ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC

425 WOODBURY-TURNERSVILLE ROAD, BLACKWOOD, NJ 08012 (856) 374-6600
For profit - Limited Liability company 300 Beds OCEAN HEALTHCARE Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
35/100
#272 of 344 in NJ
Last Inspection: May 2025

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

Overview

Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center LLC has received a Trust Grade of F, indicating significant concerns about the quality of care provided. It ranks #272 out of 344 facilities in New Jersey, placing it in the bottom half, and #15 out of 20 in Camden County, suggesting limited local options that may be better. While the facility shows some improvement, reducing issues from 13 to 8 from 2023 to 2025, it still faces serious staffing challenges with a turnover rate of 49%, which is average for the state. Notably, there are concerning incidents, such as a resident with respiratory distress not receiving timely care and multiple food safety violations, including serving cold meals and improper food storage practices. However, the facility does have a quality measures rating of 4 out of 5, indicating some strengths in the overall care provided.

Trust Score
F
35/100
In New Jersey
#272/344
Bottom 21%
Safety Record
Moderate
Needs review
Inspections
Getting Better
13 → 8 violations
Staff Stability
⚠ Watch
49% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
Penalties
✓ Good
$67,732 in fines. Lower than most New Jersey facilities. Relatively clean record.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 17 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for New Jersey. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
⚠ Watch
24 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★★☆☆☆
2.0
Overall Rating
★★☆☆☆
2.0
Staff Levels
★★★★☆
4.0
Care Quality
★★☆☆☆
2.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2023: 13 issues
2025: 8 issues

The Good

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

Facility shows strength in quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

2-Star Overall Rating

Below New Jersey average (3.2)

Below average - review inspection findings carefully

Staff Turnover: 49%

Near New Jersey avg (46%)

Higher turnover may affect care consistency

Federal Fines: $67,732

Well above median ($33,413)

Moderate penalties - review what triggered them

Chain: OCEAN HEALTHCARE

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 24 deficiencies on record

1 actual harm
May 2025 8 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Comprehensive Assessments (Tag F0636)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview, record review, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to complete a discharge Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool, as require...

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Based on interview, record review, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to complete a discharge Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool, as required for 1 of 1 resident (Resident #275) system selected for MDS over 120 days. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: The MDS is a comprehensive federally mandated process for clinical assessment of all residents that should be completed and submitted to the Quality Measure System. The facility must complete the assessment at discharge and electronically transmit the MDS no later than 14 days after completing the assessment. The surveyor reviewed the electronic medical record (EMR) for Resident #275. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, but was not limited to, spinal stenosis (a condition where the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots), difficulty walking, and muscle weakness. Further review of Resident #275's EMR revealed that the resident was discharged from the facility, but the discharge MDS was not completed. On 5/6/25 at 11:48 AM, the surveyor interviewed the MDS Coordinator, who stated that she oversees and completed the MDS assessments. She further stated that assessments should be completed upon admission to the facility, quarterly, annually, with any significant changes, and at discharge. At that time, the MDS Coordinator checked Resident #275's EMR and confirmed that the discharge MDS had not been completed, and she stated that the assessment should have been initiated the day the resident was discharged and submitted within 14 days. The MDS Coordinator then completed Resident #275's discharge assessment after surveyor inquiry. On 5/7/25 at 9:33 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who confirmed that the discharge MDS was not completed and transmitted timely. A review of the facility's Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Process MDS/ Care Area Assessment (CAA)/Plan of Care Guidelines, guide, revised January 2025 included, Guidelines: The Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) provides a tool for an interdisciplinary approach to develop a plan of care for the resident. Purpose 3. It is the responsibility of the Registered Nurse Assessment Coordinator (RNAC) to coordinate the RAI process.Procedure 4. The RNAC is responsible for overseeing an MDS assessment schedule for all residents and for creating and coordinating completion of the assessments in a timely manner. NJAC 8:39-11.1
CONCERN (D) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

ADL Care (Tag F0677)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Complaint #: NJ165862, NJ184181 Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility-provided documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that incontinence ca...

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Complaint #: NJ165862, NJ184181 Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility-provided documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that incontinence care was provided to a dependent resident in a timely manner. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 4 residents (Resident #247) reviewed for Activities of Daily Living (ADL) care and was evidenced by the following: On 4/30/25 at 10:16 AM, during the initial tour of the 2 East Unit, the surveyor observed Resident #247 awake and alert lying in bed, the bed sheets were wet and there was a strong odor of urine in the room. At that time, the surveyor requested Licensed Practical Nurse/Unit Manager (LPN/UM #3) to check the resident for incontinence care. The resident stated, I am sure I am wet. LPN/UM #3 checked the resident's incontinence brief which was saturated with urine and the bed sheet underneath was wet. LPN/UM #3 then stated, I will get the aide, and that the resident should have been changed in the morning during the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) morning rounds. On 4/30/25 at 10:28 AM, CNA #1 entered the resident's room and checked the resident's incontinence brief. The surveyor observed that the incontinence brief was saturated with urine and the resident's gown and bedsheets were wet. The resident stated, My gown is soaking wet. CNA #1 then stated I am just getting to [him/her] now. CNA#1 further stated that the resident was sleeping that morning, and she did not want to bother him/her. On 5/1/25 at 12:54 PM, the surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #247. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, but were not limited to: chronic bronchitis, dementia, and heart failure. A review of the resident's comprehensive Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 4/16/25, included the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 7 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cognition was severely impaired. Further review of the MDS revealed the resident was dependent for toileting and always incontinent of bladder. A review of the resident's individual comprehensive care plan (ICCP) included a focus area, dated 4/24/24, that the resident was at risk for skin breakdown related to impaired mobility, incontinence, prediabetes, and chronic pain. Interventions included: Provide prompt incontinence care and apply moisture barrier cream as needed. The ICCP also included a focus area, dated 5/1/24, the resident required up to moderate/maximum to total amount of assist with ADLs. Interventions included: maximal assistance with toileting/hygiene. On 5/1/25 at 12:32 PM, the surveyor interviewed CNA #2 who stated that incontinence rounds would be completed first thing in the morning, again before lunch, and last rounds would be completed around 2:00 PM. On 5/1/25 at 12:42 PM, the surveyor interviewed CNA #3 who stated that incontinence rounds would be completed when the CNA first came in the morning, then after lunch around 1:00 PM, then again before end of shift around 2:30-3:00 PM. On 5/1/25 at 12:55 PM, the surveyor interviewed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #3 who stated that incontinence rounds were completed two times a shift - at the beginning of the shift and any time after lunch. On 05/1/25 at 1:06 PM, the surveyor interviewed Registered Nurse/Unit Manager (RN/UM) #1 who stated incontinence rounds should be completed every two hours on every resident. On 05/2/25 at 12:17 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that she would expect the CNAs to complete incontinence rounds every two hours. The CNAs would usually start their rounds after they clock in at 7:00 AM and night shift typically completed their last incontinence rounds between 5:00 and 5:30 AM. The DON further stated that it was important to complete timely incontinence care to prevent any skin breakdown or irritation to the resident. On 5/7/25 at 1:51 PM, in the presence of the survey team, the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON, the [NAME] President of Clinical Services (VPCS) and the Quality Assurance (QA) nurse, the surveyor reviewed the concern with incontinence care. A review of the facility's Incontinence Management policy, updated February 2025, included that all incontinent residents would be checked frequently during the shift to keep them dry and comfortable. NJAC 8:39-27.1(a) NJAC 8:39-27.2(h)
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0688 (Tag F0688)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, record review, and pertinent facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that treatment to prevent or reduce range of motion limitatio...

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Based on observation, interview, record review, and pertinent facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that treatment to prevent or reduce range of motion limitations were provided for 1 of 1 resident (Resident #11) reviewed for limited range of motion. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: On 5/6/25 at 10:30 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #11 lying in bed in watching television. The resident's left hand was resting on the bed without a hand roll in place (which is used to prevent the fingers from contracting tightly into the palm). On 5/7/25 at 11:22 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #11 lying in bed watching television. The resident's left hand was resting on the bed without a hand roll in place. The surveyor reviewed the electronic medical record (EMR) for Resident #11. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, but were not limited to: osteoarthritis. A review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 4/1/25, included the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 0 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cogntion was severely impaired. Further review of the MDS revealed the resident had a functional limitation in range of motion of the upper extremity on one side of the body. A review of the resident's individual comprehensive care plan (ICCP), dated 3/26/25, included a focus area indicating that the third, fourth, and fifth fingers of the resident's left hand were contracted. Interventions included: Applying rolled gauze (medical gauze rolled into a cylindrical form) to the left hand as tolerated, reapplying as needed, and removing for bathing and skin protection. A review of the May 2025 Treatment Administration Record (TAR) revealed a physician's order dated 3/18/24 for the application of a hand roll to the resident's left hand. The order directed that the hand roll be worn at all times, removed for hygiene, and that the skin be checked every shift. Further review of the TAR indicated that facility day shift nurses documented the application of the resident's left-hand roll on 5/6/25 and 5/7/25. However, the surveyor did not observe Resident #11 wearing the left-hand roll on either date, and there was no documentation in the EMR to show that the resident had refused the device. On 5/7/25 at 1:56 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that nurses should not have documented the application of a resident's left-hand roll if it was not applied. On 5/7/25 at 2:16 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Occupational Therapist/Director of Rehabilitation (OT/DOR) who stated that the resident was discharged from therapy in March 2024 and no staff training had been completed for the resident's left-hand roll because the hand roll was not considered a specialized device. The OT/DOR further stated if there was a physician's order and a care plan for the resident's left-hand roll, the facility staff were expected to apply the device as directed. A review of the facility's undated and unnamed policy revealed, under the procedure section, that the following elements will be in place to achieve maximum potential: range of motion: passive or active to maintain flexibility and useful motion in the joints of the body. NJAC 8:39 - 27.1 (a)
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, record review, and review of facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that oxygen was administered in accordance with a physician's ord...

