CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0578
(Tag F0578)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews, record reviews, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to ensure that the electronic medical re...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews, record reviews, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to ensure that the electronic medical record accurately reflected resuscitative code status and failed to obtain physician's orders for resuscitative code status for two (Resident #40 and Resident #195) of 40 sampled residents.
Findings included:
A review of Resident #40's Medical Record revealed that Resident #40 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of Hypertension, End Stage Renal Disease, and Dependence on Renal Dialysis.
A review of Resident #40's Physician's Orders did not reveal an order related to resuscitative code status.
A review of Resident #40's Care Plan did not reveal information related to resuscitative code status.
A review of Resident #40's Electronic Medical Record (EMR) revealed, under the section titled Code Status, no resuscitative code status information.
An interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 07:39 AM with Staff F, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Staff F, LPN stated that residents who had a code status of Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) would have paperwork in their chart. If a resident had a status of Full Code, then the resident would not have any paperwork in the chart. Staff F, LPN stated that a physician's order did not need to be in the resident's chart if they had a code status of Full Code. When a resident's profile was pulled up in the EMR, it would display the resident's code status information under the Code Status section. Staff F, LPN addressed that Resident #40 did not have any information documented in the EMR related to code status and stated that she would expect to see the status documented in the EMR. Staff F, LPN was not able to state who entered in the code status information in the EMR.
A review of the facility policy titled Social Services Guidelines, dated August of 2021, revealed under the section titled Code Status, that the resident's code status is established at the time of admission/re-admission through a physician's order. The code status order is entered into the EMR by nursing using the Advance Directives Template. Once entered into the EMR, it appears in the header of the electronically generated documents and is visible in the resident's [NAME].
2. A review of the admission Record Report indicated that Resident #195 was admitted into the facility on [DATE] with a primary diagnosis of acute kidney failure.
A review of the banner on the electronic medical record, indicated that the section for code status was blank.
A review of the Order Summary Report with active orders as of 08/25/2021 reflected that there was no order for code status.
A review of the care plans for Resident #195 did not reflect a care plan related to code status.
On 08/24/21 at 4:06 p.m., Staff R, Registered Nurse (RN) Supervisor, stated she would look at the banner and in the orders to find the code status. Staff R stated that Resident #195 was a full code and that she knows because he was on her assigned hall. Staff R viewed Resident #195's electronic medical record and stated that because nothing was listed on the banner for the code status, that means he was full code.
On 08/25/21 at 9:23 a.m., Staff E, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Supervisor, stated the code status would be on the banner of the electronic chart. Staff E stated she could show me where to find the code status and that she would pull up a random resident. The code status was observed on the random resident's electronic chart. When asked to look up the code status for Resident #195, Staff E stated, Oh I see what you mean, I'll get the hard chart and add it now.
On 08/25/21 at 9:39 a.m., the Director of Nursing (DON) stated that residents should have an order for the code status, and the code status should be listed on the banner of the electronic record.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Safe Environment
(Tag F0584)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation and interview, the facility did not ensure air conditioning units were maintained in a sanitary manner for ...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation and interview, the facility did not ensure air conditioning units were maintained in a sanitary manner for 3 out of 4 days of survey (08/22/21, 08/23/21 and 08/24/21) in 10 out of 14 resident rooms in hall 200 (200, 201, 202, 203, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211 and 213)
Findings included:
During a facility tour on 08/22/21 between 10:13 a.m. and 12:32 p.m., air conditioning unit filters were observed with dirt, debris, and bio growth in resident rooms in hall 200. The filters were noted fully clogged with visible dark ashy-looking material in rooms 200, 201, 202, 203, 207, 208,209, 210, 211 and 213. room [ROOM NUMBER]'s unit was observed with bio-growth. room [ROOM NUMBER]'s unit was observed with a towel placed underneath the unit to collect the water leaking from the air-conditioner. The observations were made on 3 of the 4 days of survey. Photographic evidence was obtained.
On 08/22/21 12:10 p.m., an interview was conducted with the housekeeping supervisor (HS). The HS stated that his department maintained all the rooms in the facility including the cleanliness of the equipment in the rooms. He stated that CNAs (certified nurses' aides) clean personal care equipment and housekeeping cleans everything else in the rooms.
On 08/24/21 09:19 a.m., a tour of hall 200 was conducted with the HS. He stated that when it comes to maintaining the air-conditioning units, housekeeping and maintenance department split the task. When asked how often the units are inspected, HS stated that they recently swapped all the filters to washable ones, so that they can easily care for them. When asked when the air conditioning filters are cleaned, HS said, When I do the rooms I always check. The HS stated that he had checked filters the end of last month. During the walk through of hall 200, the HS observed filters in 10 out of 14 rooms and said, this is definitely not how they should look, we should clean more than that. The HS observed the unit in room [ROOM NUMBER] with bio-growth and said, it should not look like that. It's because of condensation. HS stated they should probably clean more than once a month. HS was asked for a copy of the facility's policy on air conditioning maintenance.
On 08/24/21 09:33 a.m., an interview was conducted with director of nursing (DON) who was shown the photographic evidence of air conditioning filters in hall 200. The DON stated that this is not what they should look like, thank you for letting me know. When asked what the expectation of maintaining air conditioning filters was, DON said, it is our expectation that the filters should be maintained in a sanitary manner. Residents should definitely not be breathing through that.
On 08/25/21 10:26 a.m. an interview was conducted with the HS. He stated that they did not have a policy in place but that he would increase the cleaning to at least monthly.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0692
(Tag F0692)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews and record reviews, the facility failed to follow-up on recommendation from the registered diet...
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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 follow-up on recommendation from the registered dietitian for one resident (#37) out of 7 sampled residents reviewed for unplanned weight loss.
Findings included:
A review of the admissions record revealed that Resident #37 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses including unspecified dementia without behavioral disturbances, Parkinson disease, dysphagia, oropharyngeal phase, and other symptoms and signs concerning food and fluid intake.
A review the Quarterly Minimum Data Assessment (MDS) dated [DATE] documented in Section G, Functional Status, indicated that the resident needed supervision while eating. Further review of Section K, Swallowing/Nutritional Status, revealed that Resident #37 had unplanned weight loss.
A review of Resident #37's care plan dated 3/23/21 revealed a focus area of:
Resident # 37 is at risk for alteration in nutritional status r/t (related to) Parkinson, dysphagia. Need for therapeutic diet .
Interventions included: Encourage and assist as needed to consume foods and/or supplements and fluids.
A review of the Registered Dietitian (RD) note dated 7/16/21 revealed: Resident continues to lose weight this week. Sig. wt. loss of 11.2% X 30 days, -17% X90; -15.8% <180 days (Significant weight loss of 11.2% in 30 days, -17% in 90 days and -15.8% in less than180 days).
Further review of the Registered Dietitian (RD) notes titled Nutrition/Weight dated 8/23/21, revealed recommendation for ProSource 30 ml BID (30 milliliter two times daily).
On 8/25/2021 review of Resident #37's physician orders and medication administration record (MAR) did not reveal documentation or administration of ProSource 30 ml BID as recommended by the RD.
On 08/25/2021 at 09:56 a.m., an interview was conducted with Staff G, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She stated that the order for ProSource should have been recorded on Resident # 37's physician order and on her medication administration record (MAR). Staff G reviewed Resident #37's MAR and confirmed that recommendation for ProSource was not recorded in the physicians order nor in the resident MAR. Staff G stated that she does not know who carries out the RD's recommendations. She stated that there was an alert in the Resident's medication administration record indicating that recommendation for ProSource is in a queue.
On 08/25/21 at 10:03 a.m., during an interview the DON stated that the RD's recommendations are inputted into resident's Electronic Medical Records (EMR) by the registered dietician. She stated that the input will appear in the resident's electronic medical record (EMR), and nurses on each shift, usually identified recommendations triggered in the EMR, and notify the resident's Primary Care Physician (PCC) if necessary and carry out the recommendation. She stated that it is her expectation that recommendations are carried out within 24 hours. She stated that nurses are educated on checking and following through with recommendations queued in the residents' EMR.
On 08/25/21 at 10:59 a.m., during a telephone interview with the RD, she confirmed writing the recommendation for ProSource 30 ml BID, and inputted it in Resident #29's EMR on 8/23/21. She stated that she would have expected the recommendation to be carried out as soon as possible.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0694
(Tag F0694)
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 provide intravenous (IV) fluid therapy in accordan...
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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 provide intravenous (IV) fluid therapy in accordance with professional standards of practice for one (Resident #248) of one resident receiving intravenous fluid therapy in the facility.
Findings included:
A review of Resident #248's Medical Record revealed that Resident #248 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with a diagnosis of Cellulitis of Right Lower Limb.
A review of Resident #248's Care Plan revealed a problem, revised on 08/06/2021, that Resident #248 had cellulitis of the right lower extremity. Interventions included to administer medications as ordered, obtain lab work as ordered, diagnostic tests as ordered, and record temperature as clinically indicated. Resident #248's Care Plan also revealed a problem, revised on 08/24/2021, that Resident #248 had potential complications at the IV insertion site, with an intervention to change IV tubing per physician orders.
A review of Resident #248's Physician's Orders revealed the following orders:
- An order, dated 08/05/2021, to change the needleless device for central line/midline every week and as needed.
- An order, dated 08/05/2021, to flush the IV line with 5 milliliters (ml) of normal saline before and after medication administration.
- An order, dated 08/15/2021, to place a new green curros cap on the IV port after infusion is complete.
- An order, dated 08/05/2021, for Cefepime Hydrochloride (HCl) solution 2 grams (g) per 100 ml IV every 12 hours for left foot cellulitis for six weeks.
