for a long time)by keeping the heel floated) to her left leg. Resident 38's top of left foot appeared swollen. When Resident 38 was asked if she had any concern with her skin, Resident 38 stated she believed she had an open area to her left foot and stated, it hurts. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/14/23 at 8:57 a.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair, appeared restless kept on saying hello. During a record review for Resident 38, the ultrasound report dated 3/14/23 indicated the ultrasound was performed on 3/14/23 at 4:23 p.m. The report indicated, There is extensive DVT involving left common femoral vein (a large blood vessel in your thigh), superficial femoral vein and popliteal vein (vein located behind your kneecap). During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/15/23 at 8:52 a.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair, appeared restless kept on saying hello, and help. During an interview with Licensed Staff F on 3/15/23 2:28 p.m. when asked about reason for delay of the left leg ultrasound for Resident 38, Licensed Staff F stated the Social Service Director (SSD) was responsible for scheduling all appointments for the residents. Licensed Staff F stated they sometimes had a hard time to schedule an appointment with the hospital. During an interview with the SSD on 3/15/23 at 4:10 p.m. when asked about the reason for the delay of the ultrasound for Resident 38's left leg, the SSD stated the hospital would not schedule Resident 38 for the ultrasound until they get an order that had the doctor's signature, so she had to return the request form to the nurses to obtain the doctor's signature. The SSD stated when she was able to arrange the appointment for Resident 38, there was no transportation available to take Resident 38 to the appointment. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/16/23 at 8:29 a.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair with a diabetic shoe on her left foot. Resident had facial grimacing, moaning, and repeatedly saying hello and help me. During an interview with Licensed Staff F on 3/16/23 11:24 a.m. Licensed Staff F stated she was not sure if Resident 38 was in pain, she stated it was normal for Resident 38 to call out and count loudly. When Licensed Staff F was asked how she would determine actual pain from behavior, Licensed Staff F stated she would observe for nonverbal indications of pain like facial grimacing, fidgeting, and restless; Licensed Staff F stated she would try to console Resident 38 and if it did not work, then it could be an indication that Resident 38 was in pain. Licensed Staff F stated Resident 38 received Tylenol (pain reliever) for two consecutive days and had asked Resident 38's doctor for a routine pain medication to manage potential pain from the pressure ulcer and DVT. During an interview with Licensed Staff B on 3/16/23 at 1:45 p.m., Licensed Staff B stated Resident 38 was super restless and moved her feet all the time. When Licensed Staff B was asked if Resident 38 having the DVT and pressure ulcer on her left heel would experience pain, Licensed Staff B stated, she could. Licensed Staff B was asked how pain was assessed when resident had behavior, Licensed Staff B stated she would observe for physical signs of pain like facial grimacing, tensed muscle, moaning, and restlessness. Licensed Staff B stated although these signs of pain were observed from Resident 38, Licensed Staff B stated she could not tell if Resident 38 was in pain due to Resident 38's history of calling out in the past. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 03/17/23 at 9:29 a.m., Resident 38 was on her bed with eyes closed, moaning. During a record review for Resident 38, the Medication Administration Record (MAR) for March 2023 indicated Resident 38 was monitored for pain every shift. The MAR indicated from 3/01/23 to 3/16/23, Resident 38 had 4 out of 10 level of pain (score of 0 no pain; 1 to 3 mild pain; 4 to 6 moderate pain and 7 to 10 severe pain) on 3/05/23. The MAR indicated Resident 38 received Tylenol on the following days: 3/3/23 for 6 out of 10 level of pain; 3/5/23 for 4 out of 10 level of pain; and 3/15/23 for 4 out of 10 level of pain. Review of the Facility policy titled Skin and Wound Monitoring and Management revised on 1/2022 indicated, A resident who enters the facility without pressure injury does not develop pressure injury unless the individual's clinical condition or other factors demonstrate that a developed injury was unavoidable; and A resident having pressure injury(s) receives necessary treatment and services to promote healing, prevent infection, and prevent new, avoidable pressure injuries from developing. Procedure indicated, It is understood that a resident may experience pain associated with the presence of skin injury and/or any form of compromise. Therefore, the nursing staff shall be responsible to assess the resident for complaints of pain on assessment, prior to treatment, and as appropriate. Review of the Facility policy titled Recognition and Management of Pain dated 2/2023 indicated, It is the policy of this facility to ensure that pain management is provided to residents who require such services, consistent with professional standards of practice, the comprehensive person-centered care plan, and the residents' goals and preferences.
SERIOUS (G) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, and records review, the facility failed to provide adequate supervision for two of twelve sam...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, and records review, the facility failed to provide adequate supervision for two of twelve sampled residents (Resident 249 and 38) when: 1. The facility did not follow their Fall Care plan to provide staff supervision to Resident 249 when sitting on his wheelchair. This failure resulted to Resident 249's repeated falls requiring two hospitalizations due to nasal laceration (a deep cut or tear in skin) and bilateral nasal bone fractures (a break in the bone or cartilage over the bridge, or in the sidewall or septum [structure that divides the nostrils] of the nose) to which Resident 249 experienced pain. 2. The facility failed to follow the doctor's order for nectar thick liquid for Resident 38 who had difficulty swallowing and did not provide staff supervision when drinking liquid. This failure had the potential for Resident 38 to aspirate (to breathe a substance into your lungs by accident) which could lead to choking, respiratory complications, serious infections or even death. Findings: Resident 249 During a record review for Resident 249, the Face sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indicated Resident 249 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Difficulty Walking; Muscle Weakness; and Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis (paralysis of one side of the body). During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled LN (Licensed Nurse) - Fall Risk Evaluation dated 6/09/22 indicated Resident 249 was high risk for fall. During a record review for Resident 249, the Fall Care Plan initiated on 6/11/22 indicated Resident 249 was at risk for falls related to generalized weakness. Care Plan interventions indicated: - Be sure the call light is within reach and encourage to use it to call for assistance as needed - Bed in lowest position with fall mat at bedside - Educate resident/family/caregivers about safety reminders and what to do if a fall occurs - Keep needed items, water, etc., in reach - Occupational, Physical Therapy evaluation and treatment per physician orders - Educate resident/ family/caregivers about safety reminders and what to do if a fall occurs - Monitor placement of wedge cushion and dycem (non-slip products) in reclining wheelchair During a record review for Resident 249, the Minimum Data Set (MDS -health status screening and assessment tool used for all residents) dated 6/16/22 indicated Resident 249 had a BIMS score of 4 out of 15 points (Brief Interview for Mental Status - a 15-point cognitive (involving conscious intellectual activity [such as thinking, reasoning, or remembering)]) screening measure that evaluates memory and orientation. A score of 13 to 15 is cognitively intact, 08 to 12 is moderately impaired, and 00 to 07 is severe impairment). The MDS indicated Resident 249 required extensive (resident involved in activity; staff provide weightbearing support) one-person physical assist from staff with transfers and walking. First Fall 6/25/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 6/25/22 at 10:10 a.m. indicated Resident 249 was found on the floor yelling for help. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 claimed he had fallen from the wheelchair trying to get to restroom. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 sustained small laceration outside right eye, inner area alongside nose and larger laceration to outer, lower area under right eye. During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 6/25/22 at 12:34 p.m. indicated Resident 249 was sent to the emergency room for evaluation. During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 6/25/22 at 6:13 p.m. indicated Resident 249 returned to the facility. During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 6/27/22 at 10:59 a.m. indicated the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT - group of health care professionals who work together toward the goals of the resident) met to discuss Resident 249's fall incident. The Progress Note indicated, [Resident 249] must be within view of staff/family members when sitting up in wheelchair. During a record review for Resident 249, the Fall Care Plan indicated interventions initiated on 6/25/22 indicated, Staff will not place the resident on wheelchair without family/staff supervision. Second Fall 7/7/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 7/7/22 at 6:30 a.m. indicated, at 0612 [Resident 249] was heard hollering from room. Found on floor on left side curled around transfer pole. Bed was in lowest position and call light was within reach. Resident assisted back on the bed. Crescent shaped skin tear back of left hand ; bruising left elbow. Said hit head (pink mark to back of head to left side, but no swelling or broken skin), but that it only hurt a little. During a review of the Fall Care Plan for Resident 249 and concurrent interview with the DON on 03/17/23 at 3:01 p.m., the DON verified Resident 249's Fall Care Plan did not have new intervention to prevent Resident 249 from further fall. Third Fall 7/13/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 7/13/22 at 7:09 a.m. indicated Resident 249's roommate notified the nurse that Resident 249 was on the floor. The Progress Note indicated the nurse and the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) found Resident 249 next to the bed on floor laying on a pillow on his right side. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 had redness to his right elbow and right shoulder. During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 7/14/22 at 2:42 p.m., indicated, IDT met to discuss resident recent fall. Resident was found on floor at bedside Will do room change closer to nurses' station, to monitor resident closer. Will provide floor mat at bed side. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON on 03/17/23 at 3:07 p.m. when asked what interventions were put in place after the 7/13/22 fall incident to prevent Resident 249 from falling, the DON stated Resident 249 was moved to 18B which is closer to the nurse's station. The DON stated they also used regular mattress on the floor at bedside to prevent Resident 249 from sustaining fall related injury. The DON verified the fall care plan did not indicate floor mattress was used. Fourth Fall 9/11/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 9/11/22 at 4:32 p.m. indicated, 0800 at the Hallway [Resident 249] was in his wheelchair eating breakfast. The Progress Note indicated the housekeeper observed Resident 249 from afar leaning on his right side all the way to the floor and saw Resident 249 fell down. The Progress Note indicated staff immediately responded to the incident and found Resident 249 with blood coming from his nose and some blood coming from his mouth. The Progress Notes indicated Resident 249 possibly bit his right cheek with 2 small openings, right eyebrow laceration, right side of nose has laceration. The Progress Note indicated staff was assisting the resident across the room when the incident occurred. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 was transferred to the hospital at 8:21 a.m. During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled ED (Emergency Department) Physician Notes dated 9/11/22 at 8:47 a.m. indicated, [Resident 249] was apparently complaining of neck pain after the fall. The Physician Note indicated a rhino rocket (designed for the treatment of nosebleed) was placed which was initially avoided due to Resident 249 nasal bone fractures, discomfort, and deviated septum, however Resident 249 had ongoing profuse bleeding. The Physician Note indicated Resident 249 received a dose of Fentanyl (a powerful pain medication). During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Computerized Tomography (diagnostic imaging that shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones) dated 9/11/22 indicated, New on old bilateral nasal bone fractures with a new fracture of the bony nasal septum (the cartilage and bone in your nose) since 06/25/2022. During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 9/11/22 at 4:33 p.m. indicated Resident 249 returned to the facility with rhino rocket clamp in right nose in place. During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 9/11/22 at 5:35 p.m. indicated Resident 249 had some grimacing. During a record review for Resident 249, the Medication Administration Record (MAR) indicated Resident 249 received two tablets of Tylenol 325 mg (milligram) for pain level of 7 out of 10 on 9/11/22 at 5:31 p.m. The MAR indicated a score of 0 was no pain; 1 to 3 was mild pain; 4 to 6 was moderate pain; and 7 to 10 was severe pain During a record review for Resident 249, the MAR indicated Resident 249 received two tablets of Tylenol 325 mg (milligram) for pain level of 5 out of 10 on 9/12/22 at 1:56 p.m. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff J on 3/17/23 at 09:29 a.m., Unlicensed Staff J stated Resident 249 required extensive assist with transfers and toilet use, Resident 249 was non-ambulatory. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff E on 3/17/23 at 2:03 p.m., Unlicensed Staff E stated Resident 249 required two-person total assist with transfer and non-ambulatory. Unlicensed Staff E stated Resident 249 had at least 2 to 3 fall incidents since he was admitted to the facility. When Unlicensed Staff E was asked about interventions put in place to prevent Resident 249 from further fall, Unlicensed Staff E stated Resident 249 was put on frequent check, lowered his bed, and placed fall mat at bedside right after the first fall incident. Unlicensed Staff E was asked if Resident 249 had complained of pain after he sustained a nasal fracture from the 9/11/22 fall incident, Unlicensed Staff E stated Resident 249 spoke Spanish; however, he stated he knew Resident 249 was in pain because his body language indicated he was in pain like grimacing and guarding. During an interview with Licensed Staff A on 3/17/23 at 2:08 p.m., Licensed Staff A stated Resident 249 had complained of pain a few times after he sustained the nasal fracture and was medicated with Tylenol. Licensed Staff A was asked what interventions were put in place to prevent Resident 249 from further fall, Licensed Staff A stated Resident 249 could not be left alone in wheelchair without supervision because he moved a lot. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON on 03/17/23 at 3:19 p.m. when asked about Resident 249's 9/11/22 fall, the DON stated the incident happened in the morning when Resident 249 was sitting on his wheelchair outside of his room. The DON stated staff were providing oversight supervision to Resident 249 while passing breakfast tray; however, fall incident happened. The DON verified the fall care plan for Resident 249 initiated on 6/25/22 indicated, Staff will not place the resident on wheelchair without family/staff supervision. The DON concurred they did not follow the care plan to provide supervision when Resident 249 was up on his wheelchair. Review of the Facility policy titled Fall Management System revised on 2/2023 indicated This facility is committed to promoting resident autonomy by providing an environment that remains as free of accident hazards as possible. Each resident is assisted in attaining or maintaining their highest practicable level of function through providing the resident adequate supervision, assistive devices, and functional programs as appropriate to prevent accidents. Resident 38 During a record review for Resident 38, the Face sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indicated Resident 38 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Congestive Heart Failure (CHF - blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath); and Other Symptoms and Signs Involving Cognitive Functions and Awareness and Schizoaffective disorder (a mental health disorder). During a record review for Resident 38, the MDS dated [DATE] indicated Resident 38 required supervision (oversight, encouragement, or cueing) with eating. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Order Summary Report indicated an order for Resident 38 with a start date on 2/24/23 for CCHO diet (consistent, constant, or controlled carbohydrate [food consisting of or containing a lot of sugars, starch]) mechanical soft texture, nectar thick consistency. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled SLP (Speech Language Pathologist - also known as a Speech Therapist, is a health professional who diagnoses and treats communication and swallowing problems) Evaluation and Plan of Treatment with certification period from 1/17/23 to 2/12/23 indicated, Resident 38 was referred to Speech Therapy for Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) services due to decline, risk for aspiration and oral/pharyngeal function. Resident 38referred to Speech Therapy due to decline in safety awareness, ability to use compensatory strategies and ability to effectively communicate needs/preferences. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/13/23 at 3:16 p.m., an unidentified CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) offered a diet ginger ale to Resident 38. The CNA was observed opening the soda can, poured in a cup and assisted Resident 38 to drink. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/15/23 at 8:52 a.m., Resident 38 was up on her wheelchair. Kept on saying hello, cherry and help. Resident 38 had half full cup of thick clear liquid in front of her on top of the bedside table and a quarter full cup of thin consistency coffee. During an observation and concurrent interview with Director of Staff Development (DSD) on in Resident 38's room on 3/15/23 at 8:58 a.m., the DSD verified the cup of water in front of Resident 38 was thicker than the coffee. The DSD stated the coffee should be thick and took coffee away. During an observation and concurrent interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) in Resident 38's room on 3/16/23 at 3:11 p.m. DON verified Resident 38 had an almost empty container and an approximately 40 ml (milliliter - one thousandth of a liter) of Boost (nutritional supplement) in a cup on top of Resident 38's bedside table. The DON verified Resident 38 had an order for nectar thick liquid. The DON stated Resident 38 would be at risk for aspiration pneumonia when drinking thin liquid. During an interview with the Dietary Manager on 3/16/23 at 3:18 p.m. when asked about their process of preparing liquid consistency for residents prior to sending food trays out to the unit, the Dietary Manager stated they would put one pump of thickener for thin liquid, 2 pumps for honey thick and 3 pumps for nectar thick. The Dietary Manager stated they would send the nutritional supplements like boost with the resident's meal tray unopened and it was the nurse's responsibility to mix the drink according to the doctor's order before serving it to the residents. During an interview and concurrent observation with on 3/16/23 at 3:27 p.m., the Speech Therapist (ST) stated Resident 38 received speech therapy services due to difficulty swallowing and risk for aspiration. The ST verified Resident 38 should have nectar thick liquid. When ST was asked to check the boost on top Resident 38's bedside table, the ST stated the boost consistency was thin and it should have been thickened before it was served to Resident 38. The ST stated Resident 38 required supervision during meals and drinking due to Resident 38's fluctuating mentation (process of reasoning and thinking). During an interview with Licensed Staff F on 3/16/23 at 3:31 p.m. when asked how she prepared the boost for Resident 38, Licensed Staff F stated there was no need to thicken the boost because it was already thick.
SERIOUS (H)