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Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that oxygen was administered in accordance with a physician's order for 1 of 1 resident (Resident #146) reviewed for respiratory care. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: On 4/30/25 at 10:23 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #146 who was seated in a wheelchair at the bedside. The resident was receiving 3.5 liters of oxygen from an oxygen concentrator (a medical device) via a nasal cannula (two prongs inserted into the nostrils with a tube that connects to an oxygen source). When interviewed, the resident stated that he/she was ordered two liters of oxygen but the oxygen concentrator was weak and they needed to turn it up. On 5/1/25 at 11:59 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #146 seated on the side of the bed with noted shortness of breath. The resident stated that he/she had been exercising and was trying to catch their breath. The resident's oxygen concentrator was set at 3.5 liters via nasal cannula. On 5/2/25 at 10:48 AM, the surveyor interviewed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2 who stated that she thought that Resident #146 was on 2.5 liters of oxygen, but she would have to look at the physician's order to be certain. LPN #2 accompanied the surveyor into the resident's room and looked at the resident's oxygen concentrator settings. The LPN then stated that the oxygen was set at nearly four liters of oxygen. The resident stated that he/she thought that the oxygen concentrator was acting up and the nurse turned it up because it felt like nothing was coming out through the oxygen tubing. LPN #2 stated that she was off for the past couple of days and needed to see if the physician's order was changed. On 5/2/25 at 10:56 AM, LPN #2 reported to the nurse's station and asked Licensed Practical Nurse/Unit Manager (LPN/UM) #2 if Resident #146's oxygen order was changed. LPN/UM #2 reviewed the resident's electronic health record (EHR) and stated that the resident was ordered two liters of oxygen on 1/24/25. When interviewed, LPN #2 stated that she would have called the doctor to see what the doctor recommended because it was not her place to adjust the oxygen concentrator setting without a physician's order. At that time, the surveyor interviewed LPN/UM #2 who stated that nursing should have first assessed the resident, checked the oxygen concentrator to make sure that it functioned properly, and then called the doctor for recommendations. LPN/UM #2 further stated that you could not just increase the oxygen concentrator setting without a physician's order. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #146. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, but were not limited to: acute respiratory failure with hypoxia (an absence of enough oxygen in the tissues to sustain bodily functions), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe), emphysema (a chronic lung disease that progressively damages the alveoli, or tiny air sacs, in the lungs). A review of the Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 2/8/25, included the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 out of 15, which indicated that the resident's cognition was intact. Further review of the MDS included the resident required oxygen therapy. A review of the resident's individual comprehensive care plan (ICCP) included a focus area, dated 11/14/24, that the resident had a potential for impaired respiratory status related to respiratory failure. Interventions included: Provide oxygen as ordered. A review of the Order Summary Report (OSR) included the following physician's orders (PO): A PO, dated 1/24/25, for oxygen via nasal cannula (n/c) at two liters per minute (LPM) as needed for shortness of breath (SOB) every shift. A review of the April 2025 Treatment Administration Record (TAR) included an order for Oxygen via N/C at 2 LPM as needed for SOB, dated 1/24/25, that was signed out as administered on the 4/30/25 day shift. A review of the May 2025 TAR included an order for Oxygen via N/C at 2 LPM as needed for SOB, dated 1/24/25, that was signed out as administered on 5/1/25 for the day, evening, and night shifts. Further review of the TAR revealed that the order was also signed out on 5/2/25 during the day shift. A review of the Progress Notes (PN) included a PN that was written by the Nurse Practitioner (NP), dated 4/29/25 at 11:23 AM, and included, pulse oximetry (Pulse Ox - a probe placed on the index finger to determine the amount of oxygen in the blood) 97 oxygen (O2) three (3) liters. Further review of the PN included a PN, dated 5/5/25 at 12:22 PM, which revealed, the resident was seen today (5/5/25) to follow up oxygen and chest x-ray (cxr), 3 liters nasal cannula (L/nc), attempted to wean to two (2) L n/c on Friday, but was not successful. Resident stated breathing was unchanged, unlabored, without distress. A cxr was ordered which revealed no acute process .pulse ox 96% on 3L. On 5/2/25 at 12:35 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that an oxygen order that was given by the physician should have been followed. The DON stated that the oxygen order was on the Treatment Administration Record (TAR) and the nurses were required to look at the concentrator each shift to ensure that the order was followed and document their findings accordingly. The DON stated that it was not appropriate to increase the oxygen rate because the nurses wanted to follow the physician's orders. On 5/8/25 at 9:34 AM, in the presence of the survey team and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON stated that the nurses must ensure that the oxygen was set at the correct setting per the physician's order. A review of the facility's Oxygen tubing and Respiratory products policy, revised January 2025, included, Oxygen will be administered as ordered by the physician . The Licensed nurse must sign the ETAR (electronic treatment administration record) during the shift ensuring the correct amount of Oxygen is administered as ordered. NJAC 8:39-27.1(a)
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0757 (Tag F0757)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview, record review, and review of other facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to administer pain medication according to the physician's order for 1 of 5 re...

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Based on interview, record review, and review of other facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to administer pain medication according to the physician's order for 1 of 5 residents (Resident #155) reviewed for unnecessary medications. This deficient practice was evidenced by: On 5/7/25 at 9:21 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #155 sitting in their room. When asked about pain, the resident stated he/she had chronic pain in his/her lower back from an old injury. The resident further stated that their pain was typically a level 7 out of 10, but that they received as needed pain medication that brought the pain level down to a level three (3) which was effective for the resident. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #155. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, lumbar spondylopathies (arthritis of the spine), spinal stenosis, chronic pain, and low back pain. A review of the comprehensive Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 2/7/25, included the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cognition was intact. Further review of the MDS revealed the resident had frequent pain that he/she described as moderate intensity. A review of the individual comprehensive care plan (ICCP) included a focus area, revised 4/1/25, that the resident received opioid (pain) medication related to chronic pain. Interventions included: Monthly medication regimen review conducted by consultant pharmacist and assess pain using numeric scale if able. A review of the Order Summary Report (OSR), dated as of 5/7/25, included the following physician order (PO): A PO, dated 4/25/25, for Oxycodone 10 milligrams (mg) give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for moderate to severe pain. A review of the Consultant Pharmacist's Monthly Report (CPMR), dated 12/9/24, included the following recommendation: Medication error(s) noted. Documented pain level of 0's does not match as needed Oxycodone indication of moderate to severe pain. Please review. Further review of the CPMR revealed the section Action Taken, to be filled out by the facility, was blank. A review of the December 2024 Medication Administration Record (MAR) revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every six hours as needed for severe pain, dated 12/12/24 to 1/8/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 (zero) on the following date(s): -12/12/24 at 9:36 AM A review of the January 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every six hours as needed for severe pain, dated 12/12/24 to 1/8/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -1/4/25 at 11:01 AM Further review of the January 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for chronic pain, dated 1/8/25 to 3/21/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -1/8/25 at 12:10 AM -1/13/25 at 11:00 PM -1/22/25 at 10:20 AM -1/25/25 at 12:43 PM A review of the February 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for chronic pain, dated 1/8/25 to 3/21/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -2/6/25 at 10:28 AM -2/16/25 at 10:53 AM -2/28/25 at 9:08 AM A review of the March 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for chronic pain, dated 1/8/25 - 3/21/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -3/11/25 at 11:13 AM Further review of the March 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for chronic pain, dated 3/23/25 to 4/1/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -3/31/25 at 9:45 PM A review of the April 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for chronic pain, dated 3/23/25 to 4/1/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -4/1/25 at 8:29 AM Further review of the April 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for pain, dated 4/1/25 to 4/22/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -4/4/25 at 4:56 PM and 9:07 PM Further review of the April 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for moderate to severe pain, dated 4/25/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -4/28/25 at 9:06 PM -4/29/25 at 5:18 PM A review of the May 2025 MAR revealed a PO for Oxycodone 10 mg give one tablet by mouth every four hours as needed for moderate to severe pain, dated 4/25/25. The PO was signed out as administered for a documented pain level of 0 on the following date(s): -5/4/25 at 5:13 PM On 5/7/25 at 9:24 AM, the surveyor interviewed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #1 who stated the numerical pain scale was as follows: mild pain 1-3; moderate pain 4-5; severe pain 6-10. The LPN further stated that as needed pain medication should never be administered for a pain level of 0 (zero) and that it was important to administer pain medication according to the PO in order to keep the resident's pain manageable and prevent excessive pain. On 5/7/25 at 9:28 AM, the surveyor interviewed Licensed Practical Nurse/Unit Manager (LPN/UM) #1 who stated the numerical pain scale was as follows: mild pain 1-3; moderate pain 4-6; severe pain 7-10. The LPN/UM further stated that as needed pain medication should only be administered for a pain level of 1-10, not for a level of 0. The LPN/UM further stated that when the Consultant Pharmacist made a recommendation, it should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure the accuracy of medications. On 5/7/25 at 9:40 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Consultant Pharmacist (CP) who stated the nurses should not administer as needed Oxycodone for a pain level of 0. The CP further stated the nurses should follow the PO as a part of professional standards. On 5/7/25 at 9:55 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated the numerical pain scale was as follows: mild pain 1-3; moderate pain 4-6; severe pain 7-10. The DON further stated that as needed pain medication should not be administered for a pain level of 0 and that the nurse was required to administer as needed pain medication according to the PO. When asked about the CPMR, the DON stated recommendations were reviewed with the physician within one week in order to provide comprehensive care of the resident. The DON further stated that nurses should not have continued to document a pain level of 0 for the as needed Oxycodone after the CP identified the error on the CPMR. A review of the facility's Consultant Recommendations Policy, dated 11/25/24, included, Consultant recommendations will be reviewed by the licensed nurse. The attending physician will be notified as soon as possible. Nurse will document the date, time, and reason for call in the medical record. A review of the facility's Pain Assessment/Management and Documentation Policy and Procedure, revised 1/22/25, included, Pain and pain relief will be documented using the most appropriate pain scale based on the resident's cognition status. An appropriate medication will be administered based on that pain scale and assessment/observation of each resident. A review of the facility's 0-10 Scale of Pain Severity chart revealed the following: 0 - No Pain 1 - Minimal 2 - Mild 3 - Uncomfortable 4 - Moderate 5 - Distracting 6 - Distressing 7 - Unmanageable 8 - Intense 9 - Severe 10 - Unable to Move NJAC 8:39-27.1(a) .
CONCERN (D)

