CRITICAL
(L)
Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation
Safe Environment
(Tag F0584)
Someone could have died · This affected most or all residents
⚠️ Facility-wide issue
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** B. Observation on 6/6/22 at 8:05 AM in the facility dining room revealed that the room temperature felt hot. An oscillating fan ...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** B. Observation on 6/6/22 at 8:05 AM in the facility dining room revealed that the room temperature felt hot. An oscillating fan was running by the fire extinguisher. A floor fan was running by the east dining room entry door. Facility residents were in the dining room for the breakfast meal.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 9:39 AM with the Facility Administrator (FA) confirmed that the facility air conditioning (AC) cooling unit had been broken for awhile. The FA added that the cooling unit had been broken since the beginning of spring and that the FA had told the facility owners. The FA confirmed that the facility indoor air temperature was over the upper limit of the required safe temperature range. The FA revealed that the facility has been running fans and dehumidifiers to keep residents comfortable. The FA revealed that the FA had emailed and talked to the company Director of Operations for an estimate for repairs on the whole cooling unit. The FA revealed that a heating and air company was at the facility and said that the job was too large for their crew. The FA revealed that the heating and air company had a crew at another office that would be able to help. The FA revealed that the heating and air company was to provide an estimate to the facility this week on the repairs to the cooling unit. The FA revealed that facility interventions for residents due to no air conditioning included room fans for residents. The FA revealed that the facility Atrium has its own separate cooling unit and that the Atrium room is cooler. The FA revealed the facility had placed fans in the hallways and had been monitoring air temperatures in the facility daily. The FA revealed that the facility had a lot of grievances (complaints) on the hot temperature in the facility. The FA revealed that to assist with resident comfort the facility was getting residents out of their rooms especially for meals.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 1:37 PM with the Facility Administrator (FA) revealed that the FA provided a copy of emails sent to the corporate office on 5/18/22 and 5/24/22. The FA revealed that the facility was waiting on an estimate for the repair of the cooling unit. The FA revealed that the heating and air company that was to be providing the estimate was to send the estimate directly to the FA. The FA revealed that the facility was making sure that the residents received ice water and that the facility was making sure that the water was not getting lukewarm.
Record review of the email from the FA to the corporate office dated 5/18/22 at 12:55 PM revealed that the subject was documented as: AC unit update. The FA wrote that the FA had called the heating and air company to come and look at the AC situation and give the facility an estimate.
Record review of the email from the FA to the corporate office dated 5/24/22 at 3:09 PM revealed that the subject was documented as: RE: AC unit update. The FA wrote that the Maintenance Director (MD) had called the heating and air company to give the facility an estimate for the current AC situation. The email revealed that the heating and air company visited the facility on 5/23/22 to assess the AC situation. The email revealed that the facility was currently trying to find mechanical plans for the building. The email revealed that the heating and air company was going to send the facility an estimate for the air handler that currently needs to be replaced. The email revealed that when the air handler is turned on it currently sounds like a freight train coming through the building so it needs some parts and repairs done to it.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 3:22 PM with Registered Nurse-A (RN-A) revealed that the facility is checking resident temperatures one time per shift (every 12-hour shift). RN-A confirmed that the facility nursing staff is not checking the air temperatures in resident rooms or in the facility.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 3:23 PM with the FA revealed that the FA did not find any documentation of air temperature monitoring in the facility in 2022.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 3:34 PM in the room of Resident 8 revealed that the resident sat in the chair in the corner of the resident's room. Resident 8 had a nasal cannula in place to receive oxygen at 3 liters per minute from the oxygen concentrator. Resident 8 breathed with pursed lip breathing (a breathing technique designed to make your breaths more effective by making them slower and more intentional when you are having difficulty breathing). Resident 8 revealed that the resident was having trouble breathing and had pressure on the chest and back due to there being no cool air to breathe. Resident 8 confirmed that the high temperature in the building was causing difficulty with the resident's breathing.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 3:37 PM with the Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that the required air temperature in the facility was to be between 71-81 degrees Fahrenheit.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 4:21 PM with Resident 18 revealed that it was too hot in the facility. Resident 18 revealed that the resident can't sleep due to it being hot in the facility. Resident 18 revealed that the heat makes Resident 18 nauseous in the dining room and made it difficult for Resident 18 to eat.
Observation in 6/6/22 at 6:03 PM in the facility room being used by the survey team revealed that the DON provided the survey team with a copy of the updated plan to correct the temperature in the facility.
Record review of the facility document titled Plan to correct Temperature in the facility on 6/6/22 at 6:03 PM revealed that it included:
1.
Assessed all resident's immediately upon notification of temperature discrepancies.
2.
Obtained temperature of all rooms to identify out of temperature areas.
3.
The facility will check the temperature in all rooms mid-morning and late afternoon daily.
4.
The facility will move any residents in a room out of temperature range to a room that is within temperature range.
5.
The facility moved the resident dining from the facility dining room to the atrium for all meals.
6.
The facility will assess residents for heat concerns especially the ones with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or any other respiratory illness every day and evening shift.
7.
The facility will get 2 portable air conditioner units by 9:00 PM on 6/6/22 for cooling and 1 more unit on 6/7/22.
8.
The facility will continue the system purchase process.
9.
Educate staff on heat exposure signs and symptoms and appropriate room temperature ranges.
10.
If portable air coolers are in an egress area, the facility will notify the Fire Marshal.
The Immediate Jeopardy was abated at this time and the scope and severity was lowered to 'F'.
Observation on 6/7/22 at 7:30 AM in the 300 hall revealed a portable cooling unit in place blowing cool air into the hallway.
Observation on 6/7/22 at 8:10 AM at the nurse's station revealed that the ADON provided education to Medication Aide-D (MA-D) and RN-A on the signs and symptoms of heat injury. The ADON reviewed the facility form for documenting twice daily monitoring of each resident to include the air temperature in the resident's room. The ADON provided education on how to use the thermometer to determine the air temperature in the resident rooms.
Observation on 6/7/22 at 10:19 AM revealed that the temperature per the portable thermometer was 78.8 degrees outside of the room of Resident 18.
Interview on 6/7/22 at 10:47 AM with the FA revealed that the FA provided a grievance log sheet for June 2022. The FA revealed that the facility didn't have a Social Services Director for a while. The FA revealed that the Business Office Manager (BOM) took over facility grievances and that the June 2022 grievance log sheet is what the BOM had.
Record review of the June 2022 Grievance/Complaint Log revealed that the facility received 3 grievances. A grievance dated 5/28/22 from Resident 18 revealed that Resident 18 was concerned with the temperature in the dining room and bedroom. A grievance dated 5/28/22 from Resident 21 revealed that Resident 21 was too uncomfortable in the dining room to eat and could not get comfortable. A grievance dated 5/28/22 from Resident 4 revealed that Resident 4 did not understand how the resident's room is so hot. The comments, actions, and follow up section on the Grievance/Complaint Log for each of the 3 grievances documented that the BOM spoke to the administrator about the grievance and that the administrator was already working on getting bids from different companies to repair the AC unit.
Observation on 6/8/22 at 7:08 AM outside of the room of Resident 2 revealed an air temperature of 72.8 degrees per portable thermometer.
Observation on 6/8/22 at 7:09 AM outside of the room of Resident 8 revealed an air temperature of 74.2 degrees per portable thermometer.
Observation on 6/8/22 at 7:08 AM outside of the room of Resident 18 revealed an air temperature of 71.9 degrees per portable thermometer.
Interview on 6/8/22 at 7:33 AM with Resident 18 revealed that the facility temperature was much more comfortable and that you don't have to pull at your shirt because it is so hot.
Observation on 6/8/22 at 7:45 AM revealed that Resident 8 sat in the chair in the corner of the room with legs crossed on the chair. A blanket was in place covering the resident's legs and lap. Resident breathed with no pursed lip breathing or other signs of respiratory distress. Resident 8 revealed that the resident was enjoying the cooler air.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 8:27 AM outside of room [ROOM NUMBER] revealed an air temperature of 75.9 degrees.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 8:27 AM outside of room [ROOM NUMBER] revealed that the FA and ADON exited the room. At 8:29 AM the air temperature in the room was 79.3 degrees.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 8:30 AM with Licensed Practical Nurse-C (LPN-C) revealed that Resident 8 was moved to a different room during the night. LPN-C confirmed that Resident 8's room was too hot, so the resident was moved to another room temporarily.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 8:31 AM in the temporary room of Resident 8 revealed that the FA and ADON set up an oscillating stand fan in the room.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 8:32 AM with Resident 8 revealed that the resident got hot in the middle of the night and had trouble breathing. Resident 8 revealed that the staff moved the resident to this different room. The temperature in the room with Resident 8 revealed a temperature of 79.1 degrees per portable thermometer.