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Pressure Ulcer Prevention (Tag F0686)

A resident was harmed · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews and records review, the facility failed to assess two of twelve sampled residents (Resident 23...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews and records review, the facility failed to assess two of twelve sampled residents (Resident 23 and 38) who were identified at risk for pressure ulcer when: 1. The facility did not assess Resident 23's skin integrity under the left lower extremity (part of the body that includes the leg, ankle, and foot) immobilizer (removable devices that maintain stability of the knee) for a period of two weeks when nursing and therapy staff were providing care and treatment. This failure resulted to the development of a Suspected Deep Tissue Injury (SDTI - Intact or non-intact skin with localized area of persistent non-blanchable [when the skin is pushed and the area stays red, that means that there is little or no blood flow going to that area] deep red, maroon, purple discoloration, or epidermal separation revealing a dark wound bed or blood-filled blister [(a painful skin condition where fluid fills a space between layers of skin]) to Resident 23's left heel. 2. The facility did not assess Resident 38's skin integrity to her left heel after an old pressure ulcer resolved. This failure resulted to the development of a stage two (Partial-thickness loss of skin with exposed dermis [middle layer of skin]) pressure ulcer in a form of a ruptured blister to Resident 38's left heel to which Resident 38 experienced pain and inability to relax when she repeatedly called out for help and moaned (to make a long, low sound of pain, suffering). Findings: Resident 23 During a record review for Resident 23, the Face sheet indicated Resident 23 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Fracture of Shaft of Left Fibula (a break in the small bone that runs along the outside of the lower leg); Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Protein Calorie Malnutrition (when a person is not consuming enough protein and calories) and COVID (Corona Virus Disease - an infectious respiratory disease). During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled LN (Licensed Nurse) - Braden Scale for Predicting Pressure Sore Risk dated 2/07/23 indicated Resident 23 scored 13 indicating she was moderate risk for pressure ulcer. During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled LN - Initial admission Record dated 2/07/23 indicated Resident 23 had an immobilizer to her left lower extremity. During a record review for Resident 23, the Care Plan initiated on 02/08/23 indicated, [Resident 23 had the potential for pressure ulcer development related to immobility, incontinence, and use of brace (a device used to immobilize a joint or body segment) to LLE (Left Lower Extremity). Care Plan interventions indicated, Monitor/document/report to MD (Medical Doctor) PRN (as needed) changes in skin status: appearance, color, wound healing, signs and symptoms of infection, wound size and stage; and Notify nurse immediately of any new areas of skin breakdown: Redness, Blisters, Bruises, discoloration noted during bath or daily care. During a record review for Resident 23, the Minimum Data Set (MDS -health status screening and assessment tool used for all residents) dated 2/14/23 indicated Resident 23 had a BIMS score of 01 out of 15 points (Brief Interview for Mental Status - a 15-point cognitive screening measure that evaluates memory and orientation. A score of 13 to 15 is cognitively intact, 08 to 12 is moderately impaired, and 00 to 07 is severe impairment). The MDS indicated Resident 23 required extensive (resident involved in activity; staff provide weightbearing support) two-person physical assistance with bed mobility (how resident moves to and from lying position, turns side to side, and positions body while in bed). The MDS indicated Resident 23 was at risk for developing pressure ulcers. The MDS indicated Resident 23 did not have unhealed pressure ulcers during the assessment period. During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment and Recommendation - a tool used by health care professionals to communicate with each other about critical changes in patient's status) communication form dated 2/25/23 indicated Resident 23 was noted to have discoloration to her left heel that measured 7.5 cm (centimeter - a metric unit of length, equal to one hundredth of a meter) in length and 2.5 cm. in width. The document indicated Resident 23 was wearing immobilizer to her left foot. During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled Progress Note dated 2/28/23 at 11:17 a.m. indicated Resident 23 had a non-blanchable purple tissue with some dry well adherent eschar to her left heel. During a review of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) job description dated 12/17/21 indicated essential duties and responsibilities for CNAs include but not limited to observe and report the presence of pressure areas and skin breakdowns to prevent pressure ulcers. During an interview with Licensed Staff G on 3/14/23 at 11:28 a.m., Licensed Staff G stated Resident 23's left leg was on immobilizer which caused a pressure ulcer to Resident 23's left heel. When Licensed Staff G was asked how often did nursing staff check the skin integrity under Resident 23's LLE immobilizer, she stated dressing to Resident 23's left knee was left untouched until the doctor said it was okay to remove the dressing. When Licensed Staff G was asked if there was an order to not remove the immobilizer, she stated there was no order. Licensed Staff G concurred Resident 23' LLE under the immobilizer should be checked daily for skin changes. During an interview and concurrent record review with Licensed Staff F on 3/15/23 at 10:13 a.m., when Licensed Staff F was asked how often did nursing staff check Resident 23's skin integrity under the LLE immobilizer, Licensed Staff F stated Resident 23's entire left leg was checked daily for skin changes and would document findings in Resident 23's record. Review of the document titled Nursing Weekly skin assessment for Resident 23 dated 3/14/23 with Licensed Staff F indicated the check box for current pressure ulcer was not checked. Licensed Staff F verified Resident 23 was receiving treatment to her left heel pressure ulcer. During an interview and concurrent record review with the Director of Rehabilitation (DOR) on 3/15/23 at 2:42 p.m. when asked whose responsibility to ensure, skin integrity under the immobilizer of Resident 23's left leg was not compromised, the DOR stated Physical Therapist (PT - A health professional trained to evaluate and treat people who have conditions or injuries that limit their ability to move and do physical activities) had to make sure Resident 23's skin under the left lower immobilizer did not have any skin problem every time PT provided treatment. The DOR stated PT would document their skin observation to Resident 23's record. During an interview and concurrent records review with the DON (Director of Nursing) on 3/15/23 at 2:51 p.m. when asked about her expectation from the nurses for resident who came with an immobilizer, the DON stated if the doctor gave an order to leave the immobilizer in place, then nurses were not allowed to remove the immobilizer; however, nurses could check for circulation like pulse and skin temperature. Review of the physician's order for February 2023 with the DON and verified there was no doctor's order to not remove Resident 23's LLE immobilizer. The DON stated if there was no order to leave the immobilizer in place, nurses should definitely check the skin integrity for changes under the immobilizer at least once a day and document. Review of Resident 23's Progress notes with the DON did not show any documentation from nursing staff indicating Resident 23's left heel was checked at least once a day for skin changes prior to the identification of the SDTI. During a review of the bathing record for Resident 23 with the Infection Preventionist (IP) on 3/16/23 at 2:29 p.m., the IP verified the bathing record from 2/15/23 to 3/16/23 indicated Resident 23 received bed bath once on 3/14/23 and no record of shower given. The IP stated CNAs would document skin changes to the shower sheet and give to the nurse for follow-up. IP was asked to provide shower sheets for Resident 23 from February 2023 to present; however, this writer did not receive shower sheets for Resident 23 at time of exit from the facility. Resident 38 During an observation and concurrent interview with Resident 38 in her room on 3/13/23 at 3:21 p.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair, awake wearing a Prevalon heel protection boot (help reduce the risk of pressure ulcer by keeping the heel floated) to her left foot. Resident 38's top of left foot appeared swollen. When Resident 38 was asked if she had any concern with her skin, Resident 38 stated she believed she had an open area to her left foot and stated, it hurts. During a record review for Resident 38, the Face sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indicated Resident 38 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Congestive Heart Failure (CHF - blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath); and Other Symptoms and Signs Involving Cognitive Functions and Awareness and Schizoaffective disorder (a mental health disorder). During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled LN - Braden Scale for Predicting Pressure Sore Risk (a tool to help health professionals, especially nurses, assess a patient's risk of developing a pressure ulcer) dated 12/22/22 indicated Resident 38 had a total score of 14 (Total Score of 9 or less was Very High Risk; 10 to12 was High Risk; 13 to 14 was Moderate Risk; 15 to 18 was Mild Risk and 19 to 23 was No Risk). During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Initial Care Plan dated 12/22/22 indicated Resident 38 had left heel pressure ulcer and potential for pressure ulcer. Care Plan intervention include but not limited to: daily body skin checks; Notify nurse immediately of any new areas of skin breakdown: Redness, Blisters, Bruises, discoloration noted during bath or daily care. During a record review for Resident 38, the MDS dated [DATE] indicated Resident 38 was at risk for developing pressure ulcers. The MDS indicated Resident 38 had an unstageable pressure ulcer (Full-thickness skin and tissue loss in which the extent of tissue damage within the ulcer cannot be confirmed because it is obscured by slough (dead tissue that separates from living tissue in a wound) or eschar (dead tissue that sheds or falls off from the skin) that was present upon admission. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled LN - Skin Pressure Ulcer Weekly dated 1/11/23 at 6:20 a.m. indicated Resident 38 had an unstageable pressure ulcer to left heel. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Skin Wound Note dated 1/17/23 at 1:22 p.m. indicated Resident 38's pressure ulcer to left heel was resolved. During a record review for Resident 38, the Care plan initiated on 1/18/23 indicated Resident 38 had the potential for pressure ulcer development related to Resident 38's history of pressure ulcer. Care Plan interventions include: Notify nurse immediately of any new areas of skin breakdown: Redness, Blisters, Bruises, discoloration noted during bath or daily care. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Progress Notes dated 3/9/23 at 3:54 p.m. indicated Resident 38 had a change of condition. The Progress Notes indicated Resident 38 had left hand and left leg swelling. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Progress Note dated 3/10/23 at 5:37 p.m. indicated doctor assessed Resident 38's swollen leg and ordered ultrasound (the standard imaging test for patients suspected of having acute DVT [Deep Vein Thrombosis - a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs]) to rule out DVT. The Progress Note also indicated Resident 38 was on monitoring for left heel blister. During a record review for Resident 38, the ultrasound report dated 3/14/23 indicated the ultrasound was performed on 3/14/23 at 4:23 p.m. The report indicated, There is extensive DVT involving left common femoral vein (a large blood vessel in your thigh), superficial femoral vein and popliteal vein (vein located behind your kneecap). During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/14/23 at 8:57 a.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair, appeared restless kept on saying hello. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/15/23 at 8:52 a.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair, appeared restless kept on saying hello, and help. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON on 3/15/23 at 3:12 p.m. when asked about facility process with skin assessment for residents who had previous pressure ulcers, the DON stated nurses were to do a weekly skin assessment and CNAs providing daily care like shower to residents would be able to identify any skin issues and would be reported to the nurse for further assessment. The DON verified there was no documentation from nursing staff indicating Resident 38's left heel was checked at least once a day for skin changes since Resident 38's old pressure ulcer resolved. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 3/16/23 at 8:29 a.m., Resident 38 was sitting on her wheelchair with a diabetic shoe on her left foot. Resident had facial grimacing, moaning, and repeatedly saying hello and help me. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff E on 3/16/23 at 9:11 a.m. when asked about resident's shower schedule, Unlicensed Staff E stated they give shower twice a week for all residents. Unlicensed Staff E stated they would do head to toe skin check when giving shower to residents; any skin changes would be documented to the shower sheet and would be given to the nurse. When Unlicensed Staff E was asked if he checked Resident 38's left heel when providing care, Unlicensed Staff E stated, no because her left leg was always wrapped. During an interview with Licensed Staff F on 3/16/23 11:24 a.m. Licensed Staff F stated she was not sure if Resident 38 was in pain, she stated it was normal for Resident 38 to call out and count loudly. When Licensed Staff F was asked how she would determine actual pain from behavior, Licensed Staff F stated she would observe for nonverbal indications of pain like facial grimacing, fidgeting, and restless; Licensed Staff F stated she would try to console Resident 38 and if it did not work, then it could be an indication that Resident 38 was in pain. Licensed Staff F stated Resident 38 received Tylenol (pain reliever) for two consecutive days and had asked Resident 38's doctor for a routine pain medication to manage potential pain from the pressure ulcer. During an interview with Licensed Staff B on 3/16/23 at 1:45 p.m., Licensed Staff B stated Resident 38's left heel blister would be a stage 2 pressure ulcer (Partial-thickness loss of skin with exposed dermis [middle layer of skin]) because it was a ruptured blister, and the location of wound was on a bony prominence. Licensed Staff B stated Resident 38 was super restless and moved her feet all the time. When Licensed Staff B was asked if Resident 38 having pressure ulcer on her left heel would experience pain, Licensed Staff B stated, she could. During a review of the bathing record for Resident 38 with the IP on 3/16/23 at 2:29 p.m., the IP verified the bathing record from 2/15/23 to 3/16/23 indicated Resident 38 received shower once on 3/11/23. The IP stated CNAs would document skin changes to the shower sheet and give to the nurse for follow-up. IP was asked to provide shower sheets for Resident 38 from February 2023 to present however, there were only two shower sheets received for 2/15/23 and 3/15/23. During an observation in Resident 38's room on 03/17/23 at 9:29 a.m., Resident 38 was on her bed with eyes closed, moaning. During a telephone interview with the Medical Director on 3/21/23 at 12:09 p.m. when asked about his expectation for resident skin assessment, the Medical Director stated daily skin assessment was very important for pressure ulcer prevention especially for residents who were at risk for pressure ulcer. Review of the Facility policy titled Skin and Wound Monitoring and Management revised on 1/2022 indicated, A resident who enters the facility without pressure injury does not develop pressure injury unless the individual's clinical condition or other factors demonstrate that a developed injury was unavoidable; and A resident having pressure injury(s) receives necessary treatment and services to promote healing, prevent infection, and prevent new, avoidable pressure injuries from developing. Procedure indicated: - It is understood that a resident may experience pain associated with the presence of skin injury and/or any form of compromise. Therefore, the nursing staff shall be responsible to assess the resident for complaints of pain on assessment, prior to treatment, and as appropriate. - Monitoring indicated Skin inspection on showering: On shower days, CNAs to observe resident skin; identify any areas of skin breakdown, discoloration, tears, or redness. Review of the Facility policy titled Pressure Ulcer dated 2/2023 indicated The purpose of this policy is that the resident does not develop pressure ulcers unless clinically unavoidable and that the facility provides care and services to: Promote the prevention of pressure ulcer development . Procedures indicated monitoring daily.
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0657 (Tag F0657)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and records review, the facility failed to implement timely revision of Care Plan for fall prevention for 1 o...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and records review, the facility failed to implement timely revision of Care Plan for fall prevention for 1 of 12 sampled residents (Resident 249). This failure resulted in Resident 249's repeated falls requiring hospitalizations due to nasal laceration (a deep cut or tear in skin) and bilateral nasal bone fractures (a break in the bone or cartilage over the bridge, or in the sidewall or septum (structure that divides the nostrils) of the nose). (Reference F689) Findings: During a record review for Resident 249, the Face sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indicated Resident 249 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Difficulty Walking; Muscle Weakness; and Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis (paralysis of one side of the body). During a record review for Resident 249, the Fall Care Plan initiated on 6/11/22 indicated Resident 249 was at risk for falls related generalized weakness. Care Plan interventions indicated: - Be sure the call light is within reach and encourage to use it to call for assistance as needed - Bed in lowest position with fall mat at bedside - Educate resident/family/caregivers about safety reminders and what to do if a fall occurs - Keep needed items, water, etc., in reach - Occupational, Physical Therapy evaluation and treatment per physician orders - Educate resident/ family/caregivers about safety reminders and what to do if a fall occurs - Monitor placement of wedge cushion and dycem (non-slip products) in reclining wheelchair First Fall 6/25/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 6/25/22 at 10:10 a.m. indicated Resident 249 was found on the floor yelling for help. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 claimed he had fallen from the wheelchair trying to get to restroom. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 sustained small laceration outside right eye, inner area alongside nose and larger laceration to outer, lower area under right eye. During a record review for Resident 249, the Fall Care Plan indicated interventions initiated on 6/25/22 indicated, Staff will not place the resident on wheelchair without family/staff supervision. During a record review for Resident 249, the Fall Care Plan indicated interventions initiated on 6/27/22 to include: Anticipate and meet needs; Avoid rearranging furniture; Ensure resident is wearing appropriate footwear when ambulating or wheeling in wheelchair; and room assignment close to the nurse's station. During a review of the Fall Care Plan for Resident 249 and concurrent interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 3/17/23 at 2:52 p.m., the DON verified the fall care plan intervention initiated on 6/27/22 indicated, room assignment close to the nurse's station. The DON stated Resident 249 was originally in room [ROOM NUMBER]B; however, he was moved to room [ROOM NUMBER] (farthest room from the nurse's station) per resident's family request because they wanted Resident 249's bed near the window. The DON stated staff were to make frequent rounds to provide incontinence care to Resident 249. Second Fall 7/7/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 7/7/22 at 6:30 a.m. indicated, at 0612 [Resident 249] was heard hollering from room. Found on floor on left side curled around transfer pole. Bed was in lowest position & call light was within reach. Resident assisted back on the bed. Crescent shaped skin tear back of left hand ; bruising left elbow. Said hit head (pink mark to back of head to left side, but no swelling or broken skin), but that it only hurt a little. During a review of the Fall Care Plan for Resident 249 and concurrent interview with the DON on 03/17/23 at 3:01 p.m. The DON verified there was no new intervention put in place to prevent Resident 249 from further fall. The DON verified Resident 249 was not moved to another room and remained in room [ROOM NUMBER]. The DON stated she expected new interventions should be put in place after each fall incident. Third Fall 7/13/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 7/13/22 at 7:09 a.m. indicated Resident 249's roommate notified the nurse that Resident 249 was on the floor. The Progress Note indicated the nurse and the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) found Resident 249 next to the bed on floor laying on a pillow on his right side. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 had redness to his right elbow and right shoulder. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON on 03/17/23 at 3:07 p.m. when asked what interventions were put in place after the 7/13 fall incident to prevent Resident 249 from falling, the DON stated Resident 249 was moved to 18B which is closer to the nurse's station. The DON stated they also used regular mattress on the floor at bedside to prevent Resident 249 from sustaining fall related injury. The DON verified the fall care plan did not indicate floor mattress was used. Fourth Fall 9/11/22 During a record review for Resident 249, the document titled Progress Notes dated 9/11/22 at 4:32 p.m. indicated, 0800 at the Hallway [Resident 249] was in his wheelchair eating breakfast. The Progress Note indicated the housekeeper observed Resident 249 from afar leaning on his right side all the way to the floor and saw Resident 249 fell down. The Progress Note indicated staff immediately responded to the incident and found Resident 249 with blood coming from his nose and some blood coming from his mouth. The Progress Noted indicated Resident 249 possibly bit his right cheek with 2 small openings, right eyebrow laceration, right side of nose has laceration. The Progress Note indicated was staff assisting the resident across the room when the incident occurred. The Progress Note indicated Resident 249 was transferred to the hospital at 8:21 a.m. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON on 03/17/23 at 3:19 p.m. when asked about Resident 249's 9/11/22 fall, the DON stated the incident happened in the morning when Resident 249 was sitting on his wheelchair outside of his room. The DON stated staff were providing oversight supervision to Resident 249 while passing breakfast tray; however, fall incident happened. The DON verified the fall care plan for Resident 249 initiated on 6/25/22 indicated, Staff will not place the resident on wheelchair without family/staff supervision. The DON concurred they did not follow the care plan to provide supervision when Resident 249 was up on his wheelchair. Review of the Facility policy titled Fall Management System revised on 2/2023 indicated This facility is committed to promoting resident autonomy by providing an environment that remains as free of accident hazards as possible. Each resident is assisted in attaining or maintaining their highest practicable level of function through providing the resident adequate supervision, assistive devices, and functional programs as appropriate to prevent accidents. The policy indicted, Resident's care plan will be updated.
CONCERN (D)