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

Medical Records (Tag F0842)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

2.) On 4/30/25 at 10:46 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #60 seated in their wheelchair in the hallway on the 2-West Unit. At that time, the surveyor observed the resident was not wearing their bila...

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2.) On 4/30/25 at 10:46 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #60 seated in their wheelchair in the hallway on the 2-West Unit. At that time, the surveyor observed the resident was not wearing their bilateral hearing aids. On 5/1/25 at 9:06 AM, the surveyor reviewed the electronic medical records (EMR) for Resident #60. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses, which included, sensorineural hearing loss (a type of hearing loss). A review of the comprehensive Minimum Data Set (MDS) an assessment tool used to faciltitate the management of care, dated 4/14/25, included the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 8 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cognition was moderately impaired. Further review of the MDS revealed the resident had moderate hearing loss. A review of the Medication Administration Record (MAR) revealed a physician's order (PO) dated 9/2/22 to check the placement of bilateral hearing aids six times daily at 5:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 8:00 PM while the resident was up. An additional (PO) dated 2/20/24 instructed nursing staff to apply the bilateral hearing aids in the morning and to remove and place them on the charger in the medication room every evening. A review of the individual comprehensive care plan (ICCP), dated 4/9/25, included a focus area indicating that the resident has impaired communication related to hearing loss and used bilateral hearing aids. Interventions included: Nursing will apply and store bilateral hearing aids daily and ensure hearing aids are place. A review of the MAR indicated that day and evening shift nurses documented the resident's bilateral hearing aids were applied each morning, removed each evening, and placed on the charger in the medication room every day, and that the hearing aids were checked for placement while the resident was upon the following days: On 04/29/25 at 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 8:00 PM, On 04/30/25 at 5:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 8:00 PM. There was no documentation in the EMR indicating that the resident's bilateral hearing aids were missing or that he/she had refused to wear them on either date. On 5/1/25 at 11:14 AM, the surveyor interviewed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #4 who stated that on the morning of 4/29/25, she noticed the resident's hearing aids were not on the charger in the medication room. LPN #4 admitted that she did not document that the hearing aids were missing on that date. On 5/6/25 at 10:22 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN/Unit Manager (LPN/UM) #5 who stated that she was notified on 4/30/25 during the day that the resident's bilateral hearing aids were missing and initiated an investigation. LPN/UM #5 stated that she spoke with both the evening Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and the nurse who had provided care for the resident during the shift prior to the discovery of the missing hearing aids and both staff members reported that they did not recall seeing the hearing aids. On 5/7/25 at 1:55 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that the nurses should not have documented that the resident's hearing aids were being applied and removed if they were not. A review of a facility's Personal Care policy, dated February 2025, revealed, Hearing aides are to be placed in appropriate ear by resident or nursing staff as needed in the a.m. They are to be removed in the p.m. at hour of sleep by resident or staff, as needed, and stored in a labeled container. NJAC 8:39-27.1(a) NJAC 8:39-35.2(d)(g) Complaint # NJ00176228 Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to maintain complete and accurate medical records in accordance with acceptable standards of practice. The facility failed to ensure a.) weekly skin assessments were accurately documented in the Treatment Administration Record (TAR) and b.) the physician's orders were followed and accurately documented the medication administration on the Medication Administration Record (MAR). This deficient practice was identified in 1of 2 residents (Resident #82) reviewed for pressure ulcer and 1of 1 resident (Resident #60) reviewed for communication and sensory problems and was evidenced by the following: 1.) On 4/30/25 at 10:34 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #82 awake and alert, lying in bed with a pressure relieving mattress on the bed. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #82. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, Parkinson's Disease (a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, causing symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement), dementia, malnutrition, pressure ulcer of left buttock, and incontinence without sensory awareness. A review of the comprehensive Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 3/6/25, included that the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 5 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cognition was severely impaired. Further review of the MDS revealed the resident had a stage three pressure ulcer, with treatments including pressure ulcer/injury care and pressure relieving devices for bed and chair. A review of the individual comprehensive care plan (ICCP) included a focus area that the resident was at risk for skin breakdown related to impaired mobility, incontinence, dementia, depression, risk for malnutrition and use of high-risk medications. Interventions included: Weekly skin assessment completed by nurse, provide prompt incontinence care, and utilization of pressure relieving cushion to chair and mattress to bed. A review of the Order Summary Report (OSR), dated as of 5/7/25, included the following physician orders (PO): A PO, dated 12/3/24, for Weekly skin assessment: 1 = No Skin Injury, 2 = New Skin Injury/Wound, 3 = Previously Noted Skin Injury/Wound. Every day shift every Tuesday. A PO, dated 1/31/25, for wound care: Medihoney Wound/Burn Dressing Gel (Wound Dressings) Apply to sacrum to Left (Lt) Buttock topically every day shift for Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD) Cleanse affected area with normal saline solution (NSS), pat dry, apply Medihoney cover with Bordered gauze, with a discontinuation date of 2/11/25. A PO, dated 2/11/25, for wound care: Collagenase Ointment 250 unit/gram, Apply to Sacrum to Left (L) buttock topically every day shift for pressure ulcer, with a discontinuation date of 3/31/25. A PO, dated 4/1/25, Cleanse sacrum to L Buttock with NSS, pat dry, apply Mesalt gauze, cover with bordered gauze every day and evening shift for wound care The surveyor reviewed the Progress Notes (PN) which included the following: A Nurses Note (NN), dated 1/16/25 at 3:46 PM, revealed the nurse observed a skin tear on the resident's sacrum. A Physician Progress Note (PPN), dated 1/22/25 at 10:30 AM, revealed the resident complained that their butt hurts and that the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) reported a sacral wound that morning to the nurse. A Nurse Practitioner (NP) Wound Progress Note, dated 1/30/25 at 4:44 PM, included, consulted for wound of the buttock and a wound gel treatment initiated. A NP Wound Progress Note, dated 2/11/25 at 3:21 PM, included that the sacral wound was reclassified as an unstageable (a type of bed sore that is covered by dead tissue) pressure ulcer with updates to wound care recommendations. A NP Wound Progress Note, dated 2/18/25 at 4:06 PM, included that the sacral wound was reclassified as a stage three pressure ulcer (has broken completely through the top two layers of the skin and into the fatty tissue below) with updates to wound care recommendations noted. A further review of the weekly NP Wound Progress Notes, dated 2/25/25, 3/4/25, 3/11/25, 3/18/25, 3/27/25, 4/1/25, 4/9/25, 4/15/25, and 4/23/25, included the sacral wound continued as a stage three pressure ulcer and recommended wound care treatments were ordered by the physician as indicated above. A review of the December 2024 Treatment Administration Record (TAR), included the 12/3/24 physician's order for weekly skin