SERIOUS
(G)
Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures
Deficiency F0657
(Tag F0657)
A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, record review, and interview it was determined the facility failed to revise a comprehensive care plan for one (1) resident, Resident #40, out of the forty-six (46) sampled resid...
Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, record review, and interview it was determined the facility failed to revise a comprehensive care plan for one (1) resident, Resident #40, out of the forty-six (46) sampled residents. Resident #40 had a significant weight loss and the comprehensive care plan was not updated to reflect the weight loss.
The findings include:
Record review of the facility policy titled, Comprehensive Care Plans, revised 07/19/18, revealed a person-centered comprehensive care plan would include objectives and timetables to meet the resident nursing, mental, medical and psychological needs. The policy further revealed each comprehensive care plan would incorporate risk factors associated with identified problems and aid in preventing or declines in the residents status.
Record review of the clinical record for Resident #40 revealed the facility admitted the resident on 12/1/15 with diagnoses of Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus, Alzheimer's, Anxiety, and Multiple Sclerosis.
Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 07/12/19, revealed Resident #40 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) score of eleven (11), which indicated the resident was interviewable. Review of the nutrition assessment revealed Resident #40 was sixty-one (61) inches tall and weighed One hundred and thirty-nine (139) pounds. Resident #40 only needed supervision and set up help with eating.
Record review of the weight documentation revealed Resident #40 had a sixteen (16) pound weight loss from 06/16/19 to 07/23/19. Review further revealed, on 08/06/19, Resident #40 weighed 125.1 pounds and on 08/31/19 the resident weighed 123 pounds, which was a two pound weight loss.
Record review of Resident #40's comprehensive care plan, dated 06/18/19 and a target date of 10/12/19, revealed a problem was listed for nutritional status being at risk as evidenced by less than seventy-five percent (75%) of food was eaten at meals. Review of the interventions revealed weights were to be done as ordered, diet as ordered, and intakes were to be monitored. Record review of the comprehensive care plan revealed there was no mention of the weight loss and no interventions were added to prevent further weight loss.
Interview with the MDS staff, on 08/31/19 at 3:00 PM, revealed there was nothing in Resident #40's comprehensive care plan that addressed the resident's weight loss and it should have been addressed. She revealed she was not aware of any significant weight loss for Resident #40. However, after she reviewed the weights for 06/16/19, which was 139 pounds, with the weight for 07/23/19, which was 123 pounds, she stated that was greater than a 5% weight loss in one month and that was considered significant. The MDS staff further revealed a care plan should have been initiated and the physician, dietician, and the Interdisciplinary team (IDT) should have been notified. The MDS staff revealed if interventions were on the care plan she would expect them to be followed
Interview with Dietary Manager on 08/31/19 at 10:30 AM, revealed new interventions could have been put into place on the comprehensive care plan if the significant weight loss had been identified. She revealed some of those interventions were fortified foods, magic cup, house supplements, and whole milk.
Interview with Signature Care Nurse Consultant on 08/31/19 at 5:09 PM revealed she was not aware of the weight loss for Resident #40 until today and she did not know why it was not brought to the IDT team to review. She further revealed, on 08/31/19 at 7:03 PM, the care plan should be reviewed quarterly, any change, and on admission. The Signature Care Nurse Consultant further revealed if there was an error identified then the care plan should be revised. She revealed if pertinent information on a resident was missed the care of the resident could be affected.
SERIOUS
(G)
Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures
Deficiency F0692
(Tag F0692)
A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview, record and policy review, it was determined the facility failed to identify and address residents with a significant weight loss, for one (1) out of the forty-six (46)...
Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, interview, record and policy review, it was determined the facility failed to identify and address residents with a significant weight loss, for one (1) out of the forty-six (46) sampled residents. Resident #40 had a 14.90% weight loss from 01/28/2019 to 08/06/2019.
The findings include:
Record review of the undated facility policy titled, Weight Monitoring Program, revealed when weights were obtained the results would be given to the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON)/Designee on that unit. The Designee would review all the weights and compare them to the previous months' weight and give a list of reweights to the person getting weights for any resident with a five (5) pound gain or loss. The Designee would record all weights in the weight book in their unit each month. The Dietary Manager would calculate each resident's weight and determine who had a significant weight loss or gain.
The policy further revealed a significant weight loss/gain would be 5% in one month, 7.5% in three(3) months, and 10% in six (6) months. The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON)/Nurse or Designee would notify the physician, dietician, and responsible party of any weight change. The ADON, Nurse or Designee would note any new orders or recommendations from the physician and dietician and update the clinical records accordingly. The policy further revealed the ADON/RD/Dietary Manager (DM) would update the care plan accordingly. The resident would be placed on weekly weights for four weeks or until the Registered Dietician (RD) determined the weights were stable. Residents that have significant weight loss would be reviewed during the at risk meetings.
Observation, on 08/27/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #40 was sleeping with lunch tray at bedside. Observation at 12:30 PM revealed the tray was still on the overbed table and the resident was still asleep.
Interview on, 08/27/19 at 03:51 PM, with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2 revealed Resident #40 did not eat lunch or breakfast and he/she was diabetic. LPN #2 revealed staff have to wake the resident up to get him/her to eat and then she/he can feed herself/himself.
Interview with Resident #40, on 08/28/19 at 1:21 PM, revealed the food was pretty good and he/she said he/she would eat it but sometimes he/she was sleepy and did not want to eat much. Resident #40 stated he/she had lost weight, but had not missed it and did not know the reason for the weight loss.
Record review of the clinical record for Resident #40 revealed the facility admitted the resident on 12/01/15 with diagnoses of Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus, Alzheimer's, Anxiety, and Multiple Sclerosis.
Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 07/12/19 revealed Resident #40 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) of eleven (11) which indicated the resident was interviewable. Review of the nutrition assessment revealed Resident #40 was 61 inches tall and weighed 139 pounds. Resident #40 only needed supervision and set up help with eating.
Record review of the annual MDS with an ARD of 05/07/19 revealed Resident #40 had a BIMS of ten (10) which indicated the resident was interviewable. The Resident #40 needed supervision and set up help for eating.
Record review of the weight documentation revealed Resident #40 on 08/06/19 weighed 125.1 pounds, on 07/30/19 the weight was 125.1 pounds, on 07/23/19 the weight was 123 pounds, on 06/16/19 the weight was 139 pounds, on 03/18/19 the weight was 137 pounds, on 03/11/19 the weight was 140.5 pounds, on 03/04/19 the weight was 141.5 pounds, on 02/18/19 the weight was 140.5 pounds, on 02/11/19 the weight was 143.5 pounds, and on 01/28/19 the weight was 147 pounds. Review revealed there was a sixteen (16) pound weight loss from 06/16/19 to 07/23/19. Review further revealed on 08/06/19 Resident #40 weighed 125.1 pounds and on 08/31/19 the resident weighed 123 pounds, which was a two pound weight loss.
Record review of the progress notes for Resident #40, from 06/07/19 to 08/30/19, revealed there was no documentation of the significant weight loss for the resident. Dietary notes written by the Dietary Manager (DM) revealed on 06/07/19, the Interdisciplinary Team ( IDT) team reviewed the resident and Resident #40 was eating meals in the room and the intakes were fair. Record review of the dietary notes on 07/02/19, revealed the IDT team discontinued the resident from being at risk.
Interview with the DM, on 08/31/19 at 10:30 AM, revealed she did not know when the IDT team picked Resident #40 up for review but the resident was discharged from nutritionally at risk list in July 2019. The DM stated Resident #40 weighed 123 pounds today and had a 14 pound weight loss from 06/16/19. The DM took responsibility for the oversight and stated the dietician should have been notified of the weight loss and she had not notified her. The DM further stated she did not know why she did not realize the weight loss had occurred. The DM revealed when the Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) did the weights they were not aware of the previous weight so they would not know there was a weight loss. DM reviewed the weight variance report, which usually flagged a weight loss, however there was no weight variances documented for July 2019 or August 2019. Review revealed the last documentation on the weight variance report was 06/16/19 and that indicated Resident #40 weighed 139 pounds. The DM stated she could not understand why the report did not include the July and August weights. The DM revealed the dietician reviewed the variance reports for weight loss. Interview further revealed there were no new interventions put in place when the weight loss occurred and there should have been. Interventions such as fortified foods, magic cup, house supplements and whole milk should have been initiated.
Interview on, 08/31/19 at 12:15 PM, with the Unit Manager, after she reviewed Resident #40's physician orders, the physician progress notes, and nursing notes, revealed the physician and the family had not been notified of the weight loss and they should have been. The Unit Manager further revealed the dietician had not been notified either. She revealed if the physician and dietician had been notified they could have made changes to help her gain weight. She revealed she did not know why they had not been notified of the significant weight loss and she was not aware of the weight loss either. The Unit Manager further revealed she was part of the IDT team and did not recall Resident #40 being addressed for weight loss. The Unit Manager stated when the weights were done they get turned in to the Dietary Manager and she would compile the list of reweights and if truly a weight loss then the dietician followed the resident until the weights were stable.
Record review of the west weight list given to the Dietary Manager for the month of July 2019 and August 2019 revealed Resident #40 weighed 125 pounds and 123 pounds and no reweight was done.
Record review of the comprehensive care plan, dated 06/18/19 and a target date of 10/12/19 , for Resident #40, revealed a problem was listed for nutritional status being at risk as evidenced by less than 75% of food was eaten at meals. Review of the interventions revealed weights were to be done as ordered, diet as ordered, and intakes were to be monitored. Record review of the comprehensive care plan revealed there was no mention of the weight loss and no interventions were added to prevent further weight loss.
Interview with the MDS staff, on 08/31/19 at 3:00 PM, revealed there was nothing in Resident #40's comprehensive care plan that addressed the resident's weight loss and it should have been addressed. She revealed she was not aware of any significant weight loss for Resident #40. However, after she reviewed the weights for 06/16/19, which was 139 pounds, with the weight for 07/23/19, which was 123 pounds, she stated that was greater than a 5% weight loss in one month and that was considered significant. The MDS staff further revealed a care plan should have been initiated and the physician, dietician, and the Interdisciplinary team (IDT) should have been notified.