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

Respiratory Care (Tag F0695)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to obtain and implement physician's order for one of 1...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to obtain and implement physician's order for one of 12 sampled residents (Resident 32) when: 1. The facility did not obtain a physician's order for oxygen (O2 - life-supporting component of the air) when Resident 32 was observed on oxygen inhalation for three days. This deficient practice placed Resident 32 at risk for unnecessary respiratory care. Findings: Review of Resident 32's admission record indicated Resident 32 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with multiple diagnosis that included: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Unspecified (A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe). During an initital observation of the facility on 3/13/23 at 2:00 p.m., the resident was observed in bed sleeping, a nasal cannula attached to an oxygen concentrator was running at 2/liters of oxygen, the nasal cannula was on the floor and there was no date on the oxygen tubing. During an observation on 3/16/23 at 10:30 a.m., Resident 32 was lying in bed, when asked how she was feeling the resident mumbled some words and stated she did not feel well. An oxygen concentrator next to the resident's bed was on and running at 2/liters of oxygen, the nasal canula was on the floor, no date was observed on the oxygen tubing. During an observation and concurrent interview on 03/17/23 at 09:30 a.m., Resident 32 was lying in bed awake and alert. The resident was asked how often she wears her oxygen, she stated I wear oxygen at night, sometimes. The resident stated she does become short of breath after she exercises. When asked if she smoked, the resident stated she had a cigarette and took a few puffs when she was able to go outside. During a review of the medical record on 3/17/23, no physician orders or respiratory assessments was found in the medical record or on the resident's care plan at any time during the resident's admission. Resident 32 did have medical orders for respiratory inhalers. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 2:00 p.m., Licensed Staff K was asked if Resident 32 had an order for oxygen therapy. Licensed Staff K reviewed the medical orders and stated she could not find an order for the resident's oxygen. When asked if an order was needed for oxygen therapy she stated Yes. During an observation and 3/20/23 at 10:29 a.m., Resident 32 was in bed, an oxygen concentrator was on, and the nasal cannula was on the floor. The resident was mumbling some words and stated she did not feel well. Licensed Staff A was asked if Resident 32 had orders for Oxygen therapy. Licensed Staff A further assessed Resident 32 and reviewed the medical record and confirmed the resident did not have an order for oxygen. When asked if an order for Oxygen therapy was required, Licensed Staff A stated yes and proceeded to contact the physician. During an interview on 3/20/23 at 2:30 p.m., the DON verified that Resident 32 did not have an physician's order or care plan for nasal cannula O2. When asked if an order for oxygen is required the DON stated Yes. Review of the facility policy and procedure titled Physician Orders revised 02/2023, indicated, 1. No drugs or biologicals shall be administered except upon the order of a person lawfully authorized to prescribe for and treat human illnesses; 6. Orders for medications must include: A. Name and strength of the drug B. Quantity or specific duration of therapy C. Dosage and frequency of administration D. Route of administration if other than oral; and E. Reason or problem for which given.
CONCERN (D)

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

Pharmacy Services (Tag F0755)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services that meet the needs of their residents as evidence by: 1. Licensed Nurse A, Licensed Nurse B, ...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services that meet the needs of their residents as evidence by: 1. Licensed Nurse A, Licensed Nurse B, and Licensed Nurse C did not rotate the site for injection for one of one sampled resident (Resident 148) on subcutaneous (SC-injection given under the skin) Insulin Lispro (medication to reduce blood sugar) in accordance with manufacturer specifications. This failure increases the risk for an adverse reaction to Insulin. 2. Two oral emergency medications kits were not replaced, when medications were taken out of the kit, within 72 hours as required by facility policy. This failure increases the risk for not having the necessary medications to treat residents. Findings: 1. A review on 3/14/23 of the Insulin Lispro manufacturer's insert indicated Administer the dose of insulin lispro .by injection into the subcutaneous tissue of the abdominal wall, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks. To reduce the risk of lipodystrophy, rotate the injection site within the same region from one injection to the next . A review of 3/14/23 of Resident 148's medication administration record for Insulin Lispro indicated the following location of administrations that were not rotated as required by the manufacturer: *3/13/23 1106 Abdomen LLQ administered by Licensed Nurse A *3/13/23 0652 Abdomen LLQ administered by Licensed Nurse A *3/12/23 12:26 Abdomen RLQ administered by Licensed Nurse B *3/12/23 08:53 Abdomen RLQ administered by Licensed Nurse B *3/11/23 18:01 Abdomen RLQ administered by Licensed Nurse C *3/11/23 1155 Abdomen RLQ administered by Licensed Nurse B *3/11/23 0810 Abdomen RLQ administered by Licensed Nurse B *3/10/23 1751 Abdomen RLQ administered by Licensed Nurse C *3/10/23 11:32 Abdomen RLQ administered by Licensed Nurse A During an interview on 3/14/23 at 1:51 p.m., the Consultant Pharmacist stated that he was the facility pharmacist. He also stated that he did an in-service all the nurses on rotating the injection site for subcutaneous insulin. He said that the insulin for Resident 148 should have been rotated and he did not know why the nurses did not rotate the injection site. 2. A review on 3/13/23 of the facility policy entitled Emergency Pharmacy Service and Emergency Kits indicated If exchanging kits, opened kits are replaced with sealed kits within (72 hours) of opening. During an observation on 3/13/23 at 2:38 p.m. at nursing station 1 medication room, there were two oral emergency kits (e-kits) that were opened. The outside of the e-kits was labeled ORAL EMERGENCY DRUG SUPPLY *PLEASE NOTIFY PHARMACY BEFORE OPENING*. There were two oral e-kits and each had a e-kit log which indicated: *PO EKIT #50 first opened date on log 02/15/23 *PO EKIT #14 first opened date on log 02/28/23 The above indicated that the two kits should have been replaced by 2/17/23 and 3/3/23 which is 72 hours from when it was opened on 2/15/23 and 2/28/23. The kit was still not replaced by 3/13/23. A review on 3/13/23 of the oral e-kits logs indicated the following medications were taken from the kit: *2/16/23 Potassium 20 meq 1 quantity *2/24/23 Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate Suspension 2 quantity *2/25/23 Azithromycin 250 mg 1 quantity *2/28/23 Cephalexin 500 mg 2 quantity *3/03/23 Azithromycin 250 mg 2 quantity *3/11/23 Ciprofloxacin 250 mg 2 quantity During an interview on 3/13/23 at 3:15 p.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) stated that the oral e-kits were supposed to be used up until 3/08/23 and then the Cubix (automated dispensing unit-medications are dispensed through vending type machine). She said that the e-kits should now be removed, and she acknowledged that the e-kits should have been replaced within 72 hours as required by facility policy.
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** b. During a record review for Resident 248, the Face sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indica...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** b. During a record review for Resident 248, the Face sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indicated Resident 248 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Right Femur Fracture (a break in the thigh bone) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems). During an observation in Resident 248's room on 3/13/23 at 11:25 a.m. in Resident 248 was sitting on her wheelchair with oxygen at 2 liter via oxygen concentrator (device that concentrates the oxygen) via nasal cannula The humidifier attached to the oxygen concentrator, and the nasal cannula tubing did not have a date to indicate when the humidifier and cannula tubing was opened. During an observation in Resident 248's room on 3/15/23 at 8:46 a.m. Resident 248 was sitting at the edge of her bed with oxygen on via concentrator at 2 liters via nasal cannula. The humidifier attached to the oxygen concentrator, and the nasal cannula was not dated. During an observation in Resident 248's room and concurrent interview with Licensed Staff F on 3/16/23 at 11:11 a.m., Licensed Staff F verified the nasal cannula was not dated. When Licensed Staff F was asked about facility process when to change the cannula tubing and humidifier, Licensed Staff F stated night nurses were responsible to change and date the cannula tubing and humidifier once a week. During an interview with Licensed Staff R on 3/17/23 2:10 p.m. Licensed Staff R stated nurses were to change the cannula tubing and humidifier every week and as needed. Licensed Staff R stated cannula tubing and humidifier were labeled with date, time/, and licensed nurse's initials. Licensed Staff R stated there was no way she could verify if cannula tubing and humidifier were changed if not labeled with date. Licensed Staff R stated risk for not changing cannula tubing and humidifier would be an infection control issue. During an interview with the Infection Preventionist (IP) on 3/17/23 at 2:31 p.m., the IP stated the cannula tubing was changed weekly and as needed for soilage. The IP stated bacteria could grow in the tubing when not changed and had the potential for the resident to breath in the bacteria. Review of the Facility policy and procedure titled Oxygen Therapy revised on 11/2020 indicated, It is the policy of this facility to administer oxygen in a safe manner. The facility failed to maintain an effective infection prevention and control program, designed to prevent the development and transmission of disease and infection for the residents in the facility when: a. A staff member brought in a bag of resident's soiled items directly to the clean area of the laundry room, and b. One of two sampled residents (Resident 248) who was on oxygen (O2 - life-supporting component of the air) therapy was using an undated nasal cannula (tube which on one end splits into two prongs which are placed in the nostrils) tubing and humidifier (add moisture to the air to prevent dryness that can cause irritation in many parts of the body). Unsanitary transport and processing of residents' washables increased the potential of cross-contamination, and the use of undated oxygen equipment, unverifiable of its replacement date, had the potential for buildup of harmful bacteria which may then be inhaled by Resident 248. Findings: a. During an observation of the laundry room with Unlicensed Staff H on 3/15/23 at 9:30 a.m., Therapy Assistant I walked into the room's clean linen area, held up a plastic bag, and stated a resident's splints (a device used to protect a broken bone or injury) needed to be washed. Unlicensed Staff H stopped, pointed to the other side of the room, told Therapy Assistant I to leave and stated, You can't be in here. During a concurrent interview, Unlicensed Staff H stated Therapy Assistant I should not have gone to the clean area with items from the residents' rooms. Unlicensed Staff H stated, Dirty items only in the dirty room, never in the clean area. During an interview on 3/16/23 at 9:51 a.m., Therapy Assistant I stated she did not know that she could not go through the laundry's clean area door to drop off items that needed to be laundered. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 9:05 a.m., Infection Preventionist (IP) stated the dirty linen goes through the laundry's dirty area to be washed. IP stated staff should not bring in dirty items directly into laundry's clean area and added that the clean area was only for washed items. A review of a facility policy titled, Infection Prevention and Control Program: Infection Prevention - Linen Management, dated 10/22, indicated, Soiled laundry/bedding shall be handled in a manner that prevents gross microbial contamination of the air and persons handling the linen . Clean and dirty linen areas should be separate and clearly designated .
CONCERN (E)

