CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0561
(Tag F0561)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to promote and facilitate self-determination when staff did not honor one resident's (Resident #24) preference to close his/her door when reques...
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Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to promote and facilitate self-determination when staff did not honor one resident's (Resident #24) preference to close his/her door when requested in a selected sample of 26 residents. The facility census was 97.
Record review of the facility policy titled, Fall Precaution and Management Program and Guidelines, undated, did not show information regarding keeping doors open if resident is a fall risk.
1. Review of Resident #24's face sheet (document that gives a resident's information at a quick glance) showed the following:
-admission date of 01/16/23;
-Diagnoses included dementia and stroke with right sided paralysis.
Review of resident's care plan, revised 05/30/23, showed the following:
-At risk for falls;
-Used a walker for short distances and wheelchair for long distances;
-Could transfer unassisted;
-Provide choices in as many areas as possible with daily activities/cares.
Review of the resident's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS - a federally mandated assessment completed by facility staff), dated 11/01/23, showed the following:
-Moderate cognitive impairment.
-Used a walker and wheelchair for mobility;
-Resident required partial to moderate assistance with siting on the side of the bed to lying flat on the bed;
-Resident required substantial to maximal assistance from sitting to standing, and chair/bed to chair transfer;
-Resident required supervision or touching assistance to wheel 150 feet in a wheelchair;
-The resident had one fall with injury (except major) since the prior MDS assessment (08/01/23).
Observation and interview on 01/24/24, at 9:43 A.M., showed the following:
-The resident laid in bed with his/her room door open. The resident's bed had two upper half side rails in the up position;
-The resident said he/she liked his/her door closed, but staff said he/she could not close it because he/she was a fall risk; -Staff would not close his/her door when he/she asked.
During interviews on 01/25/24, at 12:44 P.M., and on 01/26/24, at 9:00 A.M., Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) E said the following:
-If a resident was at risk for falls, the resident's door had to remain open;
-He/she did not know if keeping the room door open was a facility policy;
-He/she asked the nurse if a resident was a fall risk before closing the resident's door.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 12:56 P.M., Nurse Assistant (NA) H said staff could close residents' doors if they were not a fall risk.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 2:50 P.M., CNA G said the following:
-If a resident asked staff to close his/her room door, staff would unless the resident was at risk for falls.
-If a resident had a history of falls then he/she was a fall risk. He/she also considered residents who climbed out of bed or slept close to the edge of the bed a fall risk;
-Since the CNA did not close residents' doors if they were at risk for falls, he/she pulled the privacy curtain around the resident's bed to provide privacy.
-The resident could transfer himself/herself from the bed to the wheelchair to the toilet. The resident could walk short distances in his/her room. The resident had a history of falls, although that happened a while ago, he/she was still considered at risk for falls;
-When the resident asked the CNA to close his/her room door, the CNA would remind the resident he/she was at risk for falling and he/she could not close the door. The resident would say he/she forgot and that he/she understood.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 4:00 P.M., Certified Medication Technician (CMT) J said the following:
-Residents had the right to close their room door, but residents who were a fall risk, should have their door open;
-The resident was at risk for falls. The resident, had, in the past, asked the CMT to close his/her room door. but the CMT did not close it because the resident was at risk for falls.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:54 A.M., CNA F said the following:
-Residents could have their room doors closed if they wanted. If he/she did not know the resident, he/she spoke with the nurse before closing the door;
-If a resident asked him/her to close his/her door, the CNA would close the door;
-If a resident had side rails on the bed or could not walk on his/her own, he/she was considered a fall risk;
-The resident was at risk for falls and at times, and had asked staff to close his/her door.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 9:25 A.M., CNA I said the following:
-He/she would know if a resident was a fall risk if the resident fell multiple times;
-The resident was not a fall risk;
-He/she would close the resident's room door if requested.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 10:30 A.M., Registered Nurse (RN) C said the following:
-A resident could have his/her room door closed if he/she wanted;
-A change of condition or change of medications could cause the resident to be a fall risk;
-The resident was at risk for falls due to the medications he/she took. If the resident wanted his/her door closed, he/she could regardless of his/her fall risk.
During an interview with 01/26/24, at 12:51 P.M., the MDS Coordinator said the following:
-Residents could have their room door closed if they wanted. Although staff did not routinely shut residents' doors, she had never seen it used as a fall intervention;
-The resident's desire to keep the room door closed supersedes the need for keeping it open for monitoring.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 2:20 P.M., Director of Nursing (DON) said the following:
-If a resident was at risk for falls, staff documented the risk on the care plan, on the closet care plan and in the electronic medical record;
-Any resident, including those who were a fall risk, had the right to have their room door closed;
-Staff educated residents if they were a fall risk about keeping the door open but honored the resident's wishes;
-The resident was at risk for falls, but he/she could have his/her door closed if he/she wanted.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:40 P.M., the Administrator said if a resident wanted his/her door closed, staff should close his/her door.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Respiratory Care
(Tag F0695)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure respiratory care consistent with professional standards of practice when facility staff failed to obtain a physician's...
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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure respiratory care consistent with professional standards of practice when facility staff failed to obtain a physician's order for, failed to ensure a process of cleaning, and failed to care plan for use of a BiPAP (bi-level positive airway pressure - a device that helps with breathing while a resident sleeps) for one resident (Resident #13). A sample of two residents were reviewed in a facility with a census of 97.
Review of the facility's policy titled Positive Pressure Airway Pressure (CPAP/BiPAP) Administration, undated, showed the following:
-Purpose is to administer positive airway pressure to maintain open airway to the resident with obstructive sleep apnea (occurs when one's breathing is interrupted during sleep, for longer than 10 seconds at least 5 times per hour (on average) throughout their sleep period) or respiratory problems breathing when sleeping;
-Equipment: CPAP/BiPAP machine, CPAP/BiPAP mask and adjustable head strap, tubing, humidifier (optional), sterile water for humidifier (250 milliliters) and filter for machine;
-Contact QA (quality assurance) Nurse prior to placement for clarification of orders and support;
-Use during periods of sleep: Check physician's order for pressure setting and method of administration; CPAP/BiPAP machine should be paced on table near bed; fill humidifier with sterile water to appropriate level (observe the fill line); and assist resident as needed with applying and adjusting mask and head strap.
1. Review of Resident # 13's face sheet (a document that gives a patient's information at a quick glance) showed the following:
-admission date of 01/04/24;
-The resident was his/her own responsible party;
-Diagnoses included chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD - a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe), shortness of breath, chronic respiratory failure and bronchitis (inflammation of the lining of bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs).
Review of the resident's five day/discharge return anticipated Minimum Data Set (MDS - a federally mandated comprehensive assessment instrument completed by facility staff), dated 01/08/24, showed the following:
-The resident was cognitively intact;
-The resident had shortness of breath with exertion, when sitting at rest, and when lying flat;
-The resident had continuous oxygen therapy, but did not have a BiPAP.
Review of the resident's January 2024 Physician's Order Sheet showed no orders for the resident's BiPAP.
Review of the resident's baseline care plan, dated 01/15/24, showed the resident was on oxygen therapy, but did not have a BiPAP.
Review of the resident's nurses' progress notes showed the following:
-On 01/16/24, at 12:52 A.M., a registered nurse (RN) assisted the resident at approximately 10:45 P.M. with getting his/her CPAP set up. The resident said he/she was a night owl and was not ready to put it on, but he/she was capable of doing so. He/she denied respiratory distress. The resident has nasal cannula in place, running 4 liters (L) of oxygen with oxygen saturations running 98%. Staff noted no observed signs or symptoms of physical duress. Staff ensured call light within reach for when he/she needs assist in hooking up the bleed in oxygen tubing (oxygen tubing that connects to the BiPAP);
-On 01/17/24, at 12:41 A.M., the resident's child came to visit at approximately 10:00 P.M., bringing the resident pajamas. CPAP is set up and ready to go when he/she was ready to retire for the night. Staff ensured call light within reach;
-On 01/19/24, at 4:06 A.M., resident in bed at this time with BiPAP on, resting comfortably;
-On 01/21/24, at 1:40 A.M., the resident was skilled for acute respiratory failure. Resident in bed at this time resting comfortably with eyes closed, breathing easy, and call light in reach. Resident was awake earlier on his/her tablet when he/she requested help with changing his/her nasal cannula oxygen to his/her BiPAP;
-On 01/24/24, at 4:40 A.M., the resident reported being a night owl. Resident had no complaints of pain or respiratory distress throughout the night. Oxygen saturations 97% on 4 L of oxygen through nasal cannula. He/she engaged his/her own BiPAP when he/she decided to go to sleep and reapplied it after he/she is up to toilet.