Interview with Signature Care Nurse Consultant on 08/31/19 at 5:09 PM revealed she was not aware of the weight loss for Resident #40 until today and she did not know why it was not brought to the IDT team to review. She revealed to ensure accuracy of weights they have a staff member assigned routinely to perform the weights and would see how that would improve the accuracy of the weights.
Interview, on 08/31/19 at 7:01 PM, with the Administrator revealed weights were to be done consistently.
SERIOUS
(G)
Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures
Deficiency F0710
(Tag F0710)
A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, and interview it was determined the facility failed to notify the physician of a change in ...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, and interview it was determined the facility failed to notify the physician of a change in condition for two (2) of the forty-six (46) sampled residents. Resident #78 had speech therapy recommendations that were not conveyed to the physician. Resident #40 had a significant weight loss and the physician was not notified.
The findings include:
Record review of the facility policy titled Change of Condition, revised 07/10/18, revealed the facility would evaluate and document changes in resident's status to relay evaluation information to the physician. The physician would be notified if there was a need to alter treatment. The policy stated the physician notification should be documented in the medical record or the communication form would serve as the nursing documentation. Further review of the policy revealed the care plan and Minimum Data Set (MDS) should be updated.
Record review of the undated facility policy titled Weight Monitoring Program revealed when weights were obtained the results would be given to the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON)/Designee on that unit. The Designee would review all the weights and compare them to the previous months' weight and give a list of reweights to the person getting weights for any resident with a five (5) pound gain or loss. The Designee would record all weights in the weight book in their unit each month. The Dietary Manager would calculate each resident's weight and determine who had a significant weight loss or gain. Further review of the policy revealed a significant weight loss/gain would be 5% in one month, 7.5% in three(3) months, and 10% in six (6) months. The ADON/Nurse or Designee would notify the physician, dietician, and responsible party of any weight change. The ADON, Nurse or Designee would note any new orders or recommendations from the physician and dietician and update the clinical records accordingly.
1. Observation, on 08/27/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #40 was sleeping and no one assisted /himher. Observation at 12:30 PM revealed the tray was still on the overbed table and the resident was still asleep.
Interview on, 08/27/19 at 03:51 PM, with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2 revealed Resident #40 did not eat lunch or breakfast and he/she was diabetic. LPN #2 revealed staff have to wake the resident up to get him/her to eat and then she/he can feed herself/himself.
Interview with Resident #40, on 08/28/19 at 1:21 PM, revealed the food was pretty good and he/she said he/she would eat it but sometimes he/she was sleepy and did not want to eat much. Resident #40 stated the facility stated he/she had lost weight, but he/she had not missed it. The resident did not know cause of his/her weight loss.
Record review of the clinical record for Resident #40 revealed the facility admitted the resident on 12/01/15 with diagnoses of Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus, Alzheimer's, Anxiety, and Multiple Sclerosis.
Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 07/12/19, revealed Resident #40 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) of eleven (11), which indicated the resident did not have a cognitive deficit and was interviewable. Review of the nutrition assessment revealed Resident #40 was 61 inches tall and weighed 139 pounds. Resident #40 only needed supervision and set up help with eating.
Record review of the weight documentation revealed Resident #40, on 08/06/19 weighed 125.1 pounds, on 07/30/19 the weight was 125.1 pounds, on 07/23/19 the weight was 123 pounds, on 06/16/19 the weight was 139 pounds, on 03/18/19 the weight was 137 pounds, on 03/11/19 the weight was 140.5 pounds, on 03/4/19 the weight was 141.5 pounds, on 02/18/19 the weight was 140.5 pounds, on 02/11/19 the weight was 143.5 pounds, and on 01/28/19 the weight was 147 pounds. Review revealed there was a sixteen (16) pound weight loss from 06/16/19 to 07/23/19. Review further revealed on 08/06/19 Resident #40 weighed 125.1 pounds and on 08/31/19 the resident weighed 123 pounds, which was a two pound weight loss.
Interview with the Dietary Manager (DM), on 08/31/19 at 10:30 AM, revealed Resident #40 weighed 123 pounds today and had a 14 pound weight loss from 06/16/19. The DM took responsibility for the oversight and stated the dietician should have been notified of the weight loss and she had not notified her.
Interview on, 08/31/19 at 12:15 PM, with the Unit Manager, after she reviewed Resident #40's physician orders, the physician progress notes, and nursing notes, revealed the physician and the family had not been notified of the weight loss and they should have been. The Unit Manager revealed the facilities policy stated the physician and the family should have been notified of the change. The Unit Manager further revealed the dietician had not been notified either. She revealed if the physician and dietician had been notified they could have made changes to help her gain weight. She revealed she did not know why they had not been notified of the significant weight loss and she was not aware of the weight loss either. The Unit Manager further revealed she was part of the IDT team and did not recall Resident #40 being addressed for weight loss. The Unit Manager stated when the weights were done they get turned in to the Dietary Manager and she would compile the list of reweights and if truly a weight loss then the dietician followed the resident until the weights were stable.
Interview with the MDS staff, on 08/31/19 at 3:00 PM, revealed there was nothing in Resident #40's comprehensive care plan that addressed the resident's weight loss and it should have been addressed. She revealed she was not aware of any significant weight loss for Resident #40. However, after she reviewed the weights for 06/16/19, which was 139 pounds, with the weight for 07/23/19, which was 123 pounds, she stated that was greater than a 5% weight loss in one month and that was considered significant. The MDS staff further revealed a care plan should have been initiated and the physician, dietician, and the Interdisciplinary team (IDT) should have been notified.
Interview with Signature Care Nurse Consultant on 08/31/19 at 4:26 PM revealed she was not aware of the weight loss for Resident #40 until today and she did not know why it was not brought to the Interdisciplinary team to review. She further revealed the physician should have been notified of the significant weight loss and in order for staff to follow the physicians direction for care.
2. Observation during the lunch meal, on 08/27/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #78 was eating lunch in his/her room and was unassisted by staff. Observation of the meal tray showed he/she had pureed food.
Observation, on 08/31/19 at 12:05 PM, during the lunch meal revealed Resident #78 had her/his tray served to her/him in the Residents' room and had tried to feed herself/himself. Observation further revealed there was no staff in the room for supervision.
Review of the clinical record revealed Resident #78 was admitted on [DATE] and had diagnoses of Alzheimer's disease and Dysphagia, Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 08/15/19 revealed Resident #78 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) of four, which indicated the resident had impaired cognition. Review of the functional status showed Resident #78 needed extensive assistance of one for eating. Record review of the comprehensive care plan showed a problem for alteration in nutrition and one of the interventions was to assist as needed for meals and set up. Review of the care plan revealed there was no indication that the resident had to have one on one supervision with meals.
Record review of the Speech Therapy (ST) Discharge summary, dated [DATE], revealed Resident #78 was to continue on the least restrictive diet (thin liquids, pureed solids) with one on one assist. The ST discharge summary stated Resident #78 would alternate liquids and solids and use bolus size modifications to facilitate safety and efficiency. It was also recommended for Resident #78 to have close supervision for oral intakes.
Interview with the Speech Therapist, on 08/30/19 at 2:18 PM, revealed Resident #78 was recently discharged from speech therapy. The Speech Therapist stated Resident #78 needed one on one supervision with eating because of the cognitive impairment and the lack of initiation to eat when staff was not present. He revealed he had told nursing that Resident #78 needed one on one supervision however, he could not remember who he told. The Speech Therapist revealed Resident #78 should be encouraged to feed self but staff would sometimes have to assist. He revealed Resident #78 needed someone with /him her because sometimes her/his arms were restricted and he/she can not always hold them up. He stated Resident #78 had oral dysphagia and that was why the resident was on a pureed diet. The Speech Therapist stated that was why staff needed to be in there with her/him to make sure smaller bites were taken. The Speech Therapist further revealed he verbally communicated the recommendation to nursing and did not document who he spoke with. He was not sure if nursing had access to his discharge summaries.
Interview with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #3, who was the CNA for Resident #78, on 08/31/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #78 could feed self and she was not aware that the resident needed one on one supervision. CNA #3 reviewed her CNA care plan sheet and it did not indicate the resident needed one on one supervision with eating.
Interview with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2, on 08/30/19 at 2:25 PM, revealed the speech therapist would tell them verbally a recommendation or a note may be in room to alert them to what the recommendations were. LPN #3 reviewed the physician orders and could not find an order for a pureed diet that the speech therapist had recommended. The physician orders still had mechanical soft as an order even though Resident #78 had received a pureed diet. LPN #2 reviewed Resident #78 chart and could not find any order for pureed diet or one on one supervision as outlined in the speech therapy discharge summary.
Interview with the Minimum Data Set (MDS) staff, on 08/31/19 at 2:38 PM, revealed if speech therapy did not convey the discharge summary recommendation to nursing then the nurses would have no way of knowing what orders to obtain from the physician because speech therapy recommendations have to have a physician order.
Interview with Signature Care Nurse Consultant, on 08/31/19 at 4:10 PM revealed the facility did not have a policy regarding communications from therapy to nursing. She revealed when therapy discharged a resident they should have communicated specific instructions and written an order for that and given it to nursing who would have notified the physician of the recommendations. She revealed that during the clinical white board meeting, with the interdisciplinary team, they would discuss therapy recommendations and the manager would communicate the need for the physician order, process the order, update the care plan, and call the family with the changes. The Signature Care Nurse Consultant further revealed she was not aware of the need for one on one supervision for Resident #78 until that day. She revealed it should have been communicated and she did not know where the breakdown occurred because there was no documentation that nursing had been notified. She also revealed she did not know why the physician orders did not reflect the pureed diet.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Comprehensive Care Plan
(Tag F0656)
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, and policy review it was determined the facility failed to develop and/or imp...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, and policy review it was determined the facility failed to develop and/or implement a Comprehensive Care Plan (CCP) for three (3) of forty-six (46) sampled residents, Resident's #21, #66 and #78.