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

Free from Abuse/Neglect (Tag F0600)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to protect two (Residents 149 and 42) of three sampled residents' rights to be free from verbal abuse by a staff member (Unlicen...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to protect two (Residents 149 and 42) of three sampled residents' rights to be free from verbal abuse by a staff member (Unlicensed Staff D). This failure resulted in Residents 149 and 42 to experience fear and verbalize feelings of being unsafe, which could lead to negative effects to the residents' emotional and psychosocial well-being. Findings: Record review of the Grievance Binder on 3/16/23 2:42 p.m. revealed the facility received two verbal abuse allegations against Unlicensed Staff D, from Residents 149 and 42, on 2/27/23. During a concurrent interview, Social Services Director (SSD) stated she verbally reported the incidents to the Administrator immediately on 2/27/23. A review of Resident 149's admission Record indicated diagnoses including need for weakness, assistance with personal care, and anxiety disorder (a mental health disorder characterized by intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations). A review of Resident 149's Grievance Resolution Form, dated Date Received: 2/27/23, Time: 2:15, indicated, SUMMARY STATEMENT OF THE RESIDENT'S GRIEVANCE: Resident asked a CNA [Unlicensed Staff D] to move the chair . and the CNA responded rudely and threatened her . She does not feel safe around this CNA and resident said that she is afraid of her and does not want her near her. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 9:01 a.m., Resident 149 stated Unlicensed Staff D was rude and would not listen to her request to move a chair that was blocking her path to the bathroom. Resident 149 stated Unlicensed Staff D raised her voice and asked, Why are you arguing with me?! Resident 149 paused and looked down on her clasped hands on her lap. A few moments passed, and in a quiet voice, Resident 149 stated, I don't like it when people yell at me. She did not have to yell at me. When asked how the incident made her feel, Resident 149 stated, I was scared. I feel like I was threatened. Resident 149 stated, If I did not speak up, what if she was doing the same thing to others? A review of Resident 42's admission Record indicated diagnoses including major depressive disorder (A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life) and anxiety disorder. Resident 42's Grievance Resolution Form, dated Date Received: 02/27/23, Time: 2:00 p.m., indicated, SUMMARY STATEMENT OF THE RESIDENT'S GRIEVANCE: .a female CNA . got right in her face . she does not feel safe around that CNA and does not want to work with her again . During an interview and concurrent observation on 3/17/23 at 9:34 a.m., Resident 42 stated she needed help with her shoes from Unlicensed Staff D. Resident 42 stated she was explaining how she needed to put her foot down to secure the straps of her shoes, when Unlicensed Staff D cut her off and stated, I know what I'm doing. Don't tell me what to do. Resident 42 stated Unlicensed Staff D leaned close to her face and told her to stop hollering at me. Resident 42, with eyes wide, demonstrated how close Unlicensed Staff was, by holding a palm about two inches from her face. Resident 42, occasionally blinking back tears during the interview, stated, It was scary. I've never had anybody do that to me in the real world; I did not expect that to ever happen here. Resident 42 stated Unlicensed Staff D continued to be assigned to her care even after she had notified staff about the incident. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 10:03 a.m., the Administrator stated he was the facility's Abuse Coordinator. Administrator stated he investigated the event and interviewed Residents 149 and 42 but was unable to substantiate the events as abuse. When asked if yelling and threatening gestures such as towering and intimidation could be considered abuse, Administrator stated there were some customer service issues and attitudes, but as both Residents 149 and 42 stated they were not abused, the facility therefore determined it was not abuse. During an interview on 3/20/23 at 8:21 a.m., Director of Staff Development (DSD) stated yelling at, aggression towards, and threatening residents are abusive behaviors. DSD stated such incidents should immediately be stopped, reported to the nurse. DSD stated, We need to protect the residents. DSD stated Unlicensed Staff D's actions towards Residents 149 and 42 were threatening, inappropriate, and abusive. During an interview on 3/20/23 at 8:48 a.m., Director of Nursing (DON) stated abuse could be any inappropriate interaction with residents. DON stated inappropriate tone, such as demeaning or yelling, and intimidation, were abusive. DON stated Unlicensed Staff D's actions were inappropriate, and [Unlicensed Staff D] should have been suspended immediately. A review of the facility policy titled, Abuse: Prevention of and Prohibition Against, dated 10.2022, indicated, It is the policy of this Facility that each resident has the right to be free from abuse . Abuse if the willful infliction of injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation or punishment with resulting physical harm, pain, or mental anguish . It includes verbal abuse . Willful as used in this definition of abuse, means the individual must have acted deliberately, not that the individual must have intended to inflict injury or harm . Verbal abuse includes the use of oral, written, or gestured language that willfully includes disparaging and derogatory terms to residents .
CONCERN (E)

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

Report Alleged Abuse (Tag F0609)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to develop and/or implement policies and procedures for ensuring the reporting of a reasonable suspicion of a crime in accordance with section...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to develop and/or implement policies and procedures for ensuring the reporting of a reasonable suspicion of a crime in accordance with section 1150B of the Act, when two of three resident abuse allegations (by Residents 149 and 42) were not reported to other officials, including to the Department, in accordance with State law. This failure decreased the Department's ability to ensure a complete investigation and appropriate interventions were started and implemented timely to protect Residents 149 and 42, and the 40 other vulnerable residents, from further potential abuse reoccurrence. (Cross Reference F600) Findings: Record review of the Grievance Binder on 3/16/23 2:42 p.m. revealed the facility received two verbal abuse allegations against Unlicensed Staff D, from Residents 149 and 42, on 2/27/23. During a concurrent interview, Social Services Director (SSD) stated she verbally reported the incidents to the Administrator immediately on 2/27/23. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 8:35 a.m., the Administrator stated he was the facility's Abuse Coordinator. The Administrator stated he was notified of Residents 149's and 42's complaints against Unlicensed Staff D. When asked about reporting abuse allegations, the Administrator stated the State [Department] was only notified if, after facility investigation, the abuse allegation was substantiated. A review of Resident 149's admission Record indicated diagnoses including need for weakness, assistance with personal care, and anxiety disorder (a mental health disorder characterized by intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations). A review of Resident 149's Grievance Resolution Form, dated Date Received: 2/27/23, Time: 2:15, indicated, SUMMARY STATEMENT OF THE RESIDENT'S GRIEVANCE: Resident asked a CNA [Unlicensed Staff D] to move the chair . and the CNA responded rudely and threatened her . She does not feel safe around this CNA and resident said that she is afraid of her and does not want her near her. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 9:01 a.m., Resident 149 stated Unlicensed Staff D was rude and would not listen to her request to move a chair that was blocking her path to the bathroom. Resident 149 stated Unlicensed Staff D raised her voice and asked, Why are you arguing with me?! Resident 149 paused and looked down on her clasped hands on her lap. A few moments passed, and in a quiet voice, Resident 149 stated, I don't like it when people yell at me. She did not have to yell at me. When asked how the incident made her feel, Resident 149 stated, I was scared. I feel like I was threatened. Resident 149 stated, If I did not speak up, what if she was doing the same thing to others? A review of Resident 42's admission Record indicated diagnoses including major depressive disorder (A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life) and anxiety disorder. Resident 42's Grievance Resolution Form, dated Date Received: 02/27/23, Time: 2:00 p.m., indicated, SUMMARY STATEMENT OF THE RESIDENT'S GRIEVANCE: .a female CNA . got right in her face . she does not feel safe around that CNA and does not want to work with her again . During an interview and concurrent observation on 3/17/23 at 9:34 a.m., Resident 42 stated she needed help with her shoes from Unlicensed Staff D. Resident 42 stated she was explaining how she needed to put her foot down to secure the straps of her shoes, when Unlicensed Staff D cut her off and stated, I know what I'm doing. Don't tell me what to do. Resident 42 stated Unlicensed Staff D leaned close to her face and told her to stop hollering at me. Resident 42, with eyes wide, demonstrated how close how close Unlicensed Staff was, by holding a palm about two inches from her face. Resident 42, occasionally blinking back tears during the interview, stated, It was scary. I've never had anybody do that to me in the real world; I did not expect that to ever happen here. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 10:03 a.m., the Administrator stated he investigated the event and determined there were some customer service issues and attitudes. Administrator stated he interviewed Residents 149 and 42 who stated they were not abused; therefore, the facility was unable to substantiate the events as abuse and were subsequently not reported. A review of the facility policy titled, Abuse: Prevention of and Prohibition Against, dated 10.2022, indicated, Reporting/Response: 2. Allegations of abuse, neglect, misappropriation of resident property, or exploitation will be reported outside the Facility and to the appropriate State or federal agencies in the applicable timeframes, as per this policy and applicable regulations .
CONCERN (E)

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

Investigate Abuse (Tag F0610)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to: a. Provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate thorough investigations of two of three abuse allegations (by Residents 149 and 42), and b. ...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to: a. Provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate thorough investigations of two of three abuse allegations (by Residents 149 and 42), and b. Prevent potential for further abuse when Unlicensed Staff D continued to work at the facility for two more shifts after the facility was notified of Resident 42's verbal abuse allegations against said staff, with one shift schedule even including Resident 42 under Unlicensed Staff D's assignment. These failures subjected the 44 vulnerable resident population to potential reoccurrence of abuse, and continued placement of Resident 42's care under her aggressor resulted in feelings of fear and anxiety. Findings: Record review of the Grievance Binder on 3/16/23 2:42 p.m. revealed the facility received two verbal abuse allegations against Unlicensed Staff D, from Residents 149 and 42, on 2/27/23. During a concurrent interview, Social Services Director (SSD) stated she verbally reported the incidents to the Administrator immediately on 2/27/23. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 8:35 a.m., Administrator stated he was the facility's Abuse Coordinator. The Administrator stated he was aware of the verbal abuse allegations by Residents 149 and 42 against Unlicensed Staff D. Administrator stated, I did my due diligence and investigated immediately. The Administrator stated the investigation was conducted by interviewing both Residents 149 and 42, and Unlicensed Staff D. Concurrent review of the investigation reports provided by the Administrator revealed two undated pages indicating, Interview with Ms. [Resident 149] and Interview [Resident 42]. Further review revealed the pages contained a summary of the interviews between the Administrator and Residents 149 and 42. When asked if there were any other investigation notes, Administrator stated it was all written on the pages provided. A review of Resident 149's admission Record indicated diagnoses including need for weakness, assistance with personal care, and anxiety disorder (a mental health disorder characterized by intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations). A review of Resident 149's Grievance Resolution Form, dated Date Received: 2/27/23, Time: 2:15, indicated, SUMMARY STATEMENT OF THE RESIDENT'S GRIEVANCE: Resident asked a CNA [Unlicensed Staff D] to move the chair . and the CNA responded rudely and threatened her . She does not feel safe around this CNA and resident said that she is afraid of her and does not want her near her. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 9:01 a.m., Resident 149 stated Unlicensed Staff D was rude and would not listen to her request to move a chair that was blocking her path to the bathroom. Resident 149 stated Unlicensed Staff D raised her voice and asked, Why are you arguing with me?! Resident 149 paused and looked down on her clasped hands on her lap. A few moments passed, and in a quiet voice, Resident 149 stated, I don't like it when people yell at me. She did not have to yell at me. When asked how the incident made her feel, Resident 149 stated, I was scared. I feel like I was threatened. Resident 149 stated, If I did not speak up, what if she was doing the same thing to others? A review of Resident 42's admission Record indicated diagnoses including major depressive disorder (A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life) and anxiety disorder. Resident 42's Grievance Resolution Form, dated Date Received: 02/27/23, Time: 2:00 p.m., indicated, SUMMARY STATEMENT OF THE RESIDENT'S GRIEVANCE: .a female CNA . got right in her face . she does not feel safe around that CNA and does not want to work with her again . During an interview and concurrent observation on 3/17/23 at 9:34 a.m., Resident 42 stated she needed help with her shoes from Unlicensed Staff D. Resident 42 stated she was explaining how she needed to put her foot down to secure the straps of her shoes, when Unlicensed Staff D cut her off and stated, I know what I'm doing. Don't tell me what to do. Resident 42 stated Unlicensed Staff D leaned close to her face and told her to stop hollering at me. Resident 42, with eyes wide, demonstrated how close how close Unlicensed Staff was, by holding a palm about two inches from her face. Resident 42, occasionally blinking back tears during the interview, stated, It was scary. I've never had anybody do that to me in the real world; I did not expect that to ever happen here. Resident 42 stated she told the facility staff that she did not feel safe around Unlicensed Staff D and did not want her to be assigned to her care. Resident 42 stated, But I still got assigned to her after that! During an interview on 3/17/23 at 9:35 a.m., HR stated Unlicensed Staff D's last day of work was on 3/1/23. A concurrent review of the [Facility] Assignment Sheets indicated Unlicensed Staff D was working the afternoon shift on 2/27/23, the morning shift on 2/28/23, and the afternoon shift on 3/1/23. Further review of the assignment sheet and Resident 42's Census Report (history of resident room locations) revealed Resident 42 was assigned to Unlicensed Staff D during the afternoon shift on 3/1/23, two days after she had reported feeling unsafe around Unlicensed Staff D. HR stated Unlicensed Staff D was suspended, removed from the staffing schedule after 3/1/23, and was subsequently terminated. A review of Unlicensed Staff D's Counseling/Disciplinary Notice, dated 03/06/2023, indicated, On February 27th, 2023, we received two formal grievances from residents . During an interview on 3/17/23 at 10:03 a.m., Administrator stated he could not recall when he was notified of Residents 149's and 42's grievances against Unlicensed Staff D. Administrator stated he immediately addressed the grievances and suspended Unlicensed Staff D. During a concurrent review of the Assignment Sheets and the Grievance Forms, the Administrator confirmed Unlicensed Staff D worked at the facility on 2/27/23, 2/28/23 and 3/1/23. When asked why Unlicensed Staff D continued to work at the facility for two more shifts after the grievances were reported, Administrator stated, I immediately addressed it as soon as I've heard of it. During an interview on 3/20/23 at 8:48 a.m., Director of Nursing (DON) stated abuse allegations should be reported immediately. DON stated the incidents should be care planned, and the residents should be assessed and monitored for any psychosocial effects. DON stated neither Resident 149 nor Resident 42 had any follow-up after the incident. DON stated the abuse allegations were not handled as it should have been followed through. When asked about the Unlicensed Staff D continuing to work at the facility for two more shifts after the allegations were reported, DON stated Unlicensed Staff D should have been suspended immediately. A review of the facility policy titled, Abuse: Prevention of and Prohibition Against, dated 10.2022, indicated, F. Investigation: After receiving the allegation, and during and after the investigation, the Administrator will ensure that all residents are protected from physical and psychological harm . All allegations of abuse . will be promptly and thoroughly investigated by the Administrator or his/her designee . The investigation will include the following: an interview with the person(s) reporting the incident, an interview with the resident(s), interviews with any witnesses to the incident, including the alleged perpetrator, as appropriate, a review of the resident's medical record, an interview with staff members (on all shifts) who may have information regarding the alleged incident, interviews with other residents to whom the accused employee provides care or services or who may have information regarding the alleged incident, an interview with staff members (on all shifts) having contact with the accused employee, and a review of all circumstances surrounding the incident . The investigation, and the results of the investigation, will be documented . G. Protection: If an allegation of abuse . is reported, discovered or suspected, the Facility will take the following steps to protect the all residents from physical and psychosocial harm during and after the investigation: respond immediately to protect the alleged victim and integrity of the investigation, examine the alleged victim for any sign of injury, including a physical examination or psychosocial assessment if needed . make room or staffing changes, if necessary, to protect the resident(s) from the alleged perpetrator .
CONCERN (E)