C. Record review of the facility admission Agreement dated 10/2019 revealed that the resident has a right to a safe, clean, comfortable homelike environment. The facility must provide housekeeping and maintenance services necessary to maintain a sanitary, orderly, and comfortable interior.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:20 AM in the room of Resident 8 revealed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy gray/white debris.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:26 AM in the room of Resident 126 revealed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy grayish debris and a curly black hair hung from the vent cover.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:27 AM in the room of Resident 4 revealed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with gray debris.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:28 AM in the room of Resident 18 revealed that the toilet base was soiled with brownish black debris between the toilet base and the floor.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:30 AM in the room of Resident 16 revealed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy white/gray debris. Spider webs were present running from the fire sprinkler pipes near the bathroom ceiling to the light fixture above the sink in the bathroom. The toilet bowl contained dried brown/black stool splotches inside of the bowl and on the stool riser. The base of the toilet was soiled with brownish black debris between the toilet base and the floor.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:34 AM in the room of Resident 6 revealed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy gray debris and had spider webs hanging from it.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 1:02 PM in the room of Resident 8 with the Facility Administrator (FA) confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy gray/white debris.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 1:07 PM in the room of Resident 126 with the FA confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy grayish debris and a hair hung from the vent cover.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 12:52 PM outside the room of Resident 4 with the FA revealed that Resident 4 did not provide permission to enter the resident's room to confirm that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with gray debris.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 12:55 PM in the room of Resident 18 with the FA confirmed that the toilet base was soiled with brownish black debris between the toilet base and the floor.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 12:59 PM in the room of Resident 16 with the FA confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy white/gray debris. The FA confirmed that spider webs were present running from the fire sprinkler pipes near the bathroom ceiling to the light fixture above the sink in the bathroom.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 12:57 PM in the room of Resident 6 with the FA confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan vent cover was covered with fuzzy gray debris and had spider webs hanging from it.
D. Record review of the facility admission Agreement dated 10/2019 revealed that the resident has a right to a safe, clean, comfortable homelike environment. The facility must provide housekeeping and maintenance services necessary to maintain a sanitary, orderly, and comfortable interior.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 7:17 AM at the door to the room of Resident 5 revealed that the carpet over the threshold was loose. The surveyor caught their foot on the carpet.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:14 AM in the room of Resident 2 revealed that the toilet handle was broken and the toilet would not flush.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 9:18 AM with Resident 2 revealed that the toilet in the resident's room had been broken for at least a week.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:21 AM in the room of Resident 3 revealed that the bathroom sink did not drain.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:24 AM in the room of Resident 15 revealed that the light above the sink in the resident's bathroom flickered constantly and was bright. The bathroom sink did not drain. The lower wall of the bathroom contained gouges. Drywall was torn away by the closet in the resident's room next to the hand sanitizer dispenser.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:34 AM in the room of Resident 6 revealed that the vinyl floor outside of the bathroom was wet and slick. Water leaked from around the base of the toilet and there were standing water puddles on the bathroom floor. The bathroom floor contained orange-yellow stains surrounding the standing water puddle edges.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 1:05 PM with the Facility Administrator (FA) in the room of Resident 2 revealed that the toilet handle had been repaired.
Interview on 6/9/22 with Resident 2 revealed that the Maintenance Director (MD) had repaired the toilet handle so that the toilet could be flushed.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 12:53 PM in the room of Resident 3 with the FA confirmed that the bathroom sink did not drain.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 12:49 PM in the room of Resident 15 with the FA confirmed that the light above the sink in the resident's bathroom flickered. The FA confirmed that the bathroom sink did not drain. The FA confirmed that the lower wall of the bathroom contained gouges. The FA confirmed that drywall was torn away by the closet in the resident's room next to the hand sanitizer dispenser.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 12:57 PM in the room of Resident 6 with the FA confirmed that water leaked from around the base of the toilet. The FA confirmed that the bathroom floor contained orange-yellow stains from standing water.
LICENSURE REFERENCE NUMBER 175 NAC 12-006.18
Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.18A
Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.18B
Based on observation, interview, and record review; the facility failed to ensure that the facility air temperatures were maintained within the regulatory temperature range of 71 F (Fahrenheit) to 81 F and comfortable levels for the residents which had the potential to affect all the facility residents. The facility failed to ensure resident areas were clean for 6 residents (Residents 8, 126, 4, 18, 16, and 6), and failed to ensure repair of sinks, toilets, or carpet for 5 residents (Residents 5, 2, 3, 15, and 6). The facility identified a census of 23 at the time of survey.
Findings are:
A. Observation of the facility on 6/06/22 at 6:55 AM revealed fans were running in the dining room and in the hallways. The air felt hot in the facility and the dining room. There was one yellow carpet drying fan in the hall on 400.
Observation of the facility dining room on 6/6/22 at 7:14 AM revealed the dining room temperature was 86.7 F.
Observation of the facility dining room on 6/6/22 at 7:17 AM revealed the thermostat on the wall in the dining room read 85 F degrees. The temperature on the 400 hall was 86.2 F. There was no ice in any of the water cups on the unit for Resident 14, Resident 3, Resident 7, Resident 5, Resident 15, and Resident 4.
Interview with RN-A (Registered Nurse) on 6/6/22 at 8:10 AM revealed the facility AC (air conditioning) was not working. RN-A revealed they did not know how long the AC had not been working. RN-A revealed the staff passed ice to the residents during the night and between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM.
Observation of the facility dining room on 6/6/22 at 8:14 AM observed 15 residents were eating breakfast in the dining room. Observation of the temperature in the dining room revealed the temperature in the middle of the dining room was 86 F. 8 residents were seated in that area, Residents 12, 10, 19, 3, 21, 18, 7, and 11. The temperature by the north entrance to the dining room in proximity to the steam table was 88.5 F. Seven residents were seated in that area, Residents 14, 20, 22, 1, 13, 16, and 126.
Observation of the facility dining room on 6/6/22 at 8:17 AM revealed Resident 3 was sitting in the middle of the dining room. Interview with Resident 3 at this time revealed it was too warm in the facility and the dining room. Resident 3 revealed the temperature in the facility and the dining room got worse as the day went on. Resident 3 revealed they noticed that sometimes the other residents (Resident 3 pointed to the other residents seated in the dining room) did not eat because it got so hot in the dining room. Residents 12, 18, 10, 7, 11, 3, 14, 9, 22, 1, 13, 126, 19, 21, 20, and 16 were observed sitting in the dining room.
Interview with Resident 22 on 6/06/22 at 8:23 AM revealed the resident reported it's so hot in this place, the air conditioner hasn't worked since I've been here. It's terribly uncomfortable.
Interview with Resident 7 on 6/6/2022 at 8:39 AM revealed sometimes it got hot in the dining room. Resident 7 was observed sitting in their wheelchair in their room at this time. No ice was observed in their water bottle.
Observation of Resident 7's room on 6/06/22 at 8:44 AM revealed the window was open in their room. The room temperature was 80.6 F. There was no ice in the water cup in Resident 7's room.
Interview with Resident 10 on 6/6/2022 at 8:46 AM revealed it was too warm in the dining room at breakfast. Resident 10 revealed it got even hotter at times in the dining room than it was this morning. Resident 10 revealed it had been hot in the facility for a long time. Resident 10 revealed they did not get offered extra fluids. Resident 10 was observed resting in bed in their room at this time. No ice was observed in the resident's water bottle.
Observation of Resident 5 on 6/06/22 at 9:10 AM revealed Resident 5 was observed resting in bed in their room. Resident 5 was uncovered and was wearing a brief only. There was a fan running at the foot of the bed. There was no ice observed in their water bottle. Resident 5's room temperature was 84 F. Interview with Resident 5 at this time revealed it was too hot in the facility and they were uncomfortable. Resident 5 revealed yesterday and on Memorial Day it was so hot in the facility it was miserable in here. Resident 5 revealed it was ridiculous how hot it was in the facility and Resident 5 revealed they have been sweating. Resident 5 revealed they must have help to get out of bed. Resident 5 revealed the AC had never been started yet this spring. When inquired how long the AC had not been working, Resident 5 revealed the AC never had been working.
Interview with Resident 3 on 6/06/22 at 9:21 AM revealed it was excessively warm in their room.
Observation of Resident 4 on 6/06/22 at 9:27 AM revealed the thermostat on the wall by the door in their room read 82 F. The temperature in the middle of the room was 86 F. Resident 4 was resting in bed and had oxygen on at 2 ½ liters. There was a small fan running that was sitting on the stand next to Resident 4's bed. There was no ice in their water jug. Interview with Resident 4 at this time revealed it was too warm in their room. Resident 4 revealed they were hot and sweaty all the time and it was worse for them because they were diabetic. Resident 4 revealed the facility was not offering extra fluids.
Interview with the FA (Facility Administrator) on 6/06/22 at 9:39 AM confirmed the facility air conditioner was not working and it had not worked since the spring. The FA revealed they were running fans and de-humidifiers in the facility, and they had e-mailed and talked to the facility owners and director of operations. The FA revealed no repairs had been made to the AC.
