HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER

11 CONDITO ROAD, HINGHAM, MA 02043 (781) 749-4774
For profit - Limited Liability company 142 Beds BANECARE MANAGEMENT Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
70/100
#87 of 338 in MA
Last Inspection: August 2024

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

Overview

Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has received a Trust Grade of B, indicating it is a good option among nursing homes, though not the best. Ranking #87 out of 338 facilities in Massachusetts places it in the top half, and #12 out of 27 in Plymouth County means there are only a few local options that perform better. The facility's trend is improving, with issues decreasing from 13 in 2023 to 6 in 2024, which is a positive sign. Staffing is rated 4 out of 5 stars, with a turnover rate of 34%, lower than the state average, suggesting that staff are experienced and familiar with residents. Although there are no fines recorded, there have been some concerning incidents, including failures to provide evening snacks which residents reported as lacking, and issues with food safety practices in the kitchen that could pose health risks. Additionally, there was a serious concern regarding insulin administration where a resident's insulin was given despite blood sugar levels being outside of prescribed limits. Overall, while the facility has strengths, such as good staffing and an improving trend, the specific incidents raise important questions about resident care and safety.

Trust Score
B
70/100
In Massachusetts
#87/338
Top 25%
Safety Record
Low Risk
No red flags
Inspections
Getting Better
13 → 6 violations
Staff Stability
○ Average
34% turnover. Near Massachusetts's 48% average. Typical for the industry.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Massachusetts facilities.
Skilled Nurses
○ Average
Each resident gets 34 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — about average for Massachusetts. RNs are the most trained staff who monitor for health changes.
Violations
⚠ Watch
21 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★★★★☆
4.0
Overall Rating
★★★★☆
4.0
Staff Levels
★★★★☆
4.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2023: 13 issues
2024: 6 issues

The Good

  • 4-Star Staffing Rating · Above-average nurse staffing levels
  • 4-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover below average (34%)

    14 points below Massachusetts average of 48%

Facility shows strength in staffing levels, quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 34%

12pts below Massachusetts avg (46%)

Typical for the industry

Chain: BANECARE MANAGEMENT

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 21 deficiencies on record

Dec 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

Abuse Prevention Policies (Tag F0607)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interviews and records reviewed, for one of three sampled residents (Residents #1), who had moderate cognitive impairment, the Facility failed to ensure they developed and implemented an Abus...

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Based on interviews and records reviewed, for one of three sampled residents (Residents #1), who had moderate cognitive impairment, the Facility failed to ensure they developed and implemented an Abuse Prohibition Policy that included written procedures for staff to follow related to the need to immediately report, and to whom, allegations of abuse when, on 11/08/24 at around 1:00 A.M., Resident #1 came to the nurses station with a skin tear and told Nurse #1 that someone named David stabbed him/her with a box cutter and Nurse #1 did not immediately report the allegation to the Director of Nursing or Administrator, and as a result, they were not made aware of the allegation until about 8 hours later, when the Director of Nursing reviewed Nurse #1's written Incident Report regarding Resident #1's injury. Findings include: Review of the Facility Abuse Policies titled Identification and Reporting Allegations, Prevention of Resident Abuse and Neglect and Investigation Guidelines, last reviewed by the Facility during 9/2023, indicated that all staff members are mandated to report incidents of suspected abuse or neglect to their immediate supervisor, nursing supervisor, Director of Nursing or Administrator. During an interview on 12/02/24 at 1:54 P.M., the Director of Nursing said that the Facility Abuse Policies indicated that staff members should report incidents of suspected abuse to their immediate supervisor, however, the Policies did not indicate that reports of alleged abuse should be made immediately. Review of the Report submitted by the Facility via the Health Care Facility Reporting System (HCFRS), dated 11/08/24, indicated that around 1:33 A.M. on 11/08/24, staff members observed Resident #1 in the hallway walking toward the nurses station bleeding from the right forearm. The Report indicated that the nurse observed that Resident #1 had a skin tear and when the nurse asked Resident #1 what happened, he/she stated he/she got into a fight with David and that David had a box cutter. Resident #1's clinical record indicated he/she was admitted to the Facility during February of 2024 and his/her diagnosis included unspecified dementia, psychotic disturbance, mood disturbance and anxiety. Review of Resident #1's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment, dated 8/29/24 indicated that his/her cognitive patterns were moderately impaired. During an interview on 12/02/24 at 10:30 A.M., Nurse #1 said that on 11/08/24 around 1:00 A.M., Resident #1 came to the nurses station with Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) #1 and showed her a skin tear on his/her right forearm. Review of the One Time Skin Check Form, dated 11/08/24, indicated Resident #1 had a 2.5 centimeter (cm) by .25 cm skin tear on his/her right posterior forearm. Nurse #1 said that when she asked Resident #1 what happened, he/she said that he/she got in a fight with David and David had a box cutter. Nurse #1 said that there were no residents or staff members on the Unit at the time of Resident #1's report named David and she did not know to whom Resident #1 was referring. Nurse #1 said that there had been no residents in the hallways before Resident #1 exited his/her room and reported the skin tear and Resident #2 (his/her roommate) was bed bound and unable to get up out of bed on his/her own. During an interview on 12/02/24 at 12:50 P.M., the Director of Nursing said that around 8:00 A.M. on 11/08/24, she made rounds of the Facility and saw that Nurse #1 was completing an Incident Report regarding a skin tear found on Resident #1's forearm during the 11:00 P.M. to 7:00 A.M. shift. The Director of Nursing said that later on during the morning, she reviewed Nurse #1's Incident Report regarding Resident #1's skin tear and said that Nurse #1 should have immediately reported Resident #1's allegation. The Director of Nursing said that when she became aware of the alleged incident more than 8 hours later, she reported it to the Administrator and initiated an investigation.
Sept 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

Abuse Prevention Policies (Tag F0607)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interviews and records reviewed, for one of three sampled residents (Resident #2), who was severely cognitively impaired and dependent upon staff for care, the Facility failed to ensure that ...

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Based on interviews and records reviewed, for one of three sampled residents (Resident #2), who was severely cognitively impaired and dependent upon staff for care, the Facility failed to ensure that staff implemented and followed the Facility Abuse Prohibition Policy when on 8/24/24 around 12:30 A.M., Nurse #1 was made aware of an allegation of abuse of Resident #2, that the door to his/her room was tied so that he/she could not exit if desired, and although Nurse #1 said he reported the allegation to Nurse #2, neither of them reported the allegation to facility Administration and, as a result, they were not aware of the allegation until more than 8 hours later, when Nurse #3 became aware and reported it, as required. Findings include: Review of the Facility Policy titled Prevention of Abuse and Neglect, effective 10/22, indicated that all employees of the Facility are mandated to report incidents of suspected resident abuse, neglect, mistreatment, exploitation or misappropriation to their immediate supervisor, nursing supervisor, Director of Nursing Services or the Executive Director. The Policy defines exploitation to include involuntary seclusion or restraint not required to treat a resident's medical symptoms. Review of the Report submitted by the Facility via the Health Care Facility Reporting System (HCFRS), dated 8/24/24, indicated that at 9:00 A.M., Resident #1 reported to the nurse (later identified as Nurse #3) that during the previous shift, he/she took photographs of a resident's door (Resident #2) with a towel tied to the railing and the door handle, keeping the door closed and the resident from exiting the room. The Report indicated that Resident #1 told the nurse that he/she had reported that the door was tied closed to the nurse (later identified as Nurse #1) during the previous shift. Review of Resident #2's clinical record indicated that he/she was admitted to the Facility during August of 2024 and his/her diagnoses included unspecified dementia. Review of Resident #2's MDS Assessment, dated 8/28/24, indicated that his/her cognitive patterns were severely impaired. Review of Resident #1's clinical record indicated that he/she was admitted to the Facility during June of 2024 and his/her diagnoses included aftercare following shoulder joint prosthesis. Review of Resident #1's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment, dated 6/20/24, indicated that his/her cognitive patterns were intact. During a telephone interview on 9/30/24 at 1:50 P.M., Resident #1 said that on 8/24/24 during the overnight shift he/she saw Resident #2's door held closed with a towel tied from the chair rail to the door knob and took photographs of the door. Resident #1 said that he/she reported his/her observation of Resident #2's door to one of the nurse aides and said the nurse aide reported it to the nurse. During telephone interviews on 9/30/24 at 2:15 P.M. with Resident Care Aide #1 and 10/02/24 at 1:45 P.M. with Nurse #1, they said that during the 11:00 P.M. into 7:00 A.M. from 8/23/24 to 8/24/24, Resident #1 alleged that Resident #2's door was tied closed with a towel. Resident Care Aide #1 and Nurse #1 said that Nurse #2, who was the nurse supervisor, heard Resident #1 yelling about the incident and asked them why he/she was yelling. Nurse #1 said that Nurse #2 called him on the phone and asked why Resident #1 was yelling and said he told her that Resident #1 was yelling about a towel being used to tie another resident's door closed. Nurse #1 and Resident Care Aide #1 said Nurse #2 came to Resident #1's Unit and asked who had tied the door closed and they said Nurse #2 told them that tying doors closed could get the Facility in a lot of trouble. During an interview on 9/30/24 at 2:00 P.M. Nurse #2 said that she was nurse supervisor during the 11:00 P.M. to 7:00 A.M. from 8/23/24 into 8/24/24. Nurse #2 said that she was not aware that Resident #1 alleged that a staff member tied Resident #2's door closed. Nurse #2 said that although she had spoken to Nurse #1 about a resident being loud on the Unit and said that she told Nurse #1 to tell the resident (later identified as Resident #1) to quiet down, she said Nurse #1 had not told her that there had been an allegation that Resident #2's door was tied closed. During an interview on 10/02/24 at 2:10 P.M., Nurse #3 said that at 9:00 A.M. on 8/24/24, Resident #1 reported to her that there had been a resident's door tied closed with a towel during the 11:00 P.M. to 7:00 A.M. shift and he/she had taken pictures. Nurse #3 said that she immediately reported Resident #1's allegation to the Director of Nursing and the Administrator. During interviews on 9/30/24 at 9:00 A.M. with the Director of Nursing and on 9/30/24 at 12:30 P.M. with the Administrator, they said that on 8/24/24 around 9:00 A.M., Nurse #3 reported that Resident #1 alleged Resident #2's door was tied closed with a towel during the previous 11:00 P.M. to 7:00 A.M. shift. The Director of Nursing and Administrator said that Nurse #3's report to them was around 8.5 hours after Resident #1 initially reported the allegation to Nurse #1 and Resident Care Aide #1. On 9/30/24 the Facility was found to be in past non-compliance. The Facility provided the Surveyor with a plan of correction which addressed the concern as evidenced by: A. On 8/24/24, the Facility suspended Resident Care Aide #1 and Nurse #1 pending investigation of the incident. B. On 8/24/24, the Director of Nursing assessed the skin of Resident #2 and all alike residents on his/her Unit. C. Between 8/24/24 and 9/05/24, all Facility employees were trained by the Director of Nurses or designee on the responsibility to report allegations of abuse, neglect, mistreatment, misappropriation and involuntary seclusion to their immediate supervisor, the nursing supervisor, the Director of Nursing or the Administrator. D. On 8/24/24, the Director of Nursing or designee audited all Units for signs of residents being involuntarily secluded. Observations continued on every shift for 7 days, weekly for 4 weeks and monthly for 3 weeks. E. Since 8/24/24, the Director of Nursing continues to review all reportable incidents for the timeliness of staff members reports to their immediate supervisor, the nursing supervisor, the Director of Nursing or the Administrator. F. On 8/24/24, an emergency, ad hoc QAPI meeting was held to review the correction plan. Further ad hoc meetings will be held weekly for 4 weeks and monthly for 3 months. G. The Administrator and/or designee is responsible for overall compliance.
Aug 2024 3 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Quality of Care (Tag F0684)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, policy review, and interview, the facility failed to ensure for one Resident (#323), out of a total samp...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, policy review, and interview, the facility failed to ensure for one Resident (#323), out of a total sample of 24 residents, that the Resident received care and treatment in accordance with the medical care plan. Specifically, the facility failed to perform physician-ordered treatments to the Resident's external fixator pins. Findings include: Review of the facility's policy titled Charting and Documentation, revised in July 2017, indicated but was not limited to the following: -Documentation in the medical record may be electronic, manual or a combination. -The following information is to be documented in the resident medical record: Treatments or services performed -Documentation in the medical record will be objective (not opinionated or speculative) complete, and accurate. Resident #323 was admitted in July 2024 with diagnoses which included bilateral patellar tendon rupture with surgical repair. Review of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, dated 8/1/24, indicated a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 out of 15, indicating the Resident was without cognitive impairment. Review of the Hospital Discharge summary, dated [DATE], indicated that wound care to the internal fixator pins was to be done daily by nursing. Review of the Physician's Orders indicated: -Daily pin care with 1/2 normal saline and 1/2 hydrogen peroxide, apply gently with a Q-Tip to pin sites. Review of the Treatment Administration Record (TAR) indicated that on 7/27/24, 7/28/24,7/29/24, 7/30/24, and 7/31/24, the treatment to the external fixator pins to bilateral lower extremities was performed as ordered. During an interview on 7/31/24 at 1:30 P.M., Resident #323 said that nursing staff had not touched the pins since he/she was admitted . The Resident said the last time the pins were cleaned was in the hospital on 7/26/24. The Resident was not sure how often the pins were supposed to be cleaned by the facility. During an interview with Nurse #4, Resident #323, and Resident #323's Family Member on 7/31/24 at 1:50 P.M., Nurse #4 said she only looked at the bottom fixator pins, and did not see the top pins. She said that she must have signed off cleaning the fixator pins in error because she didn't perform the cleaning/treatment to the pins. The Resident said that no one had unwrapped, or looked at the pins, since the physician did so on Friday morning. The Resident's Family Member said the pins have not been cleaned for five days. During an interview on 7/31/24 at 1:50 P.M., Nurse #1 said she didn't see the order for pin care; she must have missed it. Nurse #1 reviewed the TAR and said that she did not perform the pin care on 7/29/24, but she confirmed that she signed that she had performed the treatment on the TAR. During an interview on 7/31/24 at 2:22 P.M., Nurse #3 said that she looked around the gauze and did not see any redness or drainage. She said she did not see any order for a dressing change. She also said that she did not remove the gauze to look at the pins underneath the gauze. During an interview on 8/1/24 at 12:39 P.M., Nurse #2 said that she worked on Tuesday, 7/30/24. She said that she remembered mixing up the cleaning solution for the pins, she signed off on performing the treatment to the pins, however she said that she didn't get to do the treatment because she got distracted with a new admission. During an interview on 8/6/24 at 11:05 A.M., the Director of Nursing (DON) said that she wasn't sure if Nurse #6 performed the treatment to the fixator pins on 7/27/24 and 7/28/24, although the nurse signed off that she had done the treatments on that date. Additionally, she said that at least 3 of 5 signed treatments to the Resident's fixator pins were not performed as ordered between 7/27/24 and 7/31/24, although they had been signed off by nursing as being done. The DON also said that a nurse should not sign off that a treatment was performed without having performed it.
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, interview, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure staff stored all drugs and biologicals used in the facility in accordance with currently accepted professional princip...