Review of Resident #66's Physician Order's (PO), dated 05/09/19, revealed the facility was to keep an obturator, spare trach and Ambu Bag at the bedside at all times. Review of Resident #66's Comprehensive Care Plan (CCP), dated 05/15/19, revealed Resident #26 CCP identified a problem area of potential for complications related to a tracheostomy. The CCP interventions directed staff to provide trach care as ordered; however, observation revealed not all ordered items were at the bedside.
Review of Resident #21's CCP revealed no plan of care for a Tracheostomy. Interview with the RN #6, on 08/29/19 at 10:53 AM, revealed she determined Resident #21 needed to be suctioned, however, the suction machine was not set up to provide trach suctioning and there was also no Ambu bag in the resident's room in case of respiratory distress. She further stated she was unsure what supplies were needed at Resident #21's bedside.
Interview with the Minimum Data Set (MDS) staff, on 08/31/19 at 2:38 PM, revealed after the speech therapy assessment and recommendations were made, a care plan should have been developed, to meet the resident's assessed needs. After she reviewed the speech therapy discharge summary from 08/15/19, she stated she was not aware of the need for one on one supervision with meals for Resident #78 and the need to alternate liquids and solids. She stated those interventions should be on the care plan and they were not.
The findings include:
Review of the facility policy, Comprehensive Care Plan, revised 07/19/18, revealed the CCP was to ensure the facility prevented or reduced decline in a residents functional level and was to be reflective of the standards of practice for problem area's and conditions. The care plan was to have intervention implementation after the residents' problem areas were identified with interventions which were to reflect action, treatment or procedure to meet the objective goal.
Review of the facility policy, Tracheostomy (trach) Care, revised 09/28/17, revealed staff were to ensure suction equipment was available and functional.
Review of the facility guide, Tracheostomy Care, undated, revealed staff were to ensure equipment was brought to the bedside. However, the guide did not have the equipment listed. In addition, staff were to suction the resident prior to the start of the trach care.
Review of [NAME] and [NAME] Clinical Nursing Skill and Techniques, unknown date, revealed the standards of care for a trach tube included to maintain patency with provided suction of the upper airway.
The facility failed to provide a policy or list of equipment which was to be placed at the bedside of a resident with a tracheostomy.
1. Review of Resident #66's clinical record revealed the facility admitted the resident on 04/27/19 with the diagnoses of Respiratory Failure, Pneumonia with Sepsis, and Tracheostomy status.
Review of Resident #66's Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), dated [DATE], revealed Resident #66 Tracheostomy care and services were acquired when he/she was a resident of the facility.
Review of Resident #66's Physician Order's (PO), dated 05/09/19, revealed the facility was to keep an obturator, spare trach and Ambu Bag at the bedside at all times.
Review of Resident #66's Comprehensive Care Plan (CCP), dated 05/15/19, revealed Resident #26 CCP identified a problem area of potential for complications related to a tracheostomy. The CCP included the goal of potential complications related to a Tracheostomy. Continued review of Resident #26's CCP revealed the staff's goal included to successfully ventilate through the residents nose, pharynx, larynx and trachea. The facility approach included staff were to check the residents oxygen level, acquire labs as ordered, administer medications as ordered, Observe for shortness of air and report changes, suction and provide trach care as ordered
Interview on 08/31/19 at 4:30 PM, with the MDS Coordinator, revealed the facility developed CCP based on the baseline admission care plan, and MDS triggers with assessments, observations and care needs. She further stated an accurate care plan was to be in place to ensure the resident needs were met. She stated if the care plan was not implemented the resident could have a decline in his/her status.
Interview on 08/30/19 at 10:18 AM, with the Director of Nursing (DON), revealed staff were expected to follow the residents care plans.
Interview on 08/31/19 at 5:53 PM, with the Director of Nursing Care Consultant, revealed care plans were to be followed to provide quality care to the residents of the facility. She stated part of her role was to review charts for facilities and she did not identify issues in the facility.
Interview on 08/31/19 at 5:30 PM, with the Administrator, revealed the facility was to provide a safe and comfortable environment and ensure the resident needs were addressed through the implementation of the plan of care.
2. Review of Physician order's (PO), dated 04/01/19 to 04/30/19, and revealed Resident #21 for the diagnosed of Pneumonia upon readmission. Further review of Resident #21's clinical record on 06/17/19, revealed the facility provided antibiotic treatment for the diagnosis of Viral Pneumonia.
Observation, on 08/27/19 at 10:14 AM, revealed Resident #21 was in bed with his/her trach intact. The resident was observed to cough and produced a large amount of phlegm which was observed to have landed on the edge of the resident's trach and on his/her gown. The bed side table contained a blue suction machine without the setup of a long suction tube to reach the resident, suction catheter and a receptacle container to receive secretions. Observations revealed an Ambu-Bag was not observable in the room. Registered Nurse (RN) #2 entered the resident's room and stated after she searched the drawers, closet and areas around bed stated an Ambu bag was not in the resident's room. RN #2 proceeded to picked up the short clear tube from the top portion of the suction machine and stated the tube was too short to suction the resident and left the room
Continued observation, on 08/27/19 at 12:35 PM, revealed Resident #21's room remained without a suction machine set up readied to suction the resident, and an Ambu-Bag and the box were not available for resident care at the bedside.
Observation, on 08/28/19 at 09:39 AM, revealed Resident #21 was in his/her bed with an intact trach. The bedside table remained with a suction unit, that was not set up and readied for the suction needs of the resident. An Ambu-bag was not observed to be in the resident's room.
Observation, on 08/29/19 at 10:01 AM, revealed Resident #21 was awake with a trach present. Continued observations revealed the suction unit remained on the side table and was not set up to suction the resident, and the Ambu-bag was not observed the room. Resident #21 was observed to have coughed phlegm out of his/her trach and the phlegm was on the trach and down the front of his/her gown. Certified Nurse Assistant #2 was observed to have entered the room at the same time, checked the resident's trach dressing status as the resident continued to cough, and left the room.
Review of Resident #21's CCP revealed no plan of care for a Tracheostomy.
Interview with the RN #6, on 08/29/19 at 10:53 AM, revealed she entered the room to check on the resident and determined Resident #21 needed to be suctioned. She stated the suction machine was not set up to provide trach suctioning and there were no supplies in the resident's room to set up the suction machine to provide care. She further stated she was unable to find an Ambu bag in the resident's room. However, she would go get the emergency cart to provide emergency care to the resident. She also stated the room was without oxygen. She further stated she was unsure what supplies were needed at Resident #21's bedside. She stated she was unable to suction Resident #21 and needed to get supplies. She stated the lack of the availability of all the needed suction equipment for the resident, meant a delay in care could occur; and the resident's trach could become plugged with phlegm causing the resident to be unable to breath.
Interview with the MDS coordinator, on 08/31/19 at 4:30 PM, revealed the facility developed CCP based on the baseline admission care plan, and MDS triggers with assessments, observations and care needs. She stated the facility care plan was on the electronic computer system and the MDS electronic program provided a care plan template when a diagnosis or problem were identified. She stated the program allowed the person to check interventions and provide customized care and interventions. She stated the system was used since April of 2019. She stated the program provided different areas the coordinator was able to access for interventions. She stated the area the MDS coordinator chose for Resident #21's care plan was the minimum for a tracheostomy resident. She stated the facility held quarterly care plan reviews and when order's changed or condition changed. She stated CCP's were the care needs for the resident and it was to reflect the residents care needs. She further stated an accurate care plan was to be in place to ensure the resident needs were met and the care appropriate. She stated if the care plan was not reflective of the resident needs the resident could have a decline in his/her status.
Interview with the Medical Director, on 08/31/19 at 4:44 PM, revealed he and the facility administration staff discussed the need for continuity of care regarding the tracheostomy care needs of all tracheostomy residents. He further stated the facility goal was to maintain and improve resident's conditions.
Interview with the Director of Nursing Care Consultant, on 08/31/19 at 5:53 PM, revealed care plans were to be reviewed for accuracy. She stated care plans were to be developed and followed to provide quality care to the residents of the facility. She stated part of her role was to review charts for facilities and she did not identify issues in the facility. She further stated staff were to follow resident care plans.
Interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 08/30/19 at 10:18 AM, revealed staff were expected to follow the residents care plans. However, if the resident care plans were not complete related to tracheostomy care she expected staff to follow policy and procedure. She stated the MDS personnel were responsible to ensure the care plans reflected the resident care needs. She stated she would not try to figure out what could occur to the residents if the care plans were not developed or followed. She stated she was not able to audit care plans. She stated Resident #21's care plan was not reflective of the resident needs as well as the residents risk and actual diagnosis and care for Pneumonia. She stated she expected staff and the facility to provide safe and effective care for tracheostomy residents as the facility accepted resident with a tracheostomy.
Interview with the Administrator, on 08/31/19 at 5:30 PM, revealed the resident's care plans were to be reviewed on admission, quarterly, and with a change of condition. She stated when resident care plans lacked information for the residents care the facility missed pertinent information. She stated the omission on the care plan could affect the residents care. She further stated when the facility did not provide an accurate and complete care plan to reflect the resident needs then the resident will have a less than positive outcome. She stated the facility was to provide a safe and comfortable environment and ensure the resident needs were addressed.
.
Review of the clinical record revealed Resident #78 was admitted on [DATE] and had diagnoses of Alzheimer's disease, Dysphagia, stiffness of the left elbow and shoulder, Heart Failure, Colostomy, and Sepsis. Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 8/15/19 revealed Resident #78 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) of four (4), which indicated the resident had impaired cognition. Review of the functional status showed Resident #78 needed extensive assistance of one for eating. Review of the Range of Motion (ROM) revealed Resident #78 had impairment on one side of the upper and lower extremities.
