Nora Springs Care Center

907 W Congress, Nora Springs, IA 50458 (641) 749-5331
For profit - Limited Liability company 50 Beds CASCADE CAPITAL GROUP Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
90/100
#55 of 392 in IA
Last Inspection: May 2025

Inspected within the last 6 months. Data reflects current conditions.

Overview

Nora Springs Care Center has received an impressive Trust Grade of A, indicating it is highly recommended and performs excellently compared to other nursing homes. It ranks #55 out of 392 facilities in Iowa, placing it in the top half, and #2 out of 3 in Floyd County, meaning only one local option is better. The facility is showing improvement, having reduced issues from one in 2024 to none in 2025. Staffing is a mixed bag; while the turnover rate of 39% is better than the Iowa average of 44%, the facility has less RN coverage than 98% of state facilities, which is concerning as RNs typically provide critical oversight for patient care. Notably, the facility has no fines, which is a positive sign, but there have been concerning incidents, such as staff failing to properly label food items to prevent contamination and a registered nurse using inappropriate language with a resident, indicating a need for better training and adherence to care standards.

Trust Score
A
90/100
In Iowa
#55/392
Top 14%
Safety Record
Low Risk
No red flags
Inspections
Getting Better
1 → 0 violations
Staff Stability
○ Average
39% turnover. Near Iowa's 48% average. Typical for the industry.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Iowa facilities.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 19 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for Iowa. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
✓ Good
Only 5 deficiencies on record. Cleaner than most facilities. Minor issues only.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★☆☆
3.0
Staff Levels
★★★☆☆
3.0
Care Quality
★★★★★
5.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2024: 1 issues
2025: 0 issues

The Good

  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover below average (39%)

    9 points below Iowa average of 48%

Facility shows strength in fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 39%

Near Iowa avg (46%)

Typical for the industry

Chain: CASCADE CAPITAL GROUP

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 5 deficiencies on record

Jul 2024 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation and staff interview, the facility failed to label and date food items when opened to reduce the risk of contamination and food-borne illness. The facility reported a census of 44 ...