Interview with Resident 8 on 6/06/22 at 11:20 AM revealed it had been hot in their room the past two months. Resident 8 revealed there was no AC (air conditioner) in their room. Resident 8 revealed they kept their door closed and used a fan. Resident 8 revealed it was difficult to breathe due to the heat. Resident 8 was observed with an oxygen concentrator and a small fan in their room.
Observation of the facility dining room on 6/6/2022 at 11:42 AM revealed the dining room temperature was 86 F on the thermostat thermometer on the wall. Residents 12, 21, 18, 10, 19, 7, 11, 3, 6, 14, 20, 9, 22, 1, 13, 126, and 16 were observed sitting in the dining room.
Observation of the facility on 6/6/22 at 11:45 AM revealed Residents 8, 5, 15, and 4 were observed eating their meals in their rooms. The room temperatures were warm.
Interview with the FA on 6/6/22 at 1:37 PM when asked what the faciliyt was doing to help with resident comfort since the AC was not working revealed the staff were supposed to be putting ice in the resident cups to keep the water from getting lukewarm.
Observation of Resident 4's room on 6/6/22 at 2:28 PM revealed the room temperature was 86 F in the middle of the room. The thermostat thermometer on the wall by the door read 84.
Observation of the 400 hall on 6/6/22 at 2:32 PM revealed the temperature was 84.9 F. 1 fan was blowing in the hall along the floor. It was a carpet drying fan. Residents 21, 14, 3, 7, 5, 15, 10, and 4 had ice in their water cups.
Observation of the facility on 6/6/22 at 3:35 PM revealed the ice was melted in the water cups for Residents 21, 14, 3, 7, 5, 15, and 10, and there was heavy condensation on the outside of the cups.
Observation of Resident 4's room on 6/6/22 at 3:25 PM revealed the ice in Resident 4's cup was melted and there was condensation on the outside of the cup. It was warm in Resident 4's room. When inquired how the heat and humidity was making Resident 4 feel, Resident 4 reported that it was hard to breathe due to the excess heat and humidity in the facility. Resident 4 revealed they just couldn't get their breath and their chest felt real heavy all the time. Resident 4 revealed the staff told Resident 4 the resident had COPD. Resident 4 stated, I have never had COPD. I didn't have any trouble breathing until I came to live in this place. Resident 4 reported when they came to the facility in March it was hot and humid in the facility, and the nurses had to call the MD and get an order for oxygen for Resident 4. Resident 4 revealed they never had to use oxygen before they came to the facility. Resident 4 revealed if they didn't have the oxygen, they would not be able to breathe at all because it was so hot and humid in the facility. Resident 4 was listless and had to stop and take a breath while conversing as they would get short of breath while talking.
Interview with Resident 15 on 6/06/22 at 4:18 PM revealed it was too warm in the room. Observation of the thermostat/thermometer on the wall revealed the room temperature was 86 F. The thermostat was set at 56.
Interview with Resident 18 on 6/06/22 at 4:21 PM revealed it was too hot in the facility. Resident 18 revealed the heat was making it difficult to sleep at night and the heat was making Resident 18 nauseous and they did not have an appetite and found it difficult to eat.
Interview with Resident 5 on 6/6/22 at 4:27 PM revealed the facility ran out of fans so they had to get someone to go downtown and buy them one with their own money as the AC was not working. The water in Resident 5's water bottle no longer had ice in it.
Interview with the DON (Director of Nursing) on 6/6/22 at 4:58 PM confirmed the temperature in the dining room was stifling. The DON revealed they moved the dining area to the atrium.
On 6/6/2022 at 6:03 PM The FA and DON presented their written plan to get the air temperatures down which included 2 air cooling units to be delivered tonight and more to follow and they will assess all the residents.
Observation of Resident 4's room on 6/07/22 at 10:00 AM revealed Resident 4 was sitting on the edge of their bed in their room. A small fan on the stand next to Resident 4's bed was running. The room curtain was open, and the sun was shining in Resident 4's room. It was hot in Resident 4's room. There was a jug of water and a jug of yellow drink that looked like lemonade or Mountain Dew soda both half full with no ice in them. The temperature in the middle of the room was 89.6 F. Interview with Resident 4 at this time revealed they liked it warm in their room but that it was a little too warm. Resident 4 revealed no one came and talked to them about getting a different fan. Resident 4 thought a bigger fan would help. Resident 4 revealed someone came in an turned the wall AC unit on, but it didn't work and there was no air coming out of it.
Interview with the FA on 6/07/22 at 10:15 AM revealed the temperature in Resident 4's room was 84 F this morning and Resident 4 told them they liked it warm in their room. When the FA was notified it was 89.6 F in Resident 4's room the FA revealed they would offer Resident 4 a larger fan.
Observation of Resident 5's room on 6/07/22 at 10:28 AM revealed they were resting in bed in their room wearing a brief only. Interview with Resident 5 at this time revealed it was still warm in their room, but the fan was helping. Observed a pedestal fan that was blowing on Resident 5. There was no ice in Resident 5's water bottle.
Interview with the DON on 6/07/22 at 10:35 AM revealed Resident 4 was comfortable with 84 degrees. When notified the temperature in Resident 4's room was now 89.6 F, the DON revealed they would offer Resident 4 a bigger fan or offer to move Resident 4 to a cooler room due to the sun shining on Resident 4's window causing the temperature in Resident 4's room to go up. Observation of the FA at this time revealed they took a pedestal fan into Resident 4's room.
Interview with the DON 6/07/22 at 1:15 PM revealed they were still working with Resident 4 on a plan for their room temperature.
Interview with the DON on 6/07/22 at 3:40 PM revealed Resident 4's room temperature was 84 now and it was 86 this AM when the DON checked it. The DON revealed they tried putting a dehumidifier in Resident 4's room and it would not stay on. The DON revealed they would get a portable air conditioner at the store, but Resident 4 reported to the DON they really did not want their window boarded up which is what they would have to do to pipe the exhaust out from a portable AC unit. The DON revealed they could get a different type of unit online, but it would not be here until Friday. The DON revealed Resident 4 preferred the unit they would have to order, however, the DON revealed they were still not getting the temperature in Resident 4's room down below 81 and the DON revealed Resident 4 told them they were okay with that.
Interview with Resident 4 on 6/07/22 at 3:50 PM revealed they did not want their window altered. Resident 4 revealed they did not want to make that much work for the facility and if it were them, they would not board the window up. Resident 4 revealed they could take quite a bit of heat. When it was discussed with Resident 4 about the temperature being over 89 degrees this AM in their room, Resident 4 revealed the sun did shine on their room due to the location of their room. Resident 4 revealed that now they had a pedestal fan, and the air circulating had helped a lot and that was the biggest thing for them. Resident 4 did agree to have staff turn the fan up and close their window curtain to keep the sun out and Resident 4 revealed they would report any concerns with breathing or sweating to the facility immediately.
Interview with the DON on 6/07/22 at 4:03 PM revealed they would order the cold ice evaporator and continue to monitor Resident 4 and increase the air in the room, close the curtain, and offer fresh icy drinks. The DON revealed they would also look at tinting the windows, getting Resident 4 a neck fan, and offering cold packs.
Observation of Resident 4 on 6/08/22 at 7:30 AM revealed Resident 4 was observed sitting up on the edge of their bed in their room. The room temperature was 78 F. Both fans were running. Interview with Resident 4 at this time revealed they were comfortable at this time, and they had slept better last night. Resident 4 also revealed they were breathing better.
Observation of Resident 4's room on 6/08/22 at 2:25 PM revealed the air temperature in their room was 78 F from thermometer on the wall. Interview with Resident 4 at this time revealed they were comfortable with the room temperature.
Observation of Resident 4's room on 6/09/22 at 8:32 AM revealed the room temperature was 80 F from wall thermometer. 2 fans were running, and the window curtains were closed. Resident 4 had a water jug in reach and yellow colored drink in another mug. Interview with Resident 4 at this time revealed they were comfortable. Resident 4 had no signs of respiratory distress. Oxygen was on at 2 ½ LPM.
Review of the Accuweather air temperatures for the community for March, April, May, and June 2022 revealed the temperatures over 70 F were listed for the following dates:
March 1- 75°, March 2-76°, March 20-78°, April 9-75°, April 12-89°, April 20-70°, April 21-72°, April 22-
92°, April 23-74°, April 26-76°, April 27-77°, April 28-82°, May 7-79°, May 8-79°, May 9-79°, May 10-78°, May 11-90°, May 12-89°, May 13-79°, May 14-74°, [TRUNCATED]
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0578
(Tag F0578)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure an Advance Directive (Advance directives explain how you wan...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure an Advance Directive (Advance directives explain how you want medical decisions to be made when you're too ill to speak for yourself.) was documented consistent with the resident's wishes for 1 of 1 sampled residents, Resident 15. The facility identified a census of 23 at the time of survey.
Findings are:
Review of Resident 15's admission Record dated [DATE] revealed an admission date of [DATE].