assessments were coded as: 1 = No Skin Injury, 2 = New Skin Injury/Wound, and 3 = Previously Noted Skin Injury/Wound. A review of the January 2025 through April 2025 TAR showed a code of 1 = No Skin Injury entered for the following dates: 1/7/25, 1/14/25, 1/21/25, 1/28/25, 2/4/25, 2/11/25, 2/25/25, 3/25/25 and 4/22/25. On 5/7/25 at 10:51 AM, the surveyor interviewed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #4 who stated that when a new skin issue was found it would be reported to the nurse. On 5/7/25 at 10:54 AM, the surveyor interviewed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #6 who stated that weekly skin assessments would be done on the resident's shower day, which included a head-to-toe assessment by the nurse, and documented in the TAR using the coding of 1= no skin injury, 2= new skin injury or 3= previously noted skin injury. The LPN further stated: a 2 should be documented for a new injury and 3 should be documented for a previously noted injury. On 5/7/25 at 11:01 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN/Unit Manager (LPN/UM) #3 who stated that weekly skin assessments would populate in the TAR, the nurse would complete a head-to-toe skin assessment and document in the TAR using the 1/2/3 coding. When asked what should be documented for a skin injury that already exists, the LPN replied, a 3 for a previous skin injury. On 5/7/25 at 11:10 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that the nurses complete skin checks weekly and document on the TAR using the code. The DON further stated that a previously noted injury should be coded with a 3 (previously noted injury/wound). When asked about the documentation of 1s from January through April 2025, the DON stated the nurses inadvertently put in the wrong number and that it should be '3' for a previous injury. On 5/7/25 at 1:51 PM, in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON, the [NAME] President of Clinical Services (VPCS), the Quality Assurance (QA) nurse, and the survey team, the surveyor reviewed the above concern. A review of the Skin Inspection policy, revised and updated 8/24, included 1. Skin inspections will be conducted on admission, readmission, and weekly thereafter for all residents as scheduled by the licensed nurse. 2. The licensed nurse will observe all body surfaces of the resident and document in ETAR record of PCC (Electronic Medical Record) A review of the facility's Wound policy, revised January 2025, included (3) Weekly skin observation/assessment will be conducted by the licensed nurse and (15) All wounds will be assessed weekly. Documentation will be maintained in the resident's medical record.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0883 (Tag F0883)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ens...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that the pneumococcal vaccination was administered to a resident upon admission to the facility. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 5 residents (Resident #72) reviewed for immunizations and was evidenced by the following: Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report Pneumococcal Vaccine for Adults Aged >19 Years: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), United States, 2023 Recommendations and Reports / September 8, 2023 / 72(3);1-39 Adults aged >19 years who have received PCV13 only are recommended to receive a single dose of PCV20 at an interval >1 year after receipt of the PCV13 dose or to receive >1 dose of PPSV23 to complete their pneumococcal vaccine series. -When PPSV23 is used instead of PCV20, the minimum recommended interval between PCV13 and PPSV23 administration is >8 weeks for adults with an immunocompromising condition, a CSF leak, or a cochlear implant and >1 year for adults without these conditions. Either PCV20 or a second PPSV23 dose is recommended >5 years after the first PPSV23 dose for adults aged 19-64 years with specified immunocompromising conditions but not for adults with a CSF leak or a cochlear implant. In addition, those who received both PCV13 (at any age) and PPSV23 (no PCV20) but have not received a dose of PPSV23 at age >65 years are recommended to receive either PCV20 or a single and final dose of PPSV23 at age >65 years and >5 years since the previous PPSV23 dose. On 4/30/25 at 10:57 AM, the surveyor requested Resident #72's signed consent form for receipt of the pneumococcal vaccine. On 5/1/25 at 9:00 AM, the facility provided Resident #72's Pneumonia/Vaccine/Consent/Declination & Education form, dated 9/23/24, which revealed the consent was signed by the resident's spouse for the resident to receive the pneumococcal vaccine. On 5/1/25 at 9:09 AM, the surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #72. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, dementia, senile degeneration of the brain, and palliative care. A review of the resident's Immunization Audit Report, as of 5/1/25, did not include any documentation related to the pneumococcal vaccine. A review of the resident's comprehensive Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 1/30/25, included the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 3 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cognition was severely impaired. Further review of the MDS included the resident was not offered the pneumococcal vaccine. A review of the Order Summary Report (OSR), with a date range of 4/30/25 to 5/31/25, included the following physician order (PO): A PO, dated 4/30/25, for Prevnar 20 Suspension Prefilled Syringe 0.5 milliliters (ml) (pneumococcal 20-[NAME] Conj. Vacc) inject 0.5 ml intramuscularly one time only for Pneumonia Vaccine for 1 (one) day [after surveyor requested consent forms]. A review of the May 2025 Medication Administration Record (MAR) revealed that the Pneumococcal vaccine was administered on 5/1/25 at 12:35 PM. On 5/2/25 at 11:01 AM, in the presence of the survey team, the surveyor interviewed the Infection Preventionist (IP) who stated that upon admission, residents were given education and screened for the pneumococcal vaccine and then consent was obtained. The charge nurse then administered the pneumococcal vaccine and documented the administration of the vaccine in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) under the immunizations tab. The IP further stated that it was important to administer the pneumococcal vaccine, if indicated, to prevent pneumonia. At that time, the surveyor reviewed Resident #72's signed consent form dated 9/24/24 with the IP. The IP stated that Resident #72's pneumococcal vaccine was missed and should have been administered by the admitting nurse when the consent was obtained. On 5/7/25 at 11:20 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that the resident should have been assessed for the pneumococcal vaccine upon admission, and obtained consent from the resident or family if indicated, and the admitting nurse should administer the vaccine upon admission. On 5/7/25 at 1:51 PM, in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON, the [NAME] President of Clinical Services (VPCS), and the Quality Assurance (QA) nurse, the surveyor reviewed the concern that the Pneumococcal vaccine was not administered upon admission and was administered on 5/1/25 after surveyor inquiry. On 5/7/25 at 2:08 PM, the DON obtained Resident #72's New Jersey Immunization Information System form from the resident's family physician, which revealed that Resident#72 had received the PCV13 vaccine on 8/14/2017. On 5/8/25 at 9:27 AM, the DON, in the presence of the LNHA, and the QA Nurse, confirmed that the resident had received the PCV 13 on 8/14/2017 and received the PCV 20 on 5/1/25 and she stated that, according to the CDC pneumococcal Vaccine timing form for adults, the PVC 20 vaccine can be administered starting one year after receiving the PCV 13 vaccine. A review of the facility's Pneumococcal vaccine policy, revised January 2025, included to offer pneumococcal immunizations to all residents (unless contraindicated) as per CDC recommendations. Upon admission, review the resident's medical record including hospital records if available be to determine whether any pneumococcal vaccines have been received. The licensed nurse to educate resident/responsible party/legal guardian regarding Pneumonia vaccine and obtain a consent. The licensed nurse will administer Pneumonia vaccine as requested by the resident/responsible party and ordered by the physician/nurse practitioner. NJAC 8:39-19.4 (i)
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