During an interview on 01/23/24, at 3:20 P.M., the resident said he/she did not know who cleaned his/her BiPAP at the facility.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 1:45 P.M., Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) A said the following:
-The charge nurse cleaned residents' BiPAPs;
-A resident's BiPAP should be in their care plan;
-The resident had a BiPAP.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 3:27 P.M., Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) B said the following:
-Residents should have an order for their BiPAP and the charge nurses followed those orders. The order tells the settings for the BiPAP;
-The company that provided the BiPAP took care of them and cleaned them;
-The resident had a BiPAP, but did not have an order for it. The BiPAP should be on the Treatment Administration Record (TAR) and should be treated as a treatment for the resident;
-He/she did not know if the resident's BiPAP was on the resident's care plan or MDS.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:59 A.M., Registered Nurse (RN) C said the following:
-He/she knew a resident had a BiPAP if he/she received that in report from the hospital or the resident told him/her when they brought it from their home;
-Residents required a physician's order for their BiPAP. The admitting nurse put the orders in the system when the resident admitted to the facility, or the charge nurse obtains an order from the physician if a resident brought their BiPAP from home;
-The Social Worker cleaned residents BiPAPs;
-He/she did not know if the BiPAP should be in a resident's care plan or on their MDS;
-The resident had a BiPAP, but did not have an order for it and it was not included on the resident's care plan. The resident should have an order for the BiPAP. He/she did not know if the resident's BiPAP should be on the care plan.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 10:23 A.M., the MDS Coordinator said the following:
-Nursing staff knew a resident had a BiPAP if the hospital included it on report or if a resident's family brought it in. If the family brought it in, the charge nurse called the resident's pulmonologist to get the current settings and obtained an order from the physician. If the resident did not have a pulmonologist, the facility set up an appointment for the resident with one;
-The nurses set the BiPAPs up and they required an order. When the nurse placed the order in the system, the BiPAP showed up on the nurse's task bar;
-The Social Worker used to clean them, but now a CNA does. The CNA knows a resident has a BiPAP by the nurses communicating with the CNA or looking at the resident's care plan;
-The resident had a BiPAP;
-The resident did not have a physician's order for it but he/she should. The charge nurse was responsible for getting the order;
-There was a place on the resident's baseline care plan for the BiPAP, but it was not included in their baseline care plan. The admission nurse should have marked the BiPAP on the baseline care plan;
-The resident's BiPAP was not on his/her MDS. He/she was responsible for putting the BiPAP on the resident's MDS and comprehensive care plan.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 11:33 A.M., CNA K said the resident had a BiPAP. The charge nurse was responsible for the BiPAP.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 1:33 P.M., the Director of Nursing (DON) said the following:
-Residents required a physician's order for a BiPAP;
-The Social Worker was cleaning the BiPAPs but he/she was training someone new to do this and the charge nurses were also responsible for cleaning them;
-A resident's BiPAP was included on their baseline care plan, comprehensive care plan, and MDS;
-The resident should have an order for his/her BiPAP and it should be on his/her baseline care plan and MDS.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:38 P.M., the Administrator said the following:
-When the resident admitted , the facility did not know he/she had a BiPAP. As soon as nursing knew the resident had one, they should have obtained an order and added it to his/her care plan.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0790
(Tag F0790)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to offer and assist with routine dental services for one...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to offer and assist with routine dental services for one resident (Resident #44). The facility census was 97 residents.
1. Review of Resident #44's face sheet (document that gives resident's information at a quick glance) showed the following:
-admission date of 05/19/23;
-Diagnoses included diabetes, protein-calorie malnutrition, and vitamin deficiency.
Review of resident's admission Clinical Assessment, dated 05/19/23, showed the following:
-Broken or loosely fitting full or partial dentures (chipped, cracked, uncleanable, or loose);
-No dentures.
Review of the resident's Speech Therapy Evaluation and Plan of Treatment, dated 05/21/23, showed dentition, oral hygiene, and oral motor structure and function were within functional limits.
Record review of the resident's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS-a federally mandated assessment instrument completed by facility staff), dated 5/26/23, showed the following:
-Cognitively intact;
-Required set up or clean up assistance with eating and oral hygiene;
-Broken or loosely fitting full or partial denture (chipped, cracked, uncleanable, or loose).
Review of the resident's care plan, dated 8/11/23, showed the following:
-Staff to assist the resident with oral hygiene.
(Staff did not care plan problems or interventions related to the resident's missing teeth.)
Review of the resident's quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], showed the resident required set up or clean up assistance with eating and oral hygiene. (Staff did not document the resident's dental condition).
Review of resident's Nutrition Quarterly Review, dated 11/29/23, showed the resident ate a vegan diet.
Observations and interviews showed the following:
-On 01/23/24, at 2:28 P.M., the resident had no top teeth and was missing multiple bottom teeth. The resident reported no pain or discomfort, but wanted to see a dentist. He/she had not mentioned to staff a desire to see a dentist and staff had not asked if he/she would like to. He/she could not eat certain food due to missing teeth.
-On 1/24/24, at 12:45 P.M., the resident ate lunch in his/her room. Lunch consisted of peaches, cottage cheese, vegetables (green beans, broccoli, cauliflower), and a roll. The resident picked up the dinner roll, but had difficulty biting it. He/she said it took a while for him/her to get it to go down, but he/she made do. The resident did not like the vegetables served because they were a little difficult for him/her to eat, but he/she did not want an alternate selection.
During interviews on 01/25/24, at 2:02 P.M., and on 01/26/24, at 2:05 P.M., Registered Nurse (RN) C said the following:
-Nurses completed residents' dental assessments upon admission;
-Dental assessments consisted of checking the resident's mouth for color, dentures, teeth condition, thrush (a fungal (yeast) infection that can grow in your mouth, throat), and any sores or cuts;
-He/she also assessed residents' dental/oral condition during a focused assessment based up residents' complaints, problems, or decreased intake;
-If he/she found issues with the resident's mouth or teeth after conducting the assessment, he/she would notify the physician, obtain an order for a dental consult, and place a note in the Social Service Designee's (SSD) box to schedule an appointment;
-The facility did not have a dentist who visited the facility, but if a resident needed dental care, the SSD set up transport to an outside dental office;
-The resident never complained or voiced concern, to the nurse, about his/her dental condition. The nurse had not observed the resident's teeth.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 3:48 P.M., the Registered Dietician (RD) said the following:
-He/she completed a comprehensive dietary assessment when a resident admitted to the facility, if the resident experienced a change of condition, and annually;
-During the assessment, he/she asked the resident if he/she had problems with swallowing or dentation;
-If a resident reported difficulty chewing food, she would refer the resident to speech therapy. Administrative staff also received a copy of the RD recommendations.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:54 A.M., Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) F said the following:
-If a resident had a dental issue or problem, he/she would notify the nurse;
-He/she did not know if a dentist visited the facility;
-The resident had bad teeth, but he/she had not complained of mouth pain;
-He/she did not know if the resident had difficulty eating since he/she had not observed the resident eating.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 9:00 A.M., CNA E said the following:
-He/she would notify the nurse if a resident had trouble eating or chewing;
-The resident had not complained to him/her about his/her teeth or difficulty chewing foods due to the condition of his/her teeth.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 9:25 A.M., CNA I said the following:
-He/she would let a nurse know if a resident had a problem with his/her teeth or chewing;
-He/she had not seen the resident's teeth or observed him/her eating.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 11:43 A.M., Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) M said the following:
-Nurses completed an oral assessment when a resident admitted to the facility. The assessment included checking for tooth caries (cavities) and red/inflamed gums, noting if the resident had dentures or his/her own teeth, and asking the resident if he/she had any difficulty chewing;
-Nurses called the physician to obtain an order if a resident had any dental issues;
-The nurse reported a resident's desire to see a dentist to the physician and obtained an order;
-The SSD scheduled dental appointments.
During interview on 01/26/24, at 1:37 P.M., SSD S said the following:
-When a resident admitted to the facility, the nurses completed an oral assessment and spoke with family if available. If the nurse found a problem, he/she would obtain an order for dental services, and let the SSD know;
-Sometimes residents would let the SSD know they wanted a dental appointment;
-He/she verified the resident's payor source, then made a dental appointment;
-If the Dietician found a problem during her assessment, she could also request a dental appointment for the resident;
-He/she did not know the resident had any dental issues. The resident had not requested a dental visit.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 2:20 P.M., the Director of Nursing (DON) said the following:
-Nurses assessed residents' teeth and mouths on admission and if the resident developed a problem;
-The dental assessment consisted of the nurse observing for dentures, sores, or broken teeth;
-If a dental problem existed, staff talked to family, and if all agreed, the social worker would schedule an appointment.
