PONCHATOULA COMMUNITY CARE CENTER

1560 HIGHWAY 51, PONCHATOULA, LA 70454 (985) 229-2112
Non profit - Corporation 140 Beds COMMCARE CORPORATION Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
90/100
#18 of 264 in LA
Last Inspection: August 2025

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

Overview

Ponchatoula Community Care Center has an impressive Trust Grade of A, indicating excellent quality and high recommendations for care. Ranked #18 out of 264 facilities in Louisiana, they are in the top half, and they lead the way in Tangipahoa County, being ranked #1 out of 6. The facility is improving, having reduced issues from 8 in 2024 to none in 2025, which is a positive trend. Staffing is average with a rating of 3 out of 5 stars and a turnover rate of 46%, slightly below the state average of 47%, meaning some staff members remain long-term. While there have been no fines, which is encouraging, there is concerningly low RN coverage compared to 98% of other Louisiana facilities, which could affect the level of care. Specific incidents noted include failures in medication storage practices, instances of potential physical abuse between residents, and inaccuracies in resident assessments that could impact care planning. Overall, while there are notable strengths in care quality and improvement trends, families should be aware of the staffing and safety concerns.

Trust Score
A
90/100
In Louisiana
#18/264
Top 6%
Safety Record
Low Risk
No red flags
Inspections
Getting Better
8 → 0 violations
Staff Stability
⚠ Watch
46% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Louisiana facilities.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 7 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for Louisiana. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
⚠ Watch
12 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★☆☆
3.0
Staff Levels
★★★★☆
4.0
Care Quality
★★★★★
5.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2024: 8 issues
2025: 0 issues

The Good

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

Facility shows strength in quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 46%

Near Louisiana avg (46%)