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Complaint #: NJ176228 Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility documents, it was determined that t...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Complaint #: NJ176228 Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) follow a physician's order to apply a urinary catheter stabilization device, b.) accurately identify a resident's urinary stabilization device was applied in the electronic medical record (EMR), c.) properly identify a resident's incontinence status in the EMR, and d.) monitor urinary output according to the physician's orders in the EMR. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 2 Residents (Resident #104 and #196) reviewed for urinary catheters and was evidenced by the following: Reference: New Jersey Statutes, Annotated Title 45, Chapter 11. Nursing Board. The Nurse Practice Act for the state of New Jersey states: The practice of nursing as a registered professional nurse is defined as diagnosing and treating human responses to actual or potential physical and emotional health problems, through such services as case finding, health teaching, health counseling and provision of care supportive to or restorative of life and wellbeing, and executing medical regimes as prescribed by a licensed or otherwise legally authorized physician or dentist. Reference: New Jersey Statutes, Annotated Title 45, Chapter 11 Nursing Board, The Nurse Practice Act for the State of New Jersey state: The practice of nursing as a licensed practical nurse is defined as performing tasks and responsibilities within the framework of case finding; reinforcing the patient and family teaching program through health teaching, health counseling and provision of supportive and restorative care, under the direction of a registered nurse or licensed or otherwise legally authorized physician or dentist. 1). On 4/30/25 at 10:24 AM, during the initial tour of the facility, the surveyor observed Resident #104 sleeping in bed with a urinary catheter hanging at the bedside by the provided hook and was contained within a privacy bag. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #104. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, but were not limited to: Peripheral Vascular Disease (a progressive disorder that causes narrowing or blocking of the blood vessels outside the heart) and Palliative Care. A review of the resident's most recent comprehensive Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 3/10/24, included the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 10 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cognition was moderately impaired. Further review of the MDS identified under Section H indicated that the resident had an indwelling catheter. A review of the resident's individual comprehensive care plan (ICCP) included a focus area, dated 3/11/25, that the resident was at risk for a urinary tract infection (UTI) related to catheter use. Interventions included: Monitor for signs/symptoms of UTI (change in color, increased output, change in odor, presence of sediment, etc), notify physician of abnormalities, provide catheter care every shift as ordered and as needed, monitor for decrease in output, and secure catheter tubing to prevent trauma. A review of the Order Summary Report (OSR), dated as of 4/30/2025, included the following physician orders (PO): A PO, dated 3/26/25, to apply urinary catheter stabilization device, check skin integrity and placement every shift. A PO, dated 3/26/25, to monitor and document urinary catheter output every shift. If no output in eight hours, notify physician every shift. A review of Resident #104's March and April 2025 Treatment Administration Record (TAR) revealed that on the following dates and shifts there was no documentation to indicate that the resident had urinary output: -3/27/25 Day Shift -4/11/25 Night Shift -4/13/25 Day Shift A review of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Plan of Care (POC) Response History for Resident #104's Bladder Continence, of the 30 days look back period (through multiple shifts on each day), only 27 responses correctly identified Continence Not Rated due to Indwelling Catheter. Other selections that were checked off included: Incontinent and Continence Not Rated due to Condom Catheter. 2.) On 4/30/25 at 10:16 AM, during the initial tour of the facility, the surveyor observed Resident #196 sleeping in bed with a urinary catheter hanging at the bedside by the provided hook and was contained within a privacy bag. On 5/2/25 at 11:52 AM, the surveyor interviewed Resident #196 who stated that they did not have a urinary stabilization device applied to their leg. When asked if the facility emptied the urinary bag every shift Resident #196 responded, sometimes they do and sometimes they don't. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #196. A review of the admission Record, an admission summary, revealed the resident had diagnoses which included, but were not limited to: chronic embolism (a piece of a blood clot or other substance travels and obstructs blood flow elsewhere) and thrombosis (blood clot) of unspecified deep veins of lower extremities and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (a condition in which the body has trouble controlling blood sugar and using it for energy). A review of the resident's most recent Quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], included the resident had Brief Interview for Mental Status Score (BIMS) score of 14 out of 15, which indicated the resident's cognition was intact. Further review of the MDS identified under Section H that the resident had an indwelling catheter. A review of the resident's Individual Comprehensive Care Plan (ICCP) included a focus area, dated 3/11/25, that the resident was at risk for UTI related to catheter use. Interventions included: Monitor for signs/symptoms of UTI (change in color, increased output, change in odor, presence of sediment, etc), notify physician of abnormalities, provide catheter care every shift as ordered and as needed, monitor for decrease in output, and secure catheter tubing to prevent trauma. A review of the OSR, dated as of 4/30/25, included the following PO: A PO, dated 7/1/24, to apply urinary catheter stabilization device, check skin integrity and placement every shift. A PO, dated 7/1/24, to monitor and document urinary catheter output every shift. If no output in eight hours, notify physician every shift. A review of Resident #196's March and April 2025 TAR revealed that on the following dates and times, there was no documentation to indicate that the resident had urinary output: -3/17/25 Night Shift -4/8/25 Day Shift -4/11/25 Night Shift -4/22/25 Day Shift -4/25/25 Night Shift A review of the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) POC (Plan of Care) Response History for Resident #196 included: Bladder Continence, of the 30 days look back period (through multiple shifts on each day), only 10 responses correctly identified Continence Not Rated due to Indwelling Catheter. Other selections that were checked off included: Continent; Incontinent; and Continence Not Rated due to Condom Catheter. On 5/2/25 at 11:22 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Infection Preventionist (IP) who stated that the urine of residents who had an urinary catheter should be monitored, including the resident's output. When asked what should be monitored, the IP indicated that the CNA was to empty the urinary bag and report the amount to the nurse for documentation. The IP further confirmed that a resident's Medication Administration Record (MAR) and TAR should not have any blanks because it could allow for the possibility of missing an infection. On 5/5/25 at 10:58 AM, the surveyor interviewed Licensed Practical Nurse/Unit Manager (LPN/UM) #1 who acknowledged that resident's urine output should be documented by the nurse to monitor for possible urine retention and that there should not be any blanks on the MAR and TAR. When asked about the CNA POC, LPN/UM #1 confirmed that the CNA should not document a urinary catheter resident as incontinent. The surveyor questioned what precautions were put into place to prevent catheter dislodgement, LPN/UM #1 indicated that a stabilization device should be applied to resident's leg as per physician order and facility policy. On 5/5/25 at 11:15 AM, the surveyor interviewed Registered Nurse/Unit Manager (RN/UM) #1 who reported that CNAs were to empty the resident's catheter bag but the nurses should be documenting the output. When asked if there should be any blanks in the MAR and TAR, RN/UM #1 stated no because it could mean a possible infection. The surveyor reviewed Resident #104 and #196's CNA POC with RN/UM #1 who confirmed that the CNAs should have identified both residents as Continence Not Rated due to Indwelling Catheter. Upon review of Resident #104 and #196's MAR and TAR, RN/UM #1 confirmed that there were blanks in the MAR and TAR for urinary output. On the same date at 11:27 AM, the surveyor requested RN/UM #1 to accompany the surveyor to Resident #196's room to see if the stabilization device was present on the resident's leg. With permission from the resident, RN/UM #1 checked and confirmed that the stabilization device was not present. On the same date at 11:34 AM, the surveyor requested RN/UM #1 to accompany the surveyor to Resident #104's room to see if the stabilization device was present on the resident's leg. With permission from the resident, RN/UM #1 checked and confirmed that the stabilization device was not present. The surveyor reviewed both Resident #104 and #196's MAR and TAR with RN/UM #1 confirmed that resident's orders were checked off as being applied. On 5/6/25 at 12:07 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON), in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and Quality Assurance (QA), who acknowledged that residents with a urinary catheter should be monitored and documented in the MAR and TAR, there should not be any blanks in the MAR and TAR, stabilization devices should be applied to prevent dislodgement of the urinary catheter and documented accordingly, and CNAs should not have identified residents with urinary catheters as incontinent. A review of the facility's Physician Orders policy, last updated 8/2024, included the following under Policy: The licensed nurse confirm and carried out all given orders timely. The following was included under Procedure: The licensed nurse will administer medications and treatment and care as ordered by the physician. A review of the facility's Urinary Catheters policy, last revised 1/23/24, included the following under Standards of Care For the Patient With an Indwelling Urinary Catheter: Catheters should be properly secured with the appropriate device after insertion to prevent movement and urethral traction. A review of the facility's Integrated Medication Management (IMM) in [name redacted] policy, last revised January 2025, included the following under Policy: To provide a centralized Electronic Health Record (EHR) and a full medication and treatment administration system that is accurate and dependable. The following was identified under Procedure: [name redacted] is securely accessed over the Internet for real-time accuracy and dependability, and the eMAR (Electronic Medication Administration Record)/eTAR (Electronic Treatment Administration Record) modules provide accurate and complete documentation of the resident and their medication and treatment information. A review of the facility's Job Description Certified Nursing Assistant, last revised November 2017, included the following under Responsibilities: Skin Checks Daily. The following was included under Adherence to Facility Procedures: All procedures in performing tasks of the job are performed following facility policy. The following was included under Documentation: Intake and output are accurately recorded on the proper form. A review of the facility's Job Description Licensed Practical Nurse, last revised November 2017, included the following under Responsibilities: Accurate and Timely Documentation, and Accurate and timely evaluation of residents. The following was identified under Documentation: Intake and output are accurately recorded on the proper form, and MARS/TARS are filled in properly with no GAPS. The following was identified under Adherence to Facility Procedures: All procedures in performing tasks of the job are performed following facility policy. The following were identified under Documentation: Intake and output are accurately recorded on the proper form. The following was identified under Adherence to Facility Procedures: All procedures in performing tasks of the job are performed following facility policy. A review of the facility's Job Description Unit Manager, last revised November 2017, included the following under Documentation: Ensures MARS/TARS/ADL sheets and BMS are filled in properly with no GAPS. The following was identified under Adherence to Facility Procedures: All procedures in performing tasks of the job are performed following facility policy. The following were identified under Documentation: Intake and output are accurately recorded on the proper form. A review of the facility's untitled policy included the following under Purpose: (facility name redacted) provides accurate nursing documentation supportive of the skilled nursing/extended care services received by our residents. The following was identified under Procedure: 1. the compliance in the following guidelines throughout the documentation process includes the following: . Entries are to be factual, complete and accurate, contain clinical observations. NJAC 8:39-27.1(a)