-If a resident was missing teeth upon admission, he/she would not typically ask a resident if he/she wanted to see a dentist unless the resident mentioned it;
-He/she would obtain a dental referral if a resident had difficulty chewing;
-He/she had not seen the resident's teeth;
-The resident received a regular diet and had not mentioned any tooth pain to the DON;
-He/she has not asked the resident if he/she would like to see a dentist.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:40 P.M., the Administrator said if a resident had dental issues, staff would arrange for the resident to see a dentist.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0700
(Tag F0700)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of Resident #24's face sheet showed the following:
-admission date of 01/16/23;
-Diagnoses include dementia and stroke...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of Resident #24's face sheet showed the following:
-admission date of 01/16/23;
-Diagnoses include dementia and stroke with right sided paralysis.
Review of the resident's quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], showed the following:
-Moderate cognitive impairment.
-Used a walker and wheelchair for mobility;
-Resident required partial to moderate assistance with rolling side to side, sitting to lying, and lying to sitting on the side of the bed;
-Resident required substantial to maximal assistance from sitting to standing and chair/bed to chair transfer.
Review of the resident Care Plan, last reviewed 11/29/23, showed the following:
-Required assist of one for all ADLs related to weakness and decreased mobility;
-Resident had half bilateral side rails for positioning and transfers;
-Resident was at risk for falls;
-Resident used a walker for short distances and a wheelchair for long distances.
-Resident could transfer self.
Review of the resident's January 2024 POS showed an order, dated 01/16/23, for half bilateral side rails for positioning and transfer.
Review of resident's Bed Rail Assessment and Consent, dated 01/16/23, showed a signed consent and bed rail assessment with measurements of entrapment zones.
Observations on 01/24/24, at 9:43 A.M., and on 01/26/24, at 10:20 A.M., showed the resident laid in bed with both half side rails in the raised position. The left side rail fit securely to the bed frame. The right side rail was loose and moved back and forth when grabbed.
Review of the resident's current medical record showed staff did not document a review, update of the consent, or measurements since the initial assessment (01/16/23).
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 2:50 P.M., CNA G said the resident had two upper side rails because he/she was a fall risk.
4. Review of Resident #79's face sheet showed the following:
-admission date of 08/31/22;
-Diagnoses included dementia, repeated falls, and weakness.
Review of the resident's Bed Rail and Consent Form, dated 10/27/23, showed half side rails to assist with positioning or transfers. Areas of entrapment listed as passing and a signed paper consent saved to the resident's medical record.
Review of the resident's quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], showed the following:
-Moderate cognitive impairment;
-Required partial to moderate assistance with rolling side to side'
-Required substantial to maximal assistance for sitting to lying, and lying to sitting on the side of the bed, sitting to standing, and chair/bed to chair transfer.
Review of the resident's care plan, last reviewed 11/29/23, showed the following:
-At risk for falls due to history of recent falls and weakness;
-Resident used a two-wheeled walker but required a wheelchair for long distance mobility;
-Resident required supervision to one person assistance with transfers and positioning.
(Staff did not care plan the residents' use of side rails).
Review of the resident's January 2024 POS showed no order for side rails.
Observation and interviews showed the following:
-On 01/23/24, at 3:43 P.M., the resident laid in bed with one raised half side rail on the right side of the bed. The resident said staff placed the side rail on his/her bed. An unattached side rail laid on the floor partially beneath the couch in the resident's room.
-On 01/26/24, at 10:21 A.M., the resident laid in bed with the right half side rail raised.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 10:30 A.M., RN C said the resident had a side rail per his/her request for safety.
5. During an interview on 01/25/24, at 1:45 P.M., CNA A said the following:
-If a resident needed side rails, he/she asked therapy or the charge nurse to evaluate them and put them on;
-Therapy put the side rails on the beds;
-He/she did not know who completed gap measurements or how often residents' side rails were assessed.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 11:33 A.M., CNA D said the following:
-If a resident requested side rails or he/she thought a resident could benefit from side rails, he/she told the MDS Coordinator, therapy, and the charge nurse;
-Maintenance installed the side rails;
-If he/she noticed a side rail was loose, he/she told maintenance and they tightened them. He/she also told the charge nurse.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:54 A.M., CNA F said the following:
-Residents had side rails when they were a fall risk.
-He/she would notify the nurse or housekeeping if a resident's side rail was loose or broken;
-The nurses or therapy staff reevaluated residents' need for side rails, but he/she did not know when they did that.
During an interview on 01/26/23, at 9:00 A.M., CNA E said the following:
-The nurses and therapy department staff assessed residents for side rails;
-He/she would notify the nurse or maintenance if he/she found an issue with a resident's side rails.
During an interview on 01/26/23, at 9:25 A.M., CNA I said the following:
-He/she notified the nurse or maintenance if a resident's side rails needed repair;
-He/she did not know how often the nurses reassessed residents' side rails for repair or adjustment.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:48 A.M., CNA L said the following:
-The resident has to have a physician's order for side rails;
-Maintenance installed side rails and made sure they were safe for the resident;
-Nurses and the DON were responsible for completing evaluation/obtaining consent for the side rails;
-CNA L did not know how often residents should be re-evaluated for side rails or how often measurements are to be done.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 3:27 P.M., LPN B said the following:
-When a resident admitted , side rails were on the admission assessment. The assessment had seven different categories the charge nurse completed and the charge nurse completed the gap measurements;
-Maintenance installed the side rails on the beds if needed;
-The charge nurse should write an order for the side rails and they should be included in the resident's care plan.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:59 A.M., LPN M said the following:
-Maintenance is responsible for installing the side rails;
-The side rail evaluation can be completed by the MDS Coordinator, DON, or nursing staff;
-Side rail measurements should be done monthly;
-The resident has to have a physician's order for side rails;
-Side rail use should be documented on the resident's care plan.
During interview on 01/26/24, at 8:59 A.M. and 10:30 A.M., RN C said the following:
-If a resident requested side rails, he/she completed the side assessment and consent form, then obtained a physician's order for the side rails. The nurse then notified maintenance or added the request to the maintenance book;
-Maintenance completed the gap measurement;
-Residents required a physician's order and informed consent from the resident or resident's representative for side rails and the side rails should be included in their care plan;
-After the first side rail assessment, the side rails are assessed at the charge nurse's discretion as needed. The charge nurse completed the initial side rail assessment if they had time;
-If he/she noticed a resident's side rail was loose or broken, he/she attempted to fix it first. If he/she could not fix it, he/she notified maintenance;
-Residents used side rails for positioning and transfer assistance.
During interviews on 01/26/24, at 10:23 A.M. and 12:51 P.M., the MDS Coordinator said the following:
-When a resident or resident's family, requested side rails, the nurse obtained a physician's order then completed the consent form with the resident. After the resident signed the consent, the nurse notified maintenance who attached the side rails to the resident's bed and obtained gap measurements.
-If a resident, therapy, or nursing saw a need for side rails, nursing completed a side rail assessment and got signed informed consent. Nursing then notified maintenance and maintenance installed the side rails and completed the gap measurements;
-The charge nurse or staff member getting signed informed consent requested a physician's order for the side rails;
-He/she added the side rails to the residents' care plans;
-He/she reviewed the side rails quarterly when he/she reviewed the residents' care plans, but did not complete a full side rail assessment;
-Side rails were only measured again after the initial measurement if the resident changed beds or the bed rails became loose;
-The CNAs told maintenance if they noticed a loose side rail.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 12:56 P.M., the Maintenance Supervisor said the following:
-He/she installed side rails when the DON or Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) told him/her to;
-He/she measured the gap when he/she installed the side rails. He/she did not measure the gap again unless there was an issue such as a side rail became loose. The gap measurement could only change if the side rail became very loose. If the side rail became a little loose, the measurement would still be within the parameters;
-He/she did not measure bed rails on hospice or vendor beds unless he/she was told to;
-He/she did not periodically check the side rails.
During interviews on 01/25/24, at 3:36 P.M., and on 01/26/24, at 1:33 P.M., the DON said the following:
-The resident is evaluated for side rails when the resident asks for them and if the resident would benefit from the use of them for repositioning or turning;
-The nurse completes the side rail evaluation and consent at the same time;
-Maintenance installed bed rails and measured them;
-The nurse updates side rail evaluations and consents if the resident receives a new bed;
-The maintenance worker updates the measurements if the resident receives a new bed;
-She said that nothing should change on the measurements after maintenance installed them;
-The MDS Coordinator, Social Service Director, and DON review the residents MDS quarterly and annually;
-The Social Service Director and MDS Coordinator should document side rail use on the resident's care plan;
-Nursing staff did not complete a new side rail assessment quarterly unless the resident had a condition change or received a new bed;
-Maintenance completed the gap assessment when they installed the side rails and did not measure again unless the bed was changed. He/she did not believe maintenance completed regular side rail checks.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:38 P.M., the Administrator said the following:
-Maintenance checked gap measurements on side rails if there was a noticeable issue;
-The MDS Coordinator assessed the bed rails on the quarterly MDS Assessment;
-The charge nurse should obtain a physician's order for bed rails;
-He did not believe any staff member checked the side rails on a regular basis, but staff should notify maintenance if they noticed a loose side rail.