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

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to develop and implement resident-centered care plans for three of twe...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to develop and implement resident-centered care plans for three of twelve sampled residents (Resident 23, 32 & 38) when: 1. Resident 23 and Resident 38 were identified to be at risk for pressure ulcer and no resident centered care plan was developed to prevent facility-acquired pressure ulcers. This failure resulted in the development of a blister (a painful skin condition where fluid fills a space between layers of skin) to Resident 38's left heel and Suspected Deep Tissue Injury (SDTI - Intact or non-intact skin with localized area of persistent non-blanchable [when the skin is pushed and the area stays red, that means that there is little or no blood flow going to that area] deep red, maroon, purple discoloration, or epidermal separation revealing a dark wound bed or blood-filled blister) to Resident 23's left heel. (Reference F686) 2. Resident 32 did not have a respiratory assessment or medical orders for oxygen therapy (Reference F 695). Findings: Resident 23 During a record review for Resident 23, the Face sheet indicated Resident 23 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Fracture of Shaft of Left Fibula (a break in the small bone that runs along the outside of the lower leg); Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Protein Calorie Malnutrition (when a person is not consuming enough protein and calories) and COVID (Corona Virus Disease - an infectious respiratory disease). During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled LN - Braden Scale (a tool to help health professionals, especially nurses, assess a patient's risk of developing a pressure ulcer) for Predicting Pressure Sore Risk dated 2/07/23 indicated Resident 23 scored 13 indicating she was moderate risk for pressure ulcer (total Score of 9 or less was Very High Risk; 10 to12 was High Risk; 13 to 14 was Moderate Risk; 15 to 18 was Mild Risk and 19 to 23 was No Risk). During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled LN - Initial admission Record dated 2/07/23 indicated Resident 23 had an immobilizer (removable devices that maintain stability of the knee) to her left lower extremity. During a record review for Resident 23, the Care Plan initiated on 02/08/23 indicated, [Resident 23 had the potential for pressure ulcer development related to immobility, incontinence, and use of brace (a device used to immobilize a joint or body segment) to LLE (Left Lower Extremity). Care Plan interventions indicated, Monitor/document/report to MD (Medical Doctor) PRN (as needed) changes in skin status: appearance, color, wound healing, signs and symptoms of infection, wound size and stage; and Notify nurse immediately of any new areas of skin breakdown: Redness, Blisters, Bruises, discoloration noted during bath or daily care. During a record review for Resident 23, the Minimum Data Set (MDS -health status screening and assessment tool used for all residents) dated 2/14/23 indicated Resident 23 was at risk for developing pressure ulcers. The MDS indicated Resident 23 did not have unhealed pressure ulcers during the assessment period. During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment and Recommendation - a tool used by health care professionals to communicate with each other about critical changes in patient's status) communication form dated 2/25/23 indicated Resident 23 was noted to have discoloration to her left heel that measured 7.5 x 2.5 cm (centimeters). The document indicated Resident 23 was wearing immobilizer to her left foot. During an interview and concurrent records review with the DON (Director of Nursing) on 3/15/23 at 2:51 p.m. when asked about her expectation from the nurses for resident who came with an immobilizer, the DON stated if the doctor gave an order to leave the immobilizer in place, then nurses were not allowed to remove the immobilizer; however, nurses could check for circulation like pulse and skin temperature. Review of the physician's order with the DON and verified there was no doctor's order to not remove Resident 23's left leg immobilizer. The DON stated if there was no order to leave the immobilizer in place, nurses should definitely check the skin integrity for changes under the immobilizer at least once a day and document. Review of Resident 23's care plan with the DON did not indicate interventions to prevent the development of pressure ulcer under the left leg immobilizer. Resident 38 During a record review for Resident 38, the Face sheet indicated Resident 38 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Congestive Heart Failure (CHF - blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath); and Other Symptoms and Signs Involving Cognitive Functions and Awareness and Schizoaffective disorder (a mental health disorder). During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled LN - Braden Scale for Predicting Pressure Sore Risk (a tool to help health professionals, especially nurses, assess a patient's risk of developing a pressure ulcer) dated 12/22/22 indicated Resident 38 had a total score of 14. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Initial Care Plan dated 12/22/22 indicated Resident 38 had left heel pressure ulcer and potential for pressure ulcer. Care Plan intervention include but not limited to: daily body skin checks; Notify nurse immediately of any new areas of skin breakdown: Redness, Blisters, Bruises, discoloration noted during bath or daily care. During a record review for Resident 38, the MDS dated [DATE] indicated Resident 38 was at risk for developing pressure ulcers. The MDS indicated Resident 38 had an unstageable pressure ulcer (Full-thickness skin and tissue loss in which the extent of tissue damage within the ulcer cannot be confirmed because it is obscured by slough (dead tissue that separates from living tissue in a wound) or eschar (dead tissue that sheds or falls off from the skin) that was present upon admission. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Skin Wound Note dated 1/17/23 at 1:22 p.m. indicated Resident 38's pressure ulcer to left heel was resolved. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Progress Note dated 3/10/23 at 5:37 p.m. indicated doctor assessed Resident 38's swollen leg and ordered ultrasound (the standard imaging test for patients suspected of having acute DVT) to rule out DVT. The Progress Note also indicated Resident 38 was on monitoring for left heel blister. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON on 3/15/23 at 2:51 p.m. when DON was asked about process for care planning, the DON stated a care plan for change of condition should be created within 24 to 72 hours after the identification of the resident's change of condition. The DON verified there was no care plan developed for Resident 38's left heel blister. The DON verified the pressure ulcer care plan for Resident 38 did not indicated interventions to prevent the recurrence of pressure ulcer to Resident 38's left heel. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON on 3/15/23 at 3:12 p.m. when asked about facility process with skin assessment for residents who had previous pressure ulcers, the DON stated nurses were to do a weekly skin assessment and CNAs providing daily care like shower to residents would be able to identify any skin issues and would be reported to the nurse for further assessment. The DON verified there was no documentation from nursing staff indicating Resident 38's left heel was checked regularly for skin changes since Resident 38's old pressure ulcer resolved. 2. Resident 32 did not have a respiratory assessment or medical orders for oxygen therapy (Reference F695) Review of Resident 32's admission record indicated Resident 32 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with multiple diagnosis that included: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Unspecified (A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe). Review of Resident 32's MDS OBRA admission and quarterly assessments did not indicate the resident required oxygen therapy. During an observation on 3/16/23 at 10:30 a.m., Resident 32 was lying in bed, when asked how she was feeling the resident mumbled some words and stated she did not feel well. An oxygen concentrator next to the resident's bed was on and running at 2/liters of O2, the nasal canula was on the floor, no date was observed on the oxygen tubing. During an observation and concurrent interview on 03/17/23 at 09:30 a.m., Resident 32 was lying in bed awake and alert. The resident was asked how often she wears her oxygen, she stated I wear oxygen at night, sometimes. The resident stated she does become short of breath after she exercises. When asked if she smoked, the resident stated she had a cigarette and took a few puffs when she was able to go outside. During a review of Resident 32's medical record on 3/17/23, No physician orders or respiratory assessments was found in the medical record or on the resident's care plan at any time during the resident's admission. Resident 32 did have medical orders for respiratory inhalers. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 2 p.m. Licensed Staff K was asked if Resident 32 had an order for oxygen therapy. Licensed staff K reviewed the medical orders and stated she could not find an order for the resident's oxygen. When asked if an order was needed for oxygen therapy she stated Yes. During an observation on 03/20/23 at 10:29 a.m., Resident 32 was in bed, an oxygen concentrator was on and the nasal cannula was on the floor. The resident was mumbling some words and stated she did not feel well. Licensed Staff A was asked if Resident 32 had orders for Oxygen therapy. Licensed Staff A further assessed Resident 32 and reviewed the medical record and confirmed the resident did not have an order for oxygen. When asked if an order for Oxygen therapy was required, Licensed Staff A stated yes and proceeded to contact the physician. During an interview on 3/20/23 at 2:30 p.m., the DON verified that Resident 32 did not have an physician's order or care plan for nasal cannula oxygen. When asked if an order for oxygen is required the DON stated Yes. Review of the Facility policy and procedure titled Care Planning revised on 11/2022 indicated, It is the policy of this facility that the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT - group of health care professionals who work together toward the goals of the resident) shall develop a comprehensive Person- Centered Care Plan for each resident based on resident's needs to attain or maintain his or her highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being.
CONCERN (E)

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

ADL Care (Tag F0677)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, and records review, the facility failed to ensure showers and oral hygiene were provided to th...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, and records review, the facility failed to ensure showers and oral hygiene were provided to three of twelve sampled residents (Resident 23, 40 and 38). This failure resulted to an untimely identification of a facility acquired pressure ulcer for Resident 23 and 38 and a potential oral infection for Resident 40. (Reference F686) Findings: Resident 23 During a record review for Resident 23, the Face Sheet (A one-page summary of important information about a resident) indicated Resident 23 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Fracture of Shaft of Left Fibula (a break in the small bone that runs along the outside of the lower leg); Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Protein Calorie Malnutrition (when a person is not consuming enough protein and calories) and COVID (Corona Virus Disease - an infectious respiratory disease). During a record review for Resident 23, the Minimum Data Set (MDS -health status screening and assessment tool used for all residents) dated 2/14/23 indicated Resident 23 had a BIMS score of 01 out of 15 points (Brief Interview for Mental Status - a 15-point cognitive screening measure that evaluates memory and orientation. A score of 13 to 15 is cognitively intact, 08 to 12 is moderately impaired, and 00 to 07 is severe impairment). The MDS indicated it was very important for Resident 23 to choose between a tub bath, shower, bed bath or sponge bath; however, the MDS indicated Resident 23 did not receive a full bath/ shower or sponge bath during the seven-day observation period. MDS indicated Resident 38 did not reject evaluation or care that was necessary to achieve her goals for health and well-being. Review of the facility's shower schedule indicated Resident 23 was scheduled for shower every Tuesday and Saturday on PM (evening) shift. During a record review for Resident 23, the document titled Progress Note dated 2/28/23 at 11:17 a.m. indicated Resident 23 had a non-blanchable purple tissue with some dry well adherent eschar to her left heel. During an interview and concurrent record review with the DON (Director of Nursing) on 3/15/23 at 3:12 p.m. the DON stated nurses were to do a weekly skin assessment and CNAs providing daily care like shower to residents would be able to identify any skin issues and would be reported to the nurse for further assessment During a review of the bathing record for Resident 23 with the Infection Preventionist (IP) on 3/16/23 at 2:29 p.m., the IP verified from 2/15/23 to 3/16/23, Resident 23 received bed bath once on 3/14/23 and no record of shower given. The IP stated CNAs would document skin changes to the shower sheet and give to the nurse for follow-up. IP was asked to provide shower sheets for Resident 23 from February 2023 to present; however, this writer did not receive shower sheets for Resident 23 at time of exit from the facility. Resident 38 During a record review for Resident 38, the Face sheet indicated Resident 38 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Diabetes Mellitus (disease that result in too much sugar in the blood); Congestive Heart Failure (CHF - blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath); and Other Symptoms and Signs Involving Cognitive Functions and Awareness and Schizoaffective disorder (a mental health disorder). During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Initial Care Plan dated 12/22/22 indicated Resident 38 had left heel pressure ulcer and potential for pressure ulcer. Care Plan intervention include but not limited to: daily body skin checks; Notify nurse immediately of any new areas of skin breakdown: Redness, Blisters, Bruises, discoloration noted during bath or daily care. During a record review for Resident 38, the MDS dated [DATE] indicated it was very important for Resident 38 to choose between a tub bath, shower, bed bath or sponge bath; however, the MDS indicated Resident 38 did not receive a full bath/ shower or sponge bath during the seven-day observation period. MDS indicated Resident 38 did not reject evaluation or care that was necessary to achieve her goals for health and well-being Review of the facility's shower schedule indicated Resident 38 was scheduled for shower every Wednesday on PM (evening) shift. During a record review for Resident 38, the document titled Progress Note dated 3/10/23 at 5:37 p.m. indicated doctor assessed Resident 38's swollen leg and ordered ultrasound (the standard imaging test for patients suspected of having acute DVT [Deep Vein Thrombosis - a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs]) to rule out DVT. The Progress Note also indicated Resident 38 was on monitoring for left heel blister. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff E on 3/16/23 at 9:11 a.m. when asked about resident's shower schedule, Unlicensed Staff E stated they give shower twice a week for all residents. Unlicensed Staff E stated they would do head to toe skin check when giving shower to residents; any skin changes would be documented to the shower sheet and would be given to the nurse. When Unlicensed Staff E was asked if he checked Resident 38's left heel when providing care, Unlicensed Staff E stated, no because her left leg was always wrapped. During a review of the bathing record for Resident 38 with the IP on 3/16/23 at 2:29 p.m., the IP verified from 2/15/23 to 3/16/23 Resident 38 received shower once on 3/11/23. The IP stated CNAs would document skin changes to the shower sheet and give to the nurse for follow-up. IP was asked to provide shower sheets for Resident 38 from February 2023 to present, however, there were only two shower sheets received for 2/15/23 and 3/15/23. Resident 40 During a record review for Resident 40, the Face sheet indicated Resident 40 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including but not limited to Metabolic Encephalopathy (an alteration of brain function or consciousness due to failure of other internal organs); Muscle Weakness; and Major Depressive Disorder. During a record review for Resident 40, the MDS dated [DATE] indicated Resident 40 had a BIMS score of 9 out of 15. The MDS indicated Resident 40 required extensive (resident involved in activity; staff provide weightbearing support) one-person physical assist with personal hygiene (how resident maintains personal hygiene, including combing hair, brushing teeth, shaving, applying makeup, washing/drying face, and hands). The MDS indicated it was very important for Resident 38 to choose between a tub bath, shower, bed bath or sponge bath; however, the MDS indicated Resident 40 did not receive a full bath/ shower or sponge bath during the seven-day observation period. MDS indicated Resident 38 did not reject evaluation or care that was necessary to achieve her goals for health and well-being. Review of the facility's shower schedule indicated Resident 40 was scheduled for shower every Thursday and Sunday on PM (evening) shift. During an observation in Resident 40's room on 3/14/23 at 11:16 a.m., Resident was on her bed, awake. Resident 40's upper and lower teeth was observed with white matter that appeared to be a dental plaque (a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth). During an interview with Resident 40 on 3/15/23 at 9:37 a.m. Resident 40 stated CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) did not offer her to brush her teeth. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff E on 3/16/23 at 9:11 a.m. when Unlicensed Staff E was asked how often was oral hygiene offered to residents, Unlicensed Staff E stated, before and after meals. Unlicensed Staff E stated risk for residents who do not receive oral hygiene would be dental breakdown, oral infection and could also affect appetite. During a review of the bathing record for Resident 40 with the IP on 3/16/23 at 2:29 p.m., the IP verified from 2/15/23 to 3/16/23 Resident 40 received shower on 2/09/23 and 3/6/23. The IP was asked to provide shower sheets for Resident 38 from February 2023 to present, however, there was only one shower sheet provided for 3/16/23 indicated resident 40 refused shower. Review of the Facility policy and procedure titled ADL, Services to carry out revised on 10/2016 indicated, Residents who are unable to carry out activities of daily living (ADL) will receive necessary services, on a daily and on as needed basis, to maintain: Good nutrition, Grooming, Personal hygiene, and Oral hygiene. The policy indicated, Grooming and Personal Hygiene include Nail Care, Shaving, Hair care, Bathing, Showering, Toileting and personal facial make up, among others. Review of the Facility policy and procedure titled, Oral Care revised on 2/2023 indicated, The purposes of this procedure are to keep the resident's lips and oral tissues moist, to cleanse and freshen the resident's mouth, and to prevent infections of the mouth. Review of the Facility policy and procedure titled Bath, Shower revised on 5/2007 indicated, It is the policy of this facility to promote cleanliness, stimulate circulation and assist in relaxation. Review of the Facility policy titled Skin and Wound Monitoring and Management revised on 1/2022 indicated procedure for monitoring, Skin inspection on showering: On shower days, CNAs to observe resident skin; identify any areas of skin breakdown, discoloration, tears, or redness.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0725 (Tag F0725)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observations and interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure sufficient nursing staff to provide care for 2 of twelve sampled residents (Residents10 and 248) and 5 unsampled ...

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Based on observations and interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure sufficient nursing staff to provide care for 2 of twelve sampled residents (Residents10 and 248) and 5 unsampled residents (Residents 27, 20, 33, 37 and 250). This failure resulted in untimely call light response placing them at risk for neglect and harm. Findings: During an interview with Resident 27 on 3/13/23 at 10:54 a.m. when asked how long she had to wait for her call light to be answered, Resident 27 stated it took 10 to 15 mins before staff gets to her. During an interview with Resident 10 on 3/13/23 at 11:03 a.m., when asked how long she had to wait for her call light to be answered, Resident 10 stated, would not say quickly. Resident 10 stated the facility was short staffed mostly evening shift. During an interview with Resident 248 on 3/13/23 at 11:25 a.m. Resident 248 stated it could take an hour for staff to answer her call light. Resident 248 stated this happened during AM (day) and night shifts. Resident 248 stated she had peed on her pants and her bed was all wet because she could not wait any longer. Resident 248 stated she felt embarrassed when this incident happened. During an interview with Resident 20 on 3/13/23 at 3:41 p.m., Resident 20 stated it took at least 30 minutes for staff to answer his call light, usually nighttime. During an interview with Resident 37 on 3/13/23 at 5:01 p.m., Resident 37 stated her call light was not answered timely. During an observation on 3/14/23 at 9:00 a.m., Resident 33 was in his room calling for Unlicensed Staff P. Resident 33 stated he wanted to go really bad. Observed three unlicensed staff went to check Resident 33; however, they did not assist Resident 33 to go to the toilet. Meanwhile, Resident 33 kept on yelling, please [Unlicensed Staff P], I really need to go, really bad. Observed Unlicensed Staff P entered Resident 33's room at 9:10 a.m. During an interview with Resident 250 on 3/14/23 at 9:27 a.m., Resident 250 stated he had asked for hot milk for about half an hour and was still waiting. Resident 250 turned on his call light again at 9:32 am. At 9:37 a.m., a CNA came to answer Resident 250's call light. Resident 250 again asked the CNA for his milk. During an interview with Resident 250 on 3/14/23 at 10:05 a.m., Resident 250 was asked if he had gotten his hot milk, Resident 250 stated no. During an observation on 3/15/23 at 4:01 Resident 33 was in his room screaming, I need help, naming multiple staff who could help him. Resident 33's call light was not on; however, Resident 33's screaming was loud enough to be heard. Resident 33's room was close to the nurse's station, however, staff who were sitting at the nurse's station did not check Resident 33. During an observation on 3/15/23 at 4:06 p.m. while Resident 33 continued to scream Please I am hurting, Visitor Q was observed entering Resident 33's room. When Visitor Q was asked about her conversation with Resident 33, Visitor Q stated Resident 33 complained of severe back pain. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff J on 3/16/23 at 8:48 a.m., Unlicensed Staff J stated there were days when they were short staffed. Unlicensed Staff J stated she was asked to stay over sometimes to cover a shift. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff E on 3/16/23 at 9:11 a.m., Unlicensed Staff E stated the facility was usually short staffed on NOC (night 11pm-7 am) shift and usually on the weekends. When Unlicensed Staff E was asked about the risks for the residents who had to wait long for their call lights to be answered, Unlicensed Staff E stated, there was a greater risk of falling and serious or deadly injury resulting to lack of oversight. Unlicensed Staff E stated call lights should be answered as soon as possible. During an interview with Licensed Staff F on 3/16/23 at 11:37 a.m. when asked about staff's call light response, Licensed Staff F stated anybody could answer the call light and it should be answered as soon as possible. Licensed Staff F stated resident would put their call light on for anything like needing pain medicine, food when hungry; wanting to go to the bathroom or needing to be cleaned. Licensed Staff F stated risk for residents when waiting too long, would risk for fall, untreated pain, bladder/ bowel accidents and emotional impact to resident like feeling upset/ mad. Review of the Facility policy and procedure titled Call Light/ Bell revised on 2/2023 indicated, It is the policy of this facility to provide the resident a means of communication with nursing staff. Procedure indicated, Answer the light/bell within a reasonable time.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0802 (Tag F0802)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on dietetic service observations, dietary staff interviews, and administrative document review, the facility failed to ensure dietary staff had competencies and skills to carry out the functions...