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Based on observation and staff interview, the facility failed to label and date food items when opened to reduce the risk of contamination and food-borne illness. The facility reported a census of 44 residents. Findings include: On 6/30/24 at 10:39 AM during the initial tour of the facility kitchen with Staff A, Dietary Aide, revealed the following: a. Two large bowls of broccoli salad not labeled or dated b. Opened bag of shredded lettuce not dated when opened c. Two opened bags of spaghetti noodles not dated when opened d. Opened bag of penne pasta not dated when opened e. Opened bag of egg noodles not dated when opened f. Opened bag of pudding pie filling not dated when opened g. Opened bag of plain gelatin not dated when opened In an interview on 7/2/24 at 6:01 PM, the Dietary Supervisor stated they expected the staff to mark and date food items when opened. The facility reported they didn't have a policy for labeling and dating food, as they follow the most recent food code, rules, and regulations.
May 2023 4 deficiencies
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Resident Rights (Tag F0550)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interviews, family interview, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to provide care for 1 of 14 resi...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interviews, family interview, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to provide care for 1 of 14 residents reviewed in a manner to promote dignity and respect (Resident #21). The facility reported a census of 45 residents. Findings include: Review of Resident #21's Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] identified a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 10, indicating moderately impaired cognition. The MDS included diagnoses of Parkinson's, depression, and adjustment disorder with anxiety. During an interview on 5/18/23 at 9:08 a.m., Resident #21's daughter reported she witnessed Staff D, Registered Nurse (RN) during medication administration state to Resident #21 you need to stop acting like a bitch. On 5/18/23 at 10:31 a.m., the Administrator reported that she expected staff to interact with residents in a dignified manner and by using appropriate language. On 5/18/23 at 10:49 a.m., Staff D, RN reported she was sorry for her actions. Staff D, RN stated she was out of line. Staff D, RN stated she had tried to give Resident #21 her pills and she clamped her mouth shut. Staff D, RN stated she asked Resident #21 twice to open her mouth and take her pills. Staff D, RN stated Resident #21 told her to stop being a bitch. Staff D, RN stated she was taken back by it and without thinking, she stated you are the one being a bitch. Staff D, RN stated she should not have said it, it was unprofessional, and she was so sorry. An undated facility policy titled Enhancing and Maintaining Quality of Life documented the facility will care for its resident in a manner and in an environment that promotes maintenance or enhancement of each resident's quality of life. The policy directed staff to treat each resident with dignity and respect in full recognition of his or her individuality as they carry out activities that assist the resident to maintain or enhance his/her self-esteem and self-worth.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0657 (Tag F0657)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. Resident #2's Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] identified a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 1...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. Resident #2's Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] identified a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15, indicating intact cognition. The MDS identified Resident #2 was independent with bed mobility, walking, and transfers using a walker . The MDS included diagnoses of congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease. The MDS identified Resident #2 received diuretic medications for 7 days during the MDS 7 day look back period. A hospital Discharge summary dated [DATE] revealed Resident #2 was hospitalized from [DATE] to 4/5/23 for acute on chronic combined systolic and diastolic heart failure (heart can not pump or fill adequately). A Physician order dated 4/5/2023 directed staff to administer Torsemide (diuretic) 20 mg (milligrams) two tablets by mouth twice a day for acute on chronic combined systolic and diastolic heart failure. A Physician order dated 4/5/23 directed staff to administer Spironolactone (diuretic) 25 mg one tablet by mouth one time a day for acute on chronic combined systolic and diastolic heart failure. A Physician order dated 4/5/23 directed staff to obtain a daily weight and update the Physician if weight gain of 2-3 pounds overnight or 4-5 pounds in 5 days. The current Care Plan with a target date of 7/13/2023 lacked documentation of the use of diuretic medications, potential side effects and what to monitor for while taking the medications. The care plan did not address obtaining a daily weight and when to report to the Physician. The care plan did not address Resident #2's risk for congestive heart failure and signs and symptoms to monitor for. On 5/17/23 at 9:07 a.m. the Administrator reported the facility does not have a care plan policy. The Administrator reported the facility references the RAI (Resident Assessment Instrument) Manual regarding care plan revisions. On 5/17/23 at 8:05 a.m., Staff C, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)/MDS Coordinator acknowledged and verified diuretic medications were not addressed on the care plan. On 5/17/23 at 12:45 p.m., Staff C, LPN/MDS Coordinator reported she would expect diuretic medications and weight monitoring to be addressed in the nutrition care plan. Staff C, LPN/MDS Coordinator stated she had not addressed the risk for fluid imbalances on a care plan before. Staff C, LPN/MDS Coordinator stated weight parameters and reporting are addressed through the physician orders and she does not address the parameters on the care plan as they can fluctuate. Based on clinical record review, staff interview, and policy review, the facility failed to develop care plans related to diuretic medication and possible adverse effects for 2 out of 14 residents reviewed for comprehensive care plans (Resident #2 and #16). The facility reported a census of 45 residents. Findings include: 1. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] showed Resident #16 received diuretic medication the last 7 out of 7 days. The Physician's Order dated 3/22/23 showed Resident #16 was ordered to receive diuretic medication, Lasix 40 Milligram (MG) daily, for heart failure. The Medication Administration for March 2023 showed Resident #16 received Lasix 40 mg daily for heart failure. The Care Plan dated 4/20/22 for Resident #16 lacked documentation pertaining to the usage of a diuretic medication and failed to inform the staff of the possible adverse effects the diuretic could cause. The Care Plan also failed to address the heart failure diagnosis related to the Lasix order.
CONCERN (D)