2. Review of Resident #20's face sheet showed the following:
-admission date of 10/4/22;
-Diagnoses included dementia, altered mental status, and muscle weakness.
Review of the resident's care plan, dated 10/24/23, showed the following:
-The resident had self care deficits with ADLs requiring assist of one to two staff for bathing, hygiene, dressing and toileting, related to weakness, disease process, and cognitive deficits;
-The resident was at risk for falling due to weakness, use of psychotropic medications, urinary incontinence, gait disturbance and lack of safety awareness;
-The resident had short-term memory deficit with poor safety awareness related to dementia.
(Staff did not care plan the use of an enabler or side rail.)
Review of the resident's January 2024 POS showed no physician order for bed rails.
Review of the resident's quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], showed the following:
-Cognitively intact;
-Substantial/Maximal staff assistance required for bed mobility, transfer, dressing and toilet use.
Observation on 1/23/24, at 10:45 A.M., showed the resident in bed with the half side rail up on both sides of the bed.
During an interview and observation on 01/24/24, at 10:11 A.M., the resident said the following:
-The resident requested the bed rails to assist with repositioning and getting in and out of bed;
-He/She had not had any falls recently;
-Resident in bed with the back of the bed against the wall and a half bed rail in the up position on the left side of the bed.
During an interview and observation on 01/24/24, at 4:34 P.M., the resident's spouse said the following:
-The resident required more care at home then he/she could provide;
-The resident has not had any falls recently;
-The resident in bed with back of bed against the wall and a half bed rail in the up position on both sides of the bed.
During an interview on 01/24/24, at 4:40 P.M., Certified Medical Technician (CMT) K, said the following:
-The resident has not had any falls;
-The resident can not transfer on his/her own;
-The resident will ask for help when getting up and down from bed.
Review of the resident's medical record showed staff failed to document ongoing assessments or inspections of the bed frame and rails to ensure the bed rails were appropriate for use.
Review showed the facility did provide a side rail assessment, gap measurements, or informed consent for the resident's side rails.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:59 A.M., LPN M said the resident had side rails to assist him/her with turning and repositioning.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 2:20 P.M., the DON said the resident had side rails on his/her bed. Staff should have obtained an order from the physician, completed a side rail assessment with measurements, and added it to the care plan.
Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to document assessing risk versus benefits of side rail use; failed to obtain informed consent for the use of side rails prior to installation; and failed to obtain gap measurements for risk of entrapment for two residents (Resident #86 and #20). Staff failed to care plan the use of and failed to obtain order for the use of side rails for three residents (Resident #86, #20, and #79). Staff failed to complete ongoing assessments to ensure the side rails were secure and appropriate for use for one residents (Resident #24). The facility census was 97.
Review of the facility's current policy titled Side Rail/Positioning Bar Protocol showed the following:
-Before placing a Side Rail/Positioning Bar, read the following process to ensure the appropriateness and safety for the resident;
-Physician/Director of Nursing/Therapy Department make side rail/positioning bar request to be placed on a specific resident bed. Since the side rail/positioning bar that is typically used for positioning, make sure to ask if the side rail/positioning bar being placed is left, right, or both;
-Begin the Side Rail Assessment in the electronic medical record (EMR) and discuss the risks/benefits with the resident (if responsible party) or family/friend (if responsible party) and receive consent. If family/friend is the responsible party then you may take a verbal consent over the phone,e but the verbal must be noted within the additional Information section of the observation;
-Request for the Maintenance Director to place the side rail/positioning bar on the bed and maintenance will then measure to ensure the safety of the rail. As long as the measurements pass the safety requirements the side rail will stay in place. If the side rail/positioning bar do not pass (fail) the safety requirements then maintenance will remove the side rail. Maintenance Director will not place a side rail/positioning bar without consent being in place. If the measurements fail then the nurse will need to notify the resident/family that the side rail/positioning bar cannot remain due to the measurements not meeting the safety requirements;
-Once the observation is completed, the observation should be printed and the resident/family will sign the consent line. Please give completed signature form to Medical Records to be uploaded into resident's EMR;
-A final nursing progress note summarizing the side rail observation, measurement, and consent was completed upon placing the left, right or both side rail/positioning bar;
-If a resident or family are demanding side rails/positioning bar related to keeping the resident
in the bed due to a fall or resident coming out of the bed, this is never appropriate. Kindly communicate that side rails/positioning bars are for positioning. The facility never uses the side rail as a restraint to keep the resident in the bed;
-The side rail/positioning bar should never be placed except by the designee who is measuring for the safety requirements. Side rails are never to be place without measurements and consent.
1. Review of Resident #86's face sheet (a document that gives a patient's information at a quick glance) showed the following:
-admission date of 12/06/22;
-The resident was his/her own responsible party;
-Diagnoses included heart failure, high blood pressure, repeated falls and senile degeneration of the brain (older individuals who suffered from cognitive decline, particularly memory loss).
Review of the resident's annual Minimum Data Set (MDS - a federally mandated comprehensive assessment instrument completed by facility staff), dated 12/21/23, showed the following:
-The resident had moderate cognitive impairment;
-The resident required moderate assistance from staff to roll left and right, move from sitting to lying, and move from lying to sitting; and maximum assistance from staff for transfers.
Review of the resident's care plan, revised 12/29/23, showed the following:
-He/she was at risk for falls due to his/her current disease process, weakness, use of diuretics, urinary incontinence with urgency, psychotropic medication, and unstable gait;
-Goal was to be free from falling to extent possible related to evaluated risks thru the next review period;
-Assure his/her call light was within reach and answered timely;
-Provide increased activity of daily living (ADL - dressing, grooming, bathing, eating, and toileting) as needed and appropriate due to weakness or unsteady gait;
-Remember to lock bed and wheelchair brakes prior to transfer assistance. Remind him/her as needed to lock wheelchair brakes before transferring to and from the chair;
-He/she required assistance of one staff for all of his/her ADL's related to weakness and disease process. He/she would receive the level of care needed to ensure that all needs are met through the review period. He/she was one person assist with transfers and positioning.
(Staff did not care plan the use of side rails.)
Review of the resident's January 2024 Physician's Order Sheet (POS) showed no physician's order for side rails.
Review showed the facility did not provide a side rail assessment, gap measurements, or informed consent for the resident's side rails.
Observations on 01/23/24, at 3:44 P.M. and 01/24/24, at 9:37 A.M., showed the resident's bed had half side rails on both sides of his/her bed. The rails were in the upright position.
During an interview on 01/24/24, at 9:37 A.M., the resident said he/she used the side rails, but had not seen staff check the side rails.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 1:45 P.M., Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) A said the resident used his/her side rails for bed mobility.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 3:27 P.M., Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) B said the following:
-The resident had side rails and used them for bed mobility;
-The resident did not have an order for the side rails, a side rail assessment, or signed informed consent.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:59 A.M., Registered Nurse (RN) C said the following:
-The resident had side rails and did very well with them;
-The resident did not have a side rail assessment or physician's order for the side rails but he/she should.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 10:23 A.M., the MDS Coordinator said the following:
-The resident did not have order, a side rail assessment, or signed informed consent and the side rails were not care planned. The resident should have all of these.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 1:33 P.M., the Director of Nursing (DON) said the following:
-The resident should have physician's orders, signed informed consent, and a side rail assessment and the resident's care plan should include the side rails.
CONCERN
(E)
📢 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
Infection Control
(Tag F0880)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed maintain an effective infection control program when staff failed to implement source control when the facility had one resident...
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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed maintain an effective infection control program when staff failed to implement source control when the facility had one resident (Resident #299) positive for COVID-19, when staff failed to display signage on the resident's room for proper droplet isolation protocols and on the front entrance to the facility, and when staff failed to initiate contact trace or facility-wide test residents and staff for COVID-19 when the facility was in outbreak status. The facility census was 97.