Apr 2023 13 deficiencies 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Quality of Care (Tag F0684)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** NJ Complaint #159807 Based on interviews, review of closed medical records, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was d...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** NJ Complaint #159807 Based on interviews, review of closed medical records, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure appropriate care was provided with no delay in treatment for a resident with an indwelling pleural chest catheter/tube who had a change in condition with respiratory distress on [DATE] received a chest x-ray on [DATE], and was hospitalized via emergency services prior to chest x-ray results. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 45 residents (Resident #439) reviewed for quality of care, and was evidenced by the following: On [DATE] at 8:52 AM, the surveyor reviewed the closed medical records for Resident #439. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected the resident was admitted to the facility in November of 2022 with diagnoses which included chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD; a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes difficulty breathing), chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia (lungs cannot get enough oxygen into the blood), malignant neoplasm of lung (cancer of the lungs), secondary malignant neoplasm of liver, bone, adrenal gland (cancer that had spread to other areas in the body). A review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool dated [DATE], reflected the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 15 out of 15, which indicated an intact cognition. A further review in Section G Function Status revealed the resident required extensive assist of one person for bed mobility, transfer between surfaces, toilet use, personal hygiene and dressing. Further review revealed in Section J Health Conditions shortness of breath with exertion and when lying flat. Review of Section O Special Treatment, Procedures and Programs revealed oxygen therapy while at the facility. A review of the Progress Notes reflected the following notes: An admission summary dated [DATE] at 11:30 PM, included the resident was alert and oriented and able to make their needs known. The resident had oxygen at 4 liters per minute via nasal cannula. The resident had an indwelling chest tube, to the right flank area that was used to drain fluid from the pleural space (a thin layer of tissue that covers the lung and lines the interior wall of the chest cavity). An admission History and Physical dated [DATE] at 8:00 PM, written by Physician #1, included the resident had a right chest catheter (tube) that was inserted on [DATE], due to resident's recurrent pleural effusion (a buildup of fluid between the tissue that line the lungs and the chest). The chest tube was to be drained on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. A Nurses Note dated [DATE] at 1:51 PM, included the catheter was drained of 500 milliliters (mL) and that vital signs were stable. A Nurses Note dated [DATE] at 10:24 AM, included the chest tube was drained with 550 mL output. The site had no signs of infection and the dressing, cap and clamp on the tube were changed. A Nurses Note dated [DATE] at 11:27 AM, included the chest tube was drained for a total of 250 mL, and there was slight redness around opening area and was cleansed and redressed. A Nurses Note dated [DATE] at 12:26 PM, included the resident's tube was drained, the sight was clean and dry with slight redness around tubing area and the total output was 125 mL. A Nurses Note written by Registered Nurse (RN #1) dated [DATE] at 12:11 PM, included the nurse was informed by the family member that the resident had respiratory issues. The assessment revealed the nurse heard crackles (indicated the small air sacs in the lungs are filled with fluid), rhonchi (indicated fluid or secretions in the larger airways) that was heard in the right lung. The pulse oxygenation (a method to monitor blood oxygen saturation) was 90% with the use of 4 liters per minute of oxygen received via nasal cannula. The resident was having respiratory difficulty and the chest tube was drained of 110 mL of yellow drainage at that time. The resident's [Physician #1] was called and the nurse was awaiting a call back. A Nurses Note written by RN #1 dated [DATE] at 10:00 PM, included a chest x-ray was ordered by Physician # 1. A Nurses Note written by the 3-11 Nursing Supervisor/RN dated [DATE] at 7:20 PM, included the resident's tubing catheter dressing was soiled with brownish drainage. The catheter was clamped, and the dressing was replaced with family at bedside. A Nurses Note written by RN # 2 dated [DATE] at 1:03 PM, included that the resident had shortness of breath with a pulse oxygenation level of 65 % with oxygen at 4 liters per minute with a nasal cannula. The nasal cannula was replaced with a non-rebreather mask (a device used to assist in the delivery of a higher concentration of oxygen) at 10 liters per minute. The physician was notified, and the resident was sent to the hospital via emergency response at 11:37 AM. A Nurses Note written by the 3-11 Nursing Supervisor/RN dated [DATE] 5:24 PM, included the resident was admitted to the hospital with diagnosis of pneumonia, hypoxia, and pulmonary embolism. A review of the [DATE] Medication Review Report revealed a verbal physician's order (PO) for a chest x-ray to rule out pneumonia one time only for one day dated [DATE]. A review of the Radiology Result Report with an examination date of [DATE], for an x-ray of the chest revealed a conclusion of moderate right and left infiltrates (substance denser than air) and possible right pleural effusion. Further review of the [DATE] Medication Review Report included a PO dated [DATE] with a start date of [DATE], to drain 500 mL to the right flank catheter daily on Monday, Wednesday; and Friday; call physician for bloody drainage or drainage of more than 1000 mL. A review of the corresponding [DATE] Treatment Administration Record (TAR) revealed the nurses signed the catheter to right flank was drained of 500 mL on [DATE] (Friday), [DATE] (Monday), [DATE] (Wednesday), [DATE] (Friday), and [DATE] (Monday). A review of the comprehensive care plan included a focus area initiated on [DATE], for a potential for complications related to the use of drainage system due to status post right pleural effusion and a diagnosis of lung cancer. Interventions included to assess lung sounds every shift and monitor for abnormal lung sounds during dressing changes and when draining; monitor site for signs and symptoms of infection and report abnormalities for prompt intervention; drain using [chest tube] kit as ordered limit drainage as ordered by physician to prevent re-expansion pulmonary edema; and monitor for respiratory changes in overall condition cyanosis (blue color of skin), change in capillary refill, skin temperature, change in mental status notify physician for instructions. On [DATE] at 10:17 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who confirmed she was one the nurses who cared for Resident #439. The LPN stated that she remembered the resident had a right sided chest tube, and when she administered the resident's medication, she checked vital signs and checked the dressing for wetness; if the dressing was wet, she notified the Unit Manger/Registered Nurse (UM/RN). The LPN continued on that weekend she recalled the dressing to the right chest was wet, and she called the 3-11 Nursing Supervisor/RN. The 3-11 Nursing Supervisor/RN reapplied the dressing, and she could not recall the color of the drainage on the dressing. On [DATE] at 10:54 AM, the surveyor interviewed RN #2, who stated she remembered Resident #439, and she had changed the dressing and drained the chest tube. She stated that on [DATE] at 1:13 PM, she sent the resident to the hospital. On [DATE] at 11:21 AM, the surveyor interviewed via telephone the 3-11 Nursing Supervisor/RN who stated on the evening of [DATE], the resident's chest tube catheter dressing was wet, and the family was at the bedside. She continued that she removed the dressing, and the area was fine and tender to touch. She stated the dressing was not that wet and if it was leaking at the site, she would have sent him to the hospital via emergency services. She stated the cap (closes the catheter the chest tube) was off the tube and she put a new one on. On [DATE] at 11:21 AM, the surveyor reviewed a grievance form dated [DATE], which included the [Resident Representative] had concerns and reported that the past weekend the [chest tube] was leaking and the nurse used the [internet to search chest tube]. The [Resident Representative] stated a chest x-ray was ordered on Saturday and was not done until Monday. The grievance was written up by the Director of Nursing (DON). On [DATE] at 9:31 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated the facility had a contract with a radiology company and the resident's chest x-ray was not ordered stat (immediately without delay), so it was completed on the next business day which was Monday. On [DATE] at 9:15 AM, the surveyor interviewed via telephone Physician #1 who stated that she was the resident's primary physician, and the resident had a chest tube that the nurses drained. Physician #1 stated she was away from the facility from [DATE] to [DATE], and she was not sure how the resident was. She continued that the Medical Director was on-call while she was away. Physician #1 stated if she was called for the resident's change in condition, she would have ordered the chest x-ray to have been completed stat. On [DATE] at 9:45 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated the RN #1 who received the chest x-ray order could not recall the physician that she spoke to and received the order from. The DON further stated that the Medical Director was on call for Physician #1. On [DATE] at 9:50 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Quality Assurance Director (QAD) who stated the nurse who took the order could not recall who the ordering physician she spoke to was. She documented Physician #1, but had not spoken to them. She also stated when she put the order in the electronic Medical Record (EMR), the primary physician's name automatically populated so that was why Physician # 1's name was associated with the order. The QAD further stated that the Medical Director was not on-call that weekend and she did not know who the on-call physician was. The QAD continued that Physician #1 filed a grievance that her name was on an order she did not give. On [DATE] at 10:58 AM, the surveyor via telephone interviewed RN #1 who stated that she was the nurse who received the chest x-ray order, and she was unable to recall which physician she spoke to. RN#1 stated the resident had a change in condition, and she remembered that the chest x-ray needed to be done immediately. She stated that when documenting a physician's order in the EMR, the orders automatically populated with a drop-down box that indicated prn (as needed) or one time order. RN #1 stated the nurses coming on for the next shift assisted her with the physician's order because the facility's staff had access to the x-ray company, and Agency nurses (like herself) did not have a pin number to order the x-ray. On [DATE] at 11:59 AM, the surveyor via telephone interviewed the Medical Director who stated that the resident's primary physician (Physician #1) asked her to cover her residents while she was away from facility. The Medical Director stated that she was not on-call that weekend, but her Physician Service was covering, and she pulled the phone records and there was no documented call to the Physician Service about Resident #439. The Medical Director continued that she could only give her medical opinion, but if she were ordering a chest x-ray for the resident with a change in condition, she would have ordered the chest x-ray stat because she ordered all x-rays stat to be done right away. On [DATE] at 12:36 PM, the surveyor via telephone interviewed RN #3 who stated she thought she was the oncoming nurse for the resident on [DATE], and it was change of shift. RN #3 stated that typically the Agency nurses put the physician's orders into the EMR, and the facility nurses would order x-rays so they would be done. On [DATE] at 1:31 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated that Agency staff and the facility staff have the same access when putting in physician's orders into the EMR and laboratory access. The DON continued that there was no reason for Agency staff to think that they do not have access, and that physician's orders could not be ordered stat in the EMR. On [DATE] at 2:30 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated that when she completed the grievance for the resident, the nurse who received the order for a chest x-ray did not order the x-ray stat. The DON continued she would try to find out who the ordering physician was. The DON stated that it would be up to the physician as to when a chest x-ray would be ordered for a resident in respiratory distress. On [DATE] at 10:33 AM, the surveyor re-interviewed via telephone RN#1 who stated she spoke to a physician, but did not recall who she spoke with, and she drained the resident's chest tube. The surveyor asked if she received a physician's order to drain the chest tube because it was a Saturday, and the order was for Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. RN #1 stated she could not recall, but to read her note. . On [DATE] at 1:32 PM, the surveyor informed the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and the DON of the concerns. On [DATE] at 9:47 AM, the DON in the presence of the LNHA and the survey team stated that Physician #1 was away from the facility at the time, and Physician #2 was covering her residents. The DON confirmed the resident's chest tube was drained on [DATE] without a physician's order because the resident was in distress. The DON stated typically the nurse needed a physician's order, but if you read the documentation, the resident was in distress with lower breath sounds, pulse oxygenation level of 90% on 4 liters per minute oxygen with respiratory difficulty. The DON continued the next shift administered a nebulizer (breathing treatment) and the pulse oxygenation level increased. The DON stated the resident expired at some point in the hospital. The DON confirmed Physician #2 had not spoken to RN#1, and the facility had no record of who or if RN #1 spoke to for a physician's order for a chest x-ray. A review of the facility's Physician Order policy dated updated [DATE], included licensed nurses will administer medication and treatments as ordered by the physician .the licensed nurse will write the order in the [electronic medical record] as prescribed by the medical professional and follow up to ensure timely completion . A review of the facility's Physician notification policy dated revised [DATE], included nurses should not hesitate to contact the attending physician at any time for a problem and changes in resident status are reported promptly and accurately to the physician to address any concerns. Including Laboratory results normal or abnormal which the physician requests on a stat or same day basis . NJAC 8:39-27.1(a)
CONCERN (D)