Record review of the comprehensive care plan showed a problem for alteration in nutrition and one of the interventions was to assist as needed for meals and set up. Review of the care plan revealed there was no intervention specifically for handled cups and no indication that the resident had to have one on one supervision with meals.
Interview with the Speech Therapist (ST), on 08/30/19 at 2:18 PM, revealed he/she assessed Resident #78 to need one on one supervision with feeding because of cognitive impairment and initiation to eat meals was reduced if staff not present. The ST stated the resident was encouraged to feed self but staff may have to feed the resident to ensure nutritional intake. The ST stated the resident had restricted arm movement and oral dysphagia which could also affect oral intake. The ST stated the resident was discharged from their care on 08/15/19, however, did not know if they communicated recommendations/care needs to nursing staff.
Observation during the lunch meal, on 08/27/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #78 was eating her/his lunch in her/his room and was unassisted by staff. Observation of the meal tray showed he/she had pureed food, milk in a carton, and punch in a regular glass with a straw. Observation of the diet card revealed Resident #78 was to have a handled cup for fluids.
Observation during the lunch meal, on 08/27/19 at 11:59, revealed Resident #78 had a carton of milk and a glass of lemonade and no handled cup. Observation revealed there were no staff in with the resident.
Observation on 08/31/19 at 12:05 PM during the lunch meal revealed Resident #78 had her/his tray served to her/him in the room and the resident had tried to feed herself/himself. Observation further revealed there was no staff in the room for supervision.
Interview with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #3, who was the CNA for Resident #78, on 08/31/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #78 could feed herself/himself and she was not aware that the resident needed one on one supervision. CNA #3 reviewed her CNA care plan sheet and it did not indicate the resident needed one on one supervision with eating.
Interview with the Minimum Data Set (MDS) staff, on 08/31/19 at 2:38 PM, revealed the speech therapy recommendations should be on the care plan and should be on the CNA care plan sheet. After she reviewed the speech therapy discharge summary from 08/15/19 she revealed she was not aware of the need for one on one supervision with meals for Resident #78 and the need to alternate liquids and solids. She revealed those interventions should be on the care plan and they were not. After she reviewed the speech therapy notes she revealed Resident #78 had dysphagia which meant he/she had difficulty with swallowing and that placed her/him at risk for aspiration, further decline in function, and at risk for pneumonia. The MDS staff further revealed there should have been an intervention of the need for the handled cup and it was not on the comprehensive care plan
Interview with Signature Care Nurse Consultant, on 08/31/19 at 4:10 PM revealed that during the clinical white board meeting, with the interdisciplinary team, they would discuss therapy recommendations and the manager would communicate the need for the physician order, process the order, update the care plan, and call the family with the changes. The Signature Care Nurse Consultant further revealed she was not aware of the need for one on one supervision for Resident #78 until that day. She revealed it should have been communicated and she did not know where the breakdown occurred because there was no documentation that nursing had been notified. She also revealed she did not know why the physician orders did not reflect the pureed diet. She revealed the pureed diet as a lower level of diet and the safest but Resident #78 might now eat as well since different than mechanical soft. She stated she did not think there was a risk of choking given the consistency of the food.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Pressure Ulcer Prevention
(Tag F0686)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of Resident #62's clinical record revealed the facility admitted the resident on 06/06/19 with the diagnoses of a Stag...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of Resident #62's clinical record revealed the facility admitted the resident on 06/06/19 with the diagnoses of a Stage four (4) of a Pressure Ulcer of the Sacral region, Diabetes, and End Stage Renal Disease (ERSD).
Review of Resident #62's Physician Orders, dated 07/30/19 to 08/31/19, revealed the staff were to provide to the left heel the daily a treatment of wound cleansing with normal saline and to place a sliver hydrofiber and wrap with gauze. Further review revealed staff were to provide wound care to the sacral area which included to clean with normal saline, apply the medicated gel then pack with a normal saline moist gauze and cover with a pad once a day.
Review of Resident #62's Comprehensive Care Plan (CCP), dated 08/07/19, revealed the facility identified the resident with skin integrity as a problem. The goals included the area would be free of infection.
Review of Resident #62's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), dated [DATE], revealed the facility identified Resident #63's skin condition with an existed pressure ulcer of a stage four (4) upon entry to the facility.
Observation, on 08/29/19 at 1:53 PM, revealed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #3 acquired wound care supplies to complete Resident #62's wound care. LPN #3 placed the wound care supplies onto an uncleaned bedside table. The table contained a white crumbly substance and a visible sticky semi dry liquid. LPN #3 washed her hands, turned off the faucet then removed clean gloves from her right pocket, placed the gloves on and proceeded to remove Resident #63's sacral wound dressing which contained drainage. LPN #3 proceeded to remove the dirty gloves then reached into her right pocket and placed a new set of clean gloves without hand hygiene after the soiled dressing was removed. LPN #3 obtained wound dressing material from the packages with gloved hands and then reached into her pocket and removed scissors from her pocket. She proceeded to cut the gauze dressing and placed the scissors back into her pocket. LPN #3 handled the tube of gel for the wound, handled the tube on the outside with both gloved hands and proceeded to place the wound gel onto her gloved hand and proceeded to place the medicated gel directly onto the wound with her gloved hands. Resident #63 produced a large bowel movement during the wound treatment. LPN #3 acquired new gloves from her pocket after she removed the gloves worn with wound care without hand hygiene. LPN #3 proceeded to remove the gloves worn to clean the resident's bowel movement and removed the gloves and placed the gloves directly onto the surface of Resident #63's over the bed table. LPN #3 proceeded to place a new pair of clean gloves which were remove from her pocket and removed a roll of tape from her pocket and placed on the table without the completion of hand hygiene. LPN #3 continued and held the saturated saline filled gauze and proceeded to place the gauze into the wound and used the gloved hands to push the gauze up into areas which were pocketed. LPN #3 continued with the same gloved hands to place a pad over the wound, taped the edges with the tape she removed from her pocket previously, and removed a blue marker from her right pocket with her gloved hands and wrote on the dressing the date and time.
Continued observation, on 08/29/19 at 2:11 PM, revealed LPN #3 continued wound care to Resident #62 left heel. LPN #3 removed her scissors from her pocket with clean gloved hands, cut the gauze roll, placed the scissors onto the bare table and proceeded to remove the old gauze dressing. LPN #3 removed the dirty gloves and laid the gloves onto the residents bedding. LPN #3 opened a previously opened and cut foam gauze and proceeded to use the scissors, which she had not sanitized, to cut out the square. She placed the scissors back into her right pocket. LPN #3 covered the wound, taped the gauze, obtained the pen from her pocket and completed the dressing. LPN #3 placed the scissors and pen back into her pocket. LPN #3 removed her gloves, repositioned the resident with assistance, removed the soiled gloves from the resident's bowel movement with bare hands and placed them into the garbage. The tape used for the wounds was observed to fall onto the resident's floor and LPN #3 proceeded to return the tape into her pocket which she picked up off the floor. LPN #3 performed hand hygiene, obtained the bottled gel, package of foam and returned the supplies to the treatment cart. The LPN left the room and stated she was done after the trash was removed from the room. The resident's table was observed to not have been sanitized after treatment.
Interview with LPN #3, on 08/29/19 at 2:20 PM, revealed she provided wound treatments for the residents five (5) days a week. LPN #3 stated the wound process included hand hygiene, placement of clean gloves, and she wound clean the wound. She stated she often doubled her gloves with wound care and would especially double glove with excessive wound drainage. She stated she would complete the wound care, take off gloves and date the wound cover. Afterwards, she stated she would gather her supplies and leave. She stated a common infection control technique was to make sure hands were washed after the wound care is completed. She stated staff were to ensure gloves were changed between dirty and clean technique. She continued and stated she kept her gloves in her pocket and she was not told otherwise. She stated she utilized the residents' personal table to use for wound supplies and would ensure not to use another residents table. She stated if the table is dirty, she would clean it. She further stated she would not have a reason to clean the table if she did not see dirt. However, she stated the residents' wound could worsen with infection if the table was not cleaned. She stated she cleaned her scissors between residents but kept her scissors in her pocket. She stated her pockets were contaminated and therefore the resident wounds could worsen. She stated infection control was important with wound care to prevent cross contamination and placed residents in jeopardy of an infection. She continued and stated she was trained for one day at another facility when she followed a wound nurse. She stated she mimicked what she observed with staff at the other facility. She stated the facility was not conducting audits on her knowledge and wound techniques. She stated the facility did not require her to be wound certified, did not offer further training for wound care, and she took it upon herself obtain more education through video.
Interview with the Medical Director, on 08/31/19 at 4:38 PM, revealed the facility provided residents with a wound physician who evaluated and ordered treatments for resident with a wound. He stated the facility previously identified concerns with the wound treatment nurse care and techniques. He stated the facility addressed the concerns to the wound nurse several times, provided tutorials, and made adjustments. However, he further stated the recent events were a wake up call for care concerns in the facility.
Interview with the East Unit Manager, on 08/31/19 at 5:00 PM, revealed facility audits for wound care and techniques were not completed. She stated the facility completed trends for infections and the staff development person would complete this task. She stated the facility staff and the wound nurse were to ensure hand hygiene and infection control techniques were followed at all times to prevent infection. She stated staff who do not follow infection control techniques would cause infections to the residents wound and the resident could become septic.
Interview with the Nurse Consultant, on 08/31/19 at 5:53 PM, revealed the DON was not available for interview. She stated staff were expected to follow the process of wound care, hand hygiene, equipment use, surfaces were to be cleaned, and care techniques were to be provided with the prevention of infection in mind at all times. She stated the residents were at risk for infection of the wound if infection control was not followed during wound care. She stated the DON was expected to audit staff for infection control issues in the facility.