Higher turnover may affect care consistency

Chain: COMMCARE CORPORATION

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 12 deficiencies on record

Aug 2024 7 deficiencies
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Free from Abuse/Neglect (Tag F0600)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record reviews, and interviews, the facility failed to ensure each resident had the right to be free from ...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record reviews, and interviews, the facility failed to ensure each resident had the right to be free from physical abuse by another resident for 2 (#61 and #99) of 27 residents reviewed for abuse in the final sample. The facility failed to ensure: 1.Resident #99 was free from physical abuse by Resident #61. 2.Resident #61 was free from physical abuse by Resident #99. Findings: Review of the facility's Abuse Components Plan Elder Justice Act and Affordable Care Act policy dated 10/24/2022 revealed the following, in part: 1.5 Policy: Residents have the right to be free from abuse . 2.0 Definitions Abuse is defined as the willful infliction of injury Instances of abuse .cause physical harm, pain or mental anguish. Willful means the individual must have acted deliberately. 1. Resident #99 Review of the Clinical Record revealed Resident #99 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses, which included Bipolar Disorder and Anxiety. Review of the Quarterly MDS (Minimum Data Set) with an ARD (Assessment Reference Date) of 06/04/2024 revealed Resident #99 had a BIMS (Brief Interview of Mental Status) score of 14, which indicated he was cognitively intact. Review of Resident #99's Incident Report revealed the following: Date: 08/07/2024 at 11:06 a.m. Resident Incident Description: Resident #99 reported the aggressor (Resident #61) purposefully rolled into him while he was getting coffee. At the time Resident #99 attempted to defend himself resulting in the altercation. On 08/12/2024 at 10:30 a.m., an interview was conducted with Resident #99. He stated there was an incident where Resident #61 purposefully ran into him with his electric wheelchair. He stated he felt threatened so he defended himself. 2. Resident #61 Review of the Clinical Record revealed Resident #61 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses, which included Depression. Review of the Quarterly MDS with an ARD of 06/03/2024 revealed Resident #61 had a BIMS of 12, which indicated he was cognitively moderately intact. Review of Resident #61's Incident Report revealed the following: Date: 08/07/2024 at 11:06 a.m. Resident Incident Description: Resident #61 reported he ran into Resident #99 due to feeling the other resident told on him and got him in trouble with the Administrative staff. On 08/14/2024 at 3:50 p.m., an interview was conducted S10LPN. She stated she was working the day of the altercation between Resident #99 and Resident #61. She stated she was in another resident's room when she heard screaming. She stated when she walked out into the dining area she saw Resident #61 in his wheelchair with blood on his forehead and skin tear to his arm. She stated Resident #61 was alert, oriented and was aware of the situation. On 08/14/2024 at 4:04 p.m., an interview was conducted with S7WC. She stated she witnessed the incident that occurred between Resident #99 and Resident #61. She stated Resident #99 was sitting in his wheelchair when Resident #61 purposefully rammed his electric wheelchair into him. She stated after being hit, Resident #99 was half out of his wheelchair with one knee to the ground. She stated Resident #61 started to punch Resident #99 and Resident #99 began to defend himself and hit back. She stated Resident #61was noted to have cuts on his face and forearm. On 08/15/2024 at 8:50 a.m., an interview was conducted with S3DON. She stated on 08/07/2024 Resident #99 and Resident #61 were involved in an altercation. She stated Resident #61 purposefully rammed his electric wheelchair into Resident #99. She stated out of self-defense Resident #99 began punching Resident #61. She stated both resident's actions were purposeful. On 08/15/24 09:03 a.m., an interview was conducted with S1ADM. S1ADM stated he was informed there had been an altercation between Resident #61 and Resident #99. He stated after speaking to the residents, Resident #61 told him he was upset with Resident #99, so he rammed into him using his electric wheelchair. On 08/15/2024 at 10:00 a.m., an observation and interview was conducted with S1ADM. The video surveillance of the 08/07/2024 incident occurring between Residents #61 and #99 was reviewed. Resident #61 was observed entering into the dining area where Resident #99 was sitting in his wheelchair. Resident #61 was observed running his electric wheelchair into Resident #99. Resident #61 continued to push Resident #99 in his wheelchair. Resident #99 stood up from his wheelchair and hit Resident #61. At that time both residents began hitting each other. S1ADM confirmed the above observation of Resident #61 and Resident #99 was purposeful and considered abuse.
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Assessment Accuracy (Tag F0641)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure the MDS assessment accurately reflected the resident's status for 1(#83) of 27 sampled residents by failing to ensure Resident #83 w...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure the MDS assessment accurately reflected the resident's status for 1(#83) of 27 sampled residents by failing to ensure Resident #83 was coded correctly for active diagnoses. Findings: Review of Resident #83's clinical record revealed admission date of 02/27/2020. Further review revealed Resident #83 had a diagnosis of Cataracts with onset date of 06/06/2024. Review of Resident #83's Quarterly MDS with ARD of 07/08/2024 revealed Cataracts was not coded as an active diagnosis in Section I. Review of Resident #83's optometrist progress note dated 06/06/2024 revealed, in part: diagnosis of Cataracts of left eye. Review of Resident #83's physician's progress notes dated 07/05/2024 revealed diagnoses which included Cataracts. History of Present Illness section revealed, in part: Resident #83 reported visual loss in the left eye for the last 3 weeks and was seen by the optometrist on 06/06/2024 who diagnosed him with cataracts which will require surgery. On 08/14/2024 at 9:40 a.m., an interview was conducted with S9MDS. She stated the process was for MDS department to review progress notes and add diagnosis to resident's diagnoses. After reviewing, Resident #83's progress note from optometrist appointment dated 06/06/2024, S9MDS confirmed the diagnosis for cataracts should have been added to the quarterly MDS with ARD of 07/08/2024 as an active diagnosis and was not.
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and record review, the facility failed to ensure services were provided by failing to follow physician order...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and record review, the facility failed to ensure services were provided by failing to follow physician orders for 1 (#18) of 26 residents investigated in the final sample. Findings: Review of the facility's policy titled Administering Oral Medications, dated 10/2010 revealed in part, the following: Steps in the procedure: 6. Check the label on the medication and confirm the medication name and dose with the MAR. 8. Check the medication dose. Re-check to confirm the proper dose. Review of Resident #18's Clinical Record revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses, which included Acute on Chronic Diastolic Congestive Heart Failure and Chronic Respiratory Failure. Review of Resident #18's Physician's Orders revealed the following: Lorazepam Oral Concentrate 2 mg/mL. Give 0.25 mL by mouth every 4 hours as needed for agitation or shortness of breath, start date 08/06/2024. Review of Resident #18's MAR for August 2024 revealed the following: Lorazepam Oral Concentrate 2 mg/mL. 0.25 mL administered on 08/11/2024 at 2:06 p.m. by S4LPN. Review of the narcotic log for Resident #18 for August 2024 revealed the following: Medication: Lorazepam Name of Individual Administering: S4LPN Date: 08/11/2024 Time: 2:06 p.m. Amount on Hand: 21 mL Amount Administered: 0.5 mL Amount Remaining: 20.5 mL A phone interview was conducted on 08/13/2024 at 3:15 p.m. with S4LPN. She stated Resident #18 was having some shortness of breath on 08/11/2024 around 2:00 p.m. She stated she checked the narcotic log for the last administered time of Lorazepam for Resident #18. She stated Resident #18 had Lorazpam 0.5 mL ordered every 4 hours as needed. She stated she documented on the narcotic log and the MAR after she drew up the 0.5 mL of Lorazepam and administered it to Resident #18. An interview was conducted on 08/13/2024 at 4:00 p.m. with S3DON. She reviewed the narcotic log and MAR for Resident #18. She confirmed S4LPN did document a dose of 0.5 mL of Lorazepam given on 08/11/2024.
CONCERN (D)