Review of Resident 15's Resuscitation Designation Order dated [DATE] revealed it was marked I DO NOT desire CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation- a medical procedure involving repeated compression of a patient's chest, performed in an attempt to restore the blood circulation and breathing of a person who has suffered cardiac arrest). The Resuscitation Designation Order was signed by Resident 15, the SSD (Social Services Designee), and Resident 15's physician.
Interview with MA-D (Medication Aide) on [DATE] at 10:23 AM revealed they got the information they needed to care for the residents from the NA Pocket Care Plan (a worksheet the direct care staff carried that contained the information to care for each resident).
Review of the untitled undated Nurse Aide Pocket Care Plan worksheet revealed Resident 15's code status was listed as full code (perform CPR).
Review of Resident 15's Care Plan dated [DATE] revealed the following: ADVANCED DIRECTIVE: ***CPR*** Resident 15 and their family have indicated that Resident 15 desires to have CPR initiated should their respirations or heartbeat cease.
Date Initiated: [DATE]
o a) CPR will be initiated should Resident 15's respirations and heartbeat cease.
Date Initiated: [DATE]
o Communicate to all staff Resident 15's choice to have CPR initiated should Resident 15's respirations or heartbeat cease.
Date Initiated: [DATE]
o Initiate CPR if you find Resident 15 pulseless or breathless and continue CPR until Paramedics arrive to take over.
Date Initiated: [DATE]
Review of Resident 15's Order Summary Report dated [DATE], revealed the order of Full Code with an order date of [DATE] was documented.
Interview with the DON (Director of Nursing) on [DATE] at 11:31 AM confirmed Resident 15's Advance Directive read Resident 15 wanted DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) and Resident 15's care plan did not reflect that. The DON revealed the order had been documented on Resident 15's orders as CPR but the staff were expected to follow Resident 15's Advance Directive which was DNR.
Interview with the ADON (Assistant Director of Nursing) on [DATE] at 1:18 PM confirmed Resident 15 wanted a DNR. The ADON confirmed Resident 15's EHR dashboard, Order Summary Report, NA Pocket Care Plan, and Care Plan read Resident 15 wanted CPR however, this information would need to be corrected as Resident 15 was a DNR.
Review of the facility policy Care Plan Process reviewed 1/2020 revealed the following: The plan of care must describe the services that are to be furnished to attain or maintain the resident's highest practicable physical, mental, and social well-being. Documentation includes but is not limited to-added/changes in goals and interventions/approaches initiated and dated.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Investigate Abuse
(Tag F0610)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.02(8)
Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to complete and submit the investigation for injury of unknown origin for 2 residents (Resident...
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Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.02(8)
Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to complete and submit the investigation for injury of unknown origin for 2 residents (Residents 123 and 125). The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
A.
The facility policy titled Abuse, Neglect, Misappropriation and Exploitation dated 10/19 revealed that each resident has the right to be free from abuse, neglect, misappropriation of resident property and exploitation. The facility will consider factors indicating possible abuse, neglect, and/or exploitation of residents, including physical injury of a resident of unknown source (origin). When a suspicion of abuse, neglect or exploitation occur, an investigation is immediately warranted. Investigation of injuries of unknown origin must be immediately investigated to rule out abuse. Report the results of all investigation to the administrator or his or her designated representative and to the other official in accordance with state law, including to the State Survey Agency within 5 working days of the incident.
Record review of the admission Record dated 6/8/22 for Resident 123 revealed that Resident 123 admitted into the facility on 9/8/21.
Record review of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Resident Assessment (a mandatory comprehensive assessment tool used for care planning) for Resident 123 dated 9/15/21 revealed that Resident 123 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) (a brief screening tool that aids in detecting cognitive impairment) score of 00. A score of 0 to 7 suggests severe cognitive impairment.
Record review of the progress note dated 10/27/22 at 8:48 AM for Resident 123 revealed that Resident 123 was complaining of right hip pain.
Record review of the progress note dated 10/27/22 at 10:45 AM for Resident 123 revealed that the nurse assessed Resident 123 due to the complaint of right hip pain. The nurse noted minimal outward rotation of the right foot. The resident had facial grimacing with movement of the right leg. The resident's physician was notified and an order was received to transfer Resident 123 to the emergency room for evaluation, treatment, and X-Ray of the right hip.
Record review of the Adult Protective Services Intake Worksheet dated 10/27/21 at 1:51 PM revealed that the facility reported that Resident 123 was sent to the hospital and was found to have a right hip fracture. The facility started their investigation this afternoon. It is not known what caused the hip fracture.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 9:22 AM with the DON (Director of Nursing) revealed that the facility was working to find the facility investigation for the injury of unknown origin for Resident 123 that was reported on 10/27/21.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 11:18 AM with the facility DON confirmed that the facility did not have a completed investigation report for the injury of unknown origin for Resident 123. The DON confirmed that an investigation should have been completed and submitted to the state agency.
B.
Record review of the admission Record dated 6/8/22 for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125 admitted into the facility on 2/16/18.
Record review of the MDS for Resident 125 dated 3/10/22 revealed that Resident 125 had a BIMS score of 99. A score of 99 means that the resident had severe cognitive impairment and was unable to complete the assessment.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/1/22 at 6:22 PM for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125 complained of left hip pain. Assessment revealed increased pain that radiated down the left leg with movement of the left leg. Some swelling was noted in the area of increased pain.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/1/22 at 11:30 PM for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125 had imaging done in the emergency room and no fractures or dislocations were present.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/2/22 at 1:41 PM for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125 continued to have pain in the left leg, left thigh area.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/8/22 at 5:14 AM for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125 continued to be uncomfortable with the left lower extremity.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/10/22 at 2:17 AM for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125 continued to experience pain to the left hip. Resident 125 was crying out during transfers and when lying in bed.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/14/22 at 7:13 AM for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125's left leg was very swollen, especially from the knee to the ankle. The nurse also noted bruising of the lower leg. Lightly touching anyplace on the left leg causes a cry from the resident.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/14/22 at 7:13 AM for Resident 125 revealed that Resident 125 was sent to the emergency room by ambulance at 8:18 AM.
Record review of the progress note dated 2/14/22 at 1:44 PM for Resident 125 revealed that a family member reported that Resident 125's left leg was broken.
Record review of the Adult Protective Services Intake Worksheet dated 2/14/22 at 6:14 PM revealed that the facility reported that Resident 125 was sent to the hospital and was found to have a tibia (the larger of the two bones of the lower leg) fracture. The facility reporter revealed that they were reporting the information as it is an injury of unknown origin.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 9:22 AM with the DON revealed that the facility was working to find the facility investigation for injury of unknown origin for Resident 125 that was reported on 2/14/22.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 11:18 AM with the facility DON confirmed that the facility did not have a completed investigation report for the injury of unknown origin for Resident 125. The DON confirmed that an investigation should have been completed and submitted to the state agency.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0645
(Tag F0645)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure that the required Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASARR) Level 2 screen (a screening program mandated by the federal Ce...
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Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure that the required Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASARR) Level 2 screen (a screening program mandated by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to ensure that nursing home applicants and residents with mental illness and intellectual/developmental disabilities are appropriately placed and receive necessary services to meet their needs) was conducted for 1 resident (Resident 8). This had the potential to prevent the resident from receiving specialized services. The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
Record review of the facility policy titled Resident Assessment-Coordination with the PASARR Program dated 2021 revealed that the facility coordinates assessments with the PASARR program to ensure that individuals with a mental disorder (illness), intellectual disability, or a related condition receives care and services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs. All applicants to the facility will be screened for serious mental disorders or intellectual disabilities and related conditions in accordance with the state's Medicaid rules for screening. PASARR Level 1 is pre-screening that is completed prior to admission. A positive PASSAR Level 1 screen necessitates a PASARR Level 2 evaluation prior to admission. A PASSAR Level 2 is a comprehensive evaluation by the appropriate state-designated authority that determines whether the individual has mental disorder, intellectual disability, or related condition, determines the appropriate setting for the individual, and recommends any specialized services and/or rehabilitative services the individual needs. A record of the pre-screening shall be maintained in the resident's medical record.
Record review of the admission Record dated 6/8/22 for Resident 8 revealed that Resident 8 admitted into the facility on 4/30/21. Diagnoses present on admission included Major Depressive Disorder (a mental disorder characterized by a persistently depressed mood and long-term loss of pleasure or interest in life, often with other symptoms such as disturbed sleep, feelings of guilt or inadequacy, and suicidal thoughts), Delusional Disorders [a type of psychotic disorder (a mental disorder) causing a belief or altered reality that is persistently held despite evidence or agreement to the contrary], and Anxiety (A mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one's daily activities).
Record review of the PASARR Level 1 dated 4/26/21 revealed that a staff member from the hospital where Resident 8 was a patient performed the PASARR Level 1 assessment screening. The PASARR Level 1 screen incorrectly documented that Resident 8 had no mental health diagnosis known or suspected. The screen documented that Resident 8 had a history of depression, anxiety, and paranoia with paranoid delusions. The screen documented that Resident 8 was transferred to a psychiatric facility on 1/28/20. The screen documented yes that Resident 8 had received recent treatment for a mental illness with an indication that the resident experienced psychiatric treatment more intensive than outpatient care. The screen incorrectly documented that a PASARR Level 2 evaluation was not required at this time due to no diagnosis of serious mental illness or intellectual disability or related condition.