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Based on dietetic service observations, dietary staff interviews, and administrative document review, the facility failed to ensure dietary staff had competencies and skills to carry out the functions of the food and nutritional services safely and effectively, when Dietary Staff did not: 1. Test dishwasher chlorine following manufactures instructions 2. Ensure freezer thermometers were functioning and accurate freezer temperatures were recorded on logs 3. Monitor Potentially hazardous foods (food that could cause food borne illness if not prepared and stored properly) for safe cool down. These deficient practices resulted in creating a false sense of security as to the safety of food preparation, and potentially expose Residents to food-borne illness. Findings: During an initial observation of the kitchen on 3/13/23 at 11:15 a.m., Dietary Staff L was asked what type of dishwasher she used. Dietary Staff L stated a low-pressure dishwasher. Dietary Staff L was asked to check the chlorine of the dishwater. Dietary Staff L took an ECO lab (brand name) chloride test strip and held the strip in the water for approximately 30 seconds and read the results at above 100. When asking Dietary Staff L how long to keep the test strip in the water she stated about 30 seconds. Review of the manufactures directions for using the Eco Lab chlorine test strip indicated, to dip the test strip into the water and remove immediately. When asking Dietary Staff L if the chloride test was done following the directions, she stated, No. During an observation of the kitchen on 3/13/23 at 2:00 p.m., a small freezer chest contained frozen chubs of beef and meats and contained two thermometers with broken mercury lines. The temperature log on the outside of the freezer chest indicated the recorded AM and PM temperatures for the month of March were 35 degrees Fahrenheit. During an interview on 3/13/23 at 2:30 p.m., [NAME] M was asked the temperature of the small freezer chest. [NAME] B reviewed the thermometers and stated 20 degrees. When asked if the thermometers were accurate, he stated he was not sure. [NAME] M stated he knew the temperature of the freezer should be 0 degrees. A copy of the temperature log was requested. During a review of the small freezer chest temperature log on 3/14/23, the AM and PM temperatures were changed to 0 degrees. [NAME] M was asked why the temperatures were changed on the log, he stated the thermometers were broken. During a food preparation observation on 3/15/23 at 11:30 a.m., egg salad was observed in the refrigerator with a prepared date of 3/14/23 and use by date of 3/15/23. When asking [NAME] N and the Dietary Manager if a cool down log for potentially hazardous foods (foods prepared at ambient temperatures) was recorded for prepared salads such as (egg, chicken, and tuna), [NAME] N stated we do not use a cool down log. The Dietary Manager stated we do not use a cool down log because we do not keep leftovers. Review of the kitchen policy and procedure titled Food Preparation RDs for Healthcare, Inc. dated 2018, indicated, Special Cool Down Log Use for potentially hazaradous food prepared from ingredients at ambient temperature (room temperature) such as canned tuna and macroni salad. Review of the kitchen recipe titled Classic Egg Salad Sandwich Healthcare Menus Direct, LLC, indicated, allow filling time to cool (Need to utilize cool down log). Temp sandwiches and if higher than 41 Degrees Fahrenheit start a cool down log. During an interview on 3/16/23 at 2:00 p.m., Dietary Aid O was asked what her responsibilities were for the kitchen. She stated she was a dietary aid and now was a CNA that helped in the kitchen when needed. Dietary Staff C stated she washed dishes, poured drinks, and cleaned the kitchen. When asked if she was trained on the kitchen skills she stated she was trained awhile ago. During an interview on 3/17/23 at 3:00 p.m., the dietary manager was asked if she conducted in-services for the dietary staff. She stated she would be conducting in-services for the staff once she had completed orientation. The dietary manager showed the in-service binder to the surveyor and stated Healthcare Menus Direct, LLC. provides the facility with a list and outline of in-services availalbe for the kitchen staff. A review of kitchen competencies and annual reviews for dietary staff showed, no competencies or annual review for Dietary Aid O. The competeny check lists were incomplete and not signed-off and no annual reviews were observed for the dietary support staff. Review of the in-service manual for the dietary staff showed in-services were not current and attended by all dietary staff.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0804 (Tag F0804)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide food that was palatable, attractive, and flavorful to 3 sampled residents (Resident 32, Resident 148, Resident 248) a...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide food that was palatable, attractive, and flavorful to 3 sampled residents (Resident 32, Resident 148, Resident 248) and 5 unsampled residents (Resident 20, Resident 34, Resident 35, Resident 37, and Resident 251). These failures had the potential to lead to decreased nutritional intake and weight loss in a vulnerable population. Findings: Dining observations and interviews from 3/13/23 to 3/16/23 included: On 03/13/23 at 2:44p.m., Resident 34 stated the food was terrible, had lost 65 lbs, couldn't get real food, and the pancake were hard. On 03/13/23 at 3:41 p.m., Resident 20 stated the was food terrible, the toast was burnt, and a little bit of egg for breakfast. On 03/13/23 at 5:01 p.m., Resident 37 didn't like the food. Stated it doesn't have any flavor, had lost weight about 40 pounds since admission. On 03/14/23 at 10:30 a.m., Resident 35 stated the food was icky it did not have any flavor, was not cooked well, and was sometimes cold. On 3/14/23 at 11:00 a.m., Resident 32 stated the food was yucky, it had no flavor, was not cooked well, and had too much white pepper. On 03/15/23 at 08:46 a.m., Resident 248 stated she did not like the food, she only ate waffle. She stated her daughter brings her smoothies to keep her strong. On 03/15/23 at 8:38 a.m. Resident 251 stated breakfast was terrible; had a bite cold waffle. Had one piece of waffle, a piece of sausage, a bowl of cereal. On 03/16/23 at 5:15 p.m., Resident 148 made a face and stated to the assistant no more, I don't like that. During an observation and concurrent interview on 3/15/23 at 9:30 a.m., [NAME] N was preparing chicken for the day's lunch. [NAME] N took frozen chicken breasts from the freezer and put them on a prepared baking pan and placed into the oven. At 10:30 a.m., [NAME] N removed the chicken form the oven and temped the chicken and rice on the stove. The chicken was prepared and set back in the oven along with the rice. When asking [NAME] N when he temps the food, he stated he temps the food and records the temperatures to ensure the food is cooked, he placed the food back into the oven to keep the food at the cooked temperature. [NAME] N was observed placing food on the steam table and preparing lunch plates during tray line, no tempting of food was observed. During an observation and concurrent interview on 3/15/23 at 1:15 p.m., test trays of the regular and pureed diets contained Chinese chicken, seasoned brown rice, mashed potatoes, and stir fry vegetables. On the regular diet tray the food was lukewarm, the chicken was dry, tough, and had no flavor, the rice was hard and had a sticky texture, the mashed potatoes were bland and gritty, and the mixed vegetables were bland. On the pureed diet tray, the rice had a glue-like texture, and the pureed vegetables had some flavor. The Dietary Manager stated the pureed vegetables had more flavor. [NAME] N tasted the test tray but did not comment on the food. Temperatures of the food entrees were: Chicken =119.5°F Vegie = 121.6°F Mashed Potato = 126.2°F During a dining observation on 3/16/23, at 5:15 p.m., Resident 148's food tray consisted of Pureed spaghetti with meat sauce, seasoned green beans, garlic bread, nilla banana pudding, and nectar thick fluids. The pureed food entrees appeared soup- like on the plate with no distinction between food items. The Infection Preventionist (IP) assisted Resident 148 with eating. The resident made a face and stated to the assistant no more, I don't like that, the assistant encouraged Resident 148 to try something else and gave the resident a spoonful of nectar thick water. Review of facility policy titled Food Preparation, RDs for Healthcare, Inc. 2018, indicated, Food shall be prepared by methods that will conserve nutritive value, flavor and appearance.
CONCERN (E)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on dietetic service observations, dietary staff interviews, and administrative document review, the facility failed to ensure dietary staff carried out the functions of the food and nutritional ...

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Based on dietetic service observations, dietary staff interviews, and administrative document review, the facility failed to ensure dietary staff carried out the functions of the food and nutritional services safely and effectively, when Dietary Staff did not: 1. Test dishwasher chlorine following manufactures instructions 2. Ensure freezer thermometers were functioning and accurate freezer temperatures were recorded on logs 3. Monitor Potentially hazardous foods (food that could cause food borne illness if not prepared and stored properly) for safe cool down These deficient practices resulted in creating a false sense of security as to the safety of food preparation, and potentially expose Residents to food-borne illness. Findings: During an initial observation of the kitchen on 3/13/23 at 11:15 a.m., Dietary Staff-L was asked what type of dishwasher she used. Dietary Staff-L stated a low-pressure dishwasher. Dietary Staff-L was asked to check the chlorine of the dishwater. Dietary Staff-L took an ECO lab chloride test strip and held the strip in the water for approximately 30 seconds and read the results at >100. When asking Dietary Staff-L how long to keep the test strip in the water she stated about 30 seconds. Review of the manufactures directions for using the Eco Lab chlorine test strip indicated, to dip the test strip into the water and remove immediately. When asking Dietary Staff-L if the chloride test was done following the directions, she stated, No. During an observation of the kitchen on 3/13/23 at 2:00 p.m., a small freezer chest contained frozen chubs of beef and meats and contained two thermometers with broken mercury lines. The temperature log on the outside of the freezer chest indicated the recorded AM and PM temperatures for the month of March was 35 degrees Fahrenheit. During an interview on 3/13/23 at 2:30 p.m., [NAME] M was asked the temperature of the small freezer chest. Cook-B reviewed the thermometers and stated 20 degrees. When asked if the thermometers were accurate, he stated he was not sure. [NAME] M stated he knew the temperature of the freezer should be 0 degrees. A copy of the temperature log was requested. During a review of the small freezer chest temperature log on 3/14/23, the AM and PM temperatures were changed to 0 degrees. Cook-M was asked why the temperatures were changed on the log, he stated the thermometers were broken. During a food preparation observation on 3/15/23 at 11:30 a.m., egg salad was observed in the refrigerator with a prepared date of 3/14/23 and use by date of 3/15/23. When asking Cook-N and the Dietary Manager if a cool down log for potentially hazardous foods (foods prepared at ambient temperatures) was recorded for prepared salads such as (egg, chicken, and tuna). Cook-N stated we do not use a cool down log. The Dietary Manager stated we do not use a cool down log because we do not keep leftovers. Review of the kitchen policy and procedure titled Food Preparation RDs for Healthcare, Inc. dated 2018, indicated, Special Cool Down Log Use for potentially hazaradous food prepared from ingredients at ambient temperature (room temperature) such as canned tuna and macroni salad. Review of the kitchen recipe titled Classic Egg Salad Sandwich Healthcare Menus Direct, LLC, indicated, allow filling time to cool (Need to utilize cool down log). Temp sandwiches and if higher than 41 Degrees Fahrenheit start a cool down log.
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0919 (Tag F0919)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure the call light system, installed in 16 of 16 r...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure the call light system, installed in 16 of 16 resident bathrooms, were accessible to residents from the bathroom floor. This failure had the potential for residents to not be able to alert staff and call for assistance, should they sustain a fall in the bathroom. Findings: During an observation of room [ROOM NUMBER]'s bathroom on 3/14/23 at 10:36 a.m., a call light button was located on the wall next to the toilet. The button was around elbow-height of a resident sitting on the toilet, easily accessible in said position. The bathroom size was approximately six feet by five feet. An observation of room [ROOM NUMBER]'s bathroom on 3/14/23 at 3:52 p.m. revealed a similarly sized bathroom, call light system, and call button location. During an observation on 3/14/23 at 3:59 p.m., the bathroom between rooms [ROOM NUMBERS] was noticeably bigger, approximately eight feet by 10 feet in size, with a partial wall in the middle separating the toilet and shower areas. A similar call light button was located similarly on the wall next to the toilet. During an interview and concurrent observation on 3/14/23 at 4:06 p.m., Maintenance Director stated the facility has 16 resident bathrooms, with the bathrooms between rooms [ROOM NUMBERS], and rooms [ROOM NUMBERS], being bigger than the other 14. Maintenance Director stated all 16 resident bathrooms were equipped with identical call light systems, comprised of the call button located on the wall next to the toilet. During a simulation of a fall on bathroom in room [ROOM NUMBER], with arms outstretched, the surveyor was unable to reach the call light button from the bathroom floor across the toilet. Maintenance Director stated the call light button cannot be reached from the floor. A review of the facility policy titled, Call Light/Bell, dated, 2/2023, indicated, It is the policy of this facility to provide the resident a means of communication with nursing staff.
Aug 2019 10 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Report Alleged Abuse (Tag F0609)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to follow its policy and procedure on reporting an allegation of abuse for one resident, Resident 10. This failure had the potential to caus...