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Based on observation, interview, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure staff stored all drugs and biologicals used in the facility in accordance with currently accepted professional principles for one Resident (#322), out of a total sample of 24 residents. Specifically, the facility failed for Resident #322, to ensure the medications were administered under direct supervision and not left at the bedside. Findings include: Review of the facility's policy titled Competency Assessment Administering Oral Medication, revised October 2020, indicated but was not limited to the following: -The purpose of this procedure is to provide guidelines for safe administration of oral medications. -Prepare the correct dose of medication. -Confirm the identity of the resident. -Allow the resident to swallow oral tablets or capsules at his or her comfortable pace. -Remain with the resident until all medications have been taken. -Notify the supervisor if resident refuses the procedure, -Report other information in accordance with facility policy and professional standards of practice. Resident #322 was admitted to the facility in July 2024 with diagnoses which included: Fracture right femur and dementia. Review of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, dated 7/31/24, indicated the Resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 13 out of 15, indicating the Resident was cognitively intact. Review of Resident #322's Self-Administration of Medication Assessment, dated 7/25/24, indicated the Resident did not want to have medications at the bedside or did not wish to administer his/her own medications. Review of Resident #322's care plan, dated 7/26/24, indicated but was not limited to the following: -Impaired cognitive function dementia or impaired thought processes. -Administer medications as ordered. Monitor/document for side effects and effectiveness. Review of Resident #322's Medication Administration Record (MAR) for 9:00 A.M. pill administration indicated the following: -Amlodipine Besylate 2.5 milligrams (MG). Give one tablet by mouth for hypertension -Aspirin EC low dose delayed release 81 mg. Give one tablet by mouth for heart health. -Bupropion HCI Extended release (ER) extended release 12-hour 100 mg. Give one tablet by mouth in morning for depression. -Calcium Carbonate tablet chewable. Give 500 mg by mouth in the morning. -Donepezil HCI tablet 5 mg. Give one tablet by mouth for Alzheimer's. -Lamotrigine tablet 150 mg. Give one tablet by mouth in morning for bipolar. -Lexapro tablet 20 mg. Give one tablet by mouth in morning for depression. -Losartan Potassium tablet 100 mg. Give one tablet by mouth in morning for hypertension. -Vitamin D3 tablet 25 micrograms (MCG). Give one tablet by mouth in morning. -Docusate sodium capsule 100 mg. Give one capsule by mouth two times a day for constipation. -Sitagliptin-metformin HCI tablet 50-1000 mg. Give one tablet two times a day for diabetes. -Gabapentin capsule 300 mg. Give one capsule by mouth three times a day for pain. -Tylenol Extra strength tablet 500 mg. Give two tablets by mouth three times a day for pain dose of 1000 mg. On 7/31/24 at 10:40 at A.M., the surveyor observed a pill cup on Resident #322's bedside table containing 12 pills. During an interview on 7/31/24 at 10:40 A.M., Resident #322 said he/she asked the nurse to leave the pills and he/she would take them later. During an interview on 7/31/24 at 10:50 A.M., Nurse #4 said she did not give Resident #322 the medications this morning. Nurse #4 said the student nurse, under the supervision of her instructor, administered the medications. Review of the Nursing Note, dated 7/31/24, indicated this nurse [Nurse #4] observed medications unattended at bedside. During an interview on 7/31/24 at 11:11 A.M., the Director of Nurses (DON) said her expectation is the student nurses train with direct supervision from the instructor and stay with the resident until all the medications are consumed. The DON said Nurse #4 had notified her there were multiple pills left at Resident #322's bedside. She said Nurse #4 reconciled the pills because the Resident #322 told her he/she had already taken some. During an interview on 7/31/24 at 12:00 P.M., Nurse Student Instructor (NSI) said she did go in Resident #322's room with the student nurse and was standing by the end of the bed. She said she did not hear Resident #322 ask to leave the medication and thought Resident #322 had taken all the medication before they left the room. The NSI said she should have made sure Resident #322 took all his/her pills before leaving the room.
CONCERN (E)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to follow professional standards of practice for food safety and sanitation to prevent the potential spread of foodborne illness to residents wh...

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Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to follow professional standards of practice for food safety and sanitation to prevent the potential spread of foodborne illness to residents who are at high risk. Specifically, the facility failed to: 1. Ensure facial hair was restrained during food preparation; and 2. Maintain a safe and clean microwave in one out of three kitchenettes; and 3. Maintain a safe and clean ice scoop in one out of three kitchenettes. Findings include: 1. Review of the facility's policy titled Nutrition and Food Service: Employee Practices, dated as revised in September 2023, indicated employees shall use effective hair restraints when working in all food preparation areas to prevent contamination of food or food-contact surfaces. All hair must be restrained and tucked under hairnet. On 8/1/24 at 7:30 A.M., the surveyor observed Dietary Aide #1 at the meal preparation assembly line putting placemats and silverware on the trays. The surveyor observed the Dietary Aide not wearing a hair net on top of their head and not wearing a beard net on their facial hair. On 8/1/24 at 11:30 A.M., the surveyor observed Dietary Aide #1 at the meal preparation assembly line putting placemats and silverware on the trays. The surveyor observed the Dietary Aide wearing a hair net on the top of their head and not wearing a beard net on their facial hair. During an interview on 8/2/24 at 9:40 A.M., the Food Service Director said Dietary Aide #1 should be wearing a beard restraint while in the kitchen. 2. Review of the 2022 Food Code, a model for safeguarding public health and ensuring food is safe for consumption, indicated: 4-201.11 Equipment and Utensils. Equipment and utensils must be designed and constructed to be durable and capable of retaining their original characteristics so that such items can continue to fulfill their intended purpose for the duration of their life expectancy and to maintain their easy cleanability. If they cannot maintain their original characteristics, they may become difficult to clean, allowing for the harborage of pathogenic microorganisms . Equipment and utensils must be designed and constructed so that parts do not break and end up in food as foreign objects or present injury hazards to consumers. On 8/1/24 at 3:10 P.M. the surveyor observed the inside of the microwave in the South Two kitchenette with black markings on the back and top. The inside top contained food splatter and was bubbling and peeling. During an interview on 8/2/24 at 9:55 A.M., the Food Service Director said the top of the microwave was peeling and there were black marks. He said the housekeeping staff were responsible for cleaning he microwaves, and he did not know the inside of the microwave was peeling and he would have it replaced. 3. Review of the facility's policy titled Nutrition and Food Service: Ice Scoop Sanitation, dated as revised in September 2023, indicated ice machine equipment (scoops and receptacles that are used to hold or transport ice) will be cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis. Clean and sanitize the ice scoop and other ice receptacles daily or as needed in the dishwasher and allowed to air dry. Store ice scoop beside or on top of the machine in a clean non-porous container that allows the water to drain off and not pool around the scoop. On 8/1/24 at 3:02 P.M., the surveyor observed the North Two kitchenette ice scoop mounted on the wall in a cylindrical holder. The surveyor observed the bottom of the holder, where the ice scoop rests, with liquid and a brown substance. During an interview with observation on 8/2/24 at 9:50 A.M., the Food Service Director said the ice scoop and the holder should be checked for cleanliness when the dietary staff are checking the kitchenettes. He said the bottom of the scoop should not have pooling liquid and a brown substance.
Feb 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