Interview with the Administrator, on 08/31/19 at 5:32 PM, revealed the facility identification of infection control issues with wound care were not previously identified. However, she stated the Medical Director discussed concerns on pressure ulcer and wound care in the facility. She stated wound care in the facility was to be provided with good basic infection control care and techniques, at all times, to make sure the residents were not infected from cross contamination. She stated infection control for wounds in the facility was imperative for residents. She further stated she oversaw the daily care the residents received in the facility with the Director of Nursing and it was important to provide a safe environment.
Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of the facility policy/procedure, it was determined the facility failed to ensure residents received necessary treatment and services, consistent with professional standards of practice, to promote healing, prevent infection and prevent new ulcers from developing, for three (3) of ten (10) residents with pressure ulcers out of forty-six (46) sampled residents (Resident #62, #78 and #190).
Observation of Resident #190's wound care on 08/29/19, revealed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #3 failed to provide wound care appropriately by not washing hands and changing gloves.
Observation of Resident #78's wound care on 08/29/19, revealed LPN #3 failed to provide wound care appropriately by not sanitizing scissors, no changing gloves, and not following physician orders.
Observation of Resident #62 wound care on 08/29/19 at 1:53 PM, revealed LPN #3 failed to provide wound care appropriately by not changing/discarding gloves, sanitizing scissors, and hands between tasks. LPN #3 also used a pen and tape from her pocket and did not discard tape or sanitize her pen after wound care.
The findings include:
Review of the facility policy titled, Infection Prevention and Control Program, with a revised date of October 2018, revealed an infection prevention control program was established to provide a safe, sanitary environment to prevent the development and spread of infection.
Review of the facility policy titled, Pressure Ulcer (Injury) Treatment, with a revised date of 07/24/18, revealed the guidelines purpose was to care for existing pressure ulcer and to prevent additional pressure injuries. The procedure included the application of dressings or ointments according to the physician orders. The policy further revealed pressure ulcer treatment required a comprehensive approach that included managing infections and maximizing the potential for healing. The policy procedure further revealed the staff was to be educated and ensured that the staff adhere to proper technique and procedures.
1. Observation of Resident #78 with the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #3, on 08/29/19 at 10:44 AM, revealed LPN #3 placed the wound supplies on the overbed table without sanitizing it, also did not remove items lying on it, and she did not create a barrier. LPN #3 cut the old dressing off the left foot with her scissors and laid the scissors on the overbed table. Observation further revealed she cleaned the wound, removed her gloves, and washed her hands. She put on new gloves and applied the medication to the gauze and applied zinc oxide without cleansing the area which had zinc oxide already on it. LPN #3 pulled the cover up for the resident, touched the call light, and touched the overbed table without removing her gloves that had been used to apply the zinc oxide. Observation further revealed LPN #3 removed her gloves and did not wash her hands before she gathered her supplies and put the unwashed scissors back into her pocket. Observation revealed LPN #3 went to the treatment cart and gathered supplies for the next resident.
The facility admitted Resident #78 on 12/01/15 with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's, Contractures, Dysphagia, Stiff left elbow, Heart Failure, and Hypertension.
Review of the Annual Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, dated 04/30/19, revealed the facility assessed Resident #78's cognition as severely impaired with a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of four (4) which indicated the resident was not interviewable. Review further revealed Resident #78 needed extensive assistance of one person for bed mobility and transfers. Review further revealed Resident #78 did not have a pressure area. Review of the Quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], revealed Resident #78 had a Stage two pressure ulcer to the coccyx. Review of the progress notes for 08/09/19 revealed Resident #78 had also had a Stage two pressure ulcer to the left 2nd toe.
Review of the Comprehensive Care Plan for Resident #78 revealed a problem was listed for skin breakdown to the coccyx and to the left toe. Review of the most recent Braden Scale revealed Resident #78 was at risk for skin breakdown.
Review of the August 2019 Physician Orders revealed the treatment for the coccyx was to clean the coccyx area with normal saline and apply Zinc Oxide and cover with an abdominal (ABD) pad and it was to be done every shift. Further review of the Physician Orders revealed the left second toe was to be cleaned with normal saline and Iodosorb gel was to be applied and then covered with a dry dressing.
Interview with LPN #3, on 08/30/19 at 3:01 PM, revealed you should clean the overbed table if the tray was dirty and use a paper towel for a barrier. LPN #3 stated there was a potential issue for the resident if something was on the table that could make the wound worse. She revealed it did not occur to her to clean the table. LPN #3 revealed she should clean the scissors before putting them in her pocket or using them during wound care because they could be contaminated from whatever they came into contact with in her pocket. Then whatever was on the scissors could be transferred to another resident. LPN #3 revealed it was a risk of cross contamination. LPN #3 reviewed the physician orders and revealed she did not follow the orders for the coccyx as outlined by the physician. LPN #3 further revealed if staff did not follow physician orders it could potentially make the wound worse.
2. Record review revealed the facility admitted Resident #190 on 09/20/17 and readmitted on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Chronic Kidney Disease, Stage 4, Adult Failure to Thrive, Acute Respiratory Failure with Hypoxia, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia without Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms, and Pressure Ulcer of Sacral Region.
Review of the Annual Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, dated 05/31/19 revealed the facility assessed Resident #190's cognition as severely impaired with a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of three (3) which indicated the resident was not interviewable. Further review of the Quarterly MDS revealed the resident had two (2) unstageable pressure ulcers that were present upon admission/entry or reentry.
Review of a weekly skin assessment, dated 04/01/18, revealed two (2) unstageable pressure ulcers were identified to Resident #190's peri-area and coccyx.
Review of the Comprehensive Care Plan for Resident #190 revealed the resident had an unstageable pressure ulcer to the peri-area and coccyx present on admission and at risk for further skin breakdown.
Review of the July and August 2019 Physician Orders revealed an order to apply 50/50 mix of of Bactroban/Zinc to peri wound and cover with ABD pad twice a day.
Observation of wound care, on 08/29/19 at 11:08 AM, revealed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #3 washed hands after removing the dressing then applied gloves from her scrub pocket. Further observation revealed after wiping feces from the resident's peri area, she placed the tube feeding on hold, then wiped feces from the resident's coccyx again without washing hands and changing gloves or cleaning the equipment.
Interview with LPN #3 on 08/29/19 at 11:38 AM, revealed she should have washed her hands and changed her gloves after placing the tube feeding on hold. She revealed she should have used gloves from the box not from her scrub pocket. She stated she was not aware of what the infection control policy said regarding wound care.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0761
(Tag F0761)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, record review, and interview and policy review it was determined the facility failed to maintain one (1) medication room refrigerator on the East hall at acceptable temperatures ...
Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, record review, and interview and policy review it was determined the facility failed to maintain one (1) medication room refrigerator on the East hall at acceptable temperatures out of the two (2) medication room refrigerators. In addition, intravenous medication was stored in with oral medications that were being sent back to the pharmacy in the East hall medication room out of the two medications room.
The findings include:
Record review of the facility policy Medication Storage, Storage of Medication, with a date of 09/18, revealed the medications and biological's were to be stored properly to maintain their integrity and support safe effective drug administration. Review further revealed intravenously administered medications were to be stored separately from orally administered medication and under appropriate temperatures. The policy stated medications that required refrigeration should be kept at temperatures from 36 degrees Fahrenheit to 46 degrees Fahrenheit.
Observation of the East hall medication room with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #1, on 08/28/19 at 3:15 PM, revealed the refrigerator had a temperature of htirty-two (32) degrees. The refrigerator had Ativan liquid, Dronabinol, Perforomist solution, Daptomycin, Hepatitus B vaccine, and Tuberculin vials stored in it. Observation revealed none of the liquids were frozen and did not have visible crystals in them. Observation of the refrigerator log for August showed only one day that was out of the acceptable range and it was 34 degrees then. Observation further revealed intravenous (iv) medications and fluids were stored in the same container as the medications being returned to the pharmacy.
Interview with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #1, on 08/28/19 at 3:15 PM, revealed she did not know what temperature the refrigerator should be maintained at but after looking at the refrigerator log, stated the temperature should be between 36 and 46 degrees. LPN #1 stated she was not sure if 32 degrees had any effect on the medication.
Interview by phone with Pharmacist #1 at Pharmacare, on 08/30/19 at 4:15 PM, revealed the acceptable range of temperatures for the medication room refrigerator should be between 36 to 46 degrees. He stated 32 degrees was too cold and being too cold can be just as bad and too hot. He stated , generally, being too cold can decrease the potency of the medication. Stated he would have to call me back with more specific information.
Interview by phone with Pharmacist #2 at Pharmacare, on 08/31/19 at 8:42 AM, revealed since the time frame was relatively short that the medication was in the refrigerator at the 32 degree temperature the medications should be okay. He stated they would come out and have someone look at the refrigerator.
Observation of the east hall medication room refrigerator with LPN #7, on 08/31/19 at 10:58 AM, revealed the temperature of the refrigerator was 34 degrees and the log had not been filled out that day. Observation revealed there was an emergency kit that contained Tylenol suppositories, Bisacodyl suppositories, Phenergan suppositories, Lantus insulin, Novolog insulin, and mouthwash in there.
Interview with LPN #7, on 08/31/19 at 10:58 AM, revealed she would get a new refrigerator. LPN #7 stated maintenance had looked at the refrigerator yesterday and done something to the door because it was hanging incorrectly. LPN #7 stated 34 degrees was not within the correct parameters of 36 to 46 degrees.
Interview with LPN #1, on 08/28/19 at 3:15 PM, revealed normally they have a separate tote for the intravenous supplies that was separate from oral medications that were being returned to the pharmacy. LPN #1 stated she did not know how long they had been stored together. LPN #1 revealed they put the return medications in a separate tote, seal it, and pharmacy was alerted to pick it up. LPN #1 stated oral medications and iv fluids and medications should not be stored together.