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Based on interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to follow its policy and procedure on reporting an allegation of abuse for one resident, Resident 10. This failure had the potential to cause serious harm to Resident 10, when he was not assessed immediately for physical harm, pain, or mental anguish, that may have resulted from the physical abuse. Findings: During a review of Resident 10's admission Record, he was admitted to this Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF- a type of nursing home recognized by the Medicare and Medicaid systems as meeting long-term health care needs for individuals who have the potential to function independently after a limited period of care), on 12/2/13. Included in the list of his medical diagnoses for admission, were Diabetes, Dementia with behavioral disturbances, and Mood Disorder. Resident 10 was Hispanic and only spoke and understood the Spanish language. During an observation and concurrent interview with Resident 10, with the aid of Unlicensed Staff A acting as an interpreter, on 8/1/19, at 2:30 p.m., Resident 10 stated he remembered being physically abused by a patient care staff of the facility. Resident 10 remembered the staff member twisted his right hand. Resident 10 also stated he felt pain on his right hand after the incident. He further stated the staff member, who twisted his right hand, may have suffered pain as well, because of the force the staff member exerted in twisting his hand. Resident 10 could not recall how long ago the incident happened, but during the interview, he was looking at his right hand while alternately forming a clenched fist and relaxing his right hand. Resident 10 stated he was not affected mentally or emotionally by the incident. Resident 10 also stated he could take care of himself and was not fearful of any staff hurting him. Resident 10 was also unsure about the gender of the patient care staff who inflicted pain on his right hand, and at one point during the interview, referred to the staff member as, hombre, a male staff member. Resident 10 did not exhibit aggression or combativeness during this interview. Resident 10 stated he did not remember the names of staff who provided patient care to him. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff B on 8/1/19, at 5 p.m., she stated she learned about the incident after she was told about it by Unlicensed Staff C. Unlicensed Staff B stated Unlicensed Staff C told her she was getting frustrated because she reported the incident she witnessed to her supervisor, Licensed Staff E, one week prior, and Unlicensed Staff D, whom Unlicensed Staff C witnessed physically abusing Resident 10, was still working at the facility, as if the incident never happened. Unlicensed Staff B stated, after learning about the incident towards the end of her shift, she was able to report it to Administrative Staff F the following day. Unlicensed Staff B also stated Unlicensed Staff G had knowledge about the incident, because she (Unlicensed Staff G) had a close relationship with Unlicensed Staff C. Unlicensed Staff B also stated Unlicensed Staff C and Unlicensed Staff G were classmates in the same nurse aide training class of the facility. Unlicensed Staff B also stated she regretted not reporting what Unlicensed Staff C told her, immediately to the Administrator. Unlicensed Staff B also stated she was aware of her duties as a mandated reporter (Any person who is required by law to report a particular category or type of abuse to the appropriate law enforcement or social service agency. Mandated Reporters are legally responsible to report the incident themselves). During an interview with the DON (Director of Nursing) on 8/2/19, at 1:30 p.m., she stated she learned about the incident on 2/5/19, when she and the Administrator were notified by Administrative Staff F. The DON was not able to state the exact date when the incident happened, but stated the incident happened sometime in January. The DON also stated Unlicensed Staff C reported the incident to Licensed Staff E, the instructor of the nurse aide training class. The DON further stated, since 2/5/19, the time when she and the Administrator learned about the incident, they were not able to talk to Licensed Staff E because she was involved in an accident and had to go on leave. The DON further stated Licensed Nurse E sustained injuries during the accident and was still on medical leave during this interview. The DON also stated, after she learned about the incident, Unlicensed Staff D was suspended from working at the facility. When the DON was asked if they conducted an investigation on the incident, she stated, Yes. When the DON was asked if they were able to substantiate the allegation, she stated, Yes. The DON further stated there was another team from Sacramento who had already conducted an investigation on the incident. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff G on 8/2/19, at 2:45 p.m., she stated she learned about the incident on the same day it happened. Unlicensed Staff G also stated she was unsure about the exact date of the incident, but she stated she gave Unlicensed Staff C a ride home on that day. It was during this commute when Unlicensed Staff C told her that Unlicensed Staff D grabbed and twisted Resident 10's hand after he became combative during patient care. Unlicensed Staff G also stated Unlicensed Staff C asked Unlicensed Staff D to stop. Unlicensed Staff G told Unlicensed Staff C they needed to call Licensed Staff E, who was their instructor on their Nurse Aide Training Program and report the incident, because they did not know what to do. Unlicensed Staff G further stated she and Unlicensed Staff C called Licensed Staff E and told her about the incident on the same day that it happened. Unlicensed Staff G stated Licensed Staff E told her and Unlicensed Staff C the incident would be reported and investigated. Unlicensed Staff G also stated that after two weeks had passed, she and Unlicensed Staff C asked Licensed Staff E about the developments on the incident that they reported to her. Unlicensed Staff G stated Licensed Staff E told her she had already reported the incident. Unlicensed Staff G stated that after a couple of weeks had passed, she, Unlicensed Staff B, and Unlicensed Staff C, were given counseling by the DSD (Director of Staff Development) regarding abuse prevention and reporting. During an interview with Licensed Staff H on 8/2/19, at 4 p.m., she stated that she was aware that she is a mandated reporter. She also stated that the facility staff just got an in-service on abuse prevention a week ago. She also stated that she knew what official form to use when reporting abuse but she could not remember the name of that official form. She also stated that the Administrator is the abuse coordinator. The facility policy and procedure titled, Abuse: Prevention of and Prohibition Against, last revised on 11/28/17, and a current policy and procedure the facility used, indicated on Section H. Reporting/Response: 1). All allegations of abuse, neglect, misappropriation of resident property, or exploitation should be reported immediately to the Administrator. 2). Allegations of abuse, neglect, misappropriation of resident property, or exploitation, will be reported outside the Facility and to the appropriate State or Federal agencies in the applicable timeframe's, as per this policy and applicable regulations.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0687 (Tag F0687)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide one sampled resident (Resident 6) podiatry care, including toenail trimming. This had the potential to cause injury, ...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide one sampled resident (Resident 6) podiatry care, including toenail trimming. This had the potential to cause injury, discomfort and infection to Resident 6. Findings: During a concurrent observation and interview on 8/2/19 at 11:27 a.m., Resident 6 had long toenails and fingernails. When asked if she would like to have her nails cut, she said, Yes, but not my fingernails, only my toenails. When asked if she had seen a podiatrist recently, she said, No, I have been asking for the past few months to see a podiatrist. I asked my aide. I want my toenails trimmed .I have been asking to see the podiatrist for a few months. During an interview with the Social Services Supervisor (SSS) on 08/02/19 at 11:35 a.m., regarding why Resident 6 had not seen a podiatrist, she stated, She should have been on the list the last two times, I am not sure what happened and why she was not seen. Copies of the logs from the last two podiatrist visits were requested. Record review of the podiatrist logs titled, Podiatry [NAME] Office, dated 4/3/19 and 6/27/19, from the last two visits, did not show Resident 6 listed or having refused visits. Her name was absent from the patient logs. The facility policy, dated 12/3/18, titled, Ukiah Post Acute Podiatry Policy and Procedure, indicated the following: Policy: It is the policy of this facility that residents will be offered podiatry services on an as needed and a routine basis. Procedure: Nursing staff will secure orders for podiatry service and communicate with the Social Services Director, or designee, the need for service. Social Service Director, or designee, will coordinate with in-house podiatric group to schedule podiatric rounds. Social Services will coordinate appointments with community podiatrists, if resident prefers. Podiatry progress notes to be filed under Physician Progress Note section of the resident chart.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0692 (Tag F0692)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure a fortified diet recommendation for one resident (Resident 18) was submitted to the Medical Doctor (MD). Failure to submit a request...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure a fortified diet recommendation for one resident (Resident 18) was submitted to the Medical Doctor (MD). Failure to submit a request to the MD for a diet enhancement could have led to continued weight loss and further compromise of Resident 18's health. Findings: During a medical record review on 7/30/19 at 3:30 p.m., the Registered Dietician's (RD) note, dated 6/4/19, indicated, a -10.5% weight loss over six months and a new fracture (Fx) of the right trochanter (top part of the thigh bone) for Resident 18. The RD discussed Resident 18's weight variance during the weight loss committee meeting on 6/4/19, and recommended sending a request to the MD for a fortified diet. During review of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) update notes on 7/31/19 at 3:30 p.m., the IDT notes, dated 6/9/19, indicated the RD recommended a fortified diet; awaiting MD response. No MD response was found in the medical record. During an interview with the RD on 7/31/19 at 3:30 p.m., she stated the request for the fortified diet for Resident 18, was submitted to the nursing staff on 6/4/19, and awaiting MD approval. During an interview with the DON (Director Of Nursing) on 8/1/19 at 8:55 a.m., the order sent to the MD for the fortified diet was requested. The DON stated, The recommendation from the RD on 6/4/19, for the fortified diet was not sent over to the MD. The DON stated she would call the MD this day and send over the recommendation.
CONCERN (D)

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

Room Equipment (Tag F0908)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain medical equipment for one resident (Resident 19), when his wheelchair brakes were not working. This failure had the p...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to maintain medical equipment for one resident (Resident 19), when his wheelchair brakes were not working. This failure had the potential to put Resident 19 at risk for injury. Findings: During observation of mealtime on 7/29/19 at 11:56 a.m., Unlicensed staff O put a book on the floor behind Resident 19's wheelchair wheel so he would not roll back. At 12:10 p.m., Unlicensed staff O kicked the book aside and escorted Resident 19 back to his room. Unlicensed staff O was asked about the book, and he stated, We are waiting to have the brake fixed, it just happened today, it is a new thing for him. During an interview on 7/30/19 at 9:50 a.m., Unlicensed staff B stated, Resident's wheelchair is partially fixed, it'll lock but to get lock off is really hard. During an interview on 7/30/19 at 14:30 p.m., Unlicensed staff G stated, I know that it is broken. I requested repair once. Unlicensed staff P stated, I requested once also and Maintenance needs to order a part. During an interview on 7/30/19 at 16:08 p.m., the Maintenance/Housekeeping Manager, I fixed it yesterday and today. He has convulsions, he pushes the brake past. I'm trying to order a new brake. I think it needs a whole new brake. I'm having trouble finding for that wheelchair. During an interview, the Maintenance/Housekeeping Manager stated on 8/1/19 at 11:45 a.m., he thought he knew about Resident 19's wheelchair for about a month. He found out about it when he received a work order from Nursing. During review of a Maintenance Log, dated 6/29/19, Unlicensed staff G reported the wheelchair right side brake did not work. The Maintenance/Housekeeping Manager signed the log as fixed on 6/30/19. Review of the Facility Policy/Procedure titled, Wheelchair Cleaning/Maintenance, indicated, all patient wheelchairs will be cleaned monthly or as needed. Wheelchairs will be inspected at time of cleaning and any repairs made as necessary.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0802 (Tag F0802)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation and interview, the facility did not ensure the competency of two kitchen staff in relationship to proper cool-down procedures. This failure had the potential to expose Residents t...

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Based on observation and interview, the facility did not ensure the competency of two kitchen staff in relationship to proper cool-down procedures. This failure had the potential to expose Residents to food-borne illness. Findings: Potentially Hazardous Foods (PHF's) are those capable of supporting bacterial growth associated with food-borne illness. Cooked PHF's require time/temperature control monitoring during the cool-down process to ensure food safety. PHF's include cooked protein-based items, cooked starches and heat-treated vegetables. The standard of practice would be to ensure PHF's reach a temperature of 135-70 degrees Fahrenheit (F) within two hours and from 70-41 degrees F or below within an additional four hours, a timeframe not to exceed six hours. It would also be the standard of practice that if a food did not reach 70 degrees F within the first two hours, the item must be reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for 15 seconds, after which the cool-down monitoring would be repeated (Food Code, 2019). Safe cooling requires removing heat from food quickly enough to prevent microbial growth. Excessive time for cooling of time/temperature control for safety foods has been consistently identified as one of the leading contributing factors to food-borne illness. During slow cooling, time/temperature control for safety foods are subject to the growth of a variety of pathogenic microorganisms. A longer time near ideal bacterial incubation temperatures, 70-125 degrees F, is to be avoided (USDA Food Code Annex, 2019). In an interview on 7/30/19 at 9 a.m., when asked to describe cool-down procedures for previously cooked foods that were held for future use, Dietary Staff (DS) Q stated items were first cooked to 165 degrees F. Dietary Staff Q further stated the item needed to cool to 140 degrees F within two hours, and within the next four hours the temperature of the item should be 70 degrees F and within an additional four hours (a total of ten hours) to a temperature of 41 degrees F or below. DS Q was verbalizing the procedure while reading the cool-down log. In a concurrent interview, the Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS) stated, The AM cook will start the process of cool down and the PM cook will finish. In an interview on 7/30/19 at 3:24 p.m., Dietary Staff T stated, When cooling we'll put the cooked food in an ice bath and has to get down to 40 degrees in six hours, will check every hour. When asked to describe the process, if an item with a beginning temperature of 135 degrees F was 75 degrees after two hours, DS T stated, Would put more ice in the ice bath and continue to cool and would continue to cool for six hours and if not below 41, would throw away. When asked to describe the process of making tuna salad, DS T stated the item was prepared about once per month. DS T further stated the tuna was placed in the walk-in refrigerator two hours before preparing the tuna. She also stated upon completion, the prepared item was placed in an ice bath (a method used to facilitate cooling by placing ice and water in a container then placing a second container on top of the ice/water mixture), however there was no temperature monitoring. In a concurrent interview, the DSS stated there was no cool-down monitoring because the items were refrigerated prior to preparation. In a follow-up interview on 7/30/19 at 4 p.m., the DSS stated the expectation was for cooks to be knowledgeable in cool-down monitoring while using the cool down log as a reference. Facility policy titled, Monitoring Temperatures and Cool Down Log, dated 2018, guided staff to reheat cooked, hot food to 165 degrees F for 15 seconds and start the cooling process again, using a different cooling method when the food was above 70 degrees F, two hours or less into the cooling process, or above 41 degrees F and six hours or less into the cooling process. Additionally, the policy guided staff to discard cooked, hot food immediately when the food was above 70 degrees F and more than two hours into the cooling process, or above 41 degrees F and more than six hours into the cooling process. The policy was not consistent with the standards of practice.
CONCERN (E)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to: 1. Offer hand hygiene to Resident 21 and Resident ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to: 1. Offer hand hygiene to Resident 21 and Resident 39, in their rooms before lunch. 2. Disinfect a blood pressure cuff after each use; 3. Bag/Contain contaminated laundry where collected; and, 4. Ensure the biohazard container, which contained medical waste, was kept closed to prevent the spread of infection. These failures had the potential to cause the development and transmission of communicable diseases and infections. Findings: 1. During an observation on 7/29/19 at 11:59 a.m., staff were passing lunch trays to residents eating in their rooms. Resident (39) was on contact precautions for a possible Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infection. Anyone entering the room was to don Personal Protective Equipment (PPE); gown and gloves. A CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) was cleansing her hands and putting on a gown and gloves; the nurse checking tray tickets handed the lunch tray to the CNA. The CNA was setting-up the lunch tray for Resident (39) and left the room. No hand hygiene was offered to Resident (39) prior to eating. During an observation on 07/31/19 at 12:22 p.m., Resident 21 was served lunch in her room and consisted of lettuce in a small salad, beets, cooked veggies of beans and carrots, apple sauce, and canned peaches for dessert. There was no hand hygiene for Resident 21 during this time. During an observation and interview on 8/1/19 at 12 p.m., Resident (39) was sitting up at the side of her bed having oxygen therapy delivered via nasal cannula at two liters per minute and was waiting for lunch. When asked how she was feeling, Resident (39) responded, I feel good. Unlicensed Staff D, donned with gown and gloves, carried the lunch tray to Resident (39), and set-up the tray while reviewing the food items. Resident (39) thanked Unlicensed Staff D, and she left the room. When asked if she was offered a towel or hand wipe for her hands, Resident (39) stated, No. 2. During an observation on 7/31/19 at 8:31 a.m., Licensed Staff M removed a Blood Pressure (B/P) cuff from medication cart #2 and took a resident's blood pressure. Licensed Staff M returned the B/P cuff to the medication cart. There was no cleaning of the B/P cuff. During an observation and interview on 08/01/19 at 8:28 a.m., blood pressure cuffs and stethoscopes were contained in drawer 5 on Med Cart #1. When asked how often the B/P cuffs were cleansed, Licensed Staff H stated she used her own B/P Cuff and cleansed it after each use; cleansing with the disinfectant wipes on the medication cart. During an observation and interview on 08/01/19 at 3:20 p.m., Licensed Staff N removed a B/P cuff from Med Cart #1, took a B/P of Resident 17 and put the B/P cuff back in the drawer. Licensed Staff N removed the B/P cuff again and took a B/P of Resident 38, with no B/P cleaning in-between resident use. When asked how often the B/P cuffs were cleansed, Licensed Staff N stated, After med pass is over. During an interview on 8/2/19 at 4 p.m., the DON was asked for a policy and procedure (P&P) for cleaning of medical equipment, which included blood pressure cuffs. The DON stated the facility did not have a P&P specifically for cleaning B/P cuffs. I do have a guidance from the CDC for cleaning non-critical resident-care items. Review of the facility procedure titled, Cleaning and Disinfecting Non-Critical Resident-Care Items, revised June 2011, indicated, Reusable items are cleaned and disinfected or sterilized between residents (e.g., stethoscopes, durable medical equipment). 3. During an observation and concurrent interview with Unlicensed Staff I, at the dirty laundry closet, between rooms [ROOM NUMBERS], on 08/2/19, at 9:42 a.m., Unlicensed Staff I was asked to remove the cover of the soiled laundry barrel to visualize its contents, which contained a mix of bagged and un-bagged contaminated laundry. The un-bagged laundry was a combination washable incontinent pads and soiled linens. The smell of urine was coming out of this dirty laundry barrel. Unlicensed Staff I stated the contaminated laundry should have been bagged for odor control. Unlicensed Staff I also stated, I was wondering how these dirty laundries were transported from the resident's room to this soiled laundry closet. 4. During observation and concurrent interview with Unlicensed Staff I, in the Utility Room by Station 1, on 8/2/19, at 9:47 p.m., she opened the dirty laundry barrel, and it contained one red biohazard bagged laundry, dirty laundry bagged in regular trash bags, and un-bagged washable incontinent pads. There was a mild urine odor after the barrel was uncovered. Next to the soiled laundry barrel was a red biohazard waste container overflowing with red, biohazard bagged medical waste. This biohazard container was open because of it was overflowing. Unlicensed Staff I stated that this should have been emptied because the cover of the container should be able to close. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff J on 8/2/19, at 9:55 a.m., she stated the dirty laundry barrel should not be taken to collect soiled laundry in resident rooms. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff K on 8/2/19, at 10:03 a.m., she stated the soiled laundry from resident rooms should be bagged where they were collected. During an interview with the DSD (Director of Staff Development) and currently in charge of infection control, on 8/2/19, at 1:39 p.m., she stated the biohazard container in the Utility Room should not be overflowing, and the cover of the container should be able to close. During an interview with Unlicensed Staff L on 8/2/19, at 3 p.m., she stated the housekeeper was mainly responsible to empty the biohazard container when it was full, but the CNAs or the nurses could take them out as well when it was full. The facility policy and procedure titled, Prevention and Control of MDRO (Multi-Drug Resistant Organism), last revised on 9/29/17, and was a current facility policy, indicated under Letter D, Contaminated linens should be handled appropriately whether their source was an isolation room or a non-isolation room. All linen should be handled as if it were highly infectious. No special bagging of isolation linen required unless otherwise assessed.
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0801 (Tag F0801)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure comprehensive nutritional services were being provided when: 1. Hot food cool-down procedure did not meet professional...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure comprehensive nutritional services were being provided when: 1. Hot food cool-down procedure did not meet professional standards; 2. Food ordering was not sufficient for menus; 3. Recipes were not followed as written; and, 4. Menus were not followed as written Failure to ensure comprehensive oversight by the Registered Dietician may result in systematic failures of nutrition service and diminished quality of life for all 54 residents in the facility and had the potential to cause widespread food-borne illness in a vulnerable population with complex medical conditions. Findings: During review of dietetic services operations from 7/29/19 -8/1/19, multiple issues were identified in relation to food safety standards (Cross reference F802, F803, F804, F812). During an interview with the Registered Dietician (RD) and RRD on 7/31/19 at 2:06 p.m., the RD described a typical consultation day at the facility. The RD stated she routinely checked with the Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS) and the Director of Nurses (DON) about Residents who might need to be seen and worked through high-risk residents first. She stated she always stopped in the kitchen to make sure everyone was keeping up with everything (the workload). She tested foods, and temperatures were taken. She made sure staff kept tray line on time. In the Dining room, she stated she observed tray pass, then did clinical, meeting residents and charting. She also stated she did a monthly sanitation check in the kitchen, she documented and gave a copy to the DSS, Administrator and DON. If she had time at the end of the day, then she would talk and go over her findings with the Administrator and would write on daily Registered Dietician reports what was discussed. The RD further stated she only attended Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) if asked and had not been asked at this facility. She was unaware of meeting date/time, if issues had been taken to QAPI or if there were any specific QAPI projects from dietary. The surveyor reviewed the areas of concern with the RD. She acknowledged she had not identified issues with labeling/dating; facial hair; compromised utensils/utility carts or meeting resident preferences. On occasion, [she had] identified staff were not following recipes/menu. She stated equipment should be cleaned and not broken. If the protective coating was coming off, then equipment should be fixed or replaced. Additionally, the RD also looked at resident refrigerators on a monthly basis, reviewing dates, labels, room numbers, cleanliness and refrigerator temperature logs. She stated, I haven't looked this month and last month may have pulled a couple of things, but most everything was in good repair. If the DSS was checking the refrigerators every other day, then the food items should be ok, but it depends on the types of food in the refrigerator. She also stated she was not aware if checking dates and discarding food was nursing or dietary responsibility. Record review of the Registered Dietician Consultant Job Description duties, not dated, included: 1. Provides regularly scheduled on premise consultation as contract specifies; 2. Consults with administration regarding Food and Nutrition services in the area of Policy development, long-term and short-term goals, menus, and integration of RDs for Healthcare's systems into the facility's systems; 3. Supports the Food and Nutrition Services Director in maintaining department standards of food service in the areas of selection, receiving, storage, preparation, safety, and delivery to residents; 4. Conducts food safety and sanitation inspections with recommendations for items not meeting standards; 5. Documents nutrition information in resident's medical record in accordance with the standards of RDs for Healthcare and the accepted professional practice; 6. Provides in-service education for nutrition and food service related topics and assists with staff development programs for facility personnel. 7. Maintains and provides written reports of each consultation including date, hours, observations, recommendations, meetings attended, and in-services given; 8. Assists in the establishment and implementation of the Food and Nutrition Services budget, including staffing, food and supply costs; 9. Reviews and approves and menu changes the facility makes; and, 10. Keeps current in the regulations governing state and federal policy regarding food service and nutrition care for the facility.
CONCERN (F)