Notification of Changes (Tag F0580)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on records reviewed and interviews, for one of three sampled residents (Resident #1), who had experienced a fall at the Fa...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on records reviewed and interviews, for one of three sampled residents (Resident #1), who had experienced a fall at the Facility on 1/12/24 which resulted in him/her being diagnosed with a subdural hematoma (SDH, pool of blood between the brain and the outermost covering), the Facility failed to ensure nursing staff immediately notified his/her Physician, when on 01/31/24 at approximately 3:00 A.M., Resident #1 had a witnessed fall while being transferred by a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), Resident #1 struck his/her head during the fall, had visible bruising and an injury to the right side of his/her face/head as a result of the fall, however the Physician was not notified until more than four hours later, at which time an order was obtained to transfer him/her to the Hospital Emergency Department (ED) for evaluation and treatment. Findings include: Review of the Facility Policy, titled Change in Resident Condition, dated 09/2022, indicated that the Facility shall promptly notify the resident, his/her Attending Physician, and resident representative of changes in the resident's medical/mental condition and/or status. The Policy further indicated that the Nurse would notify the residents Attending Physician or on call provider when there has been; -accident or incident involving the resident; -discovery of injuries of an unknown origin; -a significant change in the resident's physical/emotional/mental condition; and -need to transfer the resident to the hospital or treatment center. Resident #1 was admitted to the Facility in December 2023, diagnoses included right hip fracture, anemia, chronic kidney disease, and significant dementia. Review of Resident #1's Hospital Discharge summary, dated [DATE], indicated he/she was evaluated in the Emergency Department (ED) after a fall at his/her facility, and was found to have sustained a subdural hematoma (SDH, pool of blood between the brain and the outermost covering) and intraparenchymal (bleeding into the brain) hematoma. Review of the report submitted by the Facility via Health Care Facility Reporting System (HCFRS), dated 01/31/24, indicated that Resident #1 had a witnessed fall while transferring with CNA #1. The report indicated CNA #1 slipped backward onto the floor while transferring Resident #1 from his/her wheelchair back to bed and Resident #1 fell face first on top of CNA #1. The Report also indicated that Resident #1 sustained facial bruising to the right side of his/her face and forehead with a skin tear to his/her forehead. The Report indicated Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were called at 8:16 A.M. (which was more than five hours after the fall) to transport Resident #1 to the ED. Review of Resident #1's Nurse Progress Note (written by Nurse #1 at 4:53 A.M.), dated 01/31/24, indicated he/she experienced a witness fall sustaining an injury to his/her right temple and right arm. Although Resident #1 had a history of a SDH after a fall on 1/12/24, review of Resident #1's Medical Record indicated there was no documentation to support that Nurse #1 notified Resident #1's Physician of his/her fall on 1/31/24 with witnessed head strike and noted facial injury. Review of Resident #1's SBAR Nurse Progress Note (written by the Unit Manager and signed as completed at 8:14 A.M.), dated 01/31/24, indicated to send Resident #1 to the Hospital Emergency Department related to new fall, notable injury to his/her right temple, and history of recent SDH. During a telephone interview on 02/26/24 at 1:02 P.M. which included (review of his written witness statement, dated 01/31/24), CNA #1 said that at approximately 2:50 A.M. on 01/31/24 while he was transferring Resident #1 from the wheelchair back to his/her bed after being toileted, Resident #1 fell. CNA #1 said while he was transferring Resident #1, he (CNA #1) lost his footing, fell backwards onto the floor, and Resident #1 fell face forward on top of him. CNA #1 said he heard a banging sound as Resident #1 fell forward but said at that time he could not figure out what he/she (Resident #1) may have hit. CNA #1 said Resident #1 had blood dripping from the right side of his/her face and a skin tear to his/her right elbow area. During a telephone interview on 02/26/24 at 5:29 P.M., which included (review of his written witness statement, dated 01/31/24), CNA #2 said he was working on 01/31/24 during the overnight shift and that he became aware that Resident #1 had fallen around 3:00 A.M., because that was when CNA #1 called out for help. During an interview on 02/21/24 at 5:29 P.M. Nurse #1 said she was the nurse caring for Resident #1 from 11:00 P.M. on 01/30/24 through 7:00 A.M. on 01/31/24, Nurse #1 said that on 01/31/24, Resident #1 fell around 5:00 A.M. Nurse #1 said she was called to Resident #1's room after being notified of his/her fall. Nurse #1 said Resident #1 was sitting on his/her bed when she got to the room, then she went to get the vital signs machine and some treatment supplies for the visible injury to his/her head/face. Nurse #1 said she had not notified Resident #1's Physician after the incident and said she had not notified or asked any other nurses in the building for assistance. Nurse #1 said she just waited until the next shift came in at 7:00 A.M. and she said they took over the investigation and notifications. Nurse #1 said that she was unaware of Resident #1's history of a fall or that he/she had recently been diagnosed with a SDH. Nurse #1 said that this was the first time something like this had happen to her and that she was not sure what to do. Although Nurse #1 said Resident #1's fall on 01/31/24 occurred around 5:00 A.M., this conflicted with statements made by Nurse #1 in her original interview with the Director of Nurse (DON), during which Nurse #1 had reported to the DON that Resident #1's fall had occurred at 3:00 A.M. During an interview on 02/21/24 at 3:46 P.M., Nurse #4 said on 01/31/24, (prior to Resident #1 falling), she had introduced herself to Nurse #1 and told her that if she needed any help with anything to call or page her because she was working that shift, but was on a different unit in the building. Nurse #4 said Nurse #1 never called to inform her of the fall or to ask for any help. During an interview on 02/21/24 at 1:42 P.M., the Unit Manager said she arrived at the Facility on 01/31/24 a little before 7:00 A.M. and went to her office and said she received a phone call from the DON informing her that Resident #1 had a fall. The Unit Manager said she went to speak with Nurse #1, asked her what had happened with Resident #1 and asked Nurse #1 if she had informed the supervisor on that shift, or if she had notified Resident #1's Physician and that Nurse #1 had said no. The Unit Manager said she and the DON went to assess Resident #1 and immediately noted new bruising to his/her face and a dressing in place. The Unit Manager said it is the expectation of the Facility is that if a resident sustains a fall, after first assessing the Resident, the Nurse must notify the Physician and resident representative/HCA as soon as possible and report any injuries and obtain any orders from his/her Physician. During an interview on 02/21/24 at 4:09 P.M., the Director of Nurses (DON) said that she was aware of the fall once she came into the building on 01/312/24, and read the previous shifts nurse progress notes. The DON said she called the Unit Manager to make her aware of the incident and together they went to assess Resident #1. The DON said that the Nurse Practitioner (NP) was in the building, and after reviewing the details of the fall and with Resident #1's history of recent SDH, she went to speak with the NP, and said the NP gave a verbal order to send Resident #1 to the ED. The DON said that it is the expectation of the Facility that nurses immediately notify the Physician, residents responsible party/HCA, and herself of any significant change in condition, including falls. On 02/17/24, the Facility was found to be in Past Non-Compliance and presented the Surveyor with a plan of correction which addresses the areas of concern as evidence by. A) 01/31/24, Resident #1 was transferred to the Hospital ED for evaluation and treatment as needed, and returned to the facility the same day. B) 01/31/24, Resident #1 plan of care was reviewed and updated, he/she now requires two-person physical assist for all transfers. C) 01/31/24, The Director of Nurses (DON) reported the incident to Nurse #1's Staffing Agency, and requested that Nurse #1 be placed on the Do Not Return List for Facility. D) 01/31/24, The Director of Nurse (DON) and the Assistant Director of Nurses (ADON) initiated mandatory education for all licensed staff on the following Policies and Procedures (P&P): -Falls and Neurological Checks; -Change in Resident Condition and Notification of Change; -Abuse, Neglect, and Misappropriation; -Resident Rights; -Incident Reporting/Reporting to Supervisor in House; and -Comprehensive Person-Centered Care Plan. E) 01/31/24, Facility Fall Audits were initiated by the DON and ADON ensuring all aspects of a Fall Incident were completed. Fall Audits will be completed every shift for all units for 30 days, then completed weekly for four weeks, and then monthly for three months. Fall Audits will be reviewed at Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) meetings. F) 02/01/24, the DON and ADON initiated daily audits to confirm Agency Staff completed facility required orientation process, which included mandatory education for licensed staff on P&P. G) 02/01/24, Competency testing for licensed nursing staff was instituted related to materials reviewed during In-Servicing to ensure compliance. H) Audits initiated as as result of this incident, will be reviewed daily by the DON and/or designee the following morning for continued compliance. I) 02/01/24, 02/08/24, and 02/14/24, AD HOC QAPI meetings were held with Leadership Team to review the Facility Plan of Correction. J) The DON and/or Designee are responsible for overall compliance.
May 2023 13 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0578 (Tag F0578)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure Advance Directives were formulated and signed by the residents, for two Residents (#339 and #8), out of a total sample of 25 residen...

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Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure Advance Directives were formulated and signed by the residents, for two Residents (#339 and #8), out of a total sample of 25 residents. Findings include: Review of the Massachusetts Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (MOLST) form, dated August 10, 2013, indicated but was not limited to the following: Instructions: -This form should be signed based on goals of care discussions between the patient (or patient's representative signing below) and the signing clinician. -Sections A through C are valid orders only if sections D and E are complete. If any section is not completed, there is no limitation on the treatment indicated in that section. Section D: Patient or patient's representative signature is required. Section E: Clinician signature required. 1. Resident #339 was admitted to the facility in May 2023 with a diagnosis of a fracture of the proximal right femur (upper leg bone). Review of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, dated 5/8/23, indicated Resident #339 scored 12 out of 15 on the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) exam which indicated the Resident had mild cognitive impairment. Review of the Physician's Orders indicated Resident #339's Health Care Proxy (HCP) was not invoked. Review of Resident #339's MOLST indicated Section D: Patient or patient's representative signature required had the following handwritten statement, verbal consent obtained from HCP dated 5/4/2023. Resident #339 did not sign the form. 2. Resident #8 was admitted to the facility in August 2022 with diagnoses which included heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and diabetes. Review of the MDS assessment, dated 2/7/23, indicated Resident #8 scored 15 out of 15 on the BIMS exam which indicated the Resident was cognitively intact. Review of the Physician's Orders indicated Resident #8's HCP was not invoked. Review of Resident #8's MOLST indicated Section D: Patient or patient's representative signature required had the following handwritten statement: signed via telephone consent and communicated with HCP (Health Care Proxy) as patient was legally blind on 9/2/2022. Resident #8 did not sign the form. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 5:16 P.M., Nurse #1 said we don't accept verbal orders on the MOLST. She said the Resident has to sign the MOLST if the HCP is not activated. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 5:30 P.M., the Director of Nurses (DON) said if a resident is admitted to the facility with their MOLST signed with a verbal consent or by the wrong person, we have the MOLST corrected upon admission. The DON said her expectation is the resident signs the MOLST, unless the healthcare proxy has been invoked. The DON reviewed the MOLSTs for Residents #339 and #8 and said they were not valid because they were signed with a verbal consent and should have been signed by Resident #339 and #8 respectively.
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

Based on record review, interview, and policy review, the facility failed to consistently update and implement a fall care plan with interventions to prevent further falls for one Resident (#117), out...

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Based on record review, interview, and policy review, the facility failed to consistently update and implement a fall care plan with interventions to prevent further falls for one Resident (#117), out of a total sample of 25 residents. Findings include: Review of the facility's policy titled Falls Program, dated as reviewed 9/2022, indicated but was not limited to the following: - the purpose of this policy is to prevent actual occurrences of falls and reduce the risk of any injury - develop individualized care plan - review and revise the care plan as needed - residents experiencing a fall will receive appropriate care with investigation of cause and care plan will reflect new interventions initiated Resident #117 was admitted to the facility in February 2023 with the following diagnoses: repeated falls, polyneuropathy (a dysfunction of the nerves that can cause decrease sensation, pain or involuntary movements), and orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure with a change in position of the body). Review of the Resident Fall Assessments indicated the Resident was a moderate to high risk for falls since admission in February. Review of the current care plans for Resident #117 indicated but was not limited to the following: A. Resident is at risk for falls related to (r/t) unaware of safety needs, impaired mobility, and cognitive deficits. Interventions include: - attempt to anticipate needs (2/6/23) - call light in reach and encourage use (2/6/23) - offer to toilet resident every two hours while awake (2/6/23) - follow facility fall protocol (2/6/23) - ensure proper footwear/slipper socks (2/6/23) - send to emergency room (ER) for evaluation (3/28/23) - bed alarm and chair alarm (3/29/23) B. Resident has had an actual fall 3/27/23 with minor injury to forehead r/t poor balance, actual fall 3/29/23 unassisted toileting, actual fall 3/29/23 bed to wheelchair (wc) transfer, actual fall wc to bed transfer 3/30/23. Interventions include: - continue interventions on the at-risk care plan (3/28/23) - assess for changes in behavior and mental status until 4/4/23 (3/28/23) - patient will resume skilled rehabilitation (3/28/23) - send urinalysis and culture to rule out urinary tract infection (3/29/23) - slipper socks (3/29/23) - surveillance labs to identify any anomaly (3/30/23) - physician review of medications (3/30/23) - orthostatic vital signs for 72 hours (4/7/23) Review of the Fall Incident Reports for Resident #117 indicated but was not limited to the following: A. 3/27/23 unwitnessed fall at 8:30 P.M. - mobility status prior to incident: independent - Resident was in bed prior to fall - small laceration to forehead - intervention added to prevent further fall: blank - resident said he/she was in bed and trying to get up and slid down to the floor - immediate intervention initiated and further recommendations: send to ER for evaluation - follow up summary: (3/28/23) scans done in the ER negative for major injury, small laceration with four staples There was no intervention initiated to prevent further falls upon the Resident's return to the facility. B. 3/29/23 unwitnessed fall at 6:15 A.M. - mobility status prior to incident: assist - resident found sitting on floor in front of the toilet - no apparent injury - intervention added to prevent further fall: urinal at bedside, bed alarm in place - immediate intervention initiated and further recommendations: slipper socks - follow up summary: (3/29/23) blank C. 3/29/23 unwitnessed fall at 3:00 P.M. - mobility status prior to incident: assist - resident found sitting on the floor in front of wheelchair - no apparent injury - intervention added to prevent further fall: leave wheelchair in locked position next to bed - immediate intervention initiated and further recommendations: resident is self-transferring and not using call light, leave wheelchair locked beside bed, resident has a bed alarm - follow up summary: (3/29/23) non-injury fall D. 3/30/23 unwitnessed fall at 12:30 P.M. - mobility status prior to incident: assist - resident found sitting in between the bed and wheelchair (per the drawn picture) - no apparent injury - intervention added to prevent further fall: blank - resident self removed slipper socks - resident had completed skilled rehabilitation and was left in wheelchair in room facing the television - resident said he/she was trying to get to bed from the chair - immediate intervention initiated and further recommendations: surveillance labs and medication list review - follow up summary: (3/30/23) non-injury fall, medical work up, recurrent falls Review of the Physician's Notes indicated Resident #117 was seen by his/her physician on 3/30/23 for increasing falls with unclear etiology. The physician indicated a urinalysis was pending and labs would be obtained as well as a neurological consult. Review of the facility progress notes indicated the following: - 3/31/23: Change in condition, altered mental status, no medication changes in the last week, increase confusion, decrease mobility, increase weakness, urinalysis and labs pending, send to ER for medical work up. - 4/4/23: Resident returned to the facility from the hospital where he/she was diagnosed with urinary tract infection and fractured nose. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 11:07 A.M., Unit Manager #3 reviewed the medical record for Resident #117, including the care plans and said there was no intervention put in place following the Resident's fall on 3/27/23 to prevent further falls, she said the evaluation at the ER was a follow up action and an intervention to prevent falls should have been put in place. She said the Resident had multiple falls and a urine pending to rule out urinary tract infection (UTI), was non-compliant with call light and slipper sock use and had poor safety awareness. She said interventions for falls should be related to the cause of the fall to prevent further incidents and she could not find any evidence of an intervention being implemented that would prevent further falls following the 3/27/23 fall or the 3/30/23 fall. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 11:45 A.M., the Director of Nurses reviewed the medical record and was made aware of the concerns. She said even though the Resident was sent to the hospital following the 3/27/23 fall, an intervention should have been put in place upon his/her return to prevent further incidents and was not. She said the Resident should have had an intervention implemented following the 3/30/23 fall as well, in an attempt to prevent further falls prior to the medical work up being complete. She said the fall policy indicates a new intervention to prevent further falls needs to be implemented and the policy was not followed as it should have been.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, policy review, and interview, the facility failed for two Residents (#108 and #117) to maintain professional standards of practice, out of a total sample of 25 residents. Specifi...