- An order, dated 08/05/2021, for Vancomycin HCl Solution Reconstituted 1.5 g IV every 12 hours for wound infection for six weeks.
Resident #248's Physician's Orders did not reveal an order related to changing of the IV dressing site or frequency of IV tubing changes.
A review of Resident #248's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment revealed under Section C - Cognitive Patterns, a BIMS score of 13, which indicated intact cognition. Resident #248's MDS Assessment also revealed, under Section O - Special Treatments, Procedures, and Programs, that Resident #248 received IV medications before admission to the facility and while he was a resident at the facility.
An observation was conducted on 08/22/2021 at 02:46 PM of Resident #248's peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) site. The dressing of the PICC site, located in Resident #248's upper arm area, was observed to be dated 08/05/2021. Resident #248 stated that the PICC dressing had not been changed by the nursing staff at the facility since his admission on [DATE]. An observation of Resident #248's IV line tubing did not reveal a date labeled on the tubing.
An observation was conducted on 08/24/21 at 10:00 AM in Resident #248's room. An observation of Resident #248's IV line tubing did not reveal a date labeled on the tubing. Resident #248 stated that the nursing staff normally changes the IV tubing out every 2 or 3 days but was not able to state when the nursing staff last changed the IV tubing.
An interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 07:57 AM with Staff F, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Staff F, LPN stated that the Registered Nurses (RN) were the only ones that changed PICC line dressings in the facility and that residents should have a physician's order related to the dressing change and frequency. Staff F, LPN stated that IV tubing sets were good for 24 hours and that it would normally be dated with the date that it was changed. Staff F, LPN stated that she conducted an assessment of Resident #248's IV site every shift but she did not notice that the PICC dressing was dated 08/05/2021. Staff F, LPN also stated that sometimes she would date the IV tubing using tape and would sometimes write directly on the IV tubing but it would wear off over time.
An interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 4:41 PM with the facility's Director of Nursing (DON). The DON stated that dressings for PICC lines should be completed by an RN in accordance with physician's orders. The DON addressed that Resident #248 did not have a physician's order related to dressing changes for his PICC line and stated that the dressing should have been changed sooner. The DON stated dressing changes should be in accordance with the physician's order. The DON stated that IV tubing should be changed every 24 hours and that it should have the date when it was changed labeled.
A review of the facility policy titled Intermittent IV Therapy via Programmable Pump, dated January of 2009, revealed under the section titled General Information that administration sets should be changed every 72 hours and that tubing should be labeled with the date, time, and initials of the nurse.
Photographic evidence obtained.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0698
(Tag F0698)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews, record reviews, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to provide ongoing monitoring for compli...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews, record reviews, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to provide ongoing monitoring for complications before and after dialysis treatments for 1 (Resident #40) of 4 resident receiving dialysis services in the facility.
Findings included:
A review of Resident #40's Medical Record revealed that Resident #40 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of COVID-19 and Dependence on Renal Dialysis.
A review of Resident #40's Care Plan revealed a problem, revised on 07/02/2021, that Resident #40 had renal insufficiency related to End Stage Renal Disease and presence of a fistula, graft, or catheter. Interventions included to the access site for lack of thrill or bruit, evidence of infection, swelling, or excessive bleeding per facility guidelines and coordinate dialysis care with dialysis treatment center.
A review of Resident #40's Physician Orders revealed an order, dated on 07/03/2021 to check Resident #40's arteriovenous (AV) fistula site for thrill and bruit every day shift. Resident #40's Physician Orders also revealed an order, dated on 07/03/2021, for dialysis site observation every day shift.
A review of Resident #40's Electronic Treatment Administration Record (ETAR) for July 2021 revealed the following:
- No documentation of order, dated on 07/03/2021 to check Resident #40's arteriovenous (AV) fistula site for thrill and bruit every day shift on 07/03, 07/04, 07/06, 07/07, 07/17, or 07/21/2021.
- No documentation of order, dated on 07/03/2021, for dialysis site observation every day shift on 07/03, 07/04. 07/06. 07/07. 07/17, or 07/21/2021.
A review of Resident #40's ETAR for August 2021 revealed the following:
- No documentation of order, dated on 07/03/2021 to check Resident #40's arteriovenous (AV) fistula site for thrill and bruit every day shift on 08/03, 08/05, or 08/18/2021.
- No documentation of order, dated on 07/03/2021, for dialysis site observation every day shift on 08/03, 08/05, or 08/18/2021.
A review of Resident #40's Dialysis Communication Forms revealed the following:
- 07/29/2021: No Dialysis Communication Form from the facility to the dialysis center. No assessment data prior to dialysis treatment.
- 08/05/2021: No communication documentation from the dialysis center to the facility.
- 08/10/2021: No Dialysis Communication Form from the facility to the dialysis center. No assessment data prior to dialysis treatment.
- 08/12/2021: No Dialysis Communication Form from the facility to the dialysis center. No assessment data prior to dialysis treatment.
- 08/14/2021: No Dialysis Communication Form from the facility to the dialysis center. No assessment data prior to dialysis treatment.
An interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 07:39 AM with Staff F, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Staff F, LPN stated that the Dialysis Communication Form was completed by the nurse at the facility upon the resident leaving for dialysis to include assessment of the site and vital signs. The dialysis center would be responsible for filling out the remainder of the form, but they usually just send a print out from the visit to be included with the form. Staff F, LPN stated that no assessment was completed by the facility when the resident returns from the dialysis center after treatment.
An interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 09:13 AM with the facility's Director of Nursing (DON). The DON stated that the facility nurse was responsible for completing the Dialysis Communication Form prior to the resident leaving for dialysis and that the dialysis center completed the bottom portion of the form. The DON stated that she expected the nurse to go into the resident room and speak with the resident as well as perform an assessment of the dialysis site once the resident returned to the facility. The DON stated that Resident #40 had an order in place for nursing staff to assess the dialysis site daily on day shift but addressed that some days were missing documentation in the ETAR. The DON was not able to state why some of the Dialysis Communication Forms were missing in Resident #40's dialysis communication book.
A review of the facility policy titled Dialysis Guidelines, dated in November of 2017, revealed under the section titled Guidelines, that the center staff remains aware and identifies changes in patient behavior, especially for cognitively impaired patients, which may impact the safe administration of dialysis and notifies the attending medical practitioner and dialysis facility of changes. This may require more frequent observations and monitoring of the patient before, during, and after dialysis treatment. The policy also revealed that both the center and the dialysis facility are responsible for shared communication regarding patients receiving dialysis services and that the Hemodialysis Communication Form is to be used.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Staffing Information
(Tag F0732)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observations and interviews, the facility failed to ensure that Nurse Staffing Information was posted accurately for two of four days.
Findings included:
An observation was conducted on 08/...
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Based on observations and interviews, the facility failed to ensure that Nurse Staffing Information was posted accurately for two of four days.
Findings included:
An observation was conducted on 08/22/2021 at 09:35 AM at the front entrance of the facility. A Staff Posting Report, which reports the number of nursing staff assigned in the facility for the day, was observed posted at the front desk and was observed to be dated for 08/20/2021. An interview was conducted following the observation with Staff Y, Receptionist. Staff Y, Receptionist stated that she was not sure who posted updates to the Staff Posting Report and addressed that the posting was dated 08/20/2021.
An observation was conducted on 08/24/2021 at 09:22 AM at the front entrance of the facility. A Staff Posting Report was observed posted at the front desk and was observed to have no date and no facility name information. The facility's Director of Nursing (DON) was also at the front entrance during the observation and was interviewed. The DON stated that the Staff Posting Report sheet should be dated for the effective date and should contain the facility name on it.
A telephone interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 10:03 AM with Staff Z, Staffing Coordinator (SC). Staff Z, SC stated that she was responsible for posting the Staff Posting Report daily to reflect the facility's staffing levels for the day on Monday through Friday. Before leaving on Friday, the anticipated staffing is left at the reception desk to be posted on Saturday and Sunday. Staff Z, SC stated that the receptionist that was assigned over the weekend may not have known to post the Staff Posting Report and stated that the report should have the correct date and that facility name on the sheet.
A request was made on 08/24/2021 at 10:20 AM for a facility policy related to the Staff Posting Report to the DON. A facility policy was not provided.
Photographic evidence obtained.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Unnecessary Medications
(Tag F0759)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review the facility did not ensure that the medication error rate was below 5% for on...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review the facility did not ensure that the medication error rate was below 5% for one resident (# 5) of four sampled residents who were observed for medication administration. This resulted in two errors from 29 medication administration opportunities for a medication error rate of 6.9%.
Findings included:
A review of Resident # 5's admissions record revealed that he was initially admitted to the facility on [DATE] and readmitted on [DATE]. Diagnoses included but not limited to, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), major depressive disorder (MDD), anemia, and type 2 diabetes.
A review of the active physician orders dated 08/1/21 revealed the medications ProAir HFA (hydrofluoroalkane) Aerosol Solution 108 (90 base) 1 puff inhale orally every 4 hours for SOB (Shortness of Breath) order date 01/20/21, and an order date of 01/20/2021 for Fish Oil Capsule 1200 mg (milligram) (Omega-3 Fatty Acids) give one capsule by mouth one time a day for supplement.
On 08/24/21 at 9:00 a.m., a medication administration observation with Staff E, revealed that Staff E gave two puffs of the handheld inhaler ProAir HFA, and 1000 mg of the Fish Oil Capsule. In an interview with Staff E, she reviewed the medication administration record and confirmed that the correct puff for ProAir HFA was one puff, instead of the 2 puffs given, and the dosage for the Fish Oil Capsule was 1200mg. Staff E stated that she will notify Resident #5's primary care physician, and his responsible party, and complete a documentation related to the medication administration error.