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

QAPI Program (Tag F0867)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Deficiency Text Not Available

Read full inspector narrative →
Deficiency Text Not Available
CONCERN (D)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation and interviews, the facility failed to maintain an infection control program to ensure staff performed proper hygiene administering medication for 1 (#12) of 4 (#12, #38, #41, and...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation and interviews, the facility failed to maintain an infection control program to ensure staff performed proper hygiene administering medication for 1 (#12) of 4 (#12, #38, #41, and #386) residents observed for medication administration. Findings: On 08/13/2024 at 7:35 a.m., an observation was made of S8MAC preparing medication for Resident #12. S8MAC dropped a pill onto the floor, picked up the pill, discarded the pill, and then continued to prepare additional medications without performing hand hygiene. On 08/13/2024 at 7:39 a.m., an interview was conducted with S8MAC. She confirmed she did not perform hand hygiene after picking up the pill off the floor and administering medication to Resident #12 and should have. On 08/13/2024 at 4:30 p.m., an interview was conducted with S3DON. She stated she expected staff to perform proper hand hygiene during medication administration. S3DON confirmed S8MAC should have performed hand hygiene after picking up the pill off the floor before continuing medication administration.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0761 (Tag F0761)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observations, interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure medications were properly stored in 2 (Med Cart 2 and Med Cart 3) of 3 (Med Cart 1, Med Cart 2, and Med Cart 3) medi...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observations, interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure medications were properly stored in 2 (Med Cart 2 and Med Cart 3) of 3 (Med Cart 1, Med Cart 2, and Med Cart 3) medication carts observed for medication storage. Findings: Review of the facility's policy titled, Storage of Medications, dated 11/2020 revealed in part, the following: The facility stores all drugs and biologicals in a safe, secure, and orderly manner. 1. Drugs and biologicals used in the facility are stored in locked compartments under proper temperature. 7. Medications requiring refrigeration are stored in a refrigerator located in the drug room at the nurses' station or other secured location. Review of the Lorazepam medication insert, which was located within the Lorazepam box, revealed in part, the following: How should I store Lorazepam? Store Lorazepam at a cold temperature. Refrigerate at 36 degrees Fahrenheit to 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Review of research information given to surveyor by facility's Pharmacy Consultant revealed in part, the following: Lorazepam storage: Refrigerate between 36 degrees Fahrenheit to 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Review of additional document given to surveyor by facility's Pharmacy Consultant titled Oral and Enteral Medications revealed in part, the following: Lorazepam Solution: Store in refrigerator. An observation was made on 08/12/2024 at 9:40 a.m. of Med Cart 2 with S5LPN. Observed 1 opened bottle of Lorazepam 2mg/mL for Resident #18, which was warm to touch, located in the narcotic lock box drawer of the medication cart. The Lorazepam bottle and box revealed a label which read Refrigerate located on the box and bottle. An interview was conducted on 08/12/2024 at 9:40 a.m. with S5LPN. S5LPN confirmed the label on Resident #18's bottle and box of Lorazepam read Refrigerate and should have been placed back into the refrigerator after each dose. S5LPN confirmed the bottle of Lorazepam was room temperature and opened. S5LPN reviewed the narcotic log book for Resident #18's Lorazepam and stated the last dose administered was on 08/11/2024. An observation was made on 08/12/2024 at 10:10 a.m. of Med Cart 3 with S6LPN. Observed 1 opened bottle of Lorazepam 2mg/mL for Resident #97, which was warm to touch, located in the narcotic lock box drawer of the medication cart. The Lorazepam bottle and box revealed a label which read Refrigerate located on the box and bottle. An interview was conducted on 08/12/2024 at 10:10 a.m. with S6LPN. S6LPN confirmed the label on Resident #97's bottle and box of Lorazepam read Refrigerate and should have been placed back into the refrigerator after each dose. S6LPN confirmed the bottle of Lorazepam was room temperature and opened. S6LPN reviewed the narcotic log book for Resident #97's Lorazepam and stated the last dose administered was on 08/12/2024. S6LPN stated she gave the last dose on 08/12/2024 at 9:32 a.m., and the bottle of Lorazepam was already located in Med Cart 3 prior to administering it. S6LPN stated the bottle of Lorazepam was left in Med Cart 3 for at least a week. An interview was conducted on 08/13/2024 at 12:05 p.m. with a local pharmacist. She stated liquid Lorazepam required refrigeration and would lose its potency if left in room temperature for extended periods of time. An interview was conducted on 08/13/2024 at 12:11 p.m. with the facility's pharmacist. She stated liquid Lorazepam required refrigeration and would lose its potency if left at room temperature for extended periods of time.
MINOR (C)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Staffing Information (Tag F0732)