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Based on observation, policy review, and interview, the facility failed for two Residents (#108 and #117) to maintain professional standards of practice, out of a total sample of 25 residents. Specifically, the facility failed to: 1. For Resident #108, a. Ensure medications that were administered through an enteral feeding tube met professional standards and the facility policy, and b. Provide enteral feedings as ordered by a physician; and 2. Follow the pharmacist recommendation to administer Tegretol (Carbamazepine - used to treat seizures, nerve pain, and bipolar disorder), with food for Resident #117. Findings include: 1. Resident #108 was admitted to the facility in May 2023 with diagnoses including unspecified intestinal obstruction and malignant neoplasm (abnormal growth of tissue) in the mouth. The Resident had a gastrointestinal feeding tube (tube goes into the stomach). a. Review of the facility's policy titled Medication Administration Through a Feeding Tube, dated as reviewed September 2022, indicated but was not limited to the following: - the purpose of this policy is to accurately administer oral medications through an enteral (feeding) tube - location of the feeding tube will be verified by nursing prior to administration of flushes or medications - the tube will be flushed with at least 30 cubic centimeters (cc) of water before and after medications are administered; it is recommended to flush with 5-15 cc of water between each medication administered Procedure: - if liquid medications are not available crush tablets into a fine powder and mix powder with 30-50 cc of water - flush feeding tube with at least 30 cc of warm water between the administration of each medication - administer each medication separately and flush the feeding tube with 5-15 cc of water in between each medication - verify tube placement as drug absorption will be affected by the tubes proper location On 5/12/23 at 9:43 A.M., the surveyor observed Nurse #6 prepare medications for administration to Resident #108 as follows: - Amoxicillin 875 milligrams (mg), crushed and placed in a small plastic medication cup with 20 milliliters (ml) of cold water from the ice water pitcher on the medication cart added to the cup - Azithromycin 250 mg - placed in small pill bag for crushing - Aspirin 81 mg - placed in the same small pill bag for crushing as Azithromycin - Proscar (finasteride) 5 mg - placed in the same small pill bag for crushing as the other pills - Pilocarpine 5 mg - placed in the same small pill bag for crushing as the other pills - Atorvastatin 20 mg - placed in the same small pill bag for crushing as the other pills The five pills were crushed together, placed in a small plastic medication cup, separate from the Amoxicillin, and mixed with 20 ml of cold water from the ice water pitcher on the medication cart. Nurse #6 then removed a large bag of Isosource 1.5 from the bottom drawer of the medication cart that was labeled as belonging to Resident #108 and dated 5/11/23. The surveyor observed Nurse #6 pour the Isosource 1.5 into two 5-ounce plastic cups, filling each cup about three quarters of the way up to the top. She said she does not measure the amount of Isosource, but believes each cup is about 125 ml, and the order is for 250 ml, and she trusts the cup size. Five ounces equals 147.86 ml, the five-ounce cups in use were not observed to be filled to the top and were only observed to be filled approximately three quarters of the way up. Nurse #6 then entered the room for medication administration, but provided other tasks to Resident # 108 prior to administering the medications at 10:29 A.M. (46 minutes after the medications were crushed and placed in cold water). The medications and Isosource 1.5 enteral feeding were placed on a table awaiting administration. At 10:29 A.M., the surveyor made the following observations of medication administration to Resident #108 through an enteral feeding tube: - Nurse #6 used an irrigation syringe from the room to draw up 90 ml of tap water and flush the tube with 90 ml of water - the nurse was not observed to verify placement of Resident #108's enteral tube, prior to flushing the tube or beginning medication administration - attached the irrigation syringe to the end of the enteral tube, without the plunger in place - poured cup of Amoxicillin previously mixed in 20 ml of cold water into the tube - medication residue was observed sticking in the bottom of the cup - poured additional water into the tube; she was not observed measuring the amount and said it was about 20 ml - poured second cup of medications into the syringe connected to the Resident's tube - poured more water into the tube; she was not observed measuring the amount but said it was about 20 ml b. Immediately following the administration of medications Nurse #6 was observed to do the following: - pour water into an empty 5-ounce plastic cup about a third of the way up, the nurse said it was about 30 ml of water, she was not observed to measure the water - the irrigation syringe was then used to draw 60 ml of Isosource 1.5 out of one of the two previously prepared cups and placed in the cup with the 30 ml of water, the cup was observed to be about three quarters of the way full - the irrigation syringe was attached to the Resident's tube, without the plunger - one cup of Isosource 1.5 which was previously poured but not measured, was then poured into the Resident's tube - the nurse said it was about 120 ml of Isosource but confirmed she did not measure it - the cup with 60 ml of Isosource 1.5 and 30 ml of water was then poured into the tube (visually it was the same amount of fluid as the cups of Isosource 1.5) - then the second cup of Isosource 1.5 was poured into the tube - the syringe was disconnected from the Resident and 60 ml of water was drawn into the syringe - the syringe was reattached to the Resident and the 60 ml of water was slowly pushed into the Resident's tube Review of Resident #108's current Physician's Orders for enteral feeding and medications indicated but were not limited to the following: - Aspirin 81 mg one time a day via tube at 9:00 A.M. - Atorvastatin 20 mg one time a day via tube at 9:00 A.M. - Azithromycin 250 mg one time a day via tube at 8:00 A.M. - Finasteride (Proscar) 5 mg one time a day via tube at 9:00 A.M. - Pilocarpine 5 mg one time a day via tube at 9:00 A.M. - Amoxicillin 875 mg two times a day via tube at 8:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M. - Check placement of tube every shift - Flush feeding tube with 30 ml water before and after each medication pass and flush with 5 ml of water between each medication - Mix medications with hot water prior to administration - Flush feeding tube with 90 ml of water before and after bolus feedings five times a day - Isosource 1.5 bolus, 250 ml five times a day via tube During an interview on 5/12/23 at 11:23 A.M., Nurse #6 said she did not follow the orders specifically to use hot water to mix the medications in and used the ice water from her medication cart. She said she should have followed the orders specifically. She said she did not flush with 5 ml of water following each medication because she mixed most of the medications together with about 20 ml of cold water and thought that would cover all the required flushes. She said she should have checked for tube placement prior to medication administration and did not. She said she cannot be sure how much water or Isosource was administered to the Resident in total because she did not measure, but that she should have measured all the fluids to ensure the Resident is getting his/her ordered amount of Isosource and flushes. She said she was new to the facility, had only been there for about two weeks and felt nervous about performing medication and enteral feeding administrations. During an interview on 5/12/23 at 1:46 P.M., the Director of Nurses was made aware of the surveyor's observations and said Nurse #6 is newer, but not inexperienced and has gone through a full orientation and training program. She said her expectation is that the physician's orders are followed. She said the nurse should have verified placement of the enteral tube prior to administering medications, each medication should have been crushed separately, diluted in water individually, and a flush of water to start, in between each medication, and at the end of the medications. She said her expectations of the orders being followed, tube placement verified and management of the bolus feeding, and medication administration were not met. Refer to F726 2. Resident #117 was admitted to the facility in February 2023 with diagnoses including epilepsy unspecified, not intractable, without status epilepticus. On 05/16/23 at 9:40 A.M., the surveyor observed Nurse #9 administering medications to Resident #117. Nurse #9 poured Tegretol (Carbamazepine) 200 Milligrams (mg) tablets, three tablets to equal 600 MG to administer to the Resident for seizure disorder. Nurse #9 administered the medication with water to the Resident. Review of the Pharmacy medication card, dated May 2023, indicated to administer Carbamazepine to the Resident with food. Review of the electronic Medication Administration Record included no instructions to administer the medication with food. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 11:30 A.M., Unit Manager # 1 said the instructions label from pharmacy take with food was not followed in the Resident's Medication Administration Record. Unit Manager #1 confirmed that the medication was not administered with food as instructed by the Pharmacist. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 11:45 A.M., Nurse #9 said she did not administer the Carbamazepine with food to the Resident. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 9:24 A.M., the Director of Nurses said she would follow-up with the pharmacy for clarification. Review of the order summary clarification from pharmacy, dated 5/17/23, indicated to administer Carbamazepine 200 MG, three tablets (600 MG) by mouth two times a day for seizure disorder, give with food. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 10:40 A.M., the Assistant Director of Nurses said nursing staff failed to follow the instructions on the Resident's Carbamazepine medication card.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0726 (Tag F0726)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, record review, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure that a licensed nurse had completed the necessary competencies prior to administering medication and enteral feedi...

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Based on observation, record review, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure that a licensed nurse had completed the necessary competencies prior to administering medication and enteral feeding through a gastrointestinal tube (tube goes into the stomach) for one Resident (#108). Findings include: Review of the facility's policy titled Orientation Program for Newly Hired Employees, Transfers, Volunteers, dated 2008, indicated but was not limited to the following: -An orientation program shall be conducted for all newly hired employees, transfers from other departments, and volunteers. -That's Our orientation program includes, but is not limited to: -In addition to our general orientation, each department will orientate the newly employee/transfer/volunteer to his or her department's policies and procedures, as well as other data will aid him/her in understanding the team concept, attitudes and approaches to resident care. -A written record will be maintained of each employee's/volunteer's individual orientation program. -Orientation records shall include the date reviewed, employee's/volunteer's initials, subject reviewed, and other information deemed necessary or appropriate. -Records of orientation shall be filed in the employee's/volunteer's personnel file upon completion orientation program. -Completed copies of Employee Orientation Checklists are filed in the employee's personnel file. According to the Board of Registration in Nursing, 244 CMR 9.00 &10.00: Standards of Conduct, Definitions and Severability; a competency is defined as the application of knowledge and the use of affective, cognitive, and psychomotor skills required for the role of a nurse licensed by the Board and for the delivery of safe nursing care in accordance with accepted standards of practice. Competency is a measurable pattern of knowledge, skills, abilities, behaviors, and other characteristics that an individual needs to perform work roles or occupational functions successfully. On 5/12/23 at 9:43 A.M., the surveyor observed Nurse #6 prepare and administer medications and an enteral feeding (Isosource) through Resident #108's feeding tube. The surveyor observed Nurse #6 fail to administer the medications per standards of practice and the facility policy and provide the enteral feedings per the physician's order. Specifically, the surveyor did not see Nurse #6 mix the medications with hot water, she did not check for tube placement prior to medication administration, she did not appropriately measure and administer the enteral feeding and flushes as ordered. During an interview on 5/12/23 at 11:23 A.M., Nurse #6 said she did not follow the orders specifically to use hot water to mix the medications in and used the ice water from her medication cart. She said she should have followed the orders specifically. She said she did not flush with 5 ml of water following each medication because she mixed most of the medications together with about 20 ml of cold water and thought that would cover all the required flushes. She said she should have checked for tube placement prior to medication administration and did not. She said she cannot be sure how much water or Isosource was administered to the Resident in total because she did not measure, but that she should have measured all the fluids to ensure the Resident is getting his/her ordered amount of Isosource and flushes. She said she was new to the facility, had only been there for about two weeks and felt nervous about performing medication and enteral feeding administrations. On 5/11/23 at 4:30 P.M., the surveyor reviewed Nurse #6's employee file for nursing competencies. The file did not contain the facility's competency for Medication Administration Through a Feeding Tube, Preparation and Administration of Parenteral Nutrition, or the nursing competencies checklist. During an interview on 5/12/23 at 1:46 P.M., the Director of Nurses (DON) was made aware of the surveyor's observations during medication administration and enteral feeding with Nurse #6. She said Nurse #6 is newer, but not inexperienced and has gone through a full orientation and training program. During an interview on 05/15/23 at 3:14 P.M., the Staff Development Coordinator (SDC) Nurse said she does not have the completed competencies check list for Nurse #6. She said the missing competencies include medication administration and enteral feeding. The SDC Nurse said the new nurses are given their competency checklist during orientation and they are supposed to have the nurse that is working with them, sign off the competencies as they are completed. During an interview on 5/15/23 at 3:24 P.M., Nurse #1 said she did work with Nurse #6 during evening shifts, but she did not sign off on any of her competencies. Nurse #1 said if Nurse #6 had any questions on any residents or procedures she would help, but she was not responsible for training her. During an interview on 5/15/23 at 3:49 P.M., the SDC Nurse said she just found out, in Nurse #6's case, she just went to the scheduler and told her she had completed orientation and was ready to be assigned a regular shift. She said nobody is tracking the new orientees to see if they have completed all their competencies. During an interview on 05/15/23 at 5:30 P.M., Nurse #7 said she does training and signs off new nurse competencies when they are completed. She said she did work with Nurse #6 five to six times but did not sign off on the medication administration or eternal feeding through the g-tube. She said the competencies stay on the unit in a folder until they are completed then they are given to the SDC Nurse. The surveyor and Nurse #7 went to the North 1 nursing station and Nurse #7 was unable to find any folder that contained competencies for new nurses. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 5:05 P.M., the SDC nurse said she is unable to find Nurse #6's completed competencies at this time and Nurse #6 is not returning her phone calls.
CONCERN (D)