On 08/24/21 at 03:25 p.m. during an interview with the pharmacist consultant, he stated that his expectation is that the nurses follow the physician order when administering medications.
On 08/24/21 at 03:27 p.m., during an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), she stated that it is her expectation that nurses follow the 5 or 8 rights of medication administration when administering medications.
Review of the facility policy and procedure titled, Medication and Treatment Administration Guidelines. Updated 03/2018. Under the subheading Medication Administration the first bullet point revealed: Medications are administered in accordance with the following rights of medication administrations. Eight checks were revealed including but not limited to the following rights: Right patient, right medication, and right dose.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
QAPI Program
(Tag F0867)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility's quality assurance (QA) and assessment committee failed to impl...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility's quality assurance (QA) and assessment committee failed to implement an effective QA program related to: 1) proper deployment of staff in order to provide assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADL's) to four (Residents #9, #12, #22, #25) of six residents dependent on staff for eating on the 200 hall and one additional resident (#24) who was dependent on staff for an additional food item requested during the 10/26/21 lunch meal, 2) following professional standards of practice for obtaining physician orders related to care and removal of the dressing on the dialysis access site following dialysis treatment for two (#15, #1) of three dialysis residents reviewed, and 3) ensuring behavior monitoring occurred for seven of seven sampled residents reviewed for the use of psychotropic medications (#12, #1, #2, #6, #8, #11, #13).
Findings included:
1. Record review of the facility's policy, Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement Practice Guide, dated 01/2019 showed Quality Assurance (QA) is a process of meeting quality standards and assuring that care reaches an acceptable level. QA is a reactive, retrospective effort to look at why there was a system failure. QA activities do improve quality, but efforts frequently end once the compliance or standard has been met. The purpose of QAPI is to take a pro-active approach to continually improve the quality of care we provide, the quality of life our patients experience, the ability to honor patient choices and provide care in the appropriate clinical environment. FOUNDATIONAL ELEMENTS: Root Cause Analysis: Root cause analysis is a problem solving method aimed at identifying primary causes of problems or issues. It is predicated on the belief that issues are best resolved by eliminating or correcting root causes, as opposed to addressing obvious symptoms or popular assumptions. By directing corrective action to the underlying cause, it is likely reoccurrence will be minimized. The administrator is responsible for creating the environment for change, a culture that supports continuous process improvement and facilitating implementation of the QAPI process.
2. Review of the facility's plan of correction for the survey ending 8/25/21 with a completion date of 9/24/21 revealed the following measures would be taken to correct the deficient practice which was identified for concerns with meal tray delivery and call light response:
III.
Licensed nurses and direct care staff were educated on timely delivery of meal trays by the Administrator/designee.
Licensed nurses and direct care staff have been educated on timely call bell responses by the Administrator/designee.
IV.
Audits of meal tray delivery will be completed by the IDT (inter-disciplinary team) Team. Call bell audits will be completed by the IDT Team. Audits will be completed weekly x 4 weeks and then monthly for 2 months. Results of these reviews will be presented at the monthly QA meeting for review and recommendations.
3. During an observation of the lunch meal on the 200 hall on 10/26/2021 beginning at 11:50 a.m., two meal carts and one beverage cart were noted to be parked at the top of the hall. Two aides began to pass trays to independent diners at 11:55 a.m. On 10/26/21 at 12:00 p.m., Aide A, commented that there were many residents on the 200 hall that needed assistance, and they passed meal trays to the independent diners first. She confirmed that meal trays for dependent diners remained in the closed cart until a staff member was ready to provide assistance. After Aide A obtained a tray for a resident and left the cart, Nurse C approached the meal cart and passed two trays to two independent residents. She then left the cart and returned to the nurse's station.
On 10/26/21 at 12:15 p.m., two of the unit's three aides were each sitting with a resident assisting them with eating. The third aide was observed providing nail care to Resident #25. The aide was pushing the resident's cuticles back prior to painting her nails. After the aide finished polishing the resident's nails, the resident was ask about the meal service. Resident #25 reported that the food usually wasn't very good, no variety and was usually cool, but her daughter was bringing lunch for her today. She reported that she would have liked to been given something to drink though as she wasn't meeting her daughter for another half hour. She reported that she often had to wait for something that she asked for as there didn't seem to be much help. It was noted at this time that only three aides were covering the east/rehab side of the building during lunch directly assisting with or ensuring that approximately 26 residents received their afternoon meal. The two nurses assigned to the area and the UM were not observed assisting the residents with the lunch meal.
On 10/26/21 at 12:17 p.m., the Administrator was found in her office eating pizza while talking with the staffing coordinator. The Administrator was asked where the 200 hall UM could be found. The Administrator reported that she did not know, but she would find her.
On 10/26/21 at 12:20 p.m., the surveyor returned to the 200 hall after speaking with the Administrator and observed a call light was illuminated/ringing. No staff were present to respond to the light. After five minutes without any staff response, the surveyor asked the resident with the ringing call light (Resident #24) what she needed. The resident reported that her pasta was dry and needed sauce on it. She pointed to her roommate's pasta and commented that the roommate had gravy on it. The Certified Dietary Manager was notified of the request and within another five minutes, the resident was provided with some brown gravy.
On 10/26/21 at 12:30 p.m., all three aides were observed assisting three residents with eating to include Resident #22.
On 10/26/21 at 12:35 p.m., the Activity Aide was observed noted walking down the hall and looking for residents that still needed assistance. She obtained a meal tray and began to assist a resident with eating.
On 10/26/21 at 12:40 p.m., Aide B was observed standing next to Resident #12, who was refusing her meal. An attempt to ask Resident #12 about her meal at this time revealed no response from the resident. When Aide B left Resident #12, she obtained another meal tray and sat with Resident #9 to begin assisting with eating. During the meal observation, Resident #9 reported that her meal was good.
On 10/26/21 at 12:45 p.m., the UM was observed in her office looking at her computer screen. She was called to the floor and reported that she had just returned from lunch. She asked the staff if they needed help with the lunch meal. At that time, two residents requiring assistance were still waiting to receive their lunch meal.
On 10/26/21 at 12:50 p.m. (one hour after meal trays arrived on the hall) the last resident received her tray and received assistance to eat.
On 10/26/21 at 1:50 p.m., the Administrator reported that the UM should be providing oversight during the meal process. The Administrator reported that everyone on the hall that was needed was present so the UM probably thought she was able to go to lunch. The Administrator was not aware of who was on the hall and was informed that only three aides were on the hall to assist up to six residents with their meals, one of the three aides was painting Resident #25's nails during lunch, and approximately 20 additional residents needed their trays delivered and set-up.
On 10/26/21 at 2:35 p.m., the Administrator provided a plan for residents to be assisted at meals. She reported that aides and other nursing staff would be assigned to residents who needed assistance so there would be adequate staff and no resident would need to wait for their meal.
Interview with the Administrator on 10/27/2021 beginning at 10:25 a.m., revealed the audits to ensure timely meal service were reviewed and noted for providing no details as to what was audited. The audits included resident names and room numbers and a check mark indicating that the meal pass had been timely. There were no details as to whether the residents listed were dependent diners, at what time the meal cart arrived to the hall and when the residents received their meals, if the meal was satisfactory to the residents, especially the temperature of the meal which would be dependent on the time it took for the meal to be provided to the resident. The Administrator reported that their goal is for meals to be passed within 30 minutes of the cart arriving to the floor. It was pointed out that the in-service that was provided to the staff to ensure timely meal service did not reflect a plan for how that would be accomplished.
The Administrator was made aware that the meal service observed on 10/26/2021 on the 200 hall mirrored the deficient practice observed during the survey ending 8/25/21.
A review was conducted of the Resident Council Minutes for the last two months. It was noted that issues that had been identified on the survey ending on 8/25/21 were still on-going in September and October 2021. The Resident Council minutes from 09/27/2021 documented concerns with long call light time (responses), cold food, food too tough to chew, food that was bland and menus needing variety. The Resident Council minutes dated 10/14/2021 documented continued concerns with answering call lights and assisting with activities of daily living. Residents complained about tough food, and food served at the wrong temperature and without flavor.
When these issues of continued noncompliance were discussed with the Administrator on 10/27/2021 in an interview that began at 2:00 p.m. the Administrator reported that she was not aware that the residents at the council meeting were continuing to have concerns with staffing, call bell response, and meals. The Administrator reported that she must have misunderstood the Activities Director when the content of the meetings was discussed with her.
Review of the facility's audits revealed no audits were available after 10/11/21. In an interview with the Administrator on 10/27/2021 beginning at 10:25 a.m. the lack of audits per the facility's plan of correction was questioned. Audits were noted to have been conducted per the plan during the last week of September and up until 10/11/2021 , but no other audits were available after 10/11/2021. The plan of correction indicated audits would be conducted during the first two weeks from their Plan of Correction (POC) date of 09/24/2021, ending on approximately 10/08/2021. The POC then indicated audits would be conducted weekly for two weeks, ending on approximately 10/22/2021. The Administrator was not able to provide audits after 10/11/2021.
4. Review of the facility's plan of correction for the survey ending 8/25/21 with a completion date of 9/24/21 revealed the following measures would be taken to correct the deficient practice which was identified for concerns with dialysis:
II.
DON/Designee completed audit of current residents for dialysis communication sheets completed and dialysis site observations.
III.