Record review of the PASARR Level 1 dated 4/27/21 revealed that the same staff member from the hospital where Resident 8 was a patient performed the PASARR Level 1 assessment screening. The PASARR Level 1 screen documented that there were no signs of a serious mental illness, intellectual, disability, or a related condition found during the Level 1 screen. No further clinical review of onsite evaluation is needed. The screen incorrectly documented that Resident 8 had no mental health diagnosis known or suspected. The screen incorrectly documented that a PASARR Level 2 evaluation was not required at this time due to no diagnosis of serious mental illness or intellectual disability or related condition.
Record review of the care plan (a written interdisciplinary comprehensive plan detailing how to provide quality care for a resident) for Resident 8 dated 6/6/22 revealed that Resident 8 has a history of behavior problems related to major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and delusional disorder and takes medications to help manage these.
Record review of the progress note dated 5/4/22 at 9:20 AM for Resident 8 revealed that Resident 8 was crying and screaming at the nurse and the charge nurse. Resident 8 reported that staff are out to make the resident crazy.
Record review of the progress note dated 5/5/22 at 1:47 PM for Resident 8 revealed that Resident 8 told the nurse that the resident wanted protection this weekend because Resident 8 did not trust the Registered Nurse that would be working. Resident 8 stated that the Registered Nurse would give the resident too much insulin and would call the doctor without telling the resident.
Record review of the progress note dated 5/5/22 at 7:25 PM revealed that Resident 8 came down the hall and was upset. Resident 8 told the staff that you need to listen up, I'm only saying this once! Resident 8 told staff that all you board members need to stop worrying about my blood sugars. You board members smoke and drink more than my blood sugars are. I don't want you talking about my blood sugars in the board room then coming and telling doctors to change my insulin.
Record review of the progress note dated 6/7/22 at 2:30 PM for Resident 8 revealed that the physician of Resident 8 saw the resident in the facility for a required physician visit. The physician discussed Resident 8's outbursts of anger and paranoia. The physician did not want to change any medication.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 2:44 PM with the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) confirmed that Resident 8 had diagnoses of major depression, delusions, and anxiety upon admission to the facility. The ADON confirmed that these diagnoses would be considered serious mental illness.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 2:45 PM with the Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that the facility should have done their own PASSAR Level 1 screening and should have requested a Level 2 PASSAR screen for Resident 8. The DON revealed that PASSAR Level 1 screening performed by the hospital is not always accurate.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0923
(Tag F0923)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-007.04D
Based on observation and record review, the facility failed to ensure that bathroom exhaust fans were operational for 2 residents (Residents 2 and 8). The ...
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Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-007.04D
Based on observation and record review, the facility failed to ensure that bathroom exhaust fans were operational for 2 residents (Residents 2 and 8). The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
A.
Record review of the facility admission Agreement dated 10/2019 revealed that the resident has a right to a safe, clean, comfortable homelike environment. The facility must provide housekeeping and maintenance services necessary to maintain a sanitary, orderly, and comfortable interior.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:14 AM in the room of Resident 2 revealed that the bathroom exhaust fan did not work. The bathroom exhaust fan would not suck up a 1-ply square of toilet paper.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 1:05 PM with the Facility Administrator (FA) in the room of Resident 2 confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan did not work.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 1:05 PM with the FA confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan was to be maintained and kept operational.
B.
Observation on 6/6/22 at 9:20 AM in the room of Resident 8 revealed that the bathroom exhaust fan did not work. The bathroom exhaust fan would not suck up a 1-ply square of toilet paper.
Observation on 6/9/22 at 1:02 PM in the room of Resident 8 with the Facility Administrator (FA) confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan did not work.
Interview on 6/6/22 at 1:05 PM with the FA confirmed that the bathroom exhaust fan was to be maintained and kept operational.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0569
(Tag F0569)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to notify 2 non-sampled residents when they were within the resource l...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to notify 2 non-sampled residents when they were within the resource limit (Residents 14 and 16); and the facility failed to dispense resident trust account funds to 14 non-sampled residents discharged from the facility (Residents 124, 23, 27, 28, 24, 25, 29, 26, 30, 125, 31, 32, 33, and 34). This affected 16 of 22 residents with funds in the Resident Trust Account. The facility identified a census of 23 at the time of survey.
Findings are:
A. Review of Resident 14's admission Record dated June 8, 2022, revealed an admission date of 11/3/2016. Resident 14's Primary Payer was Medicaid (Medicaid is a government-funded health care coverage program for people with limited income or disabilities). Resident 14 was widowed.
Review of the facility Trust-Current Account Balance report as of 6/7/2022 revealed Resident 14 had a current balance of 5618.07.
B. Review of Resident 16's admission Record dated June 8, 2022, revealed Resident 16 had an admission date of 1/3/2014. Resident 16's Primary Payer was Medicaid. Resident 16 was married.
Review of the facility Trust-Current Account Balance report as of 6/7/2022 revealed Resident 16 had an account balance of 35,765.73.
Review of the Department of Health and Human Services State of Nebraska website revealed the resource limits for Medicaid were:
$4,000 for one-member family
$6,000 for two-member family
https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx
Interview with the BOM (Business Office Manager) on 6/07/22 at 1:46 PM confirmed the Resident Trust Account balances for Resident 14 and Resident 16 were over the Medicaid resource limit.
Interview with the BOM on 6/07/22 at 5:00 PM revealed they had not notified the PR (Personal Representative) or Resident 16 they were over their resource limit or when they were within 200.00 of being within the resource limit.
Interview with the BOM on 6/08/22 at 8:19 AM revealed they had not notified Resident 14's POA (Power of Attorney) that Resident 14 was over the 4000.00 limit for Medicaid. The BOM revealed Resident 14's Share of Cost was 800.00 a month which the BOM hadn't taken out of the account yet; however, the BOM revealed the Share of Cost amount would not be enough to bring the account balance down below the limit.
C. Review of the facility Trust-Current Account Balance report as of 6/7/32022 revealed the following:
Resident 124 had an account balance of 51.43.
Resident 23 had an account balance of 79.84.
Resident 27 had an account balance of 231.17.
Resident 28 had an account balance of 1642.77.
Resident 24 had an account balance of 25.05.
Resident 25 had an account balance of 130.79.
Resident 29 had an account balance of 59.58.
Resident 26 had an account balance of 157.18.
Resident 30 had an account balance of 30.03.
Resident 125 had an account balance of 154.60.
Resident 31 had an account balance of 13.08.
Resident 32 had an account balance of 25.12.
Resident 33 had an account balance of 3481.69.
Resident 34 had an account balance of 25.92.
Review of the facility Resident Listing Report dated June 6, 2022, revealed Residents 124, 23, 27, 28, 24, 25, 29, 26, 30, 125, 31, 32, 33, and 34 no longer resided in the facility.
Review of the admission Records for the residents who were discharged revealed the following:
Resident 124 admission date 5/4/2021 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 23 admission date 8/11/2015 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 24 admission date 7/9/2019 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 25 admission date 3/2/2016 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 26 admission date 3/18/2019 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 125 admission date 2/16/2018 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 27 admission Date 4/26/2019 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 28 admission Date 2/5/2018 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 29 admission Date 11/1/2018 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 30 admission Date 9/27/2019 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 31 admission Date 2/5/2014 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 32 admission Date 8/24/2016 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 33 admission Date 11/8/2016 and discharge date [DATE].
Resident 34 admission Date 10/8/2009 and discharge date [DATE].
Interview with the BOM on 6/08/22 at 10:54 AM confirmed Residents 124, 23, 27, 28, 24, 25, 29, 26, 30, 125, 31, 32, 33, and 34 no longer resided in the facility and had funds in the Resident Trust Account. The BOM confirmed the funds were not paid out to the residents or resident representatives when Residents 124, 23, 27, 28, 24, 25, 29, 26, 30, 125, 31, 32, 33, and 34 were discharged from the facility.
Review of the undated facility admission Agreement Attachment E1 Management of Resident's Personal Funds revealed the following: If the Resident receives Medicaid benefits, the Facility will notify the Resident when the amount in the Resident's account reaches $200 less than the social security income (SSP) (sic) resource limit for one person and that if the amount in the account in addition to the value of the resident's other nonexempt resources, reaches the SSI resource limit for one person, the resident may lose eligibility for Medicaid or SSI. Upon the death of a resident with personal funds deposited with the Facility, the Facility will convey within thirty (30) days the resident's funds and a final accounting of those funds to the Executor administering the Resident's estate.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0582
(Tag F0582)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Licensure Reference Number 175 NAC 12-006.05(1)
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure that they provided one of the two required beneficiary notice forms to two of three ...