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

Medication Errors (Tag F0758)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interviews, clinical record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide an appropriate cli...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interviews, clinical record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide an appropriate clinical rationale for declining a gradual dose reduction (GDR) for 1 out of 5 residents reviewed for unnecessary medications (Resident #29). The facility reported a census of 45. Findings include: Resident #29's Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] identified a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 07, indicating moderately impaired cognition. The MDS identified Resident #2 was independent with bed mobility, walking, transfers and toilet use. The MDS included diagnoses of dementia, anxiety, depression, and mild intellectual disabilities. The MDS identified Resident #2 received antipsychotic medication, antianxiety medication, and antidepressant medication for 7 of 7 days during the MDS look back period. A Physician order dated 12/13/2021 directed staff to administer Abilify (antipsychotic) 10 mg (milligrams) one tablet by mouth once a day for major depressive disorder. A Physician order dated 1/26/2022 directed staff to administer Buspirone HCL (antianxiety) 15 mg one tablet by mouth two times a day for anxiety disorder. A Physician order dated 9/12/2022 directed staff to administer Fluoxetine HCL (antidepressant) 10 mg two capsules by mouth once a day for major depressive disorder and anxiety disorder. A facility form titled Pharmacy Review-GDR Request Psychotropic Medications dated 11/30/22 documented the Psychiatrist response for a GDR request for Resident #29's Abilify medication was contraindicated due to a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. The facility GDR form lacked a clinical rationale. A facility form titled Pharmacy Review-GDR Request Psychotropic Medications dated 11/30/22 documented the Psychiatrist response for a GDR request for Resident #29's Buspirone medication was contraindicated due to a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. The facility GDR form lacked a clinical rationale. A facility form titled Pharmacy Review-GDR Request Psychotropic Medications dated 11/30/22 documented the Psychiatrist response for a GDR request for Resident #29's Fluoxetine medication was contraindicated due to a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. The facility GDR form lacked a clinical rationale. Review of Resident #29's clinical record lacked supporting documentation for the diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia that was listed on the facility GDR forms dated 11/30/22. On 5/16/23 at 10:00 a.m. the Director of Nursing (DON) reported she could not locate supporting documentation in Resident #29 's medical records for the paranoid schizophrenia diagnosis. The DON reported the facility had reached out to the Psychiatrist for further information. The DON stated the paranoid schizophrenia diagnosis was added to Resident 29's medical record. On 5/16/23 at 4:00 p.m. the DON reported the Psychiatrist reviewed his progress notes before and after the GDR request on 11/30/22 and believed the diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia was an error. Review of a Psychiatry letter dated 5/16/23 clarified Resident #29 does not have a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. A facility policy titled Antipsychotic Drug Use revised 7/07 documented residents who use antipsychotic drugs will receive gradual dose reductions and behavioral interventions, unless clinically contraindicated, in an effort to discontinue these medications. The policy documented if a request for a reduction is denied, the physician must provide a risk benefit analysis, which should include a clinical rationale for why any reduction would be likely to impair the resident's function or increase distressed behavior.
CONCERN (D)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, staff interview, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure staff used proper food handling procedures to prevent possible contamination of food. The facility repo...

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Based on observation, staff interview, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure staff used proper food handling procedures to prevent possible contamination of food. The facility reported a census of 45 residents. Findings include: On 5/16/23 at 11:25 AM, Staff A, cook, was observed to be wearing food service gloves to serve the lunch meal, touching plates, ladle/tong handles, and paper menus filled out by residents. One of the residents required meat to be pulled off of the chicken leg and cut up. Staff A, while wearing the gloves she had been serving with, used the tongs to place two chicken legs on a plate, hold them with her left hand and pull meat off the bone with a fork, using her right hand. Staff A then threw the bones in the garbage, came back to the steam table, placed her left hand on the chicken pieces to hold them in place while she used a knife to cut the meat into smaller pieces. She then removed the gloves, threw them in the garbage, washed her hands and returned to serving. Review of document titled General Food Preparation and Handling, dated 9/1/09 revealed that food would be prepared and served with clean utensils or other suitable implements so as to avoid manual contact of prepared or ready to eat foods. In an interview on 5/17/22 at 10:00 AM with Staff B, Dietary Manager, it was revealed that her expectation is that staff wear food service gloves only when actually handling food, and not when serving with ladles and tongs due to this reason.
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

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

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Grade A (90/100). Above average facility, better than most options in Iowa.
  • • No major safety red flags. No abuse findings, life-threatening violations, or SFF status.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Iowa facilities.
  • • Only 5 deficiencies on record. Cleaner than most facilities. Minor issues only.
Concerns
  • • No significant concerns identified. This facility shows no red flags across CMS ratings, staff turnover, or federal penalties.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Nora Springs Care Center's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns Nora Springs Care Center an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, which is considered much above average nationally. Within Iowa, this rating places the facility higher than 99% of the state's 100 nursing homes. This rating reflects solid performance across the metrics CMS uses to evaluate nursing home quality.

How is Nora Springs Care Center Staffed?

CMS rates Nora Springs Care Center's staffing level at 3 out of 5 stars, which is average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 39%, compared to the Iowa average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Nora Springs Care Center?

State health inspectors documented 5 deficiencies at Nora Springs Care Center during 2023 to 2024. These included: 5 with potential for harm.

Who Owns and Operates Nora Springs Care Center?

Nora Springs Care Center is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by CASCADE CAPITAL GROUP, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 50 certified beds and approximately 43 residents (about 86% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in Nora Springs, Iowa.

How Does Nora Springs Care Center Compare to Other Iowa Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Iowa, Nora Springs Care Center's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 3.1, staff turnover (39%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (5 stars) is much above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Nora Springs Care Center?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" "Can I speak with family members of current residents about their experience?"

Is Nora Springs Care Center Safe?

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

Do Nurses at Nora Springs Care Center Stick Around?

Nora Springs Care Center has a staff turnover rate of 39%, which is about average for Iowa nursing homes (state average: 46%). Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Nora Springs Care Center Ever Fined?

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

Is Nora Springs Care Center on Any Federal Watch List?

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