DON/Designee will re-educated licensed staff on completing and receiving the communication sheet from the dialysis center after each visit and documentation of site observation daily.
IV.
Don/Designee will conduct audits of communication sheets and site observation bi weekly X2, weekly X2, then monthly X2. Findings will be reported to QA for review and further recommendations.
5. *A revisit to the survey ending 8/25/21 was conducted on 10/26/21 and 10/27/21. This revisit revealed on-going concerns with dialysis as follows:
On 10/26/21 at 10:10 a.m., Resident #1 was observed lying in bed on his left side, watching a video. A dialysis access site was observed on the upper left arm.
A review of Resident #1's admission Record Report revealed an original admission date of 12/14/2020 with diagnoses that included ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease) with dependence on renal dialysis. A review of the physician's orders related to the resident's dialysis care, revealed orders for the resident's dialysis at the dialysis center at 12 p.m., every Monday, Wednesday, Friday for ESRD, check the AV (arterio-venous) fistula site thrill/bruit every shift, and dialysis site observation every shift, dialysis site observation as needed.
There was no additional orders for the care of the access, including when to remove the dressing after the dialysis treatment. Review of the nurse's notes revealed documentation that the bruit and thrill were present after dialysis treatment on 10/19/21 (dialysis site clean and dry, positive bruit and thrill noted).
On 10/27/21 at 9:00 a.m., Resident #15 was observed lying in bed with a clean and dry dressing on his upper left arm. He stated that he went to dialysis yesterday and that was the dressing they applied at dialysis. He stated that nursing staff get around to removing the dressing from his arm.
Review of the admission Record Report for Resident #15 revealed an admission date of 10/13/2021 with diagnoses that included End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) with dependence on renal dialysis. Record review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 12 (moderately impaired). A review of the physician's orders related to the resident's dialysis care, dated 10/18/2021 and 10/19/2021, included a high protein renal diet, check AV (arterio-venous) fistula site -thrill/bruit every shift for AV fistula site thrill/bruit check; dialysis site observation as needed and one time a day, and hemodialysis per physician order Tues, Thurs, Sat. There was no order for removal of the dressing that was applied to the dialysis AV fistula after the dialysis treatment.
A review of the resident's 12 page care plan, initiated upon admission revealed no additional care plans related to the AV fistula access site.
A review of the resident's Nursing Notes from 10/01/2021 until 10/27/2021 did not reveal documentation that the dressing had been removed, only that the site had been observed and the bruit and thrill was noted.
In an interview with the Administrator and the acting Director of Nurses on 10/27/2021 beginning at 2:00 p.m., it was confirmed that there should be an order for care of the AV fistula site to include when to remove the dressing applied after the site had been accessed for dialysis.
The Administrator confirmed during that interview that the document Dialysis Guidelines was the document used to train staff and also used as reference for care for the dialysis residents.
Review of the Dialysis Guidelines dated 11/2017 revealed:
Both the center and the dialysis facility are responsible for shared communication regarding patients receiving dialysis services . Collaborative communication included information regarding physician and treatment orders, and adverse reactions or complications and recommendations for follow up observations and monitoring including those related to the vascular access site.
6. Review of the facility's plan of correction for the survey ending 8/25/21 with a completion date of 9/24/21 revealed the following measures would be taken to correct the deficient practice which was identified for concerns with psychotropic medication monitoring:
III.
Quality Assurance Consultant provided education to the DON and Unit Manager related to reviewing psychotropic medication daily for new orders and that monitoring is started as well as identifying the targeted behaviors.
DON/Designee will provide education to licensed nursing staff related to adding monitoring for all new psychotropic medications and identify targeted behaviors on care plans.
IV.
DON/Designee to conduct audits on psychotropic monitoring and targeted behaviors weekly x2, biweekly x 2 monthly x2. Findings will be reported to the QA for further review and recommendations.
7. A revisit to the survey ending 8/25/21 was conducted on 10/26/21 and 10/27/21. This revisit revealed on-going concerns with psychotropic medication monitoring as follows:
*On 10/26/21 at 9:30 a.m., Resident #13 was lying in bed watching TV. She had no complaints or concerns, and no behaviors were noted.
Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 (cognitively intact). Section N, Medications, showed she was receiving antidepressants.
Record review of the progress notes showed
On 10/01/21 she refused to have vital signs for the 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift on 09/30 through 10/01/21.
On 10/01/21 she refused a bed bath and shower several times.
On 10/06/21, resident refused to be weighed.
On 10/26/21 at 22:26 (10:26 p.m.) just before dinner, when observed resident, she was crying. The resident cries often and stated she was tired of being sick and does not like to be touched. The Nurse Practitioner was informed.
Review of physician orders, Treatment Administration Record (TAR), and Medication Administration Record (MAR) for October 2021 showed Resident #13 received Mirtazapine 15 mg at bedtime for depression / insomnia. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Mirtazapine. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift for side effects of psychotropic medications. The physician orders and / or MAR lacked orders and monitoring of behaviors for psychotropic medications.
Review of the care plans for Resident #13 revealed no interventions related to monitoring for behaviors/targeted behaviors associated with the use of psychotropic medications.
*Record review of Resident #11's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 08 (moderately impaired). Section N, Medications, showed she was receiving antianxiety medication.
Record review of active physician orders and the October MAR showed Resident #11 received Trazodone HCL 50 mg by mouth at bedtime for depression as of 10/21/21. Monitor for side effects related to the use of psychotropic medication, Trazodone. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects. Check every shift as of 10/26/21. Zoloft 50 mg daily for depression. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Zoloft. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects. Check every shift. Vistaril 25 mg twice a day for anxiety ending on 10/20/21. The October MAR lacked monitoring for side effects for Vistaril for anxiety. The physician orders and/or MAR lacked orders and monitoring of behaviors for psychotropic medications.
Progress notes reviewed showed on 10/19/21 the resident had increased confusion, different from her normal confusion. Resident stated, I am so nervous I don't think I can breathe. Oxygen saturation was 93% on room air. Oxygen was applied and resident eventually calmed down. A call was placed to the Nurse Practitioner and received an order to check her urine. The Vistaril for anxiety was discontinued on 10/20 and Trazodone was started on 10/21. The progress notes, physician orders and/or MAR lacked any documentation regarding her behaviors post medication change.
Record review of the care plans showed the resident was an exit seeking / elopement risk related to cognitive impairment initiated 7/2/21 and revised 7/29/21. Interventions included but were not limited to calmly redirect to an appropriate area, alert bracelet, and check for placement and function daily. Care plan for risk for adverse effects related to use of antidepressant medication, Zoloft initiated on 9/10/21 and revised on 9/13/21. Interventions included but were not limited to evaluate effectiveness and side effects of medications for possible decrease / elimination of psychotropic drugs; notify physician of decline in ADL ability or mood / behavior related to a dosage change, provide patient teaching of risks and benefits of medications as needed, report to physician signs of adverse reactions. No care plan was present related to anxiety.
*On 10/26/21 at 1:40 p.m., Resident #2 was sitting at bedside watching TV. She was dressed and groomed for the day and had her personal possessions in her room. No behaviors were noted.
Record review of the annual Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 (cognitively intact). Section N, Medications, showed she was receiving an antidepressant.
Record review of active physician orders and October MAR showed Bupropion HCL ER (XL) 24-hour 150 mg every other day for depression. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Bupropion. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. Lexapro 10 mg at bedtime for depression. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Lexapro. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. Trazodone HCL 50 mg give 0.5 tablet by mouth at bedtime on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday for depression with insomnia. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Trazodone. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medications. Check every shift as of 01/02/21 and discontinued on 10/26/21. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Reglan (chronic ileus). My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. The physician orders and / or MAR lacked orders and monitoring of behaviors for psychotropic medications.
Review of the care plans showed no interventions related to monitoring for behaviors/targeted behaviors associated with the use of psychotropic medications.
*Observed Resident #8 was lying in bed watching TV on 10/26/21 at 1:50 p.m. He had eaten his lunch. No behaviors were noted.
Record review of the annual Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 (cognitively intact).Section N, Medications, showed he was receiving antianxiety and antidepressant medication.
Record review of physician orders and October MAR showed Resident #8 received Zoloft 100 mg at bedtime for depression. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Zoloft. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. Buspirone HCL 7.5 mg three times a day for anxiety. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Bupropion. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. The physician orders and/or MAR lacked orders and monitoring of behaviors for psychotropic medications.
Record review of the care plans showed no interventions related to monitoring for behaviors associated with the use of psychotropic medications.
Record review of progress notes for the month of October did not show any documentation related to behavior monitoring.
*Observed Resident #6 lying in bed on 10/26/21 at 1:48 p.m. watching TV. She would not answer any interview screening questions.
Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 09 (moderately impaired). Section N, Medications, showed she was receiving an antipsychotic, antianxiety, and antidepressant medications.
Record review of the physician's orders and October [DATE] showed Resident #6 received Ativan 0.5 mg at bedtime for anxiety and hold for sedation. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Ativan. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. Seroquel 25 mg at bedtime for schizophrenia. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Seroquel. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. Sertraline HCL 25 mg daily for depression. Monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication, Sertraline. My initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects, monitor every shift. The physician orders and/or MAR lacked orders and monitoring of behaviors for psychotropic medications.
Record review of progress notes for the month of October revealed no documentation related to behavior monitoring.