Review of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic, updated 05/08/23, showed the following:
-The recommendations in this guidance continue to apply after the expiration of the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency;
-Healthcare facilities should have a plan for how SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) exposures in a healthcare facility will be investigated and managed and how contact tracing will be performed;
-Source control refers to use of respirators or well-fitting face masks or cloth masks to cover a person's mouth and nose to prevent spread of respiratory secretions when they are breathing, talking. sneezing, or coughing. Masks and respirators also offer varying levels of protection to the wearer. People, particularly those at high risk for severe illness, should wear the most protective mask or respirator they can that fits well and that they will wear consistently;
-Source control options for health care personnel (HCP) include a NIOSH approved particulate respirator with N95 filters (a safety device that covers the nose and mouth and helps protect the wearer from breathing in some hazardous substances. An N95 mask protects a person from breathing in 95% of small particles in the air) or higher; a respirator approved under standards used in other countries that are similar to NIOSH approved N95 filtering face piece respirators; a barrier face covering that meets ASTM F3502-21 requirements including workplace Performance and Workplace Performance Plus masks; or a well-fitting facemask;
-When used solely for source control, any of the options listed above could be used for an entire shift unless they become soiled, damaged, or hard to breathe through. If they are used during the care of patient for which a NIOSH Approved respirator or facemask is indicated for personal protective equipment, they should be removed and discarded after the patient care encounter and a new one should be donned;
-Source control is recommended more broadly in the following circumstances: by those residing or working on a unit or area of the facility experiencing a SARS-CoV-2 or other outbreak of respiratory infection; universal use of source control could be discontinued as a mitigation measure once the outbreak is over (e.g., no new cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection have been identified for 14 days); or facility-wide or, based on a facility risk assessment, targeted toward higher risk areas (e.g., emergency departments. Urgent care) or patient populations (e.g., when caring for patients with moderate to severe immunocompromised) during periods of higher levels of community SARS-CoV-2 or other respiratory virus transmission; or have otherwise had source control recommended by public health authorities (e.g., in guidance for the community when COVID-19 hospital admission levels are high);
- Responding to a newly identified SARS-CoV-2-infected HCP or resident: When performing an outbreak response to a known case, facilities should always defer to the recommendations of the jurisdiction's public health authority. A single new case of SARS-CoV-2 infection in any HCP or resident should be evaluated to determine if others in the facility could have been exposed.
Review of the facility's policy titled Outbreak Management, dated 05/15/23, showed the following:
- The strategies CDC recommends to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in long term care communities are the same strategies used every day to detect and prevent the spread of other respiratory viruses like influenza;
-Potential symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 can include fever, chills, cough, muscle or body aches, fatigue, shortness of breath, sore throat, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, headache and loss of sense of taste or smell;
-Ensure facility staff are educated, trained, and have practiced the appropriate use of PPE prior to caring for a resident, including attention to correct use of PPE and prevention of contamination of clothing, skin, and environment during the process of removing such equipment. Post signage regarding donning and doffing of PPE;
-Source Control refers to use of respirators or well-fitting face masks or cloth masks to cover a person's mouth and nose to prevent spread of respiratory secretions when they are breathing, talking, sneezing, or coughing. Source control options for HCP include: a NIOSH Approved & particulate respirator with N9Se filters or higher, a respirator approved under standards used in other countries that are similar to NIOSH Approved N95 filtering face piece respirators (Note: These should not be used instead of a NIOSH Approved respirator when respiratory protection is indicated) or a well-fitting facemask;
-Source control is recommended in the following circumstances: for individuals who have suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection or other respiratory infection and for those individuals who had close contact (patients and visitors) or a higher-risk exposure (HCP) with someone with SARS-CoV-2 infection, for 10 days after their exposure;
-Source control is recommended more broadly as described in CDC's Core IPC Practices in the following circumstances: by those residing or working on a unit or area of the facility experiencing a SARS-CoV-2 or other outbreak of respiratory infection; universal use of source control could be discontinued as a mitigation measure once the outbreak is over (e.g., no new cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection have been identified for 14 days); or facility-wide or, based on a facility risk assessment, targeted toward higher risk areas (e.g., emergency departments, urgent care) or patient populations (e.g., when caring for patients with moderate to severe immunocompromise) during periods of higher levels of community SARS-CoV-2 or other respiratory virus transmission (See Appendix); or have otherwise had source control recommended by public health authorities (e.g., in guidance for the community when COVID-19 hospital admission levels are high);
- While it is safer for visitors not to enter the facility during an outbreak investigation, visitors must still be allowed in the facility. Visitors should be made aware of the potential risk of visiting during an outbreak investigation and adhere to the core principles of infection prevention;
- An outbreak investigation is initiated when a single new case of COVID-19 occurs among residents or staff to determine if others have been exposed. An outbreak investigation would not be triggered when a resident with known COVID-19 is admitted directly Into TBP, or when a resident known to have close contact with someone with COVID-19 is admitted directly into TBP and develops COVID-19 before TBP are discontinued;
- Upon identification of a single new case of COVID-19 infection in any staff or residents, testing should begin immediately (but not earlier than 24 hours after the exposure, if known). Facilities have the option to perform outbreak testing through two approaches, contact tracing or broad- based (e.g. facility-wide) testing;
-For individuals who test positive for COVID-19, facilities should follow the CDC Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic guidance for discontinuing TBP for residents and the Interim Guidance for Managing Healthcare Personnel with SARS-CoV-2 Infection or Exposure to SARS-CoV-2. for staff.
-Testing of staff and residents during an outbreak investigation: An outbreak investigation is initiated when a single new case of COVID-19 occurs among residents or staff to determine if others have been exposed. Upon identification of a single new case of COVID-19 in any staff or residents, testing should begin immediately (but not earlier than 24 hours after exposure, if unknown). Facilities have the option to perform outbreak testing through two approaches, contact tracing or broad-based testing. If the facility has the ability to identify close contacts of the individual with COVID-19, they could choose to conduct focused testing based on known close contacts. Broader approaches might also be required in situations where all potential contacts are unable to be identified, are too numerous to manage or when contract tracing fails to halt transmission.
1. Review of Resident #299's face sheet (a document that gives a patient's information at a quick glance) showed the following:
-admission date of 01/10/24;
-Diagnoses included cardiogenic shock (when the heart cannot pump enough blood and oxygen to the brain and other vital organs), heart failure, high blood pressure, and COVID-19.
Review of the resident's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS - a federally mandated comprehensive assessment instrument completed by facility staff), dated 01/17/24, showed the following:
-The resident had moderate cognitive impairment;
-The resident required set-up or clean-up assistance for eating, oral hygiene, toilet hygiene, upper body dressing and personal hygiene, supervision for lower body dressing and putting or taking off footwear and moderate assistance for bathing. He/she required supervision for bed mobility and to go from sitting to standing and moderate assistance for other transfers.
Review of the resident's care plan, revised 01/22/24, showed the following:
-Resident had a diagnosis of COVID-19 or is suspected of having COVID-19 and required contact and droplet isolation precautions and other monitoring related to actual or possible COVID-19 infection. He/she would have symptoms managed throughout the course of the infection/illness;
-Encourage the resident to cover his/her mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
-Ensure that good infection control measures and personal protective equipment are used when working with him/her;
-If he/she can tolerate, he/she will wear a mask when receiving care needs from staff;
-Ensure he/she stays in room, away from other people as much as possible (Transmission Based Precautions).
Review of the resident's nurses' progress notes showed the following:
-On 01/21/24, at 7:32 A.M., the resident was not feeling well, as told to day shift certified nursing aides (CNA). Vital signs taken and resident seemed to be running a low-grade temperature of 99.3 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Resident's lung sounds were clear with some upper airway resonance, light wheezing, especially in the right lower lung. After coughing and bringing up a moderate thick mucus wad, brownish dark green in color, his/her lungs were clear. Oxygen (O2) saturations were initially 88% (below 90% are considered low) per CNA report. When registered nurse (RN) checked out his/her O2 saturations, the RN got 91-92%. When the resident was put on 1 liter (L) O2 with nasal cannula, his/her O2 saturations increased to 94% (again, after coughing out the mucous). He/she agreed his/her symptoms are in his/her head and airway. When RN asked, like a cold?, he/she stated yes. He/she attempted to tell RN he/she vomited a lot during the night, but he/she is referencing a significant episode on evening shift;
-On 01/21/24, at 10:17 A.M., new orders received for do a urinalysis (UA) in the morning and compete complete blood count (CBC - labs), basic metabolic panel (BMP- blood test helps doctors check the body's fluid balance and levels of electrolytes, and see how well the kidneys are working) and STAT (order should be prioritized first as it's needed urgently) chest x-ray;
-On 01/21/24, at 12:47 P.M., STAT UA, CBC, and BMP collected by the lab at 12:35 P.M Pending results and STAT chest x-ray administration;
-On 01/21/24, at 2:56 P.M., STAT chest x-ray completed at 2:40 P.M. and pending results;;
-On 01/22/24, at 2:17 P.M., resident continues to complain of upper respiratory symptoms and just feeling poorly. COVID test conducted with positive results. Physician notified of results as well as the family member. Isolation precautions initiated and the Administrator is aware.