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

Drug Regimen Review (Tag F0756)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure a recommendation from the consultant pharmacist was acted upon timely for one Resident #119, out of a total sample of 25 residents. ...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure a recommendation from the consultant pharmacist was acted upon timely for one Resident #119, out of a total sample of 25 residents. Findings include: Resident #119 was admitted to the facility in September 2022. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #119 had a medication allergy to Atorvastatin (Lipitor). Review of the Consultant Pharmacist's Progress Notes indicated recommendations were made for Resident #119 on 1/20/23. Review of the electronic and paper medical records failed to include the pharmacist's recommendation from 1/20/23. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 4:00 P.M., the Director of Nurses said she believed she kept copies of the recommendations and would follow up. The 1/20/23 Consultant Pharmacist Recommendations to Prescriber form was provided to the surveyor on 5/16/23 at 5:00 P.M. Review of the Consultant Pharmacist Recommendations to Prescriber form, dated 1/20/23, indicated Resident #119 had an allergy to Lipitor but was currently receiving Seroquel, to clarify and if no issues have medical staff override allergy. The Consultant Pharmacist Recommendation to Prescriber was a copy and did not indicate a physician response (agree, disagree, other). Review of the Physician's Orders for Resident #119 failed to include an allergy override of the Lipitor in order to continue to administer the Seroquel. Review of the Physician's Progress Notes dated 1/20/23, 2/1/23, 3/26/23, 4/7/23, and 4/10/23, did not indicate the recommendation from the pharmacy consultant was reviewed. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 8:05 A.M., the Director of Nurses said the monthly Consultant Pharmacist Recommendations to Prescriber were sent directly to the Director of Nurses and the Unit Manager. She said the Unit Manager was responsible for ensuring the recommendations were addressed by the physicians. She said she was unable to locate any information to indicate the 1/20/23 recommendation from the consultant pharmacist was reviewed by the physician.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0808 (Tag F0808)

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, the facility failed to provide a therapeutic diet as ordered by the physicia...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, and interview, the facility failed to provide a therapeutic diet as ordered by the physician for one Resident (#41), out of a total sample of 25 residents. Findings include: Resident #41 was admitted to the facility in December 2019 with diagnoses including dysphagia oropharyngeal phase (swallowing problems occurring in the mouth and/or the throat). Review of the 3/30/23 Minimum Data Set assessment indicated Resident #41's long and short term memory was intact, required supervision with eating, and had dysphagia. Review of the May 2023 Physician's Orders indicated: -House diet, puree texture, moderately thick liquids/honey thick liquids consistency (1/2/20) Review of the most recent Speech Therapy evaluation, dated 1/2/20, indicated Resident #41 had a moderate level of dysphagia with mild risk for aspiration. Review of the Speech Therapy Discharge summary, dated [DATE], indicated Resident #41 was discharged from therapy on International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) level 3: moderately thick liquids. On 5/11/23 at 1:18 P.M., the surveyor observed Resident #41 in his/her room with a lunch tray on the overbed table. Two cans of soda were on the table and an opened/empty packet of mildly thick/nectar consistency instant food thickener was on the table. Resident #41 said that he/she self thickens fluids using the premeasured packets. Review of a 3/28/23 Dietary note indicated Resident #41 required honey thick consistency liquids for safe swallowing. Review of interdisciplinary care plans included but was not limited to: -Problem: Resident has nutritional problem difficulties chewing/swallowing related to dysphagia as evidenced by swallow studies (12/18/19) -Interventions: Provide, serve diet as ordered: house diet/puree textures/honey thick liquid (12/18/19); Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) to screen and assess resident as needed for diet texture appropriateness (12/18/19) -Goal: Resident will maintain adequate nutritional status as evidenced by maintaining weight less than 220 pounds and consuming at least 75% of at least two meals daily through the review date (12/19/19) On 5/16/23 at 12:45 P.M., the surveyor observed Resident #41 sitting in bed. A soda can was on the overbed table and an open packet of mildly thick/nectar consistency instant food thickener was on the table. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 8:30 A.M., Certified Nursing Assistant #2 said Resident #41 is on her assignment and she is very familiar with him/her. She said up until a few months ago, she would assist the Resident with thickening his/her beverages. She said the Resident likes to add thickener to liquids him/herself is provided packets of thickener to keep in his/her room. During an interview in Resident #41's room on 5/17/23 at 8:47 A.M., Nurse #3 said the Resident thickens beverages him/herself and keeps the packets in a bureau drawer. She said the Resident likes to drink soda and always has cans available to drink. Resident #41 gave permission for Nurse #3 to open the drawer where he/she stores the thickening packets. Approximately 20 packets of mildly thick/nectar consistency instant food thickener packets were in a cardboard box. Nurse #3 read the packets and confirmed they were mildly thick/nectar consistency and not honey consistency according to physician's orders. She said she was going to remove them right away and provide the Resident the correct consistency. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 9:40 A.M., the Dietitian said Resident #41 is on a honey thick texture for fluids. She said beverages on meal trays come up from the kitchen already thickened, and any other beverages he/she consumes need to be thickened to a honey consistency. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 11:15 A.M., the Speech Therapist said Resident #41 has not received therapy since January 2020 and was discharged from services on honey consistency liquids. She reviewed the Resident's evaluation and said the Resident is supposed to be on honey thick liquids for all liquids, even soda which she said he/she likes to drink.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0760 (Tag F0760)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to hold the administration of insulin when the capillary blood glucose (CBG) was outside of the physician ordered parameters for one Resident ...