Record review of the care plans showed the resident was at risk for behavior symptoms related to depression, dementia, and coprophagia (ingestion of feces) revised 9/16/20. Interventions did not indicate what the at risk behaviors/targeted behaviors were to monitor. The resident had inappropriate sexual behavior, attempting to be overly affectionate with male residents related to cognitive impairment and mood disorder revised 8/12/20. Interventions included but were not limited to distract, if possible, explain and explore effects of behavior on others, offer dim lights, TV, snacks, soft music; remain calm and avoid angry reactions if exhibits behavior, set limits for acceptable behavior. At risk for changes in mood related to depression, dementia, and mood disorder revised 8/12/20. Interventions included but not limited to administer medications per physician orders and observe for effectiveness and signs and symptoms of side effects. Elicit family support, watching TV, reading books/ magazines; validate feelings of loss. Episodes of anxiety related to diagnoses of anxiety initiated 2/12/21. Interventions included but not limited to administer medications per physician orders, identify and decrease environmental stressors. At risk for adverse effects related to use of antidepression medications, Zoloft revised 9/13/21. Interventions included but was not limited to evaluate effectiveness and side effects of medications for possible decrease / elimination of psychotropic drugs; notify physician of decline in ADL ability or mood / behavior related to a dosage change; report to physician signs of adverse reactions. At risk for adverse effects related to use of antianxiety / anxiolytic medication, Ativan revised 9/13/21. Interventions included but was not limited to evaluate effectiveness and side effects of medications for possible decrease / eliminations of psychotropic drugs; notify physician of decline in ADL ability or mood / behavior related to a dosage change; report to physician signs of adverse reaction. At risk for adverse effects related to use of antipsychotic medication, Seroquel revised 9/13/21. Interventions included but was not limited to evaluate effectiveness and side effects of medications for possible decrease / eliminations of psychotropic drugs; notify physician of decline in ADL ability or mood / behavior related to a dosage change; report to physician signs of adverse reaction.
*Review of Resident #12's Physician's orders revealed an order dated 09/25/2021 for the medication Mirtazapine 7.5 mg by mouth at bedtime for nutritional enhancement. The medication Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that is also used as an appetite stimulant. An order for side effect monitoring was also noted: monitor for side effects related to the use of psychotropic medications: Mirtazapine.
A review was conducted of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment conducted on 09/07/2021 for Resident #12. The assessment documented the resident as having moderately impaired cognitive function. The assessment documented her use of no antipsychotics but the use of an antidepressant.
A care plan had been developed on 9/12/21 and revised on 9/13/21 for Resident # 12's use of the antidepressant Mirtazapine. The Focus of the care plan identified the risk for adverse effects of the medication and her diagnosis of failure to thrive for its use. Interventions included evaluating the effectiveness and the side effects of the medication for possible decrease or elimination of the psychotropic medication. Also, the physician was to be notified of a decline in the resident's ADL (activities of daily living) abilities or decline in mood/behavior related to a dosage change. The physician was to be notified of signs of adverse reactions as well. The care plan included no interventions related to monitoring for behaviors associated with the use of psychotropic medications.
Review of the resident's Medication and Treatment Records did not reveal guidance and an area to document the presence or absence of behaviors that the resident might be eliciting. There was an order to monitor side effects of the medication with the clarification that my initials indicate absence of signs and symptoms of side effects. There was no guidance that side effects when present needed to be documented in the nurse's notes, or what specific side effects the resident might elicit.
A review of the nurse's progress notes for October 2021 revealed the resident was followed by Hospice and had an increase in her pain medication on 10/15/2021. Nurses notes prior to 10/15/21 revealed scratching was noted on her bilateral inner thighs which received treatment. On 10/09/2021 at 16:06 (4:06 p.m.) and 10/13/2021 at 17:58 (5:58 p.m.) the nurses note documented the resident's behavior of screaming and yelling and refusing the treatment.
On 10/26/2021 during the lunch meal, Resident #12 was observed being assisted with her meal. The resident was observed taking a small bite of fish out of her mouth and placing it back on her plate. The aide commented that the resident usually did that and didn't usually eat anything. An observation of Resident #12 on 10/27/2021 during the lunch meal revealed she was accepting bites of the fruit cocktail from her lunch tray. The aide confirmed that she refused the meal but seemed to be enjoying the sweet fruit.
A review of the resident's weights revealed upon admission on [DATE] the resident had weighed 124.4 lbs. On 08/02/2021 the resident weighed 119.5 lbs., on 09/01/21 the resident weighed 102.8 lbs., and on 10/01/21 the resident weighed 101.6 lbs.
*Resident #1 was admitted to the facility initially on 12/14/2020. The resident had current diagnoses that included major depressive disorder and anxiety disorder. Review of the resident's active Physician's orders revealed an order for Zoloft 100 mg, give 300 ml by mouth at bedtime for major depressive disorder and and order for Restoril 15 mg, give one cap by mouth at bedtime for insomnia. Current orders were also noted to monitor the side effects related to the use of the psychotropic medications Zoloft and Restoril. The order included the statement, My initials indicate the absence of signs and symptoms of side effects.
Resident #1 had an Annual MDS Assessment conducted on 07/22/2021 which identified the resident as having no cognitive deficits. The assessment included the diagnoses of anxiety and depression with an antihypnotic, and antidepressant administered on 7 days during the week.
A care plan was reviewed for the Focus area of being at risk for behavior symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and insomnia, as well as noncompliance with the ordered diet and lab draws initiated 7/16/20 and revised on 1/11/21. Interventions included observations for mental status/behavior changes when new medications are started or with changes in dosages. The Physician's order for monitoring side effects was not included as an intervention in the care plan for at risk behaviors and there was no guidance given in the care plan for what behaviors should be monitored based on the medications the resident was taking.
*During an interview on 10/27/21 at 1:57 p.m. the new interim DON entered, Staff G. She stated that today was her first day in the position of DON. She stated t[TRUNCATED]
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Pressure Ulcer Prevention
(Tag F0686)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to provide necessary treatment and services related to do...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to provide necessary treatment and services related to documenting measurements and wound descriptions for three of three sampled residents (#15, #16, #13) with pressure sores out of seven total facility residents with pressure sores.
Findings Included:
1. During observation and interview on 10/27/21 at 9:00 a.m., Resident #15 was observed lying in bed. The resident was observed to have an IV access in his right hand with a dressing dated 10/26 and a clean and dry dressing on his upper left arm. The resident stated that this was the dressing applied when he went to dialysis the day before.
Review of Resident #15's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 12 (moderate cognitive impairment). Continued review of the MDS revealed the resident required extensive assistance of two for bed mobility, transfers, and toileting and had one unstageable pressure ulcer on admission due to coverage of wound bed by slough and/or eschar.
Record review of the physician orders showed a wound culture of the sacrum to be performed on 10/14/21; cleanse sacrum wound and apply [wound care product] ointment topically and apply foam dressing every day as needed as of 10/14/21 and increased to every 8 hours on 10/27/21.
Review of the admission Evaluation dated 10/13/21 revealed under Clinical Evaluation of Skin: coccyx stage II open wound with foam dressing.
The medical record lacked the Pressure Ulcer Healing Chart, (PUSH) form or any other documentation of a wound description or measurements upon admission on [DATE].
Record review of the progress notes showed the following notes related to the pressure ulcer:
10/14/21 at 1:39 a.m. Stage II wound on his bottom with a wet to dry and foam dressing in place to cover the wound bed.
On 10/14/21 at 11:37 a.m. Resident was complaining of pain of the buttocks, the Tramadol as needed was given and repositioned for comfort. Resident's provider was in to assess resident and orders received for treatment of coccyx wound.
On 10/14/21 at 12:44 p.m. resident reported no change with pain of buttocks after Tramadol or Tylenol. Registered Nurse (RN) notified Nurse Practitioner (NP) of resident concerns of no pain relief. NP thinks he just needs the buttocks dressing changed. RN to change dressing.
On 10/14/21 at 22:07 (10:07 p.m.) nurse documented wound care performed.
On 10/19/21 at 14:47 (2:47 p.m.) wound to sacral area noted to have an odor and the wound dressing was saturated with a large amount of drainage. Area noted to have slough in the middle of wound bed. Area cleansed and new treatment applied. Writer educated resident to leave dressing in place and to turn onto their side while in bed.
On 10/20/21 at 13:15 (1:15 p.m.) Resident had one unstageable wound to the sacrum. The wound measured 9.0 cm x 6.0 cm x 3 cm. and had moderate drainage. The wound bed was 75% slough and 25% eschar. The Pressure Ulcer score was 16. The wound was recently treated with [wound care product] and foam padding. Resident had a diagnosis of diabetes, left femur fracture and end stage renal disease. Resident was currently doing dialysis three times a week. Resident's nutritional intake currently included a high protein diet with [brand name] Liquid Nutritional Supplements, and additional nutritional snacks. His nutritional intake was good, and appetite had been normal. Recent labs showed elevated BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) of 31, and Creatinine of 5.39 also showed a low total protein of 5.6 and Hemoglobin at 8.9 and hematocrit at 27.3. Resident denied pain during wound dressing change. Wound culture was pending. Treatments will continue as ordered pending wound culture. Resident updated on plan of care and status of wound. The care plan was updated on wound status. Staff D, Registered Nurse (RN)
On 10/21/21 at 23:00 (11:00 p.m.) resident returned from dialysis in stable condition. The wound care was rendered, and he tolerated it well.
Record review of the Wound Culture Results dated 10/21/21 showed (1) heavy growth of proteus mirabilis, (2) moderate growth of Escherichia coli and (3) heavy growth of enterococcus faecalis. The wound organism one and two was sensitive to Ciprofloxacin.