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Licensure Reference Number 175 NAC 12-006.05(1)
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure that they provided one of the two required beneficiary notice forms to two of three residents reviewed (Residents #1 and #19). This had the potential to prevent the resident/resident representative from having an opportunity to appeal the discontinuation of Medicare Part A benefits and make an informed decision. The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
A. Record Review revealed no documentation of the SNFABN (Skilled Nursing Facility Advanced Beneficiary Notice is a form that provides information to the Resident to help them decide whether to continue care that may not be paid for by Medicare and their right to appeal) for Resident #1.
Review of Resident #1's NOMNC (Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage) form dated 2/15/22 revealed the Resident's Medicare start date was 12/20/21 and the end date was 2/18/22.
Review of the NOMNC form dated 2/15/22 revealed that Resident #1 remained in the facility.
B. Record Review revealed no documentation of the SNFABN for Resident #19.
Review of Resident #19's NOMNC form dated 2/2/22 revealed the Resident's Medicare start date was 12/7/21 and the end date was 2/15//22.
Review of NOMNC form dated 2/2/22 revealed that Resident #19 remained in the facility.
Interview on 06/09/22 at 10:38 AM with the Business Office Manager (BOM), revealed no SNFABN notices were given.
Interview with BOM on 6/9/22 at 1:44 PM revealed the facility didn't have a policy for the SNFABN forms.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0725
(Tag F0725)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** LICENSURE REFERENCE NUMBER 175 NAC 12-006.04C
Based on interview and record review; the facility failed to provide sufficient st...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** LICENSURE REFERENCE NUMBER 175 NAC 12-006.04C
Based on interview and record review; the facility failed to provide sufficient staff to respond to resident calls for assistance within the residents' expected time frame. This affected 6 sampled residents, Residents 8, 15, 5, 4, 2, and 7. The facility identified a census of 23 at the time of survey.
Findings are:
A. Interview with Resident 8 on 6/06/22 at 11:18 AM revealed they waited up to an hour and a half for help when they have called for help. Resident 8 revealed the night shift staff were slow with assisting them to bed at night.
B. Review of Resident 15's Quarterly MDS (Minimum Data Set-a comprehensive assessment tool used to develop a resident's care plan) dated 4/28/2022 revealed Resident 15 required extensive assistance from staff for bed mobility, transfer, walk in room and corridor, locomotion on and off unit, dressing, toilet use, and personal hygiene.
Interview with Resident 15 on 6/06/22 at 4:08 PM revealed the facility did not have enough staff. Resident 15 revealed they had to wait anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 ½ hours for help.
C. Review of Resident 5's annual MDS dated [DATE] revealed Resident 5 required extensive assistance from staff for bed mobility, walk in room, and locomotion on and off unit.
Interview with Resident 5 on 6/06/22 at 9:10 AM revealed Resident 5 required assistance from staff to get out of bed.
Interview with Resident 5 on 6/06/22 at 4:28 PM the facility did not have enough staff. Resident 5 revealed the facility often only had 1 nurse aide on staff at night. Resident 5 revealed if they needed help between 7 PM and 11 PM at night they did not receive assistance. Resident 5 revealed they have had to wait 3 hours for help. Resident 5 revealed they were incontinent and have had to sit in their own urine and excrement while waiting for assistance.
Interview with Resident 5 on 6/08/22 at 7:07 AM revealed Resident 5 expected the facility staff to respond to their calls for assistance within 15 minutes but that did not always happen as the facility did not have enough staff, especially in the evening/night.
D. Review of Resident 4's admission MDS dated [DATE] revealed Resident 4 required extensive assistance from staff for bed mobility and was dependent on staff for transfers.
Interview with Resident 4 on 6/06/22 at 4:33 PM revealed the facility did not have enough staff and Resident 4 often had to wait at least 15 minutes or more for help.
Interview with Resident 4 on 6/08/22 at 7:30 AM revealed Resident 4 revealed an expectation for the staff to respond to their calls for assistance with a 5 to 10-minute response time was reasonable. Resident 4 revealed the facility did not have enough staff and Resident 4 had to wait 15 to 30 minutes for assistance.
E. Interview with Resident 2 on 6/6/22 at 10:41 AM revealed they did not feel the facility was adequately staffed. Resident 2 revealed the staff did not come to their room unless Resident 2 called on them. Resident 2 felt the facility staff should check on Resident 2 regularly, but they did not.
Record review of the Daily Staffing and Census posting on the wall by the nurses' station dated 6/6/2022 revealed the nursing staff shifts were listed as 6 AM to 6 PM for day shift and 6 PM to 6 AM for night shift.
Review of the Facility Assessment updated 6/7/22 revealed the following: Direct Care Staff Plan listed 1 RN (Registered Nurse) or LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) Charge Nurse (12-hour shifts) for Day shift and NOC (Night) shift; Medication Aides (8-hour shifts) 1 day shift. 0 PM shift and 0-night shift. NA (Nurse Aide) (12 hour shifts): Day shift 1 bath aide (8-hour shift); Day shift 2 nurse aides (12-hour shift); NOC shift 2 nurse aides.
Review of the Employee Schedule nursing staff schedule for June 2022 revealed the following: 1 nurse aide was scheduled on night shift (6 PM-6 AM) on June 1, June 4, June 11, June 12, and 17.
Review of Resident 8's Device Activity Report for 5/7/22 to 6/7/22 revealed the following: 70 calls for assistance. 10 calls with over a 10-minute staff response time (used the 10-minute threshold as that was the fastest expectation of the residents); the longest response time was a bathroom call for 32 minutes 8 seconds.
Review of Resident 5's Device Activity Report for 5/7/22 to 6/7/22 revealed the following: 351 calls for assistance. 99 calls with over a 10-minute staff response time. Longest response time was 79 minutes.
Review of Resident 4's Device Activity Report for 5/7/22 to 6/7/22 revealed the following: 343 calls for assistance. 96 calls with over a 10-minute staff response time. Longest response time was 106 minutes.
Review of Resident 7's Device Activity Report for 5/7/22 to 6/7/22 revealed the following: 208 calls for assistance. 43 calls with over a 10-minute staff response time. Longest response time was 108 minutes.
Review of 15's Device Activity Report for 5/7/22 to 6/7/22 revealed the following: 127 calls for assistance. 35 calls with over a 10-minute staff response time. Longest response time was 72 minutes.
Interview with the DON (Director of Nursing) on 6/07/22 at 4:27 PM revealed the facility staff were expected to answer resident calls for assistance as quickly as possible.
Interview with the DON on 6/07/22 at 4:55 PM revealed the facility did not have a policy for the time frame the staff were required to respond for resident calls for assistance. The DON revealed the staff were expected to answer calls for assistance as quickly as they could within a reasonable time frame.
Interview with NA-L on 6/09/22 at 10:52 AM revealed the staff tried to answer call lights within a minute but sometimes they got busy. They definitely were expected to get them answered within 5 minutes. NA-L revealed that was what they were trained to do in NA training.
CONCERN
(F)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Abuse Prevention Policies
(Tag F0607)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.04A3
Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.04A3b(4)
Based on record review, interview, and observation; the facility failed to ensure that pre-employment cr...
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Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.04A3
Licensure Reference Number 175NAC 12-006.04A3b(4)
Based on record review, interview, and observation; the facility failed to ensure that pre-employment criminal background and sex offender checks were completed for 1 staff member (Nursing Assistant-F). This placed facility residents at risk for abuse and neglect. The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
Record review of the facility policy titled Abuse, Neglect, Misappropriation and Exploitation dated 10/19 revealed that each resident has the right to be free from abuse, neglect, misappropriation of resident property and exploitation. Residents must not be subject to abuse by anyone, including but not limited to: facility staff, other residents, consultants, contractors, volunteers, or staff of other agencies serving the resident. The facility must not employ or otherwise engage individuals who have been found guilty of abuse, neglect, exploitation, misappropriation of property, or mistreatment by a court of law. Background, reference, and credentials checks should be conducted on employees prior to or at the time of employment.
Record review of the facility policy titled Background Investigations dated 10/10/20 revealed that job reference checks, licensure verifications and criminal conviction record checks are conducted on all personnel making application for employment with the facility.
Record review of the undated facility provided list of staff hired in the last 4 months revealed that Nursing Assistant-F (NA-F) had a hire date of 4/13/22.
Record review of the employee file for NA-F revealed no documentation of criminal background checks or sex offender registry checks being completed on NA-F.
Observation on 6/8/22 at 8:42 AM at the room of Resident 2 revealed that NA-F carried a meal tray and knocked on the resident's room door. NA-F carried the meal into the resident's room.
Observation on 6/8/22 at 9:55 AM in the room of Resident 2 revealed that Resident 2 sat in the wheelchair. NA-F finished brushing the resident's hair and held up a mirror for the resident to see how they looked.