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

Resident Rights (Tag F0550)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. On 4/13/23 at 9:20 AM, the surveyor heard screaming coming from a resident's room with a closed door. The surveyor proceeded ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. On 4/13/23 at 9:20 AM, the surveyor heard screaming coming from a resident's room with a closed door. The surveyor proceeded to knock on the door, announced themselves, and began to open the door. The surveyor was informed by CNA #2 that she was providing care for Resident #213. The surveyor observed Resident #213 lying in bed with an incontinent brief on with exposed legs, torso, and arms with the privacy curtain not closed as CNA #2 provided care with a washcloth to their torso. The resident's unsampled roommate was sitting in their bed facing Resident #213 and CNA #2 with their privacy curtain opened as well. At this time, CNA #2 immediately started closing the privacy curtain for Resident #213 to provide privacy for the resident. On 4/13/23 at 9:26 AM, CNA #2 exited Resident #213's room and the surveyor interviewed the aide who confirmed she was rendering care to Resident #213. The surveyor asked if the privacy curtain should be opened or closed when rendering care, and CNA #2 stated the curtain should be closed for the resident's privacy. CNA #2 confirmed she had not closed Resident #213's privacy curtain while rendering care which exposed the resident, she continued that the resident's unsampled roommate preferred the privacy curtain opened. The surveyor stated you were rendering care to Resident #213 and not their roommate, which CNA #2 acknowledged the curtain should have been closed. On 4/13/23 at 9:35 AM, the surveyor interviewed UM/LPN #2 who stated when staff was providing care to a resident, they were expected to pull the privacy curtain closed prior to rendering care to ensure resident privacy and dignity, as well as make sure the room door was closed. At this time, the surveyor informed UM/LPN #2 of their observation with CNA #2, and she confirmed that CNA #2 should not have rendered care on Resident #213 until their privacy curtain was closed. On 4/13/23 at 10:09 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated CNA #2 was an Agency staff aide who was oriented on facility policy and procedure prior to attending to the residents. The DON continued that staff was expected to close the privacy curtain prior to rendering resident care for privacy, which was a standard of practice. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #213. A review of the admission Record face sheet reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility in September of 2021 with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease, essential hypertension (high blood pressure), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety. A review of the most recent quarterly MDS dated [DATE], reflected the resident had a BIMS score undetermined, with short and long-term memory problems and a severely impaired cognition. On 4/19/23 at 10:46 AM, the DON in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and survey team, acknowledged CNA #2 had not closed the resident's privacy curtain, and she stated that CNA #2 acknowledged she was aware that she should have closed Resident #213's privacy curtain prior to rendering care. A review of the facility's Resident Rights policy dated January 2023, included to be treated with courtesy, consideration, and respect for your dignity and individuality . A review of the facility's undated Nursing Assistant Skills Review Checklist included Interpersonal Skills/Communication .pulls curtains, drapes when giving care . A review of the facility's Isolation Precautions/COVID-19 policy dated revised January 2023, included isolation precautions .the resident will be placed in a private room, if possible. When a private room is not available, the resident will be placed with another resident who is colonized or infected with the same organism and isolation type (contact versus droplet) but does not have any other infection (cohorting) . NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)(12) Based on observations, interviews, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed a.) to ensure residents on transmission-based precautions (TBP) were treated in a dignified and respectful manner for their toileting needs and b.) ensuring the privacy curtain was closed during personal care. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 35 residents (Residents #19 and #213) reviewed for dignity, and was evidenced by the following: 1. On 4/14/23 at 9:30 AM, during the initial tour of the facility, the surveyor observed cautionary signage and a personal protective equipment (PPE; clothing or equipment worn to protect the body from harm or infection) bin outside of Resident #19's room. A Stop Sign cautioned that TBP (precautions intended to prevent transmission of infectious agents) were in effect and directed to perform hand hygiene and don (put on) gloves and gown before entering the room. The surveyor observed Resident #19 who self-propelled themselves in a wheelchair within the room. When interviewed, the resident stated that he/she had a urinary tract infection (UTI), and was not permitted to use the bathroom because their roommate used it. The resident further stated staff instructed the resident to both defecate and urinate in their incontinence brief because there was a chance that their roommate could become infected if they used the bathroom. The resident stated that their roommate went to the hospital about a week ago and he/she was not happy about it, and preferred to use the bathroom; at least while the roommate was hospitalized . The resident confirmed that their skin was not affected. The resident reported occasional incontinence and stated that he/she was able to call for help to use the bathroom and knew when he/she had to go. The resident further stated that neither a bedside commode nor bed pan were offered in lieu of going to the bathroom in their brief. On 4/11/23 at 10:15 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA #1) who stated that Resident #19 required total assistance for activities of daily living (ADLs), and used to go into the bathroom. CNA #1 explained that the resident no longer used the toilet because the resident could not stand for a long period of time. CNA #1 stated that the resident wore an incontinent brief and was able to tell her when they had to go to the bathroom or when they needed to be changed. CNA #1 stated that a gown, gloves, mask, and goggles were required to enter the resident's room due to the presence of ESBL in the resident's urine. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #19. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) revealed that the resident was re-admitted to the facility in October of 2022 with diagnosis which included mixed incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine associated with urgency, exertion, sneezing or coughing), Type 2 diabetes mellitus (the body does not produce enough insulin, or is resistant to insulin), general anxiety disorder, constipation, and polyosteoarthritis (joint pain and stiffness). A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool dated 4/10/23, reflected the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 13 out of 15, which indicated a fully intact cognition. Further review of the MDS revealed that the resident required extensive assistance of one-person for bed mobility, transfers, toilet use, and personal hygiene. Further review of the MDS revealed that the resident was frequently incontinent of urine and frequently incontinent of bowel and a toileting program was not being used to manage the resident's urinary or bowel continence. On 4/12/23 at 11:13 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manager/Licensed Practical Nurse (UM/LPN #1) who stated that Resident #19 did not currently have a roommate. UM/LPN #1 stated that Resident #19 informed her that the resident did not use the bathroom, as he/she was incontinent, and the aides provided incontinence care in the resident's bed. The UM/LPN #1 further stated that Resident #19 requested to use the bathroom after they had spoken with the surveyor, and that Physical Therapy (PT) had since evaluated the resident, who was deemed able to use the toilet with assistance. UM/LPN #1 stated that the resident must be the only one who used the toilet due to their history of ESBL, and since the resident's prior roommate did not have ESBL, the resident's roommate was the only one who could use the bathroom. UM/LPN #1 further explained that Resident #19 declined to have their room changed when they tested positive for ESBL, and did not voice a desire to use the toilet. At that time, the surveyor asked UM/LPN #1 if she documented that Resident #19 was offered a room change and declined? UM/LPN #1 stated that she did not believe that she needed to document the conversation as the resident was incontinent at that time. UM/LPN #1 explained that the resident's urine tested positive for ESBL on 2/14/23, and was not treated with an antibiotic because the resident was determined to have been colonized (presence of a microorganism which does not cause harm or symptoms). UM/LPN #1 stated that she did not see it as a dignity issue. UM/LPN #1 further stated that if the resident's roommate returned from the hospital, she would change the resident's room or check with the family. On 4/12/23 at 12:17 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Infection Preventionist/Registered Nurse (IP/RN) who stated that if a resident were to test positive for ESBL and both residents used the same bathroom, then one of the residents must be moved to a different room. IP/RN stated, She would never tell a resident that they were not permitted to use the bathroom because it was a dignity issue to tell them to use the [incontinence brief] all the time for mixed incontinence. On 4/12/23 at 1:30 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Rehab (DOR) who stated that as of 4/5/23, Resident #19 was currently receiving Occupational Therapy (OT, rehabilitation through performance of ADLs) for safety and transfer levels. The DOR confirmed that the resident previously received OT from 1/5/23-2/17/23 and was determined to have required moderate assistance overall at that time. The DOR stated that the resident was presently at baseline and was able to use the toilet with one-person moderate assistance. A review of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Assignment Sheets dated 4/3/23, 4/5/23, 4/7/23, 4/8/23, 4/9/23, 4/10/23, and 4/13/23, revealed that Resident #19 required complete care, transferred with stand and pivot technique, and was continent of bowel and bladder. On 4/13/23 at 11:13 AM, the surveyor observed that Resident #19's roommate returned from the hospital and shared a room with Resident #19 once more. On 4/13/23 at 12:02 PM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #1 who stated that Resident #19's roommate returned to the facility last evening, and did not use the bathroom at this time. On 4/13/23 at 12:17 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Medical Director (MD) in the presence of the survey team via speaker phone with permission. The MD stated that when a resident was colonized with ESBL (Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase; enzymes produced by bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics) and required TBP, the facility had to come up with a safe scenario for bathroom use which may include not letting one of the residents use the bathroom. The MD stated they may offer an alternative such as a bedside commode or bedpan. The MD further stated that an incontinence brief was not always the best choice, but would be better than using the same toilet or commode. The MD stated it was hard to say if telling the resident to go in their brief was a dignity issue; that you had to be thoughtful of the safety of the negative resident. On 4/17/23 at 12:40 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that when a resident tested positive for ESBL and their roommate was negative, the facility determined whether the resident was incontinent and wore an incontinence brief, otherwise, a room change was implemented. The DON stated that UM/LPN #1 could have documented that Resident #19 had a positive urine culture and was offered a room change and declined. The DON stated that she was surprised that Resident #19 did not communicate a desire to go to the bathroom, instead of in their incontinent brief. On 4/18/23 at 10:45 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #19 seated their wheelchair at the bedside. When interviewed, the resident stated that he/she was now able to use the bathroom and wore an incontinent brief just in case.
CONCERN (D)