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

Menu Adequacy (Tag F0803)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the menu and recipes were followed. This failure had the potential for residents not meeting their nutritional requirem...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the menu and recipes were followed. This failure had the potential for residents not meeting their nutritional requirements as set forth in the menus. Findings: During observation and interview on 7/30/19 at 11:30 a.m., the Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS) was asked to weigh a slice of turkey being served for lunch. She weighed three pieces, and the weights were: 2.5 ounces (oz), 2.8 oz and 2.75 oz. The DSS confirmed the weights and stated: They [staff] weigh one piece and eyeball the rest. The menu/cooks' spreadsheet, dated 7/30/19, showed 3 oz. of turkey should be served. During tray line observation and interview on 7/30/19 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:08 p.m., Dietary Staff (DS) Q was using a four oz. ladle, filled half way, to serve gravy. DS Q stated of the two oz. gravy, I used four oz. ladle; I gave half. In a concurrent interview, the DSS stated the serving size for gravy should be 1 oz. The menu/cooks' spreadsheet, dated 7/30/19, showed 1 oz. of gravy should be served.
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0804 (Tag F0804)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to serve flavorful food to residents. This failure had the potential for residents not enjoying their lunch, and not meeting thei...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to serve flavorful food to residents. This failure had the potential for residents not enjoying their lunch, and not meeting their nutritional requirements, as set forth in the menu. Findings: A test tray was completed on 7/30/19 at 12:45 p.m. It was noted the pureed stuffing, pureed broccoli, regular broccoli and regular stuffing, was bland. In a concurrent interview, when asked, whether she tasted any spices in these foods, the Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS) stated she thought she tasted some onion in the stuffing. During an interview on 7/30/19 at 12:47 p.m., Dietary Staff Q stated he forgot to add the celery, and he did not add the chicken broth/base, because he was out of it and used plain water. At 12:48 p.m., the Regional RD stated, That would explain why it tasted bland. Concurrently the DSS stated, Out of chicken base, it did not get put on the white board. I didn't know. At 12:53 p.m., the DSS stated, [Dietary Staff Q] should have asked the RD what to substitute, because vegetable base and beef base was available. During record review, the, Facility Policy Food Substitutions During Tray line, dated 2018, indicated the cook should refer to the Recipe Substitutions Guide found in the RDs for Healthcare's Binder #1, miscellaneous section, to find what may be substituted and the recipe for that item. During review, the standardized recipe for Bread Dressing (Stuffing) listed ingredients as wheat bread cubed, salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, onion minced, celery chopped, margarine, low sodium chicken stock, large pasteurized eggs, beaten. During an interview on 07/31/19 at 11:46 a.m., Resident 21 stated, The stuffing served yesterday at lunch had no taste or seasoning. It tasted like mushy bread.
CONCERN (F)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to store, prepare, distribute and serve food, in accordance with professional standards for food service safety when: 1. Dishes w...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to store, prepare, distribute and serve food, in accordance with professional standards for food service safety when: 1. Dishes were not cleaned or dried properly; 2. Condition of utensils, in a serving cart, were not maintained; 3. Portable fan in the kitchen was not clean; 4. Food was contaminated; 5. Dietary staff did not have hair consistently restrained; and, 6. Food was found in the Resident refrigerator with no dates and spoiled. These failures had the potential to cause food-borne illness in residents. Findings: 1. During an observation on 7/29/19 at 9:31 a.m., a pan pulled from the back of the bottom shelf of clean pans, had white residue inside. 2. During an observation and concurrent interview on 7/29/19 at 9:50 a.m., a plastic serving cart, filled with clean cooking utensils was on a dish rack. Within the bin were three spatulas with cracks in the rubber and one with a dark residue on the rubber. The DSS stated, Spatulas should be thrown away when in poor condition, but residue was ok. A metal scraper, in the bin with, clean utensils, had sticky residue on its blade. The rubber handle had black, red and blue residue imbedded on its rough plastic handle. The DSS stated: If there is a damaged utensil, we replace it, that wasn't properly cleaned. Dietary Staff Q stated he used it as a griddle scraper. During an observation on 7/29/19 at 10 a.m., nine pans used for holding food, were stacked and stored wet, on a clean equipment rack. Plastic containers were tightly stacked. Two of the plastic containers had what resembled food residue on the inside. The DSS confirmed the presence of residue and stated it was, ok because we'll air dry while stacked. During observation in the dry storage room, of the kitchen, on 7/30/19 at 9 a.m. two plastic serving carts had coating on the top shelf, which was not intact, was rough and caked with residue. The DSS stated it was, ok because not touching food. The Facility Policy titled, Sanitation, dated 2018, item number 9 indicated, All utensils, counters, shelves, and equipment shall be kept clean, maintained in good repair. Item number 10 indicated, Plastic ware, china, and glassware that becomes unsightly, unsanitary or hazardous because of chips, cracks or loss of glaze shall be discarded. Plastic ware is bleached as necessary to prevent staining. 3. During observation on 7/30/19 at 10:44 a.m., a portable plastic box fan on the dish machine counter was pointing toward the clean dish area. The fan blade cover was covered with a significant layer of gray, fuzzy debris. The DSS stated, Fans are deep cleaned by maintenance every month, and kitchen staff will wipe down as needed. She stated she did not consider the fan clean. During an interview, on 8/1/19 at 11:45 a.m., the Maintenance/Housekeeping Manager stated he was not sure if he was responsible for cleaning portable fans, but he cleaned them when staff brought them to him. He stated he thought dietary kept a fan in the kitchen, as they brought one to him yesterday for cleaning. 4. During an observation on 7/30/19 at 11:30 a.m., a pan of beans fell into the steam well. Dietary Staff S put on an oven mitt, and when he reached in to grab it, the mitt touched the beans. He then placed the beans back on the tray line and continued to serve food. When asked if it was ok for the oven mitt to come into contact with the beans the DSS stated, No, it's a contaminant. Start over. Toss Serving. During observation and concurrent interview on 7/30/19 at 3:24 p.m., the mitts had food caked on the outside surface. The DSS stated, Oven mitts are thrown away when they are torn or caked with food. They are not cleaned. 5. 2019 USDA Food Code ARTICLE 5. Personal Cleanliness 113969. (a) Except as specified in subdivision, (b) all food employees preparing, serving, or handling food or utensils shall wear hair restraints, such as hats, hair coverings, or nets, which are designed and worn to effectively keep their hair from contacting non-prepackaged food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, and unwrapped single-use articles. During an observation 7/30/19 at 12:08 p.m., Dietary Staff S was wearing a beard cover, but Dietary Staff R was not. The DSS stated, [Dietary Staff R's name] beard is trimmed, [Dietary Staff S's name] is not. The facility policy titled, Dress Code for Women and Men, not dated, indicated under Proper Dress Item number 6: Hair net or hat which completely covers the hair (Long hair shall be worn in a tight bun). Item number 7 indicated: Beards and moustaches which are not closely cropped and neatly trimmed should be covered. The facility policy was not consistent with current standards of practice. During observation and concurrent interview on 7/29/19 at 2:27 p.m., multiple undated items were noted in the resident refrigerator/freezer, located in the employee break room: Two Mighty shakes, with no thaw-date; Store-bought apple pie, undated; Zucchini and carrots, undated; Two paper plates containing cake/frosting/blueberries, had ink written on the inside of paper plate and was touching the frosting; the cake was open to air; Large plastic bag of items on the bottom shelf had no date visible. The bag contained a plastic container of cut melon with no date. A plastic container of what appeared to be peanut butter, had no date. Corn salad had no date. There were also two avocados, over ripe and squishy, and plums breaking apart the bag containing them. The DSS stated: This food is not dated. The nursing staff was responsible. It is to be discarded in three days. I'll come every three days. She acknowledged there was no way to identify when the shakes were thawed. It should have been discarded at midnight last night or this morning. The DON stated: Usually store-bought items they do put a date on it. Cake, that was from Friday. The Housekeeping Manager stated: Housekeeping cleans the refrigerator. My staff. I don't know their schedule, I'm not sure, once a week. When asked whether the refrigerator looked clean, the Housekeeping Manager stated, No. The DSS stated, The dietary (herself) is responsible for checking the dates on food and discarding food every two to three days. Foods can be kept for three days, and the first day is the day it was placed in the fridge. She stated nursing ensured it was labeled and dated when the family brought in the food. The DON stated, The pie was brought in Saturday night on the 26th (according to the Resident). The DSS stated, The veggies in the plastic container were brought in on Friday (according to the Resident), and the large bag of food was brought in at the beginning of last week. The last time the she looked in the resident refrigerator was Thursday of last week. During an interview on 7/30/19 at 8:39 a.m., the Housekeeping Manager stated there was no cleaning schedule for housekeeping, whom he confirmed was responsible for cleaning the resident refrigerator, which included the refrigerator and freezer. The facility policy titled, Food for Residents from Outside Sources, revised 4/2016, under Procedures, Item number 4 indicated: All items must be dated on delivery and written on the container. Item number 5 indicated: All items will be discarded after 3 days or by the manufacturer's expiration date.
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

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

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Licensed and certified facility. Meets minimum state requirements.
Concerns
  • • Multiple safety concerns identified: 3 harm violation(s), $64,635 in fines. Review inspection reports carefully.
  • • 47 deficiencies on record, including 3 serious (caused harm) violations. Ask about corrective actions taken.
  • • $64,635 in fines. Extremely high, among the most fined facilities in California. Major compliance failures.
  • • Grade F (15/100). Below average facility with significant concerns.
Bottom line: Trust Score of 15/100 indicates significant concerns. Thoroughly evaluate alternatives.

About This Facility

What is Ukiah Post Acute's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns UKIAH POST ACUTE an overall rating of 1 out of 5 stars, which is considered much below average nationally. Within California, this rating places the facility higher than 0% of the state's 100 nursing homes. A rating at this level reflects concerns identified through health inspections, staffing assessments, or quality measures that families should carefully consider.

How is Ukiah Post Acute Staffed?

CMS rates UKIAH POST ACUTE's staffing level at 2 out of 5 stars, which is below average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 53%, compared to the California average of 46%.

What Have Inspectors Found at Ukiah Post Acute?

State health inspectors documented 47 deficiencies at UKIAH POST ACUTE during 2019 to 2025. These included: 3 that caused actual resident harm and 44 with potential for harm. Deficiencies causing actual harm indicate documented cases where residents experienced negative health consequences.

Who Owns and Operates Ukiah Post Acute?

UKIAH POST ACUTE is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by THE ENSIGN GROUP, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 57 certified beds and approximately 43 residents (about 75% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in UKIAH, California.

How Does Ukiah Post Acute Compare to Other California Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in California, UKIAH POST ACUTE's overall rating (1 stars) is below the state average of 3.1, staff turnover (53%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (1 stars) is much below the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Ukiah Post Acute?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "Can you walk me through typical staffing levels on day, evening, and night shifts?" "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" "Can I speak with family members of current residents about their experience?" These questions are particularly relevant given the below-average staffing rating.

Is Ukiah Post Acute Safe?

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

Do Nurses at Ukiah Post Acute Stick Around?

UKIAH POST ACUTE has a staff turnover rate of 53%, which is 7 percentage points above the California average of 46%. Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Ukiah Post Acute Ever Fined?

UKIAH POST ACUTE has been fined $64,635 across 1 penalty action. This is above the California average of $33,725. Fines in this range indicate compliance issues significant enough for CMS to impose meaningful financial consequences. Common causes include delayed correction of deficiencies, repeat violations, or care failures affecting resident safety. Families should ask facility leadership what changes have been made since these penalties.

Is Ukiah Post Acute on Any Federal Watch List?

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