Interview on 6/8/22 at 3:19 PM with NA-F confirmed that NA-F began working in the facility a couple of months ago.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 11:29 AM with the facility Business Office Manager (BOM) confirmed that criminal background checks are to be completed before hiring staff. The BOM confirmed that criminal background checks and sex offender registry checks had not been completed for NA-F. The BOM revealed that the BOM was requesting background checks for NA-F at this time.
CONCERN
(F)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Infection Control
(Tag F0880)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
LICENSURE REFERENCE NUMBER 175 NAC 12-006.17B
Based on observation, interview, and record review; the facility failed to ensure oxygen was maintained to prevent potential cross contamination for 1 of ...
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LICENSURE REFERENCE NUMBER 175 NAC 12-006.17B
Based on observation, interview, and record review; the facility failed to ensure oxygen was maintained to prevent potential cross contamination for 1 of 1 sampled residents, Resident 4. The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
Review of Resident 4's admission MDS (Minimum Data Set-a comprehensive assessment tool used to develop a resident's care plan) dated 3/21/2022 revealed an admission date of 3/14/2022. Resident 4 had a BIMS (Brief Interview for Mental Status) score of 15 which indicated Resident 4 was cognitively intact. Resident 4 required extensive assistance from staff for bed mobility and was dependent upon staff for transfer. Active diagnoses included asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), or chronic lung disease and Resident 4 had shortness of breath or trouble breathing with exertion or while sitting at rest. Oxygen was used while a resident.
Observation of Resident 4 on 6/06/22 at 2:12 PM revealed they had oxygen on through a nasal cannula connected to tubing which was connected to an oxygen concentrator. The cannula and tubing were not marked with the date they were changed, and the cannula appeared to be soiled/brownish yellow in color.
Review of Resident 4's Care Plan dated 3/30/2022 revealed the following:
The resident has altered respiratory status with dx (diagnoses) of pulmonary edema, respiratory failure, COPD and CHF (Congestive Heart Failure). Provide oxygen as ordered. Change tubing weekly or per protocol.
Review of Resident 4's MAR and TAR (Medication and Treatment Administration Records) for May and June 2022 revealed no documentation the oxygen cannula or tubing had been changed.
Review of Resident 4's Order Summary Report revealed no documentation of an order or directions to change the nasal cannula routinely or when it was soiled.
Interview with RN-A (Registered Nurse) on 6/08/22 at 8:18 AM revealed the night shift staff were expected to change the oxygen cannulas weekly. RN-A revealed the alert should have popped up on the TAR when it was due.
Interview with the ADON (Assistant Director of Nursing) on 6/08/22 at 8:20 AM confirmed the oxygen cannulas were to be changed weekly and documented on Resident 4's TAR.
Interview with the DON (Director of Nursing) on 6/08/22 at 8:30 AM revealed the order to change Resident 4's oxygen cannula routinely did not get entered into Resident 4's EHR (Electronic Health Record) orders so there was no documentation it was being done. The DON confirmed the oxygen cannulas were expected to be changed weekly and documented on the TAR.
Interview with the DON on 6/08/22 at 1:07 PM revealed the facility did not have a policy regarding changing the oxygen tubing/cannulas.
CONCERN
(F)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0886
(Tag F0886)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure that staff not up to date for Covid-19 vaccination were tested as required to prevent the potential for Covid-19. This affected all ...
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Based on record review and interview, the facility failed to ensure that staff not up to date for Covid-19 vaccination were tested as required to prevent the potential for Covid-19. This affected all facility residents. The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
A.
Record review of the facility policy titled Covid-19 Testing dated October 2020 revealed that all staff in the facility will be offered testing for Covid-19. Staff and Residents declining testing will be treated as having a positive or unknown Covid-19 status.
Record review of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Quality and Safety Oversight Memo 20-38 Long-Term Care Facility Testing Requirements dated 3/10/22 revealed that the term vaccinated was replaced with up-to- date with all Covid-19 vaccine doses. Up-to-Date means that a person has received all recommended Covid-19 vaccines, including any booster doses when eligible. Routine testing of staff not up-to-date for Covid-19 should be based on the extent of the virus in the community. Staff who are up to date do not have to be routinely tested. Routine Testing Intervals by County COVID-19 Level of Community Transmission are: Blue (low)-testing not recommended; Yellow (Moderate)- test once per week; Orange (Substantial)-test twice per week; and Red (High)- test twice per week.
Interview on 6/8/22 at 2:37 PM with the Facility Administrator (FA) confirmed that Medication Aide-M (MA-M) was the only staff member that had been positive for Covid-19 infection in the past 90 days. The FA confirmed that staff with a positive Covid-19 infection do not test for Covid-19 during the 90 day period after testing positive. The FA confirmed that MA-M would not be tested for Covid-19 again until the 90 day period was over.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 11:20 AM with the Facility Administrator (FA) revealed that the facility is testing staff that are not up to date for Covid-19 vaccination two times per week as determined by the corporate office. The FA revealed that the corporate office told the facility to test staff that are not up to date twice weekly until the county Covid transmission rate is blue (low transmission). The FA revealed that the facility has been testing all staff two times weekly for Covid-19. The FA confirmed that the two times a week testing was being done for both the staff that are not up to date with Covid-19 vaccination and for the staff that are up to date for Covid-19 vaccination. The FA revealed that the facility has been testing all staff two times weekly for Covid-19 since the start of 2022.
Interview on 6/7/22 at 1:42 PM with Medication Aide-D (MA-D) revealed that all facility staff are currently to be tested for Covid 2 times weekly regardless of their vaccination status.
Interview on 6/7/22 at 1:53 PM with Medication Aide-H (MA-H) revealed that the facility is testing all staff- both vaccinated and unvaccinated staff.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 2:49 PM with the FA revealed that the facility was doing extra testing of staff that were not up-to-date for Covid-19 vaccination.
Record review of the undated facility List of Current Staff revealed that Medication Aide-G (MA-G) had a hire date of 6/24/19.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Staff Vaccination Status for Providers revealed that MA-G had not received any vaccinations for Covid-19. MA-G was not up-to-date for Covid-19 vaccination and was required to have routine testing for Covid-19.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Testing Logs revealed that MA-G was tested for Covid-19 on 2/23/22, 3/3/22 (8 days after previous test), 3/14/22 (11 days after previous test), 4/5/22 (22 days after previous test), 4/11/22 (6 days after previous test), 4/25/22 (14 days after previous test), 5/2/22 (7 days after previous test), 5/9/22 (7 days after previous test); and 5/16/22 (7 days after previous test). No testing for Covid-19 was documented for MA-G from 5/16/22 through 6/7/22.
Record review of the Time Card Report dated 6/9/22 for MA-G for hours worked between 1/1/22 and 6/9/22 revealed that MA-G worked in the facility on 1/19/22, 1/23/22, 1/27/22, 2/7/22, 2/13/22, 2/14/22, 2/18/22, 2/22/22, 2/24/22, 2/26/22, 2/27/22, 3/2/22, 3/5/22, 3/7/22, 3/10/22, 3/11/22, 3/12/22, 3/13/22, 3/14/22, 3/17/22, 3/21/22, 3/23/22, 3/24/22, 3/26/22, 3/28/22, 3/30/22, 3/31/22, 4/1/22, 4/4/22, 4/6/22, 4/7/22, 4/8/22, 4/9/22, 4/10/22, 4/14/22, 4/15/22, 4/16/22, 4/17/22, 4/19/22, 4/20/22, 4/21/22, 4/24/22, 4/25/22, 4/26/22, 4/27/22, 4/29/22, 5/1/22, 5/5/22, 5/7/22, 5/9/22, 5/12/22, 5/13/22, 5/14/22, 5/16/22, 5/19/22, 5/20/22, 5/22/22, 5/23/22, 5/24/22, 5/25/22, 5/26/22, 5/28/22, 5/29/22, 5/30/22, 5/31/22, 6/2/22, 6/3/22, and 6/6/22.
B.
Record review of the undated facility List of Current Staff revealed that Medication Aide-E (MA-E) had a hire date of 7/20/21.
Interview on 6/7/22 at 1:47 PM with MA-E confirmed that MA-E had an approved religious exemption from receiving the Covid-19 vaccination and was unvaccinated against Covid 19. MA-E confirmed that MA-E was not being tested for Covid-19.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Staff Vaccination Status for Providers revealed that MA-E had not received any vaccinations for Covid-19. MA-E was not up-to-date for Covid-19 vaccination and was required to have routine testing for Covid-19.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Testing Logs for testing between 2/20/22 and 6/7/22 revealed that no testing for Covid-19 occurred for MA-E.
Record review of the Time Card Report dated 6/9/22 for MA-E for hours worked between 12/1/21 and 6/9/22 revealed that MA-E worked in the facility on 12/6/21, 12/13/21, 12/20/21, 12/27/21, 12/29/21, 12/30/21, 1/1/22, 1/3/22, 1/17/22, 1/20/22, 1/22/22, 1/24/22, 2/3/22, 2/8/22, 2/17/22, 2/25/22, 5/2/22, 5/6/22, 5/20/22, 6/6/22, and 6/7/22.