Interview with LPN #7, on 08/31/19 at 10:58 AM, revealed oral medications should not be stored with iv medication and fluids. She stated they do not belong together. LPN #7 further revealed no one of her staff will own up to placing them together.
Interview with the Signature Care Nurse Consultant, on 08/31/19 at 4:00 PM, revealed they had maintenance look at the refrigerator and he adjusted the temperature. She revealed the temperature range should be between 36 degrees and 46 degrees. She stated if the temperatures were not in that range there would be a potential that medication cold be frozen and could not be used. The consultant stated she was not sure about how being too cold would affect the potency of the medication or if it would alter the medication. Interview with Signature Care Nurse Consultant further revealed intravenous fluids and medication returned to the pharmacy should be stored separate because they were medications that were administered via different routes.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0810
(Tag F0810)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, and interview it was determined the facility failed to provide an assistive device for one ...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, and interview it was determined the facility failed to provide an assistive device for one (1)resident out of the forty-six (46) sampled residents. Resident #78 was to utilize a handled cup and it was not provided consistently. In addition Resident #78 was to have one on one supervision with eating as outline in the speech therapy discharge summary.
The findings include:
Record review of the facility policy Adaptive Equipment - Feeding Device with a date of 08/2019, revealed adaptive feeding equipment was used by the residents to improve their ability to feed themselves and improve their eating functions. Record review of the communication from therapy to staff policy revealed there wasn't a policy.
Observation during the lunch meal, on 08/27/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #78 was eating his/her lunch in his/her room and was unassisted by staff. Observation of the meal tray showed he/she had pureed food, milk in a carton, and punch in a regular glass with a straw. Observation of the diet care revealed Resident #78 was to have a handled cup for fluids.
Observation during the lunch meal, on 08/27/19 at 11:59, revealed Resident #78 had a carton of milk and a glass of lemonade and no handled cup. Observation revealed there were no staff in with the resident.
Observation on 08/31/19 at 12:05 PM during the lunch meal revealed Resident #78 had her/his tray served to her/him in the room. Observation revealed Resident #78 was in her/his room and had tried to feed herself. Observation further revealed there was no staff in the room for supervision.
Review of the clinical record revealed Resident #78 was admitted on [DATE] and had diagnoses of Alzheimer's disease, Dysphagia, stiffness of the left elbow and shoulder, Heart Failure, Colostomy, and Sepsis. Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 8/15/19 revealed Resident #78 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) of four, which indicated the resident had impaired cognition. Review of the functional status showed Resident #78 needed extensive assistance of one for eating. Review of the Range of Motion (ROM) revealed Resident #78 had impairment on one side of the upper and lower extremities. Record review of the comprehensive care plan showed a problem for alteration in nutrition and one of the interventions was to assist as needed for meals and set up. Review of the care plan revealed there was no intervention specifically for handled cups and no indication that the resident had to have one on one supervision with meals.
Interview with Special Projects Coordinator, on 08/27/19 at 12:00 PM revealed she had delivered the tray to the resident and stated Resident #78 liked to feed herself and staff just monitored her/him. Interview further revealed she usually checked the diet card before setting it up but she had not checked the diet card for Resident #78. After reviewing the diet card the Special Projects Coordinator revealed she did not know why Resident #78 needed handled cups but it may be because of her/his grasp. She revealed the handled cup should have come from the kitchen on the tray.
Interview with the Dietary Manager (DM), on 08/30/19 at 8:53 AM, revealed the adaptive utensils needed for each resident were listed on the tray card and they read it at the beginning of the tray line and the items were placed on the tray . The DM further revealed Resident #78 needed the handled cups because he/she spills things and he/she did better with cups that had handles. The DM revealed she did not know why Resident #78 did not receive the handled cups as outlined on the diet card.
Record review of the Speech Therapy (ST) Discharge summary, dated [DATE], revealed Resident #78 was to continue on the least restrictive diet (thin liquids, pureed solids) with one on one assist. The ST discharge summary stated Resident #78 would alternate liquids and solids and use bolus size modifications to facilitate safety and efficiency. It was also recommended for Resident #78 to have close supervision for oral intakes.
Interview with the Speech Therapist, on 08/30/19 at 2:18 PM, revealed Resident #78 was recently discharged from speech therapy. The Speech Therapist stated Resident #78 needed one on one supervision with eating because of the cognitive impairment and the lack of initiation to eat when staff was not present. He revealed he had told nursing that Resident #78 needed one on one supervision however, he could not remember who he told. The Speech Therapist revealed Resident #78 should be encouraged to feed herself but staff would sometimes have to assist her. He revealed Resident #78 needed someone with her because sometimes her/his arms were restricted and he/she can't always hold them up. He stated Resident #78 had oral dysphagia and that was why the resident was on a pureed diet. The Speech Therapist stated that was why staff needed to be in there with her/him to make sure smaller bites were taken. The Speech Therapist further revealed he verbally communicated the recommendation to nursing and did not document who he spoke with. He was not sure if nursing had access to his discharge summaries.
Interview with Medical Record staff, on 08/31/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed she had taken the tray into Resident #78's room and set it up. She revealed Resident #78 was okay to eat by herself/himself as far as she knew.
Interview with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #3, who was the CNA for Resident #78, on 08/31/19 at 12:15 PM, revealed Resident #78 could feed self and she was not aware that the resident needed one on one supervision. CNA #3 reviewed her CNA care plan sheet and it did not indicate the resident needed one on one supervision with eating.
Interview with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2, on 08/30/19 at 2:25 PM, revealed the speech therapist would tell them verbally a recommendation or a note may be in room to alert them to what the recommendations were. LPN #3 reviewed the physician orders and could not find an order for a pureed diet that the speech therapist had recommended. The physician orders still had mechanical soft as an order even though Resident #78 had received a pureed diet. LPN #2 reviewed Resident #78 chart and could not find any order for pureed diet or one on one supervision as outlined in the speech therapy discharge summary.
Interview with the Minimum Data Set (MDS) staff, 08/31/19 at 2:38 PM, revealed the speech therapy recommendations should be on the care plan and should be on the CNA care plan sheet. After she reviewed the speech therapy discharge summary from 08/15/19 she revealed she was not aware of the need for one on one supervision with meals for Resident #78 and the need to alternate liquids and solids. She revealed those interventions should be on the care plan and they were not. After she reviewed the speech therapy notes she revealed Resident #78 had dysphagia which meant he/she had difficulty with swallowing and that placed her/him at risk for aspiration, further decline in function, and at risk for pneumonia. The MDS staff further revealed if speech therapy did not convey the discharge summary recommendation to nursing then the nurses would have no way of knowing what orders to obtain from the physician because speech therapy recommendations have to have a physician order.
Interview with Signature Care Nurse Consultant, on 08/31/19 at 4:10 PM, revealed the facility did not have a policy regarding communications from therapy to nursing. She revealed when therapy discharged a resident they should communicate specific instructions and write an order for that and give it to nursing who would notify the physician of the recommendations. She revealed that during the clinical white board meeting, with the interdisciplinary team, they would discuss therapy recommendations and the manager would communicate the need for the physician order, process the order, update the care plan, and call the family with the changes. The Signature Care Nurse Consultant further revealed she was not aware of the need for one on one supervision for Resident #78 until that day. She revealed it should have been communicated and she did not know where the breakdown occurred because there was no documentation that nursing had been notified. She also revealed she did not know why the physician orders did not reflect the pureed diet. She revealed the pureed diet as a lower level of diet and the safest but Resident #78 might now eat as well since different than mechanical soft. She stated she did not think there was a risk of choking given the consistency of the food.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Respiratory Care
(Tag F0695)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review and review of facility policies it was determined the facility failed to assess a...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review and review of facility policies it was determined the facility failed to assess and monitor a resident's condition while staff performed Tracheostomy (trach) care consistent with professional standards of practice for three (3) of four (4) sampled tracheostomy residents, Resident #21 #26 and #66, out of forty-six sampled residents.
Observations revealed the facility failed to provide a complete suction set up at the bedside to provide suction care for Resident #21 for three (3) of four (4) days. Observations revealed staff failed to assess Resident #21 pulmonary condition, obtain vital signs before the start of the procedure and failed to monitor the resident's oxygen saturation when trach care was provided. Resident #21 was observed to cough secretions through the trach tube before trach treatment began and staff failed to provide suction to the resident to ensure the airway was clear prior to the start of the procedure. Furthermore, staff was observed to have exited the resident's room and failed to complete the post assessment after the trach procedure was completed.
In addition observations and interview with RN #6 revealed the facility failed to have the appropriate size emergency trach for Resident #66. Resident #66 was fitted with a number four (4) Shiley and the emergency trach which was located on a medication cart was a number six (6) Shiley. In addition, observations revealed the facility provided inconsistent ordered trach supplies to residents' bedside and the East emergency cart was not equipped with trach supplies.
Observation on 08/29/19 at 4:35 PM, revealed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #8 failed to apply a pulse oximeter during Resident #26's tracheostomy care per facility policy.
The findings include:
Review of the facility policy, Tracheostomy Care, revised 09/28/17, revealed the procedure was to be completed by staff to maintain the residents airway and prevent infection. Staff were to have a pulse oximeter to monitor the resident while trach care was performed. Staff were to ensure the suction was available and functional. The pulse oximeter was to be placed by staff for the resident to be monitored. If needed staff were to suction the resident. The staff were to document the residents' respiratory rate, heart rate, oxygen saturation while the procedure was performed and the condition of the stoma and skin integrity.
Review of the facility guide, Tracheostomy Care, undated, revealed staff were to ensure equipment was brought to the bedside. However, the necessary equipment was not listed. Staff were to suction the resident prior to the start of the procedure. Staff were to chart the completion of the procedure and was to record the residents' toleration and condition after the procedure.