During an interview on 01/23/24, at 11:05 A.M., the Administrator said the facility only had one resident in isolation due to COVID-19 therefore staff did not need to wear masks as source control. They contact traced and knew how the resident contracted COVID-19. According to the CDC, since they were able to contact trace, they did not have to wear masks as source control.
Observations on 01/23/24, various times throughout the day, and on 01/24/24, until approximately 10:00 A.M., showed no sign indicating droplet precautions on the resident's door. At approximately 10:00 A.M., on 01/24/24, a handwritten sign was hung above the PPE cart outside the resident's door that read droplet precautions, face mask N95, gown, eye shield, gloves, and hand wash.
Observation on 01/25/24, at 8:56 A.M., showed no staff on the hall where the resident resided wore face masks as source control.
During interviews on 01/25/24, at 9:52 A.M. and 12:20 P.M., the Administrator said the following:
-On 1/22/24, the resident did not feel well and had a cough;
-The physician ordered a COVID-19 test and the resident was positive;
-Since the resident did not feel well that morning, he/she did not go to the dining room;
-The facility conducted contact tracing and knew four staff assisted the resident on 01/22/24 (prior to him/her testing positive), and did not stay in his/her room more than 15 minutes. Based on the information they obtained during their outbreak investigation, they did not need to conduct broad based testing.
Observation on 01/25/24, at 10:18 A.M., showed staff not wearing masks on the resident's hall or in the common area around the nurses' station.
Observation on 01/26/24, at 7:33 A.M., showed no signage on the main entrance to the facility regarding COVID-19 outbreak.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:59 A.M., Registered Nurse (RN) C said the following:
-Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 included cough, fever, low oxygen (O2) saturations, and runny nose. The symptoms varied with each person;
-He/she considered an outbreak as more than three COVID-19 positive residents;
-Outbreak testing started when there were ten positive residents on a hall;
-Staff started wearing masks when there were five positive residents;
-The facility was not currently doing outbreak testing of residents or staff;
-Signage for precautions should be placed on the resident's door when they tested positive;
-The facility did not place signage related to an outbreak on the main entrance until they were in an outbreak;
-The resident did not have any COVID-19 symptoms and staff completed a chest x-ray;
-On 01/21/24, the resident complained of frequency and pain with urination;
-He/she was told the resident had nausea on 01/20/24, but he/she did not know if that was a symptom of COVID-19 or what the resident ate;
-The physician ordered a chest x-ray on 01/21/24 because the resident ran a 99.3 degree F fever in the morning;
-The resident was on room air, did not have a cough, his/her lungs were clear. The RN had the oncoming nurse listen to the resident at shift change as well;
-The resident complained of pressure on his/her head and nursing staff repositioned the resident and that went away;
-Nursing staff kept checking on the resident and he/she said he/she was not his/her normal;
-The RN thought the resident was dehydrated and encouraged fluids;
-The RN did not work 01/22/24, so he/she did not know why the resident was tested for COVID-19. The nurse's note from that date said the resident continued to complain of respiratory symptoms;
-The Administrator was responsible for starting COVID-19 outbreak testing and source control.
Observation on 01/26/24, at 8:47 A.M., showed no staff on the resident's hall wore masks.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 8:54 A.M., CNA F said the following:
-The facility had one resident who tested positive for COVID-19, but he/she did not know if that resident still resided at the facility;
-Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 included coughing, chest pain, loss of taste/smell, and fever;
-The facility considered an outbreak if more then one person had COVID-19;
-The facility tested staff and residents for COVID-19 if they showed symptoms of COVID-19;
-If the facility had one COVID-19 positive resident, everyone in the facility should be tested, but no one had tested him/her.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 9:25 A.M., CNA I said the following:
-At that time, no residents tested positive for COVID-19;
-They had one resident, on a different hall, who was in isolation which could be related to COVID-19;
-Anyone who developed COVID-19 symptoms should be tested;
-Roommates and staff who had contact with a resident who tested positive for COVID-19, should be tested;
-Staff found out about residents who tested positive for COVID-19 in report, but staff only received report on the hall they worked.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 10:23 A.M., the MDS Coordinator said the following:
-Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 included cough, fever, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms depend on the strain;
-If any resident was sniffling, coughing or had upper respiratory symptoms the facility tested them right away;
-He/she considered an outbreak to be as little as two cases;
-He/she was not sure when outbreak testing started, the Director of Nursing (DON) was responsible for this;
-The facility was not currently doing outbreak testing;
-The facility currently had one isolated case of COVID-19 and did contact tracing with this case. Any staff who had significant contact (greater than 15 minutes) would be tested;
-The resident should have signage on their door for transmission based precautions;
-Unless the facility was in outbreak status, there would not be signage on the front entrance door;
-The Administrator told facility staff when to initiate source control and which masks to wear and when to wear them;
-The resident was coughing, had thick mucous and his/her lungs were clear on 01/21/24. He/she was placed on O2 for saturation levels of 91-92%. He/she said his/her symptoms were in his head and airway and attempted to tell the RN he/she vomited. The RN called the physician, checked the resident's blood sugar and obtained an order for a UA in the morning and STAT CBC, BMP and chest x-ray;
-On 01/22/24, at 2:17 P.M., the MDS Coordinator documented completing the COVID-19 test because the resident's symptoms were suspicious and the family member told him/her the resident had an exposure;
-The resident's symptoms started over the weekend with first documentation of them on 01/21/24;
-He/she tested a therapist because the therapist had a prolonged exposure with the resident;
-The resident's symptoms started before 01/22/24.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 11:33 A.M., CNA D said the following:
-Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 included fever, congestion, productive cough, disorientation, nasal congestion, nausea and vomiting. The symptoms vary from person to person;
-If he/she noticed a resident had symptoms, he/she wore a gown, gloves, face mask and eye shield to care for the resident. He/she also reported to the charge nurse;
-He/she found out about COVID-19 positive residents when he/she returned to work through report or he/she saw plastic on the residents door;
-He/she knew what to wear in an isolation room by the sign on the resident's door and through report;
-The facility was not doing outbreak testing;
-Facility administration required staff to wear masks regularly in the facility when they had more than one case.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 1:59 P.M., the Housekeeping Supervisor said the following:
-If a resident tested positive for COVID-19, he/she got the isolation cart ready. He/she stocked them with gloves, goggles, gowns, sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer and place it outside the room;
-He/she placed a sign on the resident's door;
-The facility did not place a sign on the front entrance with only one positive resident.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 2:20 P.M., the Director of Nursing (DON) said the following:
-Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 included fever, lethargy (tiredness), a general not feeling well. Symptoms of a cold could also mimic COVID-19 symptoms;
-If a resident developed signs and symptoms of COVID-19, the nurse contacted the physician and followed his/her instructions, including placing the resident in isolation, which included attaching a drape over the resident's door and an isolation cart that contained the appropriate PPE;
-Staff reported in shift report, when a resident tested positive for COVID-19;
-The facility implemented masking as source control if a staff member has exposure to a COVID-19 positive resident greater than 15 minutes. Hall specific outbreak source control (masking) occurred when multiple residents, residing on one hall, tested positive. Facility wide source control occurred when multiple residents on multiple halls tested positive for COVID-19;
-The resident showed symptoms of an upper respiratory infection on 01/21/24. The physician ordered a chest x-ray and blood tests in response to his/her infection. On 01/22/24, the resident continued with the same symptoms and the physician ordered a COVID-19 test in which he/she tested positive;
-Since the resident tested positive on 1/22/24, the facility contact traced the staff who assisted the resident on 01/22/24. The DON did not know if they contact traced staff who assisted the resident on 01/21/24;
-Since the resident showed symptoms on 01/21/24 and tested positive on 1/22/24, the facility should have contact traced those who assisted the resident on 01/21/24.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:38 P.M., the Administrator said the following:
-He/she did not contact trace the staff that had contact with the resident on 01/21/24;
-Initially the physician thought the resident's symptoms resulted from his/her comorbitities.