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

Investigate Abuse (Tag F0610)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to thor...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to thoroughly investigate an allegation of abuse for 1 of 3 residents (Resident #152) reviewed for abuse. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: On 4/3/23 at 11:18 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 laying on the bed requesting assistance from the nursing staff. On 4/12/23 at 10:20 AM, the surveyor was informed by Resident#152 of a situation involving a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). With Resident #152's permission, this conversation was held in the presence of their roommate (Resident #113). Resident #152 advised that the CNA grabbed my arm [ .] shook me [ .] I was crying. Resident #152 further stated that the CNA pulled on my arm [to cover me up] because I had a rash from dialysis. I told her i got a rash and she said you don't have [breasts] hanging out like that. Resident #113 confirmed the entire event and stated that Resident #152 was crying after the event. When asked if the CNA has been assigned to Resident #152 or Resident #113, they both confirmed that they have not seen the CNA since that time. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected the resident was re-admitted to the facility in March of 2022 with diagnosis which included hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of the body) and hemiparesis (partial weakness of one side of the body) following cerebral infarction (disrupted blood flow to the brain) affecting right dominant side. A review of Resident #152's most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool dated 1/9/23, the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 9 out of 15, which indicated a moderately impaired cognition. Further review of the MDS indicated the resident was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living (ADLs). A review of Resident #113's the most recent quarterly MDS dated [DATE], the resident had a BIMS score of 15 out of 15, which indicated that the resident is cognitively intact. The surveyor reviewed the facility provided Grievance Packet, for 1/30/23 included the following: A review of the Grievance Form dated 1/30/23, which it was reported that the Social Worker (SW) met with Resident #152 on 2/1/23. Resident #152 reported that on 1/30/23, the resident's CNA attended to the resident to provide care. Resident #152 stated that the CNA started pulling on my arm [ .] I told her that you don't have to touch me [ .] she kept pulling on my arm [ .] I was crying and so shocked. A review of the Staff Statement form by the Nursing Supervisor, that identified the incident date of 1/31/23 at 2:10 PM. The reported allegation occurred on 1/30/23. The description of the incident identified that a call was received from [Resident #113] at about 6:30 PM. The documented statement did not address the concerns that were identified with the grievance including the remarks I was crying and so shocked I asked [Resident # 113] to call my sons and tell them. The documented statement identified actions that were taken and did not confirm the identity of the alleged CNA. A review of the section titled, Actions taken, included All appropriate departments made aware. Allegation is unfounded. A review of the section titled, Final Response, was blank. On 4/12/23 at 9:50 AM, the Director of Nursing (DON) was interviewed by the survey team. During the interview, the DON confirmed that a roommate could be identified as a witness and they would write or have phone interview with them. The DON further explained that upon conclusion of the investigation, the resident's care plan was updated with interventions. On 4/19/23 at 9:52 AM, the DON was interviewed by the survey team. When asked if the investigation was completed, the DON stated, There wasn't abuse. The DON was questioned why there was no statement from Resident #113 regarding the grievance. The DON responded that Resident #113 had his/her privacy curtain closed. When asked if the Nursing Supervisor followed-up with the claims that Resident #152 was crying or if the resident's family was contacted, the DON responded, I will have to double check. When asked if the resident was questioned if he/she would like the CNA to continue to care for the resident, the DON responded, that the [residents] preferred men. The DON confirmed that this was not documented on the grievance form. When the surveyor inquired if the care plan was updated to identify any interventions, the DON stated, I can double check. The survey team asked if there should be a summary or response on the second page of the grievance form? The DON acknowledged that there should be some type of summary completed. A review the facility's Abuse and Neglect Policy and Procedure, dated November 2022, included the definition of alleged violation: a situation nor occurrence that is observed or reported by staff, another health care provider, resident, relative, visitor, or others but has not yet been investigated and, if verified, could be noncompliance with the Federal requirements related to mistreatment, exploitation, neglect, or abuse including injuries of unknown source, and misappropriation of resident property .Investigative and Reporting .the following steps will be taken: Incident report will be completed; Interviews will be conducted- an statements obtained from all staff members, residents, family, volunteers and others that may have witnessed or have knowledge with the respect to the alleged events; All such statements will be in writing and place in the investigatory file related to the alleged incident; The employee file of any accused staff will be reviewed. All findings from such a review will be memorialized in writing and placed in the investigatory file related to the alleged incident; [ .] A written report, which among other things, provides an overview of the incident, pertinent medical data, and a summary of statements take, investigative findings, follow-up actions and a conclusion will be prepared; [ .] based on investigative findings may implement corrective action to prevent further potential abuse that may include, but are not limited to, staffing changes, etc . A review the facility's Social Services Policy and Procedure for Resident Grievances, dated November 2022, included .Grievance Officer responsibilities: ensuring that all written grievances decisions include the date the grievance was received, a summary statement of the resident's grievance, the steps taken to investigate the grievance, a summary of the pertinent findings or conclusions regarding the resident's grievance, a statement as to whether the grievance was confirmed or not confirmed, any corrective action taken or to be taken by the facility as a result of the grievance and the date the written decision was issued .Process .After reviewing the information and facts fathered during the investigation, the employee responsible for answering the grievance will put a report in writing and submit it to the Administrator/Grievance Officer (GO). The report is to include: the date the grievance was received; a summary of the grievance; record of who was interviewed; record of information/facts gathered; any conclusions/recommendations made regarding the grievance; the date the written decision was issued . NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)(5)
CONCERN (D)

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

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. On 4/3/23 at 11:18 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 lying on the bed requesting assistance from the nursing staff. A ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. On 4/3/23 at 11:18 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 lying on the bed requesting assistance from the nursing staff. A review of the admission Record face sheet reflected the resident was re-admitted to the facility in March of 2022 with diagnosis which included hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of the body) and hemiparesis (partial weakness of one side of the body) following cerebral infarction (disrupted blood flow to the brain) affecting right dominant side. A review of the most recent quarterly MDS dated [DATE], had a BIMS score of 9 out of 15, which indicated a moderately impaired cognition. Further review of the MDS indicated the resident was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living (ADLs). A review of the Ordered Summary Report dated 4/18/23, included a physician's order (PO) dated 11/9/22, to apply splint to right hand apply in AM and remove at HS (at bed) everyday and evening shift; worn six to eights hours and perform skin checks after removal. An additional PO dated 2/16/23, to apply pillow under bilateral (left and right) knee to ankle when in bed every shift. A review of the comprehensive care plan did not include the resident's need for right hand splint or pillow under both knees. On 4/12/23 at 10:58 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 lying in bed without a splint applied to the right hand. The resident was covered in a blanket and the surveyor was unable to observe if the pillow was placed under their knees at this time. On 4/13/23 at 1:30 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 lying in bed without a splint applied to the right and without a pillow under both knees. On 4/14/23 at 11:26 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 lying in bed without a splint applied to the right and without a pillow under both knees. On 4/14/23 at 11:26 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 lying in bed without a splint applied to the right and without a pillow under both knees. On 4/17/23 at 10:08 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 lying in bed without a splint applied to the right and without a pillow under both knees. On 4/17/23 at 11:30 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #2 regarding Resident #152 physician's orders. LPN #2 advised that the splint use was up to [him/her] if [he/she] wants it or not. The surveyor inquired if there was supposed to be documentation of the splint being offered and denied. LPN #2 responded, it can be. Upon review of the nursing documentation, LPN #2 stated, it isn't documented, so [cannot] say if it was done. The surveyor also inquired about the physician's orders regarding the pillow for under the knees. LPN #2 reviewed the nursing documentation and reported, I [do not] see any documentation of refusal or offering. When asked who was responsible for ensuring that physician's orders were followed, LPN #2 stated, everyone has the responsibility to review their orders and task sheets. On 4/17/23 at 01:39 PM, the surveyor interviewed CNA #2 if the resident was supposed to be wearing splint. CNA #2 responded, she [does not] always ask to put it on. I always ensure that it is on. The surveyor pointed out that the resident was not currently wearing the splint. CNA #