Review of the facility policy, Accidental Tracheostomy Tube Decannulation, reviewed 05/25/19, revealed staff were to replace a trach tube when the tube was completely expelled. The staff were to obtain a spare trach tube of the same size and replace the tube.
Review of [NAME] and [NAME] Clinical Nursing Skill and Techniques, unknown date, revealed the standards of care for a trach tube included to maintain patency with provided suction of the upper airway. Prior to and after completion of trach care staff were to assess the residents' vital signs, oxygen saturation, and the residents' lung sounds. Listed equipment included a pulse oximeter
Review of the facility competency, Tracheostomy Care, reviewed 09/28/17, revealed staff were to have a pulse oximeter when trach care was provided. The competency form noted staff were to document after the care was provided which included respiratory and heart rate, breath sounds and oxygen saturation, type and size of the tracheostomy, if suctioned to documents via trach and note color, amount and type of secretions, and the condition of the stoma and skin integrity.
Review of the facility policy, Emergency Carts, revised 05/18/18, revealed the suggested stock in the cart included alcohol pads, iv starter pack, variety sizes of intravenous catheters, tubing, tape, twenty (20) milliliter syringe, suction supplies, oxygen supplies, equipment to obtain vital signs, and miscellaneous items which included Ambu bag, covered suction machine completely prepared for use, a full tank of oxygen with regulator, wrench for oxygen tank and a non-rebreather mask.
Review of the facility in-service attendance record, dated 03/29/19, revealed the facility provided education for Trach Care. Review of the facility staff attendance sign in sheet revealed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2, #5 and #7 signatures were present to verify attendance to the in-service. The facility material included the guideline for trach care, Tracheostomy Care facility policy, and Tracheostomy care competency form. Review of the facility competency check off' s provided by the facility LPN #2, #5 and #7 were not identified with completion of return demonstration competency for trach care. Continued review of the Weekend Supervisor LPN #6 completed the competency on 06/21/19.
The facility failed to provide a policy or list of emergency equipment which was to be placed at the bedside of a resident with a tracheostomy.
The facility was unable to provide a service contract for Respiratory Care Services for the facility.
Review of the facility's policy titled Tracheostomy Care, last reviewed 5/25/18, revealed the purpose of the procedure was to maintain airway patency, prevent infection and prevent skin breakdown at the stoma site. Further review of the policy revealed the guideline steps include to bring properly functioning equipment to the room and apply pulse oximeter.
1. Review of Resident #26's clinical record revealed the facility readmitted the resident on 12/19/18 with diagnoses which included Chronic Respiratory Failure, Personal History of Traumatic Brain Injury, Dysphagia, and Tracheostomy Status.
Review of Resident #26's Physician Order's, dated 05/16/19, revealed the facility was to provide tracheostomy care every shift including cannula care.
Review of Resident #26's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), dated [DATE], revealed the facility assessed the Resident as severly cognitively impaired. Further review of the MDS revealed Tracheostomy care and Suctioning were performed while he/she resided at the facility.
Review of the Comprehensive Care Plan, dated 01/09/19, revealed Resident #26 had a tracheostomy with interventions to provide tracheostomy suction and care including cannula care as ordered.
Observation on 08/29/19 at 4:35 PM, revealed Resident #26 was in bed with a tracheostomy present. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #8 entered the resident's room and performed tracheostomy care following the Tracheostomy Care steps except LPN #8 failed to bring the pulse oximeter in the room and apply it to Resident #26. LPN #8 did not assess Resident #26's oxygen saturation levels until after tracheostomy care was provided which was 92% (Normal blood oxygen saturation levels in humans are 95-100 percent).
Interview with LPN #8, on 08/29/19 at 5:24 PM, revealed he/she assessed Resident #26's oxygen saturation level before and after tracheostomy care (90% before care and 92% after care). He/she stated the tracheostomy policy stated to assess oxygen levels prior to and after tracheostomy care not during care. LPN #8 stated he/she worked at the facility for almost a year and had received trach care training during orientation.
2. Review of Resident #66's clinical record revealed the facility admitted the resident on 04/27/19 with the diagnoses of Respiratory Failure, Tracheostomy status, and Seizures.
Review of Resident #66's Physician Order's (PO), dated 05/09/19, revealed the facility was to keep an obturator, spare trach and Ambu Bag at the bedside at all times. Further review revealed Resident #66 was to be suctioned every shift.
Review of Resident #66's Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), dated [DATE], revealed the facility left the section under special procedures Tracheostomy care was unchecked.
Review of Resident #66's Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), dated [DATE], revealed Resident #66 Tracheostomy care and services were acquired while a resident of the facility.
Observation, on 08/29/2019 at 4:03 PM, revealed Resident #66 was in bed with a trach present to his/her neck. Observation revealed an emergency trach was not visible in the room near or around Resident #66. Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) #11 was present in the room and opened the three drawers to Resident #66's bedside table. CNA #11 removed all contents from the three (3) drawers and found an emergency trach and obturator was not at Resident #66's bedside. Continued observation revealed an Ambu-bag for resuscitation was not present in the resident's room. Further observation revealed LPN #2 entered the resident's room. LPN #2 was observed to have removed all contents of the three (3) drawers and stated the emergency equipment of a trach, obturator, and Ambu-bag were not in the drawers or the room and stated the supplies for the trach care were not in the room. LPN #2 stated Resident #66's emergency trach was removed from the room and placed on the top drawer of the medication cart.
Interview with LPN #2, on 08/29/19 at 4:07 PM, revealed the facility kept Resident #66's trach in the medication cart for several months. LPN #2 opened the cart drawer to reveal a metal Shiley trach. The facility did not provide identification of which resident the trach was assigned. LPN #2 identified the size of the trach as a number six (6) Shiley. She stated the resident was recently down sized to a size four (4). She stated if an emergency occurred of dislodgement and the staff were required to replace the stoma with the emergency trach staff would be unable to place the number (6) into Resident #66's stoma because the emergency trach was too big. She stated because it was too big Resident #66 may not be able to breathe and could die. She continued and stated the facility was to provide emergency supplies were for residents and were to be easily accessed. However, the trach was on the cart and the Ambu-bag was on the emergency cart. She stated she would run down the hallway to get the emergency equipment from the carts. She further stated she was a flex nurse for the company which meant she went to different facilities where staff were needed. She stated she received annual education and trained on trach care, emergency interventions, and was check off in a skilled lab by a supervisor
3. Review of Resident #21's clinical record revealed the facility admitted the resident, on 5/24/16, with the diagnoses Tracheostomy (trach) status, Traumatic Brain Injury (TMI), and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Review of Resident #21's Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), dated [DATE], revealed Resident #21 was an extensive assist for care and services and the resident was unable to communicate or vocalize words. Continued review revealed Resident #21 acquired a tracheostomy while he/she was a resident at the facility and the facility marked respiratory care was provided.
Review of Resident #21's Treatment Order's (TO), dated 04/25/19, revealed staff were to perform Trach care to the cannula every shift. The TO included staff were to suction Resident #21 as needed. The TO reason for trach care and suction was for chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia or hypercapnia.
Review of Resident #21's PO, dated August 01- August 31 2019, revealed the facility resident orders did not remark of required equipment at the bedside and to monitor for equipment.
Review of Physician order (PO), dated 4/2/19, revealed the facility physician treated Resident #21 for the diagnosed of Pneumonia on 04/02/19 and review of record on 6/17/19 the facility started intravenous (IV) antibiotics for the diagnosis of Viral Pneumonia with sepsis.
Observation, on 08/27/19 at 10:14 AM, revealed Resident #21 was in bed with his/her trach intact. The bed side table contained a blue suction machine with one short tube noted on top of the unit. Further observation revealed the unit was without a canister to receive secretions from the resident, a long tube to reach the resident and suction catheters for trach suction of the resident. Continued observations, on 08/27/19 at 12:35, revealed the resident room remained without equipment observed at 10:14 AM. RN #2 entered the room and searched through all three (3) drawers a located a pencil box. The pencil box was not marked as to what items were in the box. RN #2 opened the box which contained a packaged trach and obturator. RN #2 picked up the short clear tube from the suction machine and stated this was to short and proceeded to leave the room.
Continued observation, on 08/27/19 at 12:35 PM, revealed Resident #21's room remained without a suction canister, long tube, suction catheters, a Yankauer suction tip (an oral suction tool), and an Ambu-bag.
Observation, on 08/28/19 at 09:39 AM, revealed Resident #21 was in his/her bed with an intact trach. The bedside table remained with a suction unit with one small tube to the top of the unit. No other supplies for suction needs were not observed in the resident's' room.
Observation, on 08/29/19 at 10:01 AM, revealed Resident #21 was awake with a trach present. Resident #21 was observed to have coughed phlegm out of his/her trach and the phlegm was on the trach and down the front of his/her gown. Certified Nurse Assistant #2 was observed to have entered the room at this time. CNA #2 stated she was to check the resident's trach pad because if it were dirty it meant the care was not completed and she would wait to provide personal care. Resident #21 was observed to have continued to cough with projected phlegm while CNA #2 observed the resident's trach dressing. CNA #2 remarked the dressing was not clean and left the room. Continued observations revealed the suction unit remained on the side table with only the short tube on top.
Further observation, on 08/29/19 at 10:01 AM, revealed Resident #21 was awake in his/her room and was forcefully continued to cough. Resident #21 was observed to have audible sounds of bubbling in his/her airway. CNA #2 entered the room and stated she wanted to evaluate the resident's trach dressing condition. She stated if it was not clean she would provide care later. While Resident #21 actively coughed CNA #2 leaned over the resident, stated it was not cleaned yet, the resident was observed to have coughed out a large amount of phlegm which landed on his chest area and CNA #2 walked out of the room. The resident's room was observed to remain without suction supplies to provide suction to the resident and an Ambu-bag. The facility Weekend Supervisor was observed to have entered the room while Resident # 21 continued to cough at 08/29/19 at 10:53 AM.