Minor procedural issue · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure nurse staffing data requirements were documented on daily postings. This deficient practice had the potential to affe...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure nurse staffing data requirements were documented on daily postings. This deficient practice had the potential to affect any of the 129 residents residing in the facility. Findings: Review of the facility's policy dated 01/2023 and titled Posting Direct Care Daily Staffing Numbers revealed in part, the following: Policy Interpretation and Implementation: 2. Shift staffing information is recorded on a form for each shift. The information recorded on the form shall include the following: a. The name of the facility. An observation was made on 08/12/2024 at 8:05 a.m. of the staffing data sheet dated 08/12/2024. Further review revealed no documentation of the facility name. An interview was conducted on 08/12/2024 at 8:45 a.m. with S2AA. She reviewed the staffing data sheet dated 08/12/2024. She stated she was not aware the staffing data sheet required the facility name. She confirmed the staffing data sheet did not have the facility name. An interview was conducted on 08/12/2024 at 9:00 a.m. with S1ADM. He reviewed the staffing data sheet dated 08/12/2024. He confirmed the staffing data sheet did not have the facility name.
Jun 2024 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Report Alleged Abuse (Tag F0609)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure injuries of unknown source without serious b...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, and record review, the facility failed to ensure injuries of unknown source without serious bodily injury were reported within 24 hours to the State Survey Agency for 1 (#3) of 6 (#1, #2, #3, #R1, #R2 and #R3) residents reviewed for abuse. Findings: Review of the facility's policy titled Abuse Components Plan dated 10/24/2022, revealed the following, in part: Policy The facility administrator and their designee shall be responsible for the implementing of this policy. Definitions Injuries of unknown source - An injury should be classified as an injury of unknown source when all of the following criteria are met: 1) The source of the injury was not observed by any person; and 2) Or the source of the injury could not be explained by the resident; and 3) The injury is suspicious because of the extent of the injury or the location of the injury (e.g., the injury is located in an area not generally vulnerable to trauma) or the number of injuries observed at one particular point in time or the incidence of injuries over time. Reporting 1. All alleged violations involving injuries of unknown source will be reported by the Administrator or designee, to the following persons or agencies as required to provide notification: a. State Agency online tracking incident system(required); 2. An alleged violation involving injuries of unknown will be reported immediately, but no later than: b. Twenty-four (24) hours if the alleged violation does not involve abuse, AND has not resulted in serious bodily injury. Review of Resident #3's Clinical Record revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Dementia and Long Term Use of Anticoagulants. Review of the Quarterly MDS with ARD of 05/25/2024 revealed Resident #3 had a BIMS of 5, which indicated the resident was severely cognitively impaired. Review of the facility's Incident log dated March 2024 through current revealed Resident #3 had an incident on 05/27/2024 related to bruising. Review of the facility's Incident report dated 05/27/2024, revealed in part: Incident Description: Bruising found on Resident #3 by S2DON Bruises Measured: Left Upper Outer Arm Lateral 8 cm x 4.4 cm Left Outer Forearm 6 cm x 9 cm Left Inner Forearm 10.1 cm x 6 cm Right Upper Outer Arm Lateral 3.5 cm x 2.8 cm Right Upper Outer Arm Medial 2.8 cm x 3.4 cm Right Elbow 4.7cm x 7 cm Right Outer Forearm 3 cm x 3.9 cm Right Outer Forearm Inferior 9 cm x 10.2 cm Right Outer Wrist 8.5 cm x 5.1 cm Review of the facility's state agency reported incidents for the past six months revealed no reports of the above incident. On 06/13/2024 at 9:25 a.m., an observation was made of Resident #3. An interview attempt was made with Resident #3, but due to cognitive impairment she was unable to answer questions regarding how she got the bruises. Resident #3 was noted to have one bruise to her left outer forearm and side of forearm. Resident #3's left upper arm was noted to have two sets of bruises. Resident #3's right arm was noted to have a small bruise to the outer wrist area, outer and side of forearm, and upper arm near outer arm crease, and one bruises to right elbow. On 06/13/2024 at 10:58 a.m., a telephone interview was conducted with S4LPN. She confirmed she was the oncoming nurse for the 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. shift on 05/27/2024 for Resident #3. She stated S5CNA reported to her on the morning of 05/27/2024 Resident #3 had bruises on both of her forearms. She stated she then reported the findings to S3ADON. On 06/13/2024 at 12:01 p.m., a telephone interview was conducted with S3ADON. She stated on the morning of 05/27/2024, S4LPN informed her of the bruises to Resident #3's bilateral upper extremities. She stated she assessed Resident #3 immediately and noted bruises to bilateral upper extremities and right elbow. She stated she immediately reported her assessment of Resident #3's bilateral upper arm bruising to S2DON and S1NFA. On 06/12/2024 at 3:11p.m., an interview was conducted with S2DON. She stated was responsible for completing the 05/27/2024 incident report for Resident #3. She stated after S3ADON notified her of the incident with Resident #3, she went directly to S1NFA. S2DON stated after bringing it to the S1NFA's attention, she started her investigation. She stated Resident #3 could not tell her how she received the bruises due to Dementia. She stated the bruises to Resident #3's bilateral upper extremities were consistent with hand placement during moving Resident #3. She stated they determined the bruising was not abuse related, and did not report it. On 06/12/2024 at 4:00 p.m., an interview was conducted with S1NFA. He stated he was responsible for reporting or injuries of unknown origin to the required agencies. He stated he could not recall the exact time on 05/27/2024 in which the bruises to Resident #3's bilateral upper extremities were brought to his attention. He stated as soon as he was informed by S2DON of Resident #3's bruising, he went to Resident #3's room to investigate. He stated he was made aware by S2DON of Resident #3 being on a blood thinner and antiplatelet medication. He stated there was no clear occurrence to have caused the bruises, and Resident #3 has a BIMS of 5 which makes her severely cognitively impaired. S1NFA stated based on the placement of the bruises, he determined it was caused by resident care. He confirmed after observing the bruising he did not report it to the state agency.
Sept 2023 4 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

PASARR Coordination (Tag F0644)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and record review, the facility failed to ensure that a resident with an identified mental health diagnosis ...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and record review, the facility failed to ensure that a resident with an identified mental health diagnosis was referred for a Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Level II evaluation as required for 2 (#9 and #82) of 4 (#9, #17, #30, and #82) sampled residents reviewed for PASRR Level II. Findings: Resident #9 Review of the Clinical Record revealed Resident #9 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Further review revealed she was diagnosed with Severe Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Symptoms on 09/07/2021. On 09/20/2023 at 2:05 p.m., an interview was conducted with S4SW. She stated she was responsible for submitting Level II PASRR request to the OBH. She reviewed Resident #9's Level I PASRR dated 02/26/2019, then reviewed Resident #9's diagnoses. She stated due to Resident #9's diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Symptoms dated 09/07/2021, a Level II PASRR request was required. She stated she had not submitted Resident #9's PASRR Level II request to the OBH prior to the survey team's entrance. She confirmed the Level II PASRR request should have been submitted to the OBH when Resident #9 received the new mental health diagnosis. Resident #82 Review of the Clinical Record revealed Resident #82 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Further review revealed she was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder on 04/16/2020 and Major Depressive Disorder on 03/12/2021. On 09/18/2023 at 2:50 p.m., an interview was conducted with S4SW. She reviewed Resident #82's Level I PASRR dated 02/04/2019, then reviewed Resident #82's diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder on 04/16/2020 and Major Depressive Disorder on 03/12/2021. She verified she had not submitted Resident #82's PASRR Level II request to the OBH prior to the survey team's entrance. She confirmed the Level II PASRR request should have been submitted to the OBH when Resident #82 received the new mental health diagnoses. On 09/19/2023 at 10:16 a.m., an interview was conducted with the OBH Program Manager. She stated in 2019, Resident #82 was reviewed for a Level II PASRR which was not required as she did not meet criteria for a serious mental illness. She stated a new diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder would require a Level II PASRR to be submitted. She stated the OBH received a Level II PASRR request at 2:41 a.m. on 09/19/2023 for Resident #82. She stated there had been no former Level II PASRR requests submitted for Resident #82 since 2019. She stated she received Resident #9's Level II PASRR request on 09/18/2023 at 9:09 p.m. She stated if any resident was diagnosed with a new mental health disorder, a Level II PASRR request should have been submitted to the OBH. On 09/18/2023 at 2:30 p.m., an interview was conducted with S1ADM. He stated he was aware there were multiple residents who needed Level II PASRR requests submitted to the OBH.
CONCERN (D)

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

Medical Records (Tag F0842)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews, the facility failed to maintain accurate records in accordance with accepted professional...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews, the facility failed to maintain accurate records in accordance with accepted professional standards and practice for 1 of 1(#117) resident reviewed for oxygen therapy. Findings: Review of the facility's policy titled, Oxygen Administration revealed the following, in part: Purpose: The purpose of this procedure is to provide guidelines for safe oxygen administration. Preparation: Verify that there is a physician's order for this procedure. Review the physician's orders or facility protocol for oxygen administration. Review of Resident #117's clinical record revealed Resident #117 was admitted on [DATE] with diagnoses, which included Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma. Review of Resident #117's MDS with an ARD of 09/06/2023 revealed a BIMS of 12, which indicated intact cognition. Review of Resident #117's Physician Orders revealed no order for oxygen therapy services in the electronic health record. Review of Resident #117's Medication Administration Record from July to current revealed no clinical documentation for oxygen therapy services were provided or documented accordingly to accurately reflect services provided. Review of Resident #117's Care plan revealed the following: Problem: I am currently receiving oxygen therapy as needed. Goal: I will have no signs and symptoms of poor oxygen absorption through the review date. Approaches: Oxygen Settings: Administer oxygen per MD orders, may remove for ADL. Review of Resident #117's Oxygen Saturation summary report from 06/01/2023-09/30/2023 revealed Oxygen services were provided on the following dates: 07/18/2023- Oxygen via Nasal Cannula 08/01/2023- Oxygen via Nasal Cannula 08/09/2023- Oxygen via Nasal Cannula 09/06/2023- Oxygen via Nasal Cannula 09/08/2023- Oxygen via Nasal Cannula 09/12/2023- Oxygen via Nasal Cannula 09/13/2023- Oxygen via Nasal Cannula On 09/19/2023 at 11:05 a.m., an interview was conducted with Resident #117. She stated she had been wearing oxygen on and off for all her life due to a history of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. She stated since admission she wore 2 liters of oxygen as needed. An observation was made at that time of Resident #117 wearing oxygen via nasal cannula. On 09/19/2023 at 11:50 a.m., an interview was conducted with S6LPN. She stated Resident #117 was oxygen dependent since returning from the hospital on [DATE]. She confirmed the resident was currently wearing 2 liters of oxygen per nasal cannula. She confirmed there were no physician order for oxygen therapy services in the electronic health record. She confirmed a Physician's Order for oxygen services would be needed to initiate standing orders and should have been placed in the clinical record. On 09/19/2023 at 12:15 p.m., an interview was conducted with S2DON. She stated standing orders, continuous and prn orders for oxygen therapy services should be manually placed in the clinical record per physician order. She confirmed Resident #117 did not have an order for use of oxygen therapy services and an order should have been placed in the clinical record. On 09/20/2023 at 8:55 a.m., an interview was conducted with S7LPN. She confirmed when Resident #117 returned to the facility on [DATE], she was wearing 2 liters of oxygen via nasal cannula. She stated prior to Resident #117's hospital admission on [DATE] the resident wore oxygen intermittently. She stated she did not place an order for oxygen due to the assumption the order was already placed in the electronic health record from past oxygen usage. She stated when a standing order was initiated, nursing staff was expected to manually enter the order into clinical record so it would show up on the MAR and Physician Orders. She confirmed she did not enter a standing order for oxygen therapy services. On 09/20/2023 at 11:07 a.m., an interview was conducted with S5NP. She stated nursing staff could initiate standing orders for oxygen use if needed. She stated nursing staff were expected to manually input orders into clinical record when initiating any standing order. She confirmed an order should have been placed in Resident #117 electronic health record to accurately reflect services being provided and was not.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0847 (Tag F0847)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Deficiency Text Not Available

Read full inspector narrative →
Deficiency Text Not Available
MINOR (B)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Deficiency F0637 (Tag F0637)

Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews, the facility failed to ensure a Change in Status Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment was co...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews, the facility failed to ensure a Change in Status Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment was completed within 14 days of a resident changing hospice companies for 1 (#85) of 4 (#6, #82, #85, and #94) sampled residents receiving hospice services. Findings: Review of Resident #85's Clinical Record revealed he was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Review of Resident #85's Transfer Hospice Services form dated 02/23/2023 revealed Resident #85 was discharged from one hospice company and admitted to another hospice company per family request. Review of Resident #85's MDS revealed no Significant Change MDS was submitted after Resident #85 changed hospice companies on 02/23/2023. On 09/19/2023 at 12:25 p.m., an interview was conducted with Resident #85's hospice nurse. She stated Resident #85 received care from another hospice company, but the family was not happy with the care he received, so they changed to the current hospice company. She stated she did not know the exact date, but he started with the current hospice company at the beginning of this year. On 09/20/2023 at 9:57 a.m., an interview was conducted with the LPN Intake Coordinator for Resident #85's current hospice company. She confirmed Resident #85's admission date to the current hospice company was 02/23/2023. On 09/20/2023 at 12:00 p.m., an interview was conducted with S3CCC. She stated a Significant Change MDS should be completed when a resident was admitted to hospice and when a resident was discharged from hospice. S3CCC stated she did not complete a Significant Change MDS when a resident was transferred from one hospice agency to another, and she did not think it was required. S3CCC reviewed the Minimum Data Set Resident Assessment Instrument and verified a resident required a Significant Change MDS when a change in hospice companies took place. She reviewed Resident #85's Transfer Hospice Services form, then reviewed the MDS's submitted after his transfer of services on 02/23/2023. S3CCC confirmed Resident #85 did not have a Significant Change MDS submitted when he changed hospice companies on 02/23/2023 and should have. On 09/20/2023 at 12:22 p.m., an interview was conducted with S2DON. S2DON stated she was aware Resident #85 did not have a Significant Change MDS submitted when he transferred hospice companies in February 2023, and he should have.
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

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

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Grade A (90/100). Above average facility, better than most options in Louisiana.
  • • No major safety red flags. No abuse findings, life-threatening violations, or SFF status.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Louisiana facilities.
Concerns
  • • 12 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Ponchatoula Community's CMS Rating?

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

How is Ponchatoula Community Staffed?

CMS rates PONCHATOULA COMMUNITY CARE CENTER's staffing level at 3 out of 5 stars, which is average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 46%, compared to the Louisiana average of 46%.

What Have Inspectors Found at Ponchatoula Community?

State health inspectors documented 12 deficiencies at PONCHATOULA COMMUNITY CARE CENTER during 2023 to 2024. These included: 10 with potential for harm and 2 minor or isolated issues.

Who Owns and Operates Ponchatoula Community?

PONCHATOULA COMMUNITY CARE CENTER is owned by a non-profit organization. Non-profit facilities reinvest revenue into operations rather than distributing to shareholders. The facility is operated by COMMCARE CORPORATION, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 140 certified beds and approximately 118 residents (about 84% occupancy), it is a mid-sized facility located in PONCHATOULA, Louisiana.

How Does Ponchatoula Community Compare to Other Louisiana Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Louisiana, PONCHATOULA COMMUNITY CARE CENTER's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 2.4, staff turnover (46%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (5 stars) is much above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Ponchatoula Community?

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

Is Ponchatoula Community Safe?

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

Do Nurses at Ponchatoula Community Stick Around?

PONCHATOULA COMMUNITY CARE CENTER has a staff turnover rate of 46%, which is about average for Louisiana nursing homes (state average: 46%). Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Ponchatoula Community Ever Fined?

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

Is Ponchatoula Community on Any Federal Watch List?

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