C.
Record review of the undated facility List of Current Staff revealed that Maintenance Director (MD) had a hire date of 2/16/22.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Staff Vaccination Status for Providers revealed that MD had received the Covid-19 vaccination but had not received the booster dose. MD was not up-to-date for Covid-19 vaccination and was required to have routine testing for Covid-19.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Testing Logs for testing between 2/20/22 and 6/7/22 revealed that no testing for Covid-19 occurred for MD.
Record review of the Time Card Report dated 6/9/22 for Maintenance Director (MD) for hours worked between 1/1/22 and 6/9/22 revealed that MD worked in the facility on 2/16/22, 2/17/22, 2/18/22, 2/21/22, 2/22/22, 2/23/22, 2/24/22, 2/25/22, 2/28/22, 3/1/22, 3/2/22, 3/3/22, 3/4/22, 3/5/22, 3/7/22, 3/8/22, 3/9/22, 3/10/22, 3/11/22, 3/14/22, 3/15/22, 3/16/22, 3/17/22, 3/18/22, 3/20/22, 3/21/22, 3/22/22, 3/23/22, 3/24/22, 3/30/22, 4/1/22, 4/5/22, 4/8/22, 4/12/22, 4/13/22, 4/15/22, 4/20/22, 4/21/22, 4/22/22, 4/23/22, 4/26/22, 4/27/22, 4/29/22, 4/30/22, 5/2/22, 5/4/22, 5/6/22, 5/11/22, 5/14/22, 5/16/22, 5/18/22, 5/20/22, 5/23/22, 5/25/22, 5/31/22, 6/4/22, 6/6/22, and 6/7/22.
CONCERN
(F)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0888
(Tag F0888)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
Based on observation, record review, and interview; the facility failed to ensure that Covid-19 mitigation measures (extra protective measures to prevent the potential for the spread of Covid-19) were...
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Based on observation, record review, and interview; the facility failed to ensure that Covid-19 mitigation measures (extra protective measures to prevent the potential for the spread of Covid-19) were in place for staff with exemptions (an approved medical or religious reason freeing the individual from the obligation to be vaccinated for Covid-19) from receiving the Covid-19 vaccination to prevent Covid-19; failed to ensure that staff exemption forms contained documented facility approval of the exemption; and failed to ensure that a medical exemption form was completed for 1 staff member. This affected all facility residents. The facility census was 23.
Findings are:
A.
Record review of the facility policy titled COVID-19- Vaccine Policy dated 02/2022 revealed that it is the facility policy that all employees, contractors, and any other individuals who contracts with or provides services to our residents will take the necessary precautions and adhere to mandated guidelines established through this policy. The intent of this policy is to safeguard the health of our employees and their families, our customers and visitors, and the community at large from COVID-19 that may be reduced by vaccinations. It is required that all employees in the facility receive the designated COVID-19 vaccination or provide evidence of vaccine receipt or exemption. The policy revealed that any employee or contractor who obtains approval for a valid exemption will be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as an infection prevention and control measure when in the facility and may be subject to routine COVID-19 testing to reduce the risks giving rise to the vaccine mandate.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 11:20 AM with the Facility Administrator (FA) revealed that the corporate office told the facility to test staff that are not up-to-date (staff with exemption from receiving Covid-19 vaccination) twice weekly until the county Covid-19 transmission rate is blue (low transmission). The FA revealed that the facility has been testing all staff two times weekly for Covid-19. The FA confirmed that the two times a week testing was being done for both the staff that are not up-to-date with Covid-19 vaccination and for the staff that are up-to-date (fully vaccinated with all recommended Covid-19 vaccine doses including any booster doses) for Covid-19 vaccination. The FA confirmed that the facility did not require the exempt staff to test more frequently than the up-to-date staff.
Observation on 6/7/22 at 1:42 PM near the facility Medication Storage Room revealed that Medication Aide-D (MA-D) wore a light blue surgical mask and no other PPE.
Interview on 6/7/22 at 1:42 PM with MA-D confirmed that MA-D had an approved religious exemption from getting the Covid-19 vaccination. MA-D confirmed that MA-D was not vaccinated for Covid-19. MA-D confirmed that MA-D wears the same surgical mask as all staff wear. MA-D confirmed that the staff that are vaccinated for Covid-19 and the staff that are unvaccinated for Covid-19 all wear the same PPE.
Observation on 6/7/22 at 1:47 PM near the facility nurse's station revealed that Medication Aide-E (MA-E) wore a light blue surgical mask and no other PPE.
Interview on 6/7/22 at 1:47 PM with MA-E confirmed that MA-E had an approved religious exemption from getting the Covid-19 vaccination. MA-E confirmed that MA-E was unvaccinated against Covid-19. MA-E confirmed that MA-E was not being tested for Covid-19 infection.
Observation on 6/7/22 at 1:53 PM near the facility nurse's station revealed that Medication Aide-H (MA-H) wore a light blue surgical mask and no other PPE.
Interview on 6/7/22 at 1:53 PM with MA-H confirmed that MA-H was fully vaccinated for Covid-19 and that MA-H also received the booster dose (MA-H was up-to-date with all Covid-19 vaccinations). MA-H revealed that MA-H is tested 2 times weekly for Covid-19.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 2:49 PM with the FA confirmed that exempt staff from Covid-19 vaccination were not required to wear any extra or different PPE than what the up-to-date for Covid-19 vaccination staff wore. The FA revealed that the facility mitigation measures for staff exempt from Covid-19 vaccination were extra testing and following Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recommendations.
B.
Record review of the facility policy titled COVID-19-Vaccine Policy dated 02/2022 revealed that it is required that all employees in the facility receive the designated COVID-19 vaccination or provide evidence of vaccine receipt or exemption. The section titled Exemption Requests revealed that exemptions from the immunization mandate may be available for medical contraindications, disability, and/or sincerely held religious beliefs or practices. The approval or denial of a requested exemption will be made based on a review of the exemption request form (and supporting documentation as required) submitted by the individual in accordance with established guidelines and an interactive process. If an exemption is granted; approval will be noted on the individual's exemption form.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Staff Vaccination Status for Providers revealed that 12 facility staff had a non-medical (religious) exemption from receiving the Covid-19 vaccination and 2 facility staff had a medical exemption from receiving the Covid-19 vaccination.
Record review of the facility Covid-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request forms provided by the facility Business Office Manager (BOM) on 6/8/22 at 12:34 PM revealed that:
-The COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request form for Licensed Practical Nurse-N (LPN-N) contained the signature of LPN-N dated 11/18/21 and the signature of the religious leader dated 11/18/21. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
-The COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request form for Medication Aide-D (MA-D) contained the signature of MA-D dated 11/24/21 and the signature of the religious leader dated 11/24/21. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
-The COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request form for Medication Aide-E (MA-E) contained the signature of MA-E dated 12/6/21 and the signature of the religious leader dated 12/6/21. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
-The COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request form for Medication Aide-I (MA-I) contained the signature of MA-I dated 11/22/21 and the signature of the religious leader. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
-The COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request form for Activity Director (AD) contained the signature of the AD dated 11/22/21 and the signature of the religious leader dated 11/22/21. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
-The COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request for Dietary Cook-O (DC-O) contained the signature of DC-O dated 11/18/21. The form did not contain any signature of the religious leader. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
- The COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Exemption Request form for the facility Business Office Manager (BOM) contained the signature of the BOM dated 11/18/21. The form did not contain any signature of the religious leader. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
Record review of the facility Covid-19 Vaccine Medical Exemption Request forms provided by the facility Business Office Manager (BOM) on 6/8/22 at 12:34 PM revealed that:
-The COVID-19 Vaccine Medical Exemption Request form for the facility Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) contained the signature of the LPN. The form did not contain any facility signature of approval of the exemption.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 2:55 PM the BOM confirmed that the employee Covid-19 Exemption Request forms for LPN-N, MA-D, MA-E, MA-I, the AD, DC-O, the BOM, and the ADON did not contain a facility approval signature.
Interview on 6/9/22 with the Facility Administrator (FA) confirmed that the employee Covid-19 Exemption Request forms for LPN-N, MA-D, MA-E, MA-I, the AD, DC-O, the BOM, and the ADON did not contain the required approval signatures.
C.
Record review of the undated facility Covid-19 Staff Vaccination Status for Providers revealed that Nursing Assistant-P (NA-P) had a granted Medical Exemption from Covid-19 vaccination.
Record review of the facility Covid-19 Vaccine Exemption Request forms provided by the facility Business Office Manager (BOM) on 6/8/22 at 12:34 PM revealed that there was no Covid-19 Vaccine Medical Exemption Request form for NA-P. Only a physician letter dated 1/28/22 for NA-P was found. The physician letter for NA-P documented that NA-P had a chronic medical condition that prevented NA-P from receiving the Covid-19 vaccine.
Interview on 6/9/22 at 2:55 PM with the BOM confirmed that the facility did not have a Covid-19 Medical Exemption Request Form for NA-P.