Interview with Family #2, on 08/27/19 at 10:00 AM, revealed the facility transferred Resident #21 to the hospital when there was an issue with the trach which included frequent decannulation by the resident. Family #2 stated the staff seem unable to deal with emergency events when it came to Resident #21's care needs for the tracheostomy.
Interview with the RN #6, on 08/29/19 at 10:53 AM, revealed she entered Resident #21's room and was assigned to care for Resident #21. She stated Resident #21 needed to be suctioned. She stated she observed the small tube connected the suction top to the unit. She stated there was to be gloves and another tube to hook the suction up and somewhere there should be saline to help loosen his/her secretions. She stated the suction machine was without a canister and was not set up for use. She stated she was not sure if a canister needed to be at the resident's bedside. She stated she would assume since Resident #21 was a resident with a trach a suction set up was supposed to be at the bedside. She stated if Resident #21 trach plugged with secretions he/she would be unable to breath and she would perform the Heimlich maneuver to the resident and then stated she would not try to pull the trach tube out. She further stated she would not be able to help Resident #21 because she would need the suction to be set up and it was not. The RN #6 searched for supplies in Resident #21's drawers and she pulled from the drawer the obturator. She held up the obturator and remarked the device was to clear the trach when it was plugged and this would be accomplished when she pushed the device into the trach. She further stated if the trach was not able to be suctioned and the resident trach plugged the resident would have an emergency resuscitation and staff would obtain the emergency cart. However, she was unsure if trach supplies were present in the emergency cart. She stated the facility educator was not available when she came to the facility and just followed staff for a couple days after a three (3) day orientation at the corporate office. She stated the facility did not provide education or competencies for trach residents to her or request return demonstration. She further stated she was unaware of what supplies were to be at the bedside for an emergency response of a resident with a trach.
Observation, on 08/29/2019 at 11:01 AM, revealed the East Unit Manager ([NAME]) opened the East Unit Emergency Cart which was the unit for Resident #21. She stated the oxygen tank was without a key to access the oxygen in the tank. She stated the oxygen tank was to have a key present to ensure the delivery of oxygen was not delayed. The [NAME] stated review of the four (4) drawers revealed the cart was not equipped with variable sizes of trach's, an obturator, or vials of saline to help loosen secretions. She stated the facility admitted resident's with a trach which required care. She stated an obturator was to help guide a new trach and not to clear a plug. She stated the staff were provided a check list to ensure supplies for a trach resident were at the bedside. She further stated the facility was to provide an extra trach of the same size, obturator, suction set up which included a canister, long and short suction tube, suction catheter, Yankauer suction tip, and gloves. She stated there were supplies in the supply room where staff were able to grab in an emergency. However, both supply rooms were not mirror images of each other and the supply room was not checked to ensure supplies were readily available for trach residents. She further stated education for trach care, supplies and emergencies were provided in orientation at the corporate office. She stated she was unaware of the policies in regards to trach care and services, and unaware of issues with supplies not available at the resident's bedside. She stated the facility was to ensure staff was proficient with trach care and services, and she knew where to find the policy in the computer. She stated the facility did not request and she did not complete trach care audits for staff's care and supplies. She further stated the facility accepted trach residents for care and services and the facility was required to properly care for those residents. She stated if supplies were not readily available, if staff were not trained and comfortable for trach emergencies the facility would have to send the resident to the emergency room (ER) or it was possible the facility would have to start resuscitation because of respiratory distress.
Observation, on 08/29/19 at 04:23 PM, revealed LPN #5 prepared to complete trach care for Resident #21. LPN #5 washed her hands and turned off the faucet with the wet paper towel. LPN #5 was observed to have removed clean gloves from her scrub pocket and proceeded to remove the resident's dirty gauze around his/her trach with the same gloves. LPN #5 was observe to have placed the trach kit onto the over bedtable without having cleaned the table prior to have opened and placed the sterile supplies onto a sheet of paper found inside the kit. She continued and donned sterile gloves and opened all the packages contents. LPN #5 removed the inner trach, Resident #21 began to cough with visible phlegm coughed out. The suction machine was observed fully set up at the resident's bedside. LPN #5 proceeded to clean the inner trach tube, took a 4x4 and completely dried the outer cannula, proceeded to dry the inside of the trach tube, and replaced the tube to the residents base plate with the dry trach. LPN #5 stated she was finished with the trach care procedure and the resident tolerated well. Observations revealed Resident #21 was not monitored for oxygen saturation with the procedure, vitals were not obtained, suction was not provided, and lung sounds were not assess before or after the procedure by LPN #5.
Interview with LPN #5, on 08/29/19 at 04:33 PM, revealed staff were to chart the procedure was completed, color of the secretions and condition of the trach site. She stated the facility medication and treatment record for Resident #21 did not provide a list of supplies at the bedside, emergency supplies for trach dislodgement or other emergencies, or to monitor oxygen with the procedure. She stated the resident's room was not equipped with oxygen or an Ambu bag. She stated the facility provided education and trained staff for trach care and emergency services. However the last skill check off provided for staff by the facility was over one and a half (1 ½) years ago, and facility observation by staff education, or by administration for staff was two (2) to three (3) years ago.
Review of Resident #21's clinical record revealed LPN #5 checked on 08/29/19 evening trach care. However, there were no additional notes pertaining to stoma condition, vital signs, oxygen saturation and lung sound pre and post treatment on the nursing notes or on the treatment record.
Interview with LPN #7, on 08/30/19 at 02:00 PM, revealed the facility was to have emergency equipment at a residents' bed side. She stated the equipment included a full suction set up, an emergency trach of the same size, and an obturator at the minimum. She stated staff were to assess resident lung condition, oxygen saturation, and vital signs every shift. She stated staff were to assess the resident before and after trach suction was performed to have a baseline for reference, was to monitor residents' oxygen with the procedure for desaturation, and obtain post procedure vital signs. She stated staff were to assess the resident lung condition after the resident was suctioned and after the trach was cleaned. She stated the facility education on trach care and services was provided to staff. However, the facility gave a verbal form of education and not a task check off and observation. She further stated trach tubes were not to be wiped off and dried, rather shook to remove excess water. She stated reinsertion of the trach tube causes pain and irritation when it was dry. She stated staff were to document the residents' toleration, condition, color of secretions after the procedure was completed. She further stated residents with an altered respiratory system were subject to an increased potential for infection, respiratory changes, plugged trach, and low oxygen levels which were all examples of harm to the resident.
Interview with the Plant Operator, on 08/31/19 at 5:22 PM, revealed the facility did not maintain resident suction machines provided for residents. He stated the facility leased the equipment.
Interview with the Nurse Consultant, 08/31/19 07:40 PM, revealed the decannulation policy for trach care was reviewed with staff but the facility did not require care competencies on the skill check of list.
Interview with the Medical Director, on 08/31/19 at 4:44 PM, revealed he and the facility previously discussed the provision of education and a systematic system to ensure residents in the facility were given the best care possible. He stated the facility identified the need for education to staff for respiratory and or trach care for residents. He further stated he and the facility previously discussed supply issues, education and procedural education for staff for proficient care of a trach, assessments, and identification of a change in status. He stated the facility was to improve day to day to keep residents from decline.
Interview with the Director of Nursing (DON), on 08/29/19 at 3:00 PM, revealed the facility would have to determine the seriousness of the residents' emergency with a trach and would call for emergency services. The DON stated she was unfamiliar with the process of trach care, services and emergency in the facility because she was an interim DON. However, she stated she knew where to find the policies in the electronic system. She stated all nurses, flex or regular staff completed trach competencies and were evaluated on the physical skill of trach care and services. The DON stated she would expect a spare trach, suction catheters, a full suction set up and an obturator at the residents' bedside. She stated a resident's spare trach was to be the same size. She stated the facility care and services included to ensure supplies were readily available to meet an emergency, provide general care and if the facility could not address the resident's respiratory concerns the resident may experience an emergency and the resident would be sent to the hospital after the activation of nine one one (911). She stated the staff were to suction the resident's with a trach and have a full set up available at the bedside to provide care. She stated the residents could experience harm if the facility was unable to maintain the residents' airway. She stated she was not able to evaluate the competency of the staff with trach care and services. However, she stated she counts on regulations and company to have trained and to have 'readymade staff'. She stated there were no reported issues with equipment or services when she was made aware of the facility residents with trach's. She stated she was not able to complete an audit of the trach residents in the facility to ensure care and services were provided per standards of care. She stated the facility followed [NAME] for standards of care.
Further interview with the DON, on 08/30/19 at 10:18 AM, revealed the facility did not have a respiratory provider for care and services. She stated staff were trained for trach care at an education center and completed competencies at a sister facility. She stated staff were not audited on respiratory care of a resident with a trach at the facility. She stated facility policy for equipment at the bedside was initiated by corporate authorities. However, at the time the facility did not have one in place for reference or a guide or check list to ensure equipment at the bedside of residents were uniform. She stated staff were to follow the facility policy on trach procedures and were to provide care as to what they were checked off at the skill portion of the education. She further stated when staff do not follow proper care for policy procedure may not affect the resident and she further stated she would not try to figure out what might happen if the procedure was not followed. She stated the facility did not have suction equipment at Resident #21 bedside. She stated the facility was expected to provide safe and effective care to Resident #21. She stated staff were to know what equipment was to be the bedside of a resident with a trach whether or not an order or a care plan intervention included this information because she expected staff to follow policy.
Interview with the Administrator, 08/31/19 at 5:30 PM, revealed the facility was concerned over the lack of trach care supplies at residents' bedsides. She stated the corporation was without a policy or procedure for supplies for residents with a tracheostomy which were to be at the residents' bedside. She stated the facility was to have uniformity with residents for care and services, ensure staff were proficient in care and services, ensures supplies were available for the resident either at the bedside, the supply room or the emergency carts. She further stated the facility did not previously identify issues with trach care and services. She said if trach residents were not provided proper support and care the facility would have to call 911 to intervene.