-The resident's physician ordered a chest x-ray due to the resident had a mild fever;
-He/she based the contact tracing on the date the resident tested positive for COVID-19;
-He/she did not expect staff to mask when outside of the resident's room unless the facility had multiple (more than one) cases that he/she could not contact trace;
-The guidance from the CDC was a recommendation and not regulation;
-He/she interpreted the resident's room as the unit the COVID-19 was isolated to and staff wore gowns, gloves, N95 masks and eye protection when in the resident's room;
-Staff knew there was a positive case through report, the isolation cart outside the door, and sign on the resident's door;
-The Housekeeping Supervisor usually placed the sign on the resident's door, but ultimately the Infection Preventionist was responsible to ensure it was done;
-He/she did not place a sign on the front entrance when they only had one case. He/she notified the physician and family members of the one case.
MO00227021
CONCERN
(F)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Food Safety
(Tag F0812)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to store and prepare food in accordance with professional standards of practice and protect all food from possible contamination...
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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to store and prepare food in accordance with professional standards of practice and protect all food from possible contamination when the facility staff failed to clean the microwave used to reheat resident food, the hand washing sink, the doors and adjacent walls of the walk-in freezer and cooler, the hot chocolate machine, the dust off ceiling vents, and the side of the dishwashing area. The facility failed to repair chipped paint around ceiling vents in the food service area and repair the floor under a food preparation table and three vat sink to ensure it was a cleanable surface. The facility failed to discard dented cans when staff stored dented cans on the shelves along with cans of food staff used to prepare resident food. The staff failed to discard expired food stored on the shelves along with food used to prepare resident food. The facility census was 97.
1. Review of the Food and Drug Administrator (FDA) 2013 Food Code showed the following:
-The objective of cleaning focuses on the need to remove organic matter from food contact surfaces so that sanitization can occur and to remove soil from nonfood contact surfaces so that pathogenic microorganisms will not be allowed to accumulate and insects and rodents will not be attracted;
-The presence of food debris or dirt on nonfood contact surfaces may provide a suitable environment for the growth of microorganisms which employees may inadvertently transfer to food. If these areas are not kept clean, they may also provide harborage for insects, rodents, and other pests;
-Materials for indoor floor, wall, and ceiling surfaces under conditions of normal use shall be smooth, durable, and easily cleanable for areas where food establishment operations are conducted; closely woven and easily cleanable carpet for carpeted areas; and nonabsorbent for areas subject to moisture such as food preparation areas, walk-in refrigerators, warehousing areas, toilet rooms, mobile food establishment servicing areas, and areas subject to flushing or spray cleaning methods.
Review of the facility's policy titled Cleaning Schedules, dated 04/2011, showed the following:
-It is the responsibility of the Dining Services Manager (DSM) to enforce the cleaning schedules and to monitor the completion of assigned cleaning tasks;
-Daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules prepared by the DSM with all cleaning tasks listed. This will be posted in the dietary department. The schedule should specify the day(s) the cleaning schedule will be done and who is responsible to do the cleaning by shift and position. Post the schedule prior to the beginning of each week. The employee will initial in the column under the day the task is completed;
-The purpose is to develop detailed cleaning schedules to ensure sanitation is at acceptable standards;
-Divide the department into areas including prep area, dish room area, storage area, etc. List all equipment (small and large) within each area;
-List items to be cleaned within each area including walls, floors, vents, etc.;
-Determine how frequently each are or item will need to be cleaned (after each use, per shift, daily, weekly or monthly);
-Determine time frames needed for different cleaning assignments;
-Specify who is to complete the cleaning task by listing the position next to each item or area to be cleaned;
-The employee responsible for performing the task is responsible for initialing the cleaning schedule on the day the task is completed;
-Cleaning schedules should be kept on file for one year.
Review of the facility's daily, weekly and monthly cleaning logs showed the following:
-Daily checklist for the morning cook included check freezer/fridge temps, put that day's menu out in main dining room (MDR), clean stove top and griddle, clean steam table inside and out, clean can opener as needed, clean drawers/cook table, clean off shelf above roto-coup (a machine used to puree food), clean roto-coup, check for proper food labeling, check sanitizer, empty and clean three vat sink, temp logs filled out, and empty small trash cans;
-Daily checklist for evening cook included clean stove top and griddle, clean steam table inside and out, clean can opener as needed, clean drawers/cook table, clean off shelf above roto-coup, clean roto-coup, check for proper food labeling, check sanitizer, empty and clean three vat sink, wipe down walls over three vat sink, wipe off back door, temp logs filled out, empty small trash cans, sweep and mop, make sure all ovens/fryers off and check freezer/fridge temps;
-Daily check list for morning dietary aides included clean and stock MDR fridge, take soiled rags to laundry, bus and clean MDR, put away drink carts, clean and stock drink carts, clean kitchen microwave, clean toaster and counter, stock and label items in reach-in, prep drinks for lunch, stock reach-in for lunch, roll all silverware for lunch,, help break down line after lunch, check hand sink (soap/towels), put non-slip mats out, check dish machine chem levels, record dish machine temp, record machine sanitizer level, finish breakfast dishes, put all dishes up in proper spots, sanitize dish area, clean outside of dishwasher, wipe down dish room walls, empty trashcan, finish lunch dishes, wipe down dish room walls, and empty trashcan;
-Daily checklist for evening dietary aides included bus and clean MDR after lunch, put away drink carts, clean and stock drink carts, stock and label items in reach-in, prep drinks for dinner, stock reach-in for dinner, roll all silverware for dinner, bus and clean MDR after dinner, put away drink carts, clean and stock drink carts, empty and clean coffee urns, empty all tea pitchers, empty and clean tea maker, send ice buckets/tongs to wash, clean prep sink area, roll all silverware for breakfast, check hand sink (soap/towels), finish lunch dishes, put all dishes up in proper spots, sanitize dish area, wipe down dish room walls, empty trashcan, help bus MDR after dinner, record dish machine temp, record machine sanitizer lever, finish dinner dishes, put all dishes up in proper spots, empty dish machine filter, clean outside of dishwasher, wipe down dish room walls, empty trashcan, roll up non-slip mats and sweep and mop dish pit;
-Weekly tasks included top convection oven (A.M. Cook), steamer table (A.M. Cook), plate warmer (A.M. Cook), left side lower oven (A.M. Cook), lower convection oven (P.M. Cook), fryer (P.M. Cook), right side lower oven (P.M. Cook), base warmer/cart (P.M. Cook), hood filters (Prep), mixers (Prep), clean between prep tables (Prep), sweep/mop dry storage (Prep), sweep freezer (Prep) and sweep/mop walk-in )Prep). The following tasks were not assigned: de-lime dish machine, wipe off doors, and clean shelf above prep sink and clean tray carts;
-Monthly de-stain coffee urns, wipe off/clean fire extinguisher, sanitize ice machine, clean floor drains, degrease/clean range hood, clean window/screen, clean dish dry rack, clean baker rack, clean ceiling vents and clean off pipes/plumbing. These tasks were not assigned to a specific position;
-The hot chocolate machine was not listed on any of the cleaning logs.