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Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to hold the administration of insulin when the capillary blood glucose (CBG) was outside of the physician ordered parameters for one Resident (#86), out of a total sample of 25 residents. Specifically, the facility failed to hold the administration of insulin 26 times out of 228 administration opportunities from 2/25/23 through 5/15/23. Findings include: Resident #86 was admitted to the facility in February 2023 with diagnoses which included type 2 diabetes and dementia. Review of Resident #86's care plan indicated: -The Resident has diabetes mellitus -Administer diabetes medication as ordered by the doctor -Monitor blood sugars as ordered Review of the Medication Administration Record (MAR) for February 2023 indicated: -Humalog (short-acting insulin) Kwik Pen inject 25 units subcutaneously (under the skin) with meals for diabetes effective 2/25/23 through 2/28/23 -Hold for CBG less than 100 -One out of 12 administrations were administered out of parameters on the following dates: -2/26/23 at 5:00 P.M., CBG of 92 Review of the MAR for March 2023 indicated: -Humalog Kwik Pen inject 25 units subcutaneously with meals for diabetes effective 3/1/23 through 3/6/23 -Hold for CBG less than 100 -17 administrations were administered correctly. Review of the MAR for March 2023 indicated: -Humalog Kwik Pen inject 20 units subcutaneously with meals for diabetes effective 3/7/23 through 3/17/23 -Hold for CBG less than 100 -31 administrations were administered correctly. Review of the MAR for March 2023 indicated: -Humalog Kwik Pen inject 15 units subcutaneously with meals for diabetes effective 3/17/23 through 3/20/23 -Hold for CBG less than 140 -Two out of 10 administrations were administered out of parameters on the following dates: -3/17/23 at 12:00 P.M., CBG of 120 -3/18/23 at 5:00 P.M., CBG of 95 Review of the MAR for March 2023 indicated: -Humalog Kwik Pen inject 10 units subcutaneously with meals for diabetes effective 3/20/23 through 3/27/23 -Hold for CBG less than 140 -Four out of 21 administrations were administered out of parameters on the following dates: -3/22/23 at 5:00 P.M., CBG of 134 -3/23/23 at 5:00 P.M., CBG of 139 -3/26/23 at 8:00 A.M., CBG of 133 -3/26/23 at 5:00 P.M., CBG of 132 Review of the MAR for April 2023 indicated: -Humalog Kwik Pen inject 8 units subcutaneously with meals for diabetes effective 3/27/23 through present -Hold for a blood sugar of 140 or less -Fourteen out of 93 administrations were administered out of parameters on the following dates: -4/4/23 at 7:30 A.M., CBG of 96 -4/4/23 at 11:30 A.M., CBG of 102 -4/6/23 at 7:30 A.M., CBG of 100 -4/6/23 at 11:30 A.M., CBG of 118 -4/7/23 at 7:30 A.M., CBG of 128 -4/7/23 at 11:30 A.M., CBG of 81 -4/7/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 135 -4/18/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 112 -4/21/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 123 -4/22/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 118 -4/25/23 at 7:30 A.M., CBG of 139 -4/25/23 at 11:30 A.M., CBG of 127 -4/27/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 130 -4/29/23 at 11:30 A.M., CBG of 119 Review of the MAR for May 2023 indicated: -Humalog Kwik Pen inject 8 units subcutaneously with meals for diabetes effective 3/27/23 through present -Hold for a blood sugar of 140 or less -Five out of 44 administrations were administered out of parameters on the following dates: -5/4/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 115 -5/7/23 at 7:30 A.M., CBG of 111 -5/7/23 at 11:30 A.M., CBG of 121 -5/8/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 126 -5/10/23 at 4:30 P.M., CBG of 102 Further review of the MAR's indicated 13 nurses administered insulin to Resident #68 out of the physician ordered parameters. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 9:45 A.M., Nurse # 11 said if a resident was prescribed short-term acting insulin, the CBG would be checked and the computer indicated how much insulin to administer to the resident. She said Resident #68's insulin would drop to the low range at nighttime, so the physician ordered parameters which indicated not to administer insulin if the CBG was below a certain number. The surveyor and Nurse #11 reviewed Resident #68's MARs for March, April, and May and observed numerous times insulin was administered when the CBG was below 140. Nurse #11 said the MAR indicated the insulin was administered when the nurse checked the box and wrote a note on the delivery route and location. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 10:01 A.M., the Director of Nurses reviewed Resident #86's MARs and said the nurses should not have administered the insulin outside the physician ordered parameters.
CONCERN (E)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, policy review, and interview, the facility failed to ensure 4 of 5 nourishment kitchenettes were maintaine...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, policy review, and interview, the facility failed to ensure 4 of 5 nourishment kitchenettes were maintained in a sanitary manner to prevent potential illness or contamination of food. Specifically, the facility failed to: 1. Ensure foods brought in from the outside were labeled, dated, and discarded timely; and 2. Maintain kitchenette refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, counters, drawers, and cabinets in a clean sanitary manner. Findings include: 1. Review of the facility policy titled: Foods brought in by family/visitor/residents, dated as reviewed 1/2023, indicated but was not limited to the following: - the purpose of this policy is to ensure food safety for residents - food or beverages must be labeled and dated to monitor for food safety - foods must be stored in a clean, covered, container and/or securely wrapped, labeled with resident's name, room number and date food was cooked or stored - foods with manufacturer expiration dates must be labeled with the resident's name and will be thrown away after they have passed the manufacturer date - other foods and beverages will be labeled upon arrival to the facility and thrown away three days of date marked On 5/17/23 at 7:49 A.M., the surveyor observed signs posted in the unit and activity room kitchenettes that indicated the following: -Refrigerator is for resident food only. No staff food. Per regulation all food must be labeled and dated, or it will be thrown out. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 9:25 A.M., the Food Service Director (FSD) said Dietary is responsible for maintaining the kitchenette freezer, refrigerator, ice bins, and stocking of snacks. He said when food is brought in it is to be labeled with a date and resident's name and discarded after three days. During a tour of the kitchenettes with the FSD on 5/17/23, the surveyor made the following observations: 9:25 A.M. South 1 kitchenette: - a clear plastic container of watermelon, in the refrigerator, labeled with the resident's name but no date of expiration or when item was brought in - an open box of Dominos granulated sugar, unlabeled and undated, not in a sealed container or wrapped, that had hardened in the cabinet - a [NAME] Donut's bag wrapped tightly around a donut that was unlabeled and undated - a white paper bag containing food, in the refrigerator, unlabeled and undated - a small brown box of food, labeled with a resident's name and date of 5/12/23 The FSD discarded all items as they were not labeled or dated or outside of their date range and said the small box should have been thrown away on 5/15/23 per the policy. 9:41 A.M. North 2 kitchenette: - a box of Dole peach fruit cups, in the cabinet, labeled with the resident's name and manufacturer's date of 3/27/23 - in the refrigerator, a clear plastic container which held three cupcakes, labeled with a resident's name but no date - a clear plastic container unlabeled, with an illegible expiration date The FSD threw all items in the trash and said they did not meet the policy guidelines for storing resident food. 9:48 A.M. South 2 kitchenette: - a Styrofoam plate of food on the top shelf in the cabinet, unlabeled and undated - an open individual sized applesauce container on the door of the refrigerator, unlabeled and undated - a plastic bag containing food, unlabeled and undated in the refrigerator - a brown paper bag in the refrigerator, containing an empty reusable food container, apple and a knife, unlabeled and undated The FSD threw all items in the trash and said they did not meet the policy guidelines for storing resident food and said the plate of food on the shelf was from an event the day before and should not have been stored in the kitchenette. 2. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 7:55 A.M., Dietary Aide #3 said dietary staff stock all the kitchenettes and check the refrigerator and freezer for temperatures and cleanliness and housekeeping was responsible for cleaning the actual kitchenette to the best of her knowledge unless the process has changed. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 9:25 A.M., the FSD said Dietary is responsible for maintaining the kitchenette freezer, refrigerator, ice bins, and stocking of snacks. He said his belief was that housekeeping cleaned all aspects of the kitchenettes otherwise. During a tour of the kitchenettes with the FSD on 5/17/23, the surveyor made the following observations: 9:25 A.M. South 1 kitchenette: - the microwave had splattered food debris inside, and an approximate 1 1/2-inch area in the top left interior corner of cracked paint that was bubbled up and flaking with dark brown edges - counter in front of the sink with a hard, dry orange substance that had dripped over the counter edge - bins holding plastic utensils that were not individually wrapped with food debris and crumbs in the bin touching the eating surface of the plastic silverware - bin that holds cookies and crackers had loose cookies and the bottom had numerous crumbs in the corners 9:41 A.M. North 2 kitchenette: - drawer that holds condiments/silverware bins with food and crumb debris and dark brown substance in the back corner - front of drawer that holds plastic utensils had a thick, dark brown sticky substance in the crease in between the silverware bin and drawer edge - interior cabinets above sink that stored snacks were dirty with what appears to be yellow stains and spattered food on the shelves and walls of the cabinet - evidence of spills in the refrigerator 9:46 A.M. 2nd Floor Activity Room fridge: - dried, red sticky substance in the bottom of the refrigerator and on all levels of shelves - yellow dried substance in the bottom of the freezer section - two personal ice cube trays including silicone shaped ice cube trays that did not contain ice cubes, but had a dry light-yellow powder like debris in the freezer - two ice cube trays of ice cubes in the freezer that appeared to have an unclear light-yellow substance on top of the ice cubes and on the trays The FSD said the kitchen staff are not involved with cleaning or maintaining the fridge in the activity room at all and the unit needed to be cleaned. He said the kitchen provided house stock beverages and snacks to the activity room. 9:48 A.M. South 2 kitchenette - cabinets where snacks were stored had shelves and walls with evidence of splattered food debris - refrigerator had evidence of yellow substance drippage that had dried on the refrigerator door and numerous crumbs and debris in the bottom of the refrigerator The FSD said that the nourishment kitchenettes do not appear to have been cleaned recently and the microwave on South 1 required replacement. He said the nourishment kitchenettes require more attention for food and supplies to be maintained in a more sanitary way. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 10:07 A.M., the Administrator was made aware of the surveyor's and FSD's observations and said the process needed to be adjusted to maintain things in a better way.
CONCERN (E)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview, and policy review, the facility failed to maintain a safe, sanitary and comfortable environment to help prevent the development and transmission of communicable diseas...

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Based on observation, interview, and policy review, the facility failed to maintain a safe, sanitary and comfortable environment to help prevent the development and transmission of communicable diseases and infections. Specifically, the facility failed to: 1. For Resident #66, ensure intravenous tubing connections were disinfected prior to the administration of medication, per facility policy; 2. For Resident #108, a. Ensure staff changed their personal protective equipment in between tasks for the same Resident that could result in the introductions of hazardous germs into the system, b. Ensure staff stored an enteral irrigation syringe in a manner to prevent environmental debris and germs from contaminating it in between uses, and c. Ensure enteral food was labeled and dated per facility policy; and 3. Ensure hand hygiene was performed during medication pass administration. Findings include: 1. Review of the facility's policy titled Intermittent Medication Administration, dated January 2022, indicated but was not limited to the following: - purpose of this policy is to safely administer intermittent intravenous (IV) infusions of medications or solutions to a resident - vigorously scrub needleless connector with an alcohol swab using friction and a twisting motion for 15 seconds, allow to air dry, attach prescribed flush and confirm patency - vigorously scrub needleless connector with alcohol swab, using friction and a twisting motion for 15 seconds, allow to air dry, and connect primed administration set tubing Resident #66 was admitted to the facility in April 2023 with a diagnosis of extradural and subdural abscess (an infection in the epidural and subdural spaces anywhere within the brain and spinal cord). Review of the medical record indicated Resident #66 had a single lumen peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) in his/her right upper extremity (RUE) for IV antibiotic administration. Review of the current May 2023 Physician's Orders for Resident #66 indicated but was not limited to the following: - Cefazolin 2 grams intravenously every eight hours at midnight, 8:00 A.M., and 4:00 P.M. - Flush procedure for valved catheter: flush with 10 milliliters (ml) normal saline (NS) before medication administration and 10 ml of NS after medication administration. During a medication administration observation on 5/12/23 at 9:23 A.M., the surveyor observed the following: - Nurse #6 performed hand hygiene (HH) using alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR), put on an isolation gown and gloves - Nurse #6 observed the RUE PICC line insertion site for Resident #66 and said it looked to be free of signs and symptoms of infection and verified the dressing was in good condition and dated - Nurse # 6 verified the medication for the Resident and spiked the IV antibiotic with the IV tubing and primed the tubing ensuring no bubbles were in the tubing - Nurse #6 covered the end of the primed tubing and hung the antibiotic on the IV pole, removed her gloves, performed HH with ABHR and put on new gloves - Nurse # 6 removed the cap from the end of Resident #66's PICC line tubing and scrubbed the end (hub) of the tubing for 3-5 seconds with an alcohol wipe - The line was flushed with a syringe of NS; the nurse disconnected the NS syringe and immediately attached the primed IV antibiotic tubing to the hub of the PICC line Nurse #6 was not observed to scrub the hub of the PICC line after flushing the line with NS, nor was she observed to scrub the hub for the necessary time frame to prevent potential germs from entering the blood system (15 seconds). During an interview on 5/12/23 at 1:46 P.M., the Director of Nurses (DON) was made aware of the surveyor's observations of the IV medication administration and said Nurse #6 should have scrubbed the hub of the PICC line for a minimum of 15 seconds before the flush with NS and after, prior to the administration of the medication per the policy and general standard of practice. She said her expectations were not met and good infection control practices were not followed per the policy when Nurse #6 administering IV medications to Resident #66. 2a. Review of the facility's policy titled Transmission-Based Precautions, dated 5/2023, indicated but was not limited to the following: - Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) expand the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and refers to the use of both gloves and a gown during high contact care activities which provide opportunity for germs to transfer onto staff hands and clothing. - residents with indwelling medical devices or wounds are at high risk for acquiring and becoming colonized with a multi-drug resistant organism - examples of high contact care includes, but is not limited to: providing hygiene, changing linens, assisting with toileting needs, and device care - including a feeding tube. Resident #108 was admitted to the facility in May 2023 with diagnoses including: unspecified intestinal obstruction, malignant neoplasm of the mouth, and a new colostomy. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #108 was on EBP and had a feeding tube in place as well as a new colostomy. On 5/12/23 at 10:00 A.M., the surveyor observed the following: - Nurse #6 performed HH with ABHR and put on a gown and gloves to perform colostomy care for Resident #108 - Nurse #6 used a cloth with warm water to remove feces from the skin and stoma (a surgically created opening in the body) - Nurse #6 assisted the Resident with changing his/her clothing and bedding, which was soiled with feces, and then placed a new ostomy appliance on the Resident - Nurse #6 removed her gloves, performed HH with ABHR, and put on new gloves - Nurse #6 then began the process of administering medications through a feeding tube, without changing her gown During an interview on 5/12/23 at 11:23 A.M., Nurse #6 said she should have changed her gown in between providing colostomy care and administering medications through a feeding tube and it created an infection control concern for germs to potentially enter the tube. b. Review of the facility's policy titled Preventing and identifying enteral feeding complications, dated as reviewed: September 2022, indicated but was not limited to the following: Bacterial contamination may be prevented by: - use proper infection control techniques - all enteral feedings and supplies used, (including irrigation syringe), must be labeled and dated with the nurse's initials Review of the current May 2023 Physician Orders for Resident #108 indicated but was not limited to the following: - Change enteral irrigation syringe daily and date the syringe (3/17/23) On 5/12/23 at 10:29 A.M., the surveyor observed Nurse #6 use an irrigation syringe, that was unlabeled and sitting on the windowsill in the room to administer medications and enteral feedings to Resident #108. During an interview on 5/12/23 at 11:23 A.M., Nurse #6 said the irrigation syringe she used to perform the tasks of medication administration and enteral feeding was unlabeled and on the windowsill of the room and believes it is from the 3:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M., shift the day prior, as she had worked and said she believes she put it there. She said she brought a new irrigation syringe in with her but did not think it appeared to be compatible and did not want to leave the room again to get supplies and decided to use the old one. She said she should have used a new labeled and dated syringe to provide care to the Resident. During an interview on 5/12/23 at 1:46 P.M., the DON said the nurse should have used a labeled and dated irrigation syringe or a new irrigation syringe to provide care to the Resident and using an unlabeled syringe from the windowsill was an infection control concern for bacteria growth. c. Review of the facility's policy titled Preventing and Identifying Enteral Feeding Complications, dated September 2022, indicated but was not limited to the following: Bacterial contamination may be prevented by: - Use proper infection control techniques. - All enteral feedings and supplies used, (including irrigation syringe), must be labeled and dated with the nurse's initials. On 5/11/23 at 10:53 A.M., the surveyor observed on Resident #108's dresser a bag of Isosource 1.5 cal (calorie) which was approximately 1/3 full, laying on top of a pull-up under garment, a pair of green hospital socks, and two open light blue under garments. The bag was not labeled, dated with the nurse's initials. The bag of Isosource 1.5 cal bag indicated the following information: -For tube feeding only -Directions for use: Use for a maximum of 48 hours after connection when proper technique is followed. During an interview on 5/11/23 at 10:53 A.M., Resident #108 said they poured his/her food out of the bag of food on his/her dresser. During an interview on 05/15/23 at 5:30 P.M., the Director of Nurses (DON) said she removed the bag of food left on top of the dresser on 5/11/23. She said her expectations would be that the bag is labeled and stored in the medication cart or the medication room. 3a. Resident #122 was admitted to the facility in April 2023 with diagnoses including gastrostomy status, encounter for surgical aftercare following surgery of the digestive system. On 5/16/23 at 8:23 A.M., the surveyor observed Nurse #8 administer medications to the Resident. The surveyor did not observe Nurse #8 perform hand hygiene: before pouring medications, before entering the room, after medications had been administered, and prior to leaving the Resident's room. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 11:55 A.M., Nurse #8 said she forgot to perform hand hygiene during the administration of the Resident's medications. b. Resident #112 was admitted to the facility in March 2022 with diagnoses including anxiety disorder and gastroesophageal reflux disease without esophagitis. On 5/16/23 at 9:20 A.M., the surveyor observed Nurse #3 administer medications to Resident #112. The surveyor did not observe Nurse #3 perform hand hygiene: before pouring medications, before entering the room, after medications had been administered, and prior to leaving the Resident's room. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 12:25 P.M., Nurse #3 said she forgot to perform hand hygiene during the administration of the Resident's medications. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 12:33 P.M., the Assistant Director of Nursing said handwashing should be performed before pouring medications, before entering the room, after medications have been administered, and/or before leaving the Resident's room. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 4:20 P.M., the DON said it was a breech in infection control.
CONCERN (E)

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

Antibiotic Stewardship (Tag F0881)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

2. Resident #24 was admitted to the facility in May 2022. Review of the care plans for Resident #24 indicated the Resident had a history of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI) and received antib...