Continued review of the clinical record revealed additional progress notes related to the pressure ulcer:
10/25/21 at 10:26 a.m. Weekly Wound Rounds showed resident had one unstageable wound to the sacrum. Wound currently measured 9.0 cm x 6.0 cm x 3.5 cm. and had moderate yellow drainage. The wound bed was 75% slough and 25% eschar. The Pressure Ulcer score was 16. Awaiting Medical Doctor (MD) reassessment of wound. Resident currently has a diagnoses of end stage renal disease, diabetes and a left femur fracture. Resident's nutritional intake included a high protein diet, with [name brand] Liquid Nutrition with additional nutritional snacks. Nutritional intake has been adequate with a good appetite. Wound culture completed; results sent to MD awaiting new orders from wound culture results. Wound dressing changed per MD orders; resident reports no pain with treatment. Resident updated on plan of care and status of wound. Staff D, Registered Nurse (RN)
On 10/27/21 at 01:10 a.m. Resident on IV antibiotic for coccyx wound. No adverse reactions noted. IV site to right hand without signs of infection.
On 10/27/21 at 11:05 a.m. Resident was up in wheelchair for therapy. Resident sacral wound saturated foam dressing and was half off. RN changed dressing per MD order, resident tolerated. Well. Resident denies removing the dressing, I didn't take it off, it fell off. Wound with strong odor, continues on IV antibiotic for sacral wound. No signs and symptoms of reaction from antibiotic.
Record review of the care plans related to the pressure ulcer revealed a focus of infection of wound/skin initiated on 10/27/21 (date of survey). Interventions included but not limited to administer medication per physician orders.
During an interview on 10/27/21 at 1:57 p.m., the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA), the interim Director of Nursing /MDS Coordinator (DON/MDS), and the Regional Nurse, verified that Resident #15 did not have any wound sizes documented on admission. The Regional Nurse reported that when not measuring wounds on admission and throughout the resident's stay, It can worsen, the wound, and not know it. They stated that they expected to see both a wound and infection care plan for Resident #15 that had been initiated before 10/27/21, since he was admitted on [DATE].
2. Review of Resident #16's admission record report revealed an admission date of 10/08/21 and diagnoses to include pressure ulcer, sepsis, COVID-19, anemia and diabetes and end stage renal disease. Record review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] showed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 (cognitively intact). Section G Functional Status showed she required extensive assistance of two for bed mobility, transfers, and toileting.
Record review of physician orders showed cleanse coccyx, right buttock and left buttock wound with normal saline and apply [wound care product] gel and foam dressing daily and as needed as of 10/09/21 through 10/20/21. A new order on 10/20/21 to cleanse coccyx, right buttock and left buttock wounds with normal saline and apply xeroform gauze and cover with foam dressing daily and as needed. October Treatment Administration Record (TAR) showed orders performed as given.
Review of the admission Evaluation dated 10/08/21 showed under Clinical Evaluation of Skin, coccyx, coccyx, right buttock, left buttock.
Record review of the Pressure Ulcer Healing Chart (PUSH) forms times three dated 10/08/21 showed Resident #16 had a stage II pressure ulcer on her right buttocks and the form lacked sizes or healing graph. Had a PUSH form for the Left Buttocks stage II pressure ulcer and it lacked sizes or healing graph. Had a PUSH form for stage II coccyx wound which had a dated section of 10/22/21 showing wound was 1.5 x 0.8, with light exudate, and granulation tissue. No additional measurements of wounds could be located in the clinical record.
Review of care plans showed a risk for alteration in skin integrity related to impaired mobility initiated 10/12/21. Interventions dated 10/12/21 included encourage to reposition as needed; pressure redistributing device on bed/chair. A second care plan showed resident had a pressure ulcer on the right buttock. Interventions included to administer treatment per physician orders, daily body audit, incontinence management and repositioning during Activities of Daily Living. The care plan and all interventions were initiated on 10/20/21 by Staff D, Registered Nurse (RN).
Record review of the progress notes showed:
On 10/09/21 resident had a stage II pressure wounds to left buttock, right buttock and two on her coccyx. Treatment was in place for pressure wounds.
On 10/10/21, resident had treatment to coccyx and bilateral buttock wounds, continued as ordered.
On 10/11/21, progress note by Nurse Practitioner showed no mention of pressure ulcers and not mentioned in plan.
On 10/15/21, progress note by Nurse Practitioner showed no mention of pressure ulcers and not mentioned in plan.
On 10/20/21, left buttock wound, cleansed with normal saline and applied [wound care product] gel and foam sponge until left buttock is healed.
On 10/20/21 at 12:21, Medical Doctor (MD) updated wound care, new orders received for right and left buttocks and coccyx. Registered Nurse (RN) notified the resident of changes and all questions were answered.
On 10/27/21 at 1:57 p.m., an interview was conducted with the NHA, interim DON/MDS Coordinator, and the Regional Nurse. The interim DON/MDS Coordinator and the Regional Nurse verified that Resident #16 had wounds on admission on [DATE]. They also verified that there were no wound sizes taken on admission. The interim DON/MDS coordinator stated that the wound sizes are to be documented in the progress notes. She stated, I thought they were getting done, but they were not, (related to wound sizing). The DON/MDS coordinator and Regional Nurse verified that only one of the three wounds Resident #16 had been measured since admission. Staff D, Registered Nurse, Unit Manager (RN/UM) entered the interview and stated that starting 10/28/21, she will be performing the wound sizes, during weekly rounds. Staff D stated that wound sizes on admission are to track and see if the wound was getting better or not.
Record review of the facility's policy, Phase 1: Assess, Pressure Ulcer Prevention Pathway dated 2013 showed the tool can be used by the wound team as a training tool for frontline staff and as an ongoing clinical reference tool. Patient is admitted or readmitted , do both a head-to-toe skin evaluation and Braden Scale. Document skin issues, including color, temperature, turgor, moisture status, integrity, pressure ulcer if present or known, healed pressure ulcer. If have a current or healed pressure ulcer to document the pressure ulcer: location, length, width, depth, PUSH tool. The wound team stages the pressure ulcer. Obtain order for treatment from physician and obtain consultations needed. Daily body audits performed. Braden Scale performed.
3. Clinical record review for Resident #13 revealed she was initially admitted on [DATE] with readmissions after hospital stays on 03/30/2021 and a hospital stay from 09/10/2021 until 09/17/2021. Review of the resident's diagnoses included a pressure ulcer of the right heel, unspecified stage and pressure ulcer of the sacral region, unspecified stage.
A readmission assessment for Resident #13 was completed upon return to the facility from the hospital on [DATE]. The section of the assessment for the clinical evaluation of the skin included skin issues at the right heel and the coccyx but contained no description of either site, including neither measurements nor stage.
A review was conducted of the resident's MDS Quarterly Assessment completed on 10/01/2021 which identified the resident as having no cognitive deficits (Brief Interview for Mental Status score of 15). The resident was assessed as having one stage 2 pressure ulcer and one stage 4 pressure ulcer, both present upon admission. The resident was assessed as needing extensive assistance with two staff members for bed mobility and transferring, having an indwelling urinary catheter and always incontinent of bowel.
A review was conducted of the October 2021 Physician's orders and was noted to include an order to cleanse the right heel with normal saline, apply [wound care product] to the wound bed and cover with gauze and tape, every day. A second order was noted for negative pressure wound therapy 125 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) to coccyx ulcer, every day shift on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, for the coccyx wound. Wound vac (vacuum) to coccyx, change Monday, Wednesday Friday, every day shift related to sepsis.
A record review of the Skin notes revealed only two notes documenting weekly wound rounds for October. On 10/06/2021 the weekly rounds documented the resident's stage III coccyx wound as: length 6.7 cm x width 7.0 cm x depth 1.2 cm. The wound bed had 90% granulation with 10% necrosis on the edges. The PUSH (pressure ulcer scale for healing) score was 12. The peri-wound was blanchable without redness. The resident had a foley catheter, ate less than 25% or refused meals and received nutrition support. The resident also had a deep tissue injury to her right heel. The length measured 2.5 cm and the width measured 1.5 cm. The PUSH score was 6.
Further review of the October Skin notes did not reveal another weekly wound round until 19 days later, on 10/25/21. The size of the stage III coccyx wound was documented as : length 5.8 cm x width 6.4 cm x depth 1.2 cm. The wound bed was described as pink, with 100% granulation. The PUSH score was a 16. The peri-wound was blanchable without redness and the wound vacuum was in place and is changed Monday/Wednesday/Friday. The wound note also included that the resident had a foley catheter, was receiving an intravenous antibiotic beginning on 10/16/21 for a urinary tract infection; she ate 25-50% of her meals and received other nutrition support. She had a deep tissue injury to her right heel which measured as 2.4 cm and the width 1.5 cm. The PUSH score for the heel was 6.
During an interview on 10/27/2021 that began at 2:00 p.m. with the NHA and interim DON, it was confirmed that the nurses documented their daily wound care on the Treatment Administration Record and once a week wound rounds by the Unit Managers would document measurements and observations of the wounds. This documentation would be located under the section entitled Skin in the Progress Notes section of the resident's electronic medical record.
During this interview, at approximately 2:35 p.m., the NHA confirmed that in mid-October there was a problem with the Registered Nurses being able to cover all tasks and for some tasks there was no follow through. She reported that wound care had been delegated to the floor nurses to do the treatments and the Unit Managers were to conduct the documentation on the weekly evaluations, but she confirmed she was just made aware that the documentation had not been made.
Review of the Pressure Ulcer healing Chart used to monitor trends in the PUSH score over time for Resident #13 revealed that there were entries dated 08/11 and 08/20, and then no entries until 10/06/2021.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Medication Errors
(Tag F0758)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 4. Resident # 2 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Review of Resident # 2's current admission Record Report did not reveal ...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 4. Resident # 2 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Review of Resident # 2's current admission Record Report did not reveal any diagnoses relevant to psychotropic medication use.