Observations on 01/23/24, at 9:45 A.M., on 01/24/24, at 8:22 A.M., and on 01/25/24, at 8:18 A.M., showed the following:
-The handwashing sink had a grayish in color build-up around the top edges;
-The doors around the door handles to the walk-in freezer and refrigerator and the walls to the left of each had a blackish in color build-up approximately one foot above and below the handles and the walls to the left of the doors;
-The black hose that lead to the left side of the cooler fan in the walk-in cooler had a build up of dust and cob webs and a dust ball hung down on the right side of the cooler fan box. There were cartons of milk below the cooler fan and food items on the shelves to the right and left of the cooler fan box;
-The cocoa machine's dispensing nozzles had a build up of hot chocolate. The back splash of the machine had splattered hot chocolate on it. The drain tray had hot chocolate standing inside it as well as splattered hot chocolate on the top of the tray;
- The vent between the walk-ins and the serving line had blackish brown spots covering the vent and there was peeling, hanging paint around the edges. The first vent in the dish room was covered with a build up of dust and sat above a green wire rack containing clean utensils, cups, and trays. The vent above the clean side of the dish machine had paint peeling and hanging around all edges;
-The microwave in the serving area had dried, splattered food particles on the inside top, back and sides;
-The floor under the food preparation table to the left of the three vat sink had an area approximately 4.5 feet wide by 3 feet deep area that was a rough, porous surface that appeared to be concrete with deeper cuts along the edges where food and dirt could become trapped. The surface was not painted like the rest of the floor.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 8:28 A.M., Dietary Aide (DA) N said the following:
-Kitchen staff had cleaning schedules. Certain tasks were assigned to different workers;
-All staff were responsible for cleaning the hand sink and it should be cleaned daily. If he/she saw it was dirty, he/she cleaned it. The hand sink should not have a grayish build-up around the top edge;
-Kitchen staff were responsible for cleaning the vents monthly. They should not have paint peeling around the edges or dust on the vents over serving area, clean dishes, or anywhere;
-Kitchen staff cleaned microwaves daily. They should not contain dried, stuck on, splattered food inside. This could cross contaminate food and make residents sick;
-Kitchen staff are responsible for cleaning doors of walk-ins and walls once or twice a month. They are not clean now. He/she could wipe it, but the substance would not come off without scrubbing it;
-Kitchen staff cleaned the hot chocolate machine's tray and nozzles monthly and as needed. This was included on their cleaning lists;
-He/she was not sure which kitchen staff was responsible for cleaning the hoses leading to the cooler fan and the fan box in the walk-in cooler, but they should not have dust or cobwebs on them. This could contaminate the milk cartons in the cooler;
-Kitchen staff swept and mopped under the food prep table by the three vat sink. The floor should be a non-porous surface. The Dietary Manager (DM) was responsible for getting the floor fixed;
-The kitchen staff were responsible for completing the cleaning tasks and the DM was responsible for ensuring the staff completed the tasks.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 8:48 A.M., DA O said he/she was not sure who was responsible for cleaning the vents.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 10:34 A.M., [NAME] Q said the following:
-Kitchen staff had daily and weekly cleaning schedules. Different kitchen staff were responsible for different tasks;
-All kitchen staff were responsible for cleaning the hand washing sink. If staff saw it was dirty they should clean it;
-Staff should clean the doors to the walk-ins daily. Staff scrub on it and it will not come off;
-The DM and cooks cleaned the hoses to the cooler fan and the fan box in the walk-in cooler. They should not have dust or cobwebs on them;
-DAs cleaned the microwave twice daily. There should not be stuck on food particles inside because it could cross contaminate other food warming up in the microwave;
-Night cooks cleaned the vents. They should not have peeling paint, rust, or dust on them because it could contaminate the resident's food;
-DAs cleaned the hot chocolate machine. He/she was not sure how often they cleaned it;
-The floor under the food preparation table was not a cleanable surface and maintenance was responsible for fixing it. The DM informed maintenance when items needed fixed;
-The DM was responsible for ensuring kitchen staff completed all of the cleaning tasks.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 11:36 A.M., the DM said the following:
-All DAs and cooks had weekly, daily and monthly cleaning lists and initialed the list when they completed a task. He/she ensured staff completed the tasks;
-The hand washing sink should not have a build up on it;
-Staff should clean the doors to the walk-ins daily;
-Maintenance cleaned the hoses and condensers in the walk-ins. If kitchen staff saw they were dirty, they cleaned them;
-DAs cleaned the microwave daily and they should not have stuck on food inside them;
-Maintenance was responsible for cleaning the vents monthly and repairing the peeling paint. He/she cleaned them once in a while as well and let maintenance know if they needed cleaned or repaired;
-He/she periodically tasked a staff member with cleaning the hot chocolate machine nozzles weekly. They should clean the drain tray and back splash daily. He/she did not have a place for staff to document this was completed;
-The floor under the food preparation table by the three vat sink should have been repaired. He/she did not consider it a cleanable surface. He/she told maintenance about the floor.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 12:56 P.M., the Maintenance Supervisor said the following:
-Maintenance and kitchen staff cleaned the ceiling vents in the kitchen and completed this when they noticed they were getting bad. They should not have a build up of dust or paint peeling from around them. The kitchen staff let him/her know when they needed repaired;
-The facility put in a new septic system eight years ago under the food preparation table by the three vat sink. The floor was mopped by the kitchen. The floor was concrete and porous. The cut grooves should be filled in and the floor should be painted to make it a cleanable surface. He/she was responsible for these repairs.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:38 P.M., the Administrator said the following:
-The floor under the food preparation table by the three vat sink should be cleanable;
-The vent in the kitchen should be clean and should not have peeling hanging paint around the edges;
-The hoses to the cooler fan and the cooler fan box in the walk-in cooler should not have dust and cobwebs on them;
-The microwaves should be clean and not have dried on, splattered food inside;
-The hot chocolate machine should be clean;
-He/she and the DM were responsible for ensuring the kitchen was clean.
2. Review of the FDA 2013 Food Code showed the following:
-Rusted and pitted or dented cans may present a serious potential hazard;
-Products that are held for credit, redemption, or return to the distributor, such as damaged, spoiled, or recalled products, shall be segregated and held in designated areas that are separated from food.
Review of the facility's policy titled Food Purchases, dated 04/2011, showed leaking or severely dented cans should be disposed of promptly to prevent contamination of other foods.
Observations on 01/23/24, at 9:45 A.M., on 01/24/24, at 8:22 A.M., and on 01/25/24, at 8:18 A.M., of the kitchen and food storage area showed the following:
-One dented 6.5 pound (lb.) can of diced peaches, one dented 6 lb. 11 ounce (oz.) can chili con carne, and one dented 6.5 lb. can of sliced apples;
-One dented 6 lb. 8 oz. can of spaghetti sauce, one dented 6.31 lb. can of classic green beans, and one dented 50 oz. can chicken noodle soup.
During an interview on 01/24/24, at 8:40 A.M., DA R said the following:
-He/she helped unload the truck and stock. If they found a dented can they gave it back to the driver. If the driver was gone, he/she did not know where staff put the cans;
-Dented cans should not be on the speed rack. They could be busted open. One small puncture could contaminate the contents;
-If he/she noticed a dented can on the speed rack, he/she opened it and placed it in another container and dated it if the product was still good;
-If he/she did not know where to put a dented can.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 8:28 A.M., DA N said the following:
-The DM stocked the food from the truck. DAs and cooks helped too;
-If he/she saw a dented can he/she let the DM know;
-Dented cans should not be on the speed rack with food to be served to the residents. They could have a broken seal and cause residents to become ill if they were used;
-The DM was responsible for checking for dented cans.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 10:31 A.M., [NAME] P said the following:
-The DM stocked the food from the truck;
-Dented cans went in the DM's office;
-Dented cans should not be on the speed racks because they could be contaminated. If on the speed rack they could accidentally be used and could make the residents sick;
-Cooks kept an eye out for dented cans and the DM was responsible for ensuring dented cans were not on the speed rack.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 10:34 A.M., [NAME] Q said the following:
-The DM stocked the shelves when the truck came and cooks helped as well;
-The kitchen did not have a dented can storage except the DM's office;
-Dented cans should not be on the speed racks because they could be contaminated;
-If dented cans were on the speed rack, they could be used and this could make residents sick;
-If he/she saw a dented can on the speed rack, he/she removed it;
-The DM was responsible for checking for dented cans.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 11:36 A.M., the DM said the following:
-Dented cans should not be on the speed rack;
-If he/she saw a dented can, he/she took it to his/her office;
-He/she was responsible for stocking food from the delivery truck;
-The cooks were aware if they found a dented can to bring it to his/her attention;
-If food from a dented can was served, it could contain bacteria.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:38 P.M., the Administrator said dented cans should not be on the speed rack.
3. Review of the facility's policy titled Food Purchases, dated 04/2011, showed the following:
-Orders will be inspected when received to ensure quality, quantity, and condition. If spoiled or defrosted food is delivered, it is refused and returned at the time of delivery.
Observations on 01/23/24, at 9:45 A.M., on 01/24/24, at 8:22 A.M., and on 01/25/24, at 8:18 A.M., showed the following:
-Five 14 oz. cans of sweetened condensed milk on a wire rack in the corner of the dry storage room with a best by date of 09/14/22.
During an interview on 01/24/24, at 8:40 A.M., DA R said the following:
-If he/she saw expired cans on the shelf, he/she would dispose them;
-The DM was responsible for checking for expired cans.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 8:28 A.M., DA N said the following:
-If he/she saw an expired can on a shelf, he/she threw it away;
-There should not be expired cans of sweetened condensed milk on the shelf because it could be used and make the residents sick;
-The DM was responsible for checking for expired cans.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 10:31 A.M., [NAME] P said the following:
-Expired cans of sweetened condensed milk should not be on the shelf because it could be used and make residents sick;
-Cooks check the expiration dates and the DM was responsible for checking for expired items.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 10:34 P.M., [NAME] Q said the following:
-Expired sweetened condensed milk should not be on the shelf because cooks could use it and the residents could get sick;
-If he/she saw an expired can, he/she removed it;
-The DM was responsible for checking for expired cans.
During an interview on 01/25/24, at 11:36 A.M., the DM said the following:
-He/she and the cooks were responsible for checking for expired food;
-Expired sweetened condensed milk should not be on the shelf.
During an interview on 01/26/24, at 3:38 P.M., the Administrator said expired cans should not be on the shelf.