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2. Resident #24 was admitted to the facility in May 2022. Review of the care plans for Resident #24 indicated the Resident had a history of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI) and received antibiotic therapy prophylactically. Review of the current Physician's Orders indicated Resident #24 had an order for Keflex 250 mg (milligrams) to be given one time per day prophylactically for UTI. The order was initiated on 6/8/22 (11 months prior) and did not include an end date. Review of the manufacture's guidelines for use indicated prolonged use of Keflex may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 12:05 P.M., the Infection Control Nurse (ICN) said the facility did not really have any long-term care residents on prophylactic antibiotics. She said if a physician ordered a prophylactic antibiotic she did not review this with the physicians as she did not like to tell the physician what to do. During a continued interview at 2:22 P.M., the ICN said she was unaware Resident #24 was on an antibiotic as the Resident was not showing up on the antibiotic report she pulls from the electronic medical record system. She said she had been reviewing antibiotic use at the facility for the previous two months and was unaware of the prophylactic use of antibiotics for Resident #24. The ICN added the facility did not have a policy that addressed the extended use (prophylactic use) of antibiotics. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 2:40 P.M., the Director of Nurses said the expectation was for the physician (or physician extension) to review the indefinite use of a prophylactic and thought the Nurse Practitioner for Resident #24 had reviewed the continued use. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 3:20 P.M., the Nurse Practitioner (NP) said Resident #24 had previously been on prophylactic antibiotics in the community (prior to the admission to the facility in May 2022) and had requested to be placed on the antibiotic again for UTI prevention. The NP said the most recent data, approximately six months ago, indicated prophylactic antibiotics for UTI were not effective for more than three to six months and had been slowly learning about this and had started following this guidance at other facilities. She said she had not received any recommendations from the facility pharmacy consultant on the prophylactic use of antibiotics and found this odd, as she had received recommendations from other facility pharmacy consultants regarding prophylactic antibiotic use. She said she and the physician had not had a chance to re-evaluate the continued use of the antibiotic beyond the recommended time frame for Resident #24. Based on interview, record review, and policy review, the facility failed to implement their Antibiotic Stewardship program and ensure antimicrobial medications were used for an acceptable and prescribed indication and duration of time for two Residents (#15 and #24), in a total sample of 25 residents. Findings include: Review of the facility's policy titled Antibiotic Stewardship Program, dated September 2022, indicated the mission of the program was to provide the best antibiotic therapy (right dose, drug, and duration) to residents that results in the best outcome with the least amount of toxicity and resistance. In addition, the policy indicated: -The Infection Control Nurse (ICN) will be responsible for infection surveillance and Multidrug Resistant Organism (MDRO) tracking. The ICN and will collect and review the following data: a. Type of antibiotic ordered, route of administration, and cost. b. Whether the order was made by phone, if the order was given by the attending physician or on-call physician/physician extender. c. Whether tests such as cultures were obtained prior to ordering antibiotics. d. Whether the antibiotic was changed during the course of treatment. e. Whether the resident infection report was completed, and resident met the criteria before antibiotic use. f. Feedback will be given to physician/physician extenders by the team on their individual prescribing patterns of cultures ordered and antibiotics prescribed, as indicated. Review of the facility's policy titled Antibiotic Stewardship Program Orders, dated September 2022, indicated but was not limited to the following: -Antibiotics will be prescribed and administered to residents under the guidance of the facility's Antibiotic Stewardship Program -Prescribers will provide complete antibiotic orders including: drug name, dose, frequency, duration of treatment, start and stop date (or number of days of therapy) and indications for use. -Appropriate indications for use of antibiotics include: criteria met for clinical definition of active infection or suspected sepsis and pathogen susceptibility, based on culture and sensitivity. Review of the American Urological Association Recurrent Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections Guideline, dated 2022 indicated the following: -Even transient use of antibiotics can affect the carriage of resistant organisms and impact the endemic level of resistance in the population. -The potential harms related to acquiring an antibiotic resistant infection should be factored into the decision for antibiotic prophylaxis for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) prevention. -In clinical practice, the duration of prophylaxis can be variable, from three to six months to one year, with periodic assessment and monitoring. 1. Resident #15 was admitted to the facility in February 2022 with diagnoses including chronic kidney disease. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #15 had two recurrent UTIs within a month, and the physician ordered Cephalexin Suspension Reconstituted 125 milligrams (mg)/milliliters (ml); give 5 ml by mouth one time a day for UTI prophylaxis (4/7/22). Further review of the medical record indicated Resident #15 developed five UTIs, one episode of community acquired pneumonia and developed a multidrug-resistant infection in his/her stool while being administered prophylactic Cephalexin as follows: -On 9/12/22, the prophylactic Cephalexin was put on hold, and intravenous Meropenem (antibiotic) was administered for 5 days (9/12/22 through 9/17/22) for the treatment of a UTI. The Cephalexin then resumed when the course of Meropenem had been completed. -On 10/24/22, prophylactic Cephalexin was put on hold, and Augmentin (antibiotic) was administered for 7 days (10/24/22 through 10/31/22) for the treatment of a UTI. The Cephalexin then resumed when the course of Augmentin had been completed. -On 2/16/23, prophylactic Cephalexin was put on hold, and Ciprofloxacin (antibiotic) was administered for 5 days (2/16/23 through 2/21/23) for the treatment of a UTI. The Cephalexin then resumed when the course of Ciprofloxacin had been completed. -On 3/6/23, prophylactic Cephalexin was put on hold, and Tetracycline was administered for 7 days (3/6/23 through 3/13/23) for the treatment of a UTI. The Cephalexin then resumed when the course of Tetracycline had been completed. -On 4/10/23, Amoxicillin 875 mg every 12 hours for 5 days and Azithromycin 500 mg one time only and 250 mg daily for 4 days was initiated to treat community acquired pneumonia. Orders for Cephalexin remained in place. Review of a 4/14/23 Medical Note indicated Resident #15 told the physician/physician extender that he/she was experiencing multiple episodes of diarrhea since the previous morning. The clinician ordered a stool culture to rule out c.diff due to antibiotic use (clostridium difficile colitis results from disruption of normal healthy bacteria in the colon, often from antibiotics). Review of 4/21/23 stool culture results indicated Resident #15 did not have c.diff, but had developed enterococcus faecium in his/her stool. According to the Centers for Disease Control, Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) in Healthcare Settings (November 13, 2019), is a multidrug resistant organism and those most likely to be infected include people who have been previously treated with antibiotics for long periods of time. The laboratory results indicated the infection was sensitive to Linezolid (antimicrobial drug used to treat VRE) and the physician initiated a 14-day course of Linezolid 600 mg daily. The order for prophylactic Cephalexin remained in place. Review of the American Urological Association Recurrent Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections Guideline, dated 2022 indicated the following: -The potential harms related to acquiring an antibiotic resistant infection should be factored into the decision for antibiotic prophylaxis for UTI prevention. -On 5/1/23, prophylactic Cephalexin was put on hold, and Ciprofloxacin was initiated for 5 days to treat a UTI. The Cephalexin was resumed when the completion of the course of Ciprofloxacin was completed. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 1:40 P.M., the Infection Control Nurse said she does not keep a list of residents who are receiving prophylactic antibiotics. She said that the resident information would be added to the line listing when the antibiotic was started, but she does not perform any routine monitoring/documentation/oversight for these residents after the initiation of the prophylactic antibiotic. The Infection Control Nurse said she was not aware that Resident #15 had been on prophylactic Cephalexin for a UTI since April 2022. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 2:40 P.M., the Director of Nurses said the expectation was for the physician (or physician extender) to review the indefinite use of a prophylactic antibiotic. She said if a resident is on long term antibiotics, but still has UTIs, the antibiotic treatment isn't effective and should be reviewed by the physician. During an interview on 5/16/23 at 3:20 P.M., the Nurse Practitioner said the most recent data, approximately six months ago, indicated prophylactic antibiotics for UTIs were not effective for more than three to six months and had been slowly learning about this. She said she and the physician have been reducing long term prophylactic antibiotic use in other buildings, but haven't started at this facility yet.
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0809 (Tag F0809)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observations, interviews, and review of the meal truck delivery schedule, the facility failed to offer a nourishing evening snack when there was a greater than 14 hours between dinner and bre...

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Based on observations, interviews, and review of the meal truck delivery schedule, the facility failed to offer a nourishing evening snack when there was a greater than 14 hours between dinner and breakfast service. Findings include: During the Resident Group meeting held on 5/12/23 1:30 P.M., with 14 residents, the overall concern expressed by the group was evening snacks were not offered or available. Residents in the group specifically said the following: -They never have snacks available. -There are no snacks available at night. -If you want ginger ale or a snack you can have the nurses get them if there are some available. -The dietitian said there are no snacks at nighttime because you guys eat them all during the day. -They used to have a hostess that made sure snacks were always available, now that there is no hostess and we run out of snacks all the time. -They do not offer nighttime snacks and he/she said he/she has become hypoglycemic (low sugar) in the night. -They run out of ice cream at night. -They run out of juice at night. Review of the Food Truck Delivery Times, undated, provided by the Food Service Director indicated there was 14 hours and 50 minutes between dinner and breakfast service. Dinner schedule: SSU (North 1)- 4:40 P.M. North 1 - 4:50 P.M. North 1 - 5:00 P.M. South 2 - 5:10 P.M. South 2 - 5:20 P.M. North 2- 5:30 P.M. North 2- 5:40 P.M. Breakfast schedule: SSU (North 1) 7:30 A.M. North 1- 7:40 A.M. North 1- 7:50 A.M. South 2- 8:00 A.M. South 2- 8:10 A.M. North 2- 8:20 A.M. North 2- 8:30 A.M. Review of the facility provided Hostess Stock List for the kitchenettes included the following foods: -2 Ginger ale -2 Diet Ginger ale -2 Cranberry Juices -1 Diet Cranberry Juice -2 Apple Juices -6 Yogurts -1 Peanut Butter -1 Jelly -3 Apple Sauces cases of the packs -1 Whole Wheat Bread -Bagels / English muffins -1 Country [NAME] Bread -2 Orange Juices -1 Ice cream case (different flavors) and Magic Cups -Unsalted Saltine Crackers -Graham Crackers -Cookies assorted -Condiments: Salt/pepper, ketchup, mustard, etc . -Tea bags On 5/15/23 at 1:15 P.M., the surveyor observed North 1, North 2, and South 2 kitchenettes and they were very sparsely stocked with snacks and food. Specifically, the following observations were made: -No bread, no peanut butter, and jelly in only one kitchenette. -Each kitchenette had one plastic container which was approximately one quarter filled with saltine crackers and 2-3 packages of individually wrapped cookies. -North 1 had one sandwich in the refrigerator supplied by the kitchen. There were no sandwiches available on North 2 and South 2. -South 2 and North 2 had three individual size containers of cereal in the cabinet; North 1 had no cereal available. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 2:15 P.M., the Food Service Director said he was aware through the Resident Council meetings the snack supply was lacking at night. He said the person who stocked the kitchenettes leaves at 2:00 P.M., and they weren't getting the kitchenettes re-stocked for the evenings. He said he would expect the nurses to serve snacks and there should be some protein component to the snacks, especially for the diabetics.
MINOR (C)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Transfer Notice (Tag F0623)

Minor procedural issue · This affected most or all residents

2. Resident #108 was admitted to the facility in January 2023 with diagnoses of cancer, malnutrition, and intestinal (stomach) obstruction. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #108 was tra...

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2. Resident #108 was admitted to the facility in January 2023 with diagnoses of cancer, malnutrition, and intestinal (stomach) obstruction. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #108 was transferred to the hospital on 3/29/23, 4/5/23, and 4/24/23. Further review of the medical record failed to indicate transfer notices for the above dates were issued to the Resident or Resident Representative as required. 3. Resident #122 was admitted to the facility in February 2023 with diagnoses of malnutrition, failure to thrive, and metastatic cancer. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #122 was transferred to the hospital on 2/6/23, 2/17/23, 3/3/23, and 3/29/23. Further review of the medical record failed to indicate transfer notices for the above dates were issued to the Resident or Resident Representative as required. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 10:50 A.M., the Director of Social Services said she is not responsible for providing transfer notices to Residents or their Representatives. She said the Admissions office does that. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 10:53 A.M., the admission Coordinator said she does not provide transfer notices to Residents or their Representatives. She said she does not know who does but will try to find out. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 11:55 P.M., the Administrator said the admission Coordinator is responsible for providing residents and their representatives transfer notices but has not been doing them. He said when the former admission Coordinator left six months ago, the new admission Coordinator was not informed the transfer notices were her responsibility. He said the facility has not been in compliance with the regulation since the former admission Coordinator left. Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure its staff issued transfer notices to one Resident (#138) or their Resident Representative of three closed records and two Residents (#108 and #122) or their Resident Representatives, out of a total sample of 25 residents. Findings include: 1. Resident #138 was admitted to the facility in October 2021 and had an activated Health Care Proxy. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #138 was transferred to the hospital on 1/2/23, 2/17/23, and 2/24/23. Further review of the medical record failed to indicate transfer notices for the above dates were issued to the Resident or Resident Representative as required.
MINOR (C)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Deficiency F0625 (Tag F0625)

Minor procedural issue · This affected most or all residents

2. Resident #108 was admitted to the facility in January 2023 with diagnoses of cancer, malnutrition, and intestinal (stomach) obstruction. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #108 was tra...

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2. Resident #108 was admitted to the facility in January 2023 with diagnoses of cancer, malnutrition, and intestinal (stomach) obstruction. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #108 was transferred to the hospital on 3/29/23, 4/5/23, and 4/24/23. Further review of the medical record failed to indicate bed hold notices for the above dates were issued to the Resident or Resident Representative as required. 3. Resident #122 was admitted to the facility in February 2023 with diagnoses of malnutrition, failure to thrive, and metastatic cancer. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #122 was transferred to the hospital on 2/6/23, 2/17/23, 3/3/23, and 3/29/23. Further review of the medical record failed to indicate bed hold notices for the above dates were issued to the Resident or Resident Representative as required. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 10:50 A.M., the Director of Social Services said she is not responsible for providing bed hold notices to Residents or their Representatives. She said the Admissions office does that. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 10:53 A.M., the admission Coordinator said she does not provide bed hold notices to Residents or their Representatives. She said she does not know who does but will try to find out. During an interview on 5/17/23 at 11:55 P.M., the Administrator said the admission Coordinator is responsible for providing residents and their representatives bed hold notices but has not been doing them. He said when the former Admissions Coordinator left six months ago, the new admission Coordinator was not informed the bed hold notices were her responsibility. He said the facility has not been in compliance with the regulation since the former admission Coordinator left. Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure that its staff issued bed hold notices to one Resident (#138) or their Resident Representative of three closed records and two Residents (#108 and #122) or their Resident Representatives, out of a total sample of 25 residents. Findings include: 1. Resident #138 was admitted to the facility in October 2021 and had an activated Health Care Proxy. Review of the medical record indicated Resident #138 was transferred to the hospital on 1/2/23, 2/17/23, and 2/24/23. Further review of the medical record failed to indicate bed hold notices for the above dates were issued to the Resident or Resident Representative as required.
Oct 2019 2 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Resident Rights (Tag F0550)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure residents on 1 (#2) of 3 units were provided with dining services in a respectful manner of each resident's individuali...

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Based on observation, record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure residents on 1 (#2) of 3 units were provided with dining services in a respectful manner of each resident's individuality to enhance meal time. Findings include: During observations on 10/10/19, Unit #2 was identified by the Unit Manager #2 as a secure unit where many residents' residing on the unit had medical diagnoses which included memory impairment or dementia. Observations during the noon meal service on 10/10/19, included the following: The unit's first food carts arrived to the unit at approximately 12:10 P.M. Residents had been seated at tables in the dining/day room waiting for meals to arrive. At 12:20 P.M., for 5 of 6 tables in this dining room, residents were observed waiting for the their meal to be served while others at the same table had been served and were eating their meals. Residents waiting for a meal tray were told it would be arriving later. For example: At table 1: Resident #7 was eating while two other Residents (#18 and #59) had to wait to be served a meal, and sat looking on until Resident #59 took Resident #7's plate of food and beverage and started to eat it. When alerted by surveyor, staff redirected Resident #59 and reassured her/his meal would be arriving soon. The other resident was no longer interested in eating, although the resident was offered something else to eat. At table 2 : two residents were served and eating while two others were waiting for their meal tray to arrive. At table 3: one resident was eating their meal while three others sat waiting. At table 4 : two residents were eating while three other residents waited for their meal to arrive. At table 5: 1 resident was eating while 3 other residents waited to be served. After the meal service, during interview with Unit Manager #2, she said that changes were needed to rearrange the order of meal trays and have all residents at one table be served at the same time, however residents sometimes changed seats or where they eat. For the 10/11/19 noon meal, two residents (#10 and #81), were observed seated at the table at 12:10 P.M. and without a meal tray, while two others at the same table were eating their meals. Resident (#59) was set up with a tray table seated in the middle of the room without a meal tray, waiting with his/her eyes closed. Twenty minutes later, at 12:35 P.M., the second food cart arrived and the three residents who waited while others ate were served a meal. During the breakfast and noon meal observations on 10/15/19 to 10/17/19, meal tray distribution included residents seated together at the same table were served together. During interview on 10/17/19, the Food Service Manager (FSM) said that the residents' meal trays delivered on food carts can be rearranged as needed. The Food Service Manager said the order of residents meal trays for Unit #2 had not been updated until this week and had been updated infrequently.
CONCERN (D)

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

ADL Care (Tag F0677)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, staff interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide necessary services to maintain personal hygiene for 2 residents (#18 and #134), from a total sample of 26 resid...

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Based on observation, staff interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide necessary services to maintain personal hygiene for 2 residents (#18 and #134), from a total sample of 26 residents. Findings include: 1. For Resident #18, the facility failed to provide appropriate activities of daily living (ADL) care to maintain personal hygiene. Resident #18 was admitted to the facility in 9/2018 with diagnoses including dementia, Alzheimer's disease, anxiety, and delusional disorders. Review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 7/4/19, indicated Resident #18's cognition was severely impaired, as evidenced by a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 00 out of 15. During interview and observation with Resident #18 on 10/16/19 at 8:15 A.M., the surveyor observed the resident seated upright at his/her bedside table. The surveyor observed long facial whiskers on his/her chin, and his/her hair was disheveled and looked greasy. During a second observation on 10/17/19 at 11:35 A.M., the surveyor observed the Resident lying in bed. Red marinara sauce was observed on Resident #18's shirt, bed sheets, and floor, and a dirty ice cream lid was observed beside the bed on the floor. The Resident's long facial whiskers remained on his/her chin. Review of the medical record and overall plan of care indicated Resident #18 was totally dependent on staff with bathing, showering, personal hygiene, oral care, and toilet use. During an interview with Nurse #6 on 10/17/19 at 11:37 A.M., the Nurse said Resident #18 is supposed to be showered on Tuesdays during the 7:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. shift. During an interview with Nurse #2 on 10/17/19 at 12:01 P.M., the nurse showed the surveyor where the Certified Nursing Assistant's (CNAs) electronically document when showers are given. Review of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) shower summary flow sheet indicated Resident #18 was to receive a shower on Tuesdays during the 7:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. shift. Further review of the shower summary flow sheet, indicated the staff failed to document if the Resident received a shower in the month of October as evidenced by Tuesday 10/1/19, Tuesday 10/8/19, and Tuesday 10/15/19 dates were left blank on the nursing flow sheet. Nurse #2 said if the shower schedule wasn't signed off by the CNA, it wasn't done. The surveyor did not receive any documentation that the Resident received a shower from 10/1/19 through the survey date of exit on 10/17/19. The Administrator, Director of Nurses, and other management staff were made aware of the surveyor's observations during an interview on 10/17/19 at 4:45 P.M. 2. For Resident #134, the facility failed to ensure all grooming needs were met to maintain dignity and personal hygiene. Resident #134 was admitted to the facility in 6/2018, with diagnoses which included dementia, depression and anxiety. Review of the recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 9/19/19, indicated Resident #134 had severely impaired cognition, with mood indicators and no behaviors such as refusal of care. For activities of daily living (ADL), the Resident required assistance with dressing, bathing and personal hygiene. Review of the care plan dated 8/28/19, indicated Resident #134 was dependent upon staff for personal hygiene, oral care, and ADL self-care due to dementia. On 10/10/19 at 10:30 A.M., Resident #134 was observed with facial hair when sitting in the morning activity room. On 10/11/19, Resident #134 was fully dressed for the day, sitting in activity room with evidence of untrimmed facial hair under his/her nose, above lip and on chin areas. On 10/15/19, the Resident was observed in the day room at an activity, and at the noon meal, still with long facial hair above his/her lip, under their nose and on chin areas. Review of the shower schedule on the nurse aide shower summary flow sheet indicated Resident #134 was scheduled to receive a shower on Thursdays (3:00 P.M. -11:00 P.M.) shift. Shower day was also inclusive of removal of facial hair and proper nail care. For the dates of 10/3/19 and 10/13/19 (Thursdays), the shower flow sheet records were blank as it was not signed to indicate a shower was provided to Resident #134. Resident #134 was observed on 10/16/19 at 9:17 A.M., dressed for the day. After taking a walk with staff, the Resident stayed on the unit and sat in the day room. Long facial hair was visible under his/her nose and above upper lip and chin area. During interview on 10/16/19 at 9:45 A.M. with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #1, assigned to care for the Resident, she said she also cared for Resident #134 on 10/15/19, but not on the recent shower day. CNA #1 said she was not aware of the Resident's facial hair. After observation with the surveyor, CNA #1 said that the Resident may resist and does not want to cut or hurt her, but did not recall notifying the nurse of any refusal / resistive care behavior. Resident #134 was seated at a table in the day room for an activity which included nail polish removal at 10:17 A.M. with visible facial hair under his/her nose and above upper lip and chin area. Interview on 10/16/19 with Unit Manager #2 said she was not aware of excess facial hair present on Resident #134 and after observation with the surveyor at 10:20 A.M., said she would see what we can do. On 10/17/19 at 11:00 A.M., Resident #134 was observed in the day room at an activity with all facial hair removed.
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
  • • No major safety red flags. No abuse findings, life-threatening violations, or SFF status.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Massachusetts facilities.
  • • 34% turnover. Below Massachusetts's 48% average. Good staff retention means consistent care.
Concerns
  • • 21 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
Bottom line: Mixed indicators with Trust Score of 70/100. Visit in person and ask pointed questions.

About This Facility

What is Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which is considered above average nationally. Within Massachusetts, 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 Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Staffed?

CMS rates HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER's staffing level at 4 out of 5 stars, which is above average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 34%, compared to the Massachusetts average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center?

State health inspectors documented 21 deficiencies at HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER during 2019 to 2024. These included: 19 with potential for harm and 2 minor or isolated issues.

Who Owns and Operates Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center?

HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by BANECARE MANAGEMENT, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 142 certified beds and approximately 130 residents (about 92% occupancy), it is a mid-sized facility located in HINGHAM, Massachusetts.

How Does Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Compare to Other Massachusetts Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Massachusetts, HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER's overall rating (4 stars) is above the state average of 2.9, staff turnover (34%) is significantly lower than the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center?

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

Is Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION 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 4-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in Massachusetts. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Stick Around?

HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER has a staff turnover rate of 34%, which is about average for Massachusetts 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 Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Ever Fined?

HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION 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 Harbor House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center on Any Federal Watch List?

HARBOR HOUSE NURSING & REHABILITATION 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.