A review of active physician orders dated 8/18/2021 for Resident # 2 included the medication Buspirone Hydrochloride (HCL) 7.5 milligrams (mg) by mouth three times a day for anxiety and Sertraline HCL100mg, one tablet by mouth at night for depression. Resident #2's Physician's Orders did not reveal an order for monitoring of side effects related to psychotropic medication use or monitoring for targeted behaviors related to psychotropic medication use.
A review of the last completed quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed Section N (Medication) revealed that Resident # 2 received anti-depressant medication seven times during the assessment period, medication for anxiety seven times, and hypnotic medications seven times during the assessment period ending 5/12/2021.
A review of Resident #2's Medication Administration Record (MAR) for August 2021, revealed documentation of administration of Sertraline HCL and Buspirone HCl as ordered by the physician. Review of the MAR did not reveal documentation of monitoring for side effects or targeted behaviors related to the use of psychotropic medications.
An interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 1:08 p.m. with Staff E, Licensed Practical Nurse Supervisor (LPN), Staff E stated that the expectation was that all residents who are on psychotropic medications have monitoring done every shift for behaviors, and medication side effects. Residents should have a behavior symptom assessment completed when the medication is started. There should be an order for behavior and side effects monitoring for each medication. Staff E, LPN confirmed that there were no active physician orders for behavior monitoring or side effect monitoring for Resident #2 related to psychotropic medication use. Staff E, LPN stated that it was the responsibility of the Unit Manager to input physician orders into the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) when a resident is admitted to the facility. Staff E stated, I guess that would be our responsibility during off hours, but I do not know how to put the order in, but I do not know how to do that.
3. Resident # 3 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including dementia without behavioral disturbances, Alzheimer disease, mood disorder, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorder. A review of the minimum data set (MDS) dated [DATE] section C (Cognitive Patterns) revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) of 09, which reflected Resident # 3's cognition was moderately impaired.
A review of the active physician orders dated 08/01/21 for Resident # 3 included the psychotropic medications Seroquel 25 mg (milligram) by mouth at bedtime for schizophrenia, sertraline HCL (Hydrochloride) 25 mg daily for major depressive disorder, and Ativan 0.5 mg at bedtime for anxiety. The physician order included an order for psychiatry consult related to behaviors. There was no physician order for the monitoring of behaviors related to the psychotropic medications, nor were there monitoring recorded on her medication administration record.
A review of the plan of care initiated on 03/06/20 with a revision date of 08/12/2020 for Resident # 3 included a focus on Psychotropic Drug Use, with a goal of: Notify physician of decline in ADL (Activity of Daily Living) ability or mood or behavior related to a dosage change.
A review of Resident # 3 medication administration record (MAR) for the period of 6/1/21 to 8/24/21 revealed that the psychotropic medications were administered as ordered; no documentation for behavior monitoring was recorded.
On 08/24/21 at 12:15 p.m., in an interview with Staff G, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Staff G stated that behavior monitoring is documented for Resident #3 in her MAR. Staff G reviewed the MAR and confirmed that there were no behavior monitoring notations for Resident #3. Staff G stated, I guess we just document if the resident has a behavior. She stated that she does not know the facility policy on behavior monitoring for residents on psychotropic medications.
On 08/24/21 at 02:05 p.m., an interview with the Director of nurses (DON) was conducted. She stated that it was her expectation that all residents on psychotropic medications have orders for behavior monitoring, and that the nurses monitor, and document behaviors observed on the MAR.
On 08/24/21 at 03:25 p.m., in an Interview with the pharmacist consultant, he stated that he would have expected behavior monitoring to be in place for psychotropic medications.
A review of the facility policy and procedure titled, Psychotropic Medication use revision date 08/2018, revealed under the subheading Procedure #1. The nursing Center should comply with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) SOM (State Operations Manual) and all other Applicable Law related to the use of psychotropic medications.
Based on interviews, record reviews, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to ensure behavioral monitoring and side effect monitoring for psychotropic medication use was implemented for four (Resident #40, Resident #21, Resident #3, and Resident #2) of six residents sampled for Unnecessary Medications, Psychotropic Medications, and Medication Regimen Review and failed to ensure that psychotropic medications used on an as needed basis had appropriate rationale of continued use for one (Resident #40) of six residents sampled for Unnecessary Medications, Psychotropic Medications, and Medication Regimen Review.
Findings included:
1. A review of Resident #21's Medical Record revealed that Resident #21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of anxiety, Major Depressive Disorder, and insomnia.
A review of Resident #21's Physician's Orders revealed the following orders:
- An order, dated 06/15/2021, for Klonopin 0.5 milligrams (mg) 1 tablet by mouth once daily and 1/2 tablet by mouth at bedtime for anxiety.
- An order, dated 06/04/2021, to monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication Klonopin every shift.
- An order, dated 06/07/2021, to monitor for side effects related to use of psychotropic medication Klonopin every shift.
- An order, dated 05/13/2021, for Trazodone Hydrochloride (HCl) 25 mg by mouth at bedtime for insomnia.
Resident #21's Physician's orders did not reveal orders for monitoring of target behaviors for Klonopin or Trazodone HCl use or monitoring of side effects for use of Trazodone HCl.
A review of Resident #21's Care Plan revealed a problem, last revised on 11/30/2019, that Resident #21 was at risk for behavior symptoms related to having a history of depression and anxiety. Interventions included to observe for mental status and behavioral changes when new medications started or with changed in dosages. Resident #21's Care Plan also revealed a problem, dated on 06/04/2021, that Resident #21 was at risk for adverse effects related to use of antianxiety, anxiolytic, and antidepressant medication use. Interventions included to evaluate for effectiveness and side effects of medications for possible decrease or elimination of psychotropic drugs and report to the physician any signs of adverse reactions.
A review of Resident #21's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment revealed, under Section N - Medications, that Resident #21 received antianxiety and antidepressant medications for 6 days out of the 7 day assessment period.
2. A review of Resident #40's Medical Record revealed that Resident #40 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of insomnia and COVID-19.
A review of Resident #40's Physician's Orders revealed the following orders:
- An order, dated on 07/01/2021, for Xanax 0.25 mg by mouth at bedtime for anxiety.
- An order, dated on 07/01/2021, for Xanax 0.25 mg by mouth once daily as needed for anxiety and agitation. The order for Xanax 0.25 mg by mouth once daily as needed did not have an end date.
A review of Resident #40's Physician's Order did not reveal an order for monitoring of target behaviors related to use of Xanax or an order for monitoring of side effects related to use of Xanax.
A review of Resident #40's Care Plan revealed a problem, dated on 07/06/2021, that Resident #40 had episodes of anxiety related to a diagnosis of anxiety. Interventions included to administer medications per physician's order and remove to a quiet area and reassure. Resident #40's Care Plan revealed a problem, dated on 07/06/2021, that Resident #40 had a sleep cycle issue related to a diagnosis of insomnia. Interventions included to limit caffeinated products during the day and eliminate after evening meal and provide opportunity for adequate exercise throughout the day.
A review of Resident #40's MDS Assessment revealed, under Section N - Medications, that Resident #40 received antianxiety medications 7 times during the 7 day assessment period and hypnotic medications 2 times during the 7 day assessment period.
An interview was conducted on 08/25/2021 at 07:39 AM with Staff F, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Staff F, LPN addressed that Resident #40 had an order for Xanax as needed once daily and also received Xanax at bedtime and stated that she was not able to find orders for monitoring of target behaviors related to use of Xanax or an order for monitoring of side effects related to use of Xanax. Staff F, LPN stated that nursing staff would normally document for effectiveness, side effects, and target behavioral monitoring on residents that received psychotropic medications. Staff F, LPN also addressed that there was no order for monitoring of target behaviors for Klonopin or Trazodone HCl use or monitoring of side effects for use of Trazodone HCl for Resident #21.
A review of the facility's Behavior Practice Guide, issued in July 2015, revealed under the section titled Medications, that medications can affect a patient's mental status and subsequently affect their behavior. Some of these behaviors may be considered as part of the therapeutic benefit of the medication, or as a negative consequence or response to the medication. Select medications may be prescribed specifically targeting modification of patient behavioral symptoms. Medications that have historically been used to modify patient behavioral symptoms include antipsychotics, antidepressants, hypnotics, and anxiolytics. The section of the guide titled Documentation revealed that patient behavioral symptoms are documented in the clinical record.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0761
(Tag F0761)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and policy review, the facility failed to ensure medications were stored and labeled in accordan...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and policy review, the facility failed to ensure medications were stored and labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles regarding medications on two (400, 200) of 4 units, and unlocked medication and treatment carts on four (100, 200, 300, 400) of 4 units.
Findings included:
1. On [DATE] at 09:42 a.m. during a tour of the facility a treatment cart in hallway 400 was observed with the bottom drawer opened and a plastic container, containing a tube of cream on top of the treatment cart. A closer inspection of the treatment cart revealed that the cart was unlocked. Further observation of hallway 400 revealed a cup with medication left unattended on top of the medication cart in the hallway (photographic evidence obtained). Subsequently observation of hallway 300, a second treatment cart was observed. A closer observation of the treatment cart revealed that the treatment cart was unlocked.
On [DATE] at 09:48 a.m. in an interview with Staff U, Registered Nurse, RN. Staff U stated that she went to administer medications (meds) to one of the residents, but the resident was asleep, and she put the meds on top of the cart with the intention to return and medicate the resident. She stated that she does not normally leave medications on the medication cart unattended, and she understood that she should have locked the medications in the cart. Staff U stated that she is responsible for the unlocked treatment cart on unit 400. She confirmed that the treatment carts should have been locked and cream siting on top of the cart should have been stored inside.
On [DATE] at 10:26 a.m. In an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) she stated that she expected treatment carts to be locked when staff are not directly in view of the carts. She stated that treatment creams and medications should have been stored in the locked carts and not on top of treatment cart or the medication carts.
2. On [DATE] at 9:10 a.m., during an observation of the 400 hallway medication cart with Staff E, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). In the first drawer to the right revealed an inhaler Wixela Inhub 500/50, with a handwritten date on the package, dated [DATE]. There was no legible open date (photographic evidence obtained). A second Inhaler was observed unlabeled (without name of a resident, dispense date, and an open date).
In an interview with Staff E, she stated that she was not sure if [DATE] was the open date of the Wixela Inhub 500/50 inhaler. She stated she was not sure how long after opening the inhaler, it should be discarded. She stated that she would call the pharmacy and confirm how many days after opening the inhaler it should be discarded. Staff E confirmed that the inhalers should have been labeled and dated. She stated that the unlabeled inhaler should have been removed from the cart.
On [DATE] 09:05 a.m. during a follow up interview with Staff E, she stated that she confirmed with the pharmacy that the Wixela Inhub inhaler should be discarded 30 days from the open date.
3. On [DATE] at 11:25 a.m. on Unit 200 with Staff F an unlabeled insulin pen was observed in the first drawer of the medication cart. Further observation revealed a bottle of eye drops, stored with an insulin multi-dose vial, in the insulin box. In an Interview with the Staff F she stated that she saw the unlabeled insulin pen and she was going to remove the pen. She stated she was not aware of the eye drops being stored with the multidose insulin in the insulin box. On [DATE] 11:39 p.m. the DON was present and observed the unlabeled insulin pen, and the storage of the eye drops with the insulin multi-dose vial. She stated that the storage she observed was not appropriate, and she expected insulin pens to be labeled with the resident's name and dated upon opening. She confirmed that the eye drops, and insulin was inappropriately stored.
On [DATE] at 03:25 p.m. a telephone Interview was conducted with the pharmacy consultant. The pharmacy consultant was informed of observations made with staff not locking the treatment carts and leaving medications unattended on top of the medication cart. The pharmacy consultant stated that, Medication should not be left on the medication cart if the nurses are not in view of the cart; and treatment carts must be locked if not being used by a nurse. The pharmacy consultant stated that all medications should be labeled and stored appropriately, that insulin and insulin pens should be labeled and dated when opened. He stated that if an insulin pen cannot be identified it should have been removed from the medication cart.
A review of the facility policy and procedure titled LTC (Long Term Care) Facility's Pharmacy Services and Procedure [NAME]. 5.3 Storage and Expiration Dating of Medications, Biologicals, Syringes and Needles, with the most recent revision date of [DATE], reflected the following: Number 3.3: Facility should ensure that all medications and biologicals, including treatment items, are securely stored in a locked cabinet/cart or locked medication room that is inaccessible by residents and visitors.
Number 4: Facility should ensure that medications and biologicals that (1) have an expired date on the label: (2) have been retained longer than recommended by the manufacturer or supplier guidelines; or (3) have been contaminated or deteriorated, are stored separate from other medications until destroyed or returned to the pharmacy or supplier.
4. An observation was conducted on [DATE] at 10:05 AM during a tour of the 100 unit of the facility with the facility's Director of Nursing (DON). A treatment cart was observed to be unlocked in the unit hallway with no nursing staff members in the area of the treatment cart. The DON addressed that the treatment cart was left unlocked in the unit hallway and stated that the treatment cart should have been locked if there was not a nurse using the cart. The DON also stated that she would expect for the treatment cart to be locked at all times when it was not in use.
An observation was conducted on [DATE] at 06:58 AM on the facility's 200 unit of an unlocked medication cart in front of the unit nurse's station. Staff F, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Staff V, Registered Nurse (RN), and Staff W, LPN were observed sitting at the nurse's station and performing shift change report. An interview was conducted following the observation with Staff W, LPN. Staff W, LPN addressed that the medication cart was unlocked and stated that she had just counted the narcotics in the cart to prepare for shift change and left the cart unlocked. Staff W, LPN also stated that the medication cart should remain locked at all times.
An observation was conducted on [DATE] at 07:10 AM on the facility's 300 unit of an unlocked medication cart in front of the unit nurse's station. Staff X, LPN was interviewed following the observation. Staff X, LPN addressed that the medication cart was left unlocked and stated that she was going to clean the medication cart as part of shift change procedures. Staff X, LPN was observed walking away from the medication cart while it was still unlocked and returned to the cart with sanitizing wipes to clean the medication cart. An interview was conducted following the observation with Staff X, LPN. Staff X, LPN stated that she would not normally walk away from the medication cart while it was unlocked and stated that it was the first time she had ever left the medication cart unlocked.
A review of the facility policy titled Medication and Treatment Administration Guidelines, last revised in March of 2018, revealed the following under the section titled Medication Storage and Security:
- Medications and biologicals are securely stored in a locked cabinet, cart, or medication room, accessible to only licensed nursing staff and pharmacist or authorized pharmacy staff, and maintained under a lock system when not actively utilized and attended to by nursing staff for medication administration, receipting, or disposal.
- Only licensed nursing staff have key access to medication storage areas.
- Medications are stored in accordance with standards of practice.
Photographic evidence obtained.
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 observations, record reviews, and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure the kitchen was maintained in a sanitary manner related to inappropriate storage of PPE (personal protective ...
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Based on observations, record reviews, and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure the kitchen was maintained in a sanitary manner related to inappropriate storage of PPE (personal protective equipment), ppm (parts per million) for the sanitizer in the three-compartment sink was reading too low, failed to maintain ceiling vents, improper storage of paper goods, improper storage of foods in the walk-in cooler and walk in freezer, and failed to maintain the ice machines in the Nutrition Rooms.
Findings included:
On 08/22/21 at 9:30 a.m., entered the kitchen to conduct the initial tour. A male unidentified staff member reported the manager did not work on weekends and that Staff A, Cook, was in charge.
During the tour, a face shield was observed sitting on the top of a stack of four serving trays (photographic evidence obtained). The sanitizer in the three-compartment sink was tested by Staff A, Cook, and the ppm reading was 170. Staff A stated that the ppm should be between 272-700 ppm. Staff A stated that the chemical company was supposed to come out but had not come yet. She stated that this concern had been pointed out to them by another outside agency. Black buildup was observed on the ceiling vent in the dry storage room above a box of alfredo mix, individual containers of cornflakes, and plastic bins of spoons, forks, and knives. Used oxygen concentrators were observed sitting next to paper goods stored on the floor in the hallway outside of the kitchen. Condensation was observed dripping from the ceiling vents above the prep table and the serving line (photographic evidence obtained).
On 08/22/21 at 10:10 a.m., the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) arrived and verified the following observations in the walk-in cooler:
a plastic bag of opened carrots and cabbage without a date;
a bag of opened shredded cheese without a date;
a container of soup without a date;
an expired container of potato salad with a use by date of 08/11/21;
and
an expired container of creamy cole slaw with a use by date of 08/12/21.
An observation of the walk-in freezer revealed a bag of biscuits and egg patties without a date, and ham wrapped in aluminum foil with no date (photographic evidence obtained).
The CDM confirmed all the findings.
On 08/22/21 at 3:15 p.m., the ice machine in the Nutrition Room shared by the 300s and 400s unit was observed with an excessive amount of calcium buildup (photographic evidence obtained).
On 08/24/21 at 11:32 a.m., the CDM reported that PPE, such as the faceshield, should be stored in the locker, or they should keep it on. She reported that the sanitizer was new, and the ppm should be at 272. The CDM reported that she was not sure of the name of the sanitizer they use, because it is a new one. She reported that the chemical company was called, and the concern was reported. The CDM reported that she pointed the ceiling vents out to maintenance and stated the vents were concerning. She stated that paper goods should be 6 inches off the floor. The CDM stated that she was not sure if maintenance or housekeeping was responsible for cleaning the ice machine.
On 08/22/21 at 11:42 a.m., the ice machine in the Nutrition Room shared by the 100s and 200s unit was observed with an excessive amount of calcium buildup (photographic evidence obtained). This was confirmed by the CDM.
On 08/25/21 at 1:07 p.m., the Director of Maintenance stated that they are trying to get a replacement piece for the ice machine. He stated that the kitchen staff should put a work order in if there are concerns in the kitchen. He reported that he was aware of the vents in the kitchen and had been going back and forth with contractors about the pricing to repair the vents. The contractors were giving him the run around. The Director of Maintenance stated that he decided to repair the vents himself. He stated that he had to order the supplies and would order them on Tuesday.
The document provided by the facility Three Compartment Sink- Sink & Surface Cleaner Sanitizer Concentration undated revealed the following:
Testing solution should be between 272-700 pp, DDBSA (Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid).
The policy Safe Food Handling Dietary Procedures Manual dated 11/20 revealed the following:
use by date is the last date recommended for the use of the product while at peak quality. This has been determined by the manufacturer.
2. While the 2017 Food Code states that food held for more than 24 hours are marked, it is recommended that all items placed in refrigeration units be labeled with the name of the item, the date the item is placed in the refrigerator and/or the date it is to be used.
6. Refrigerators and storage areas are routinely checked for temperatures, labeling, and dating of food items with food being discarded when beyond the use-by date.
A policy for the maintenance of the ceiling vents and ice machines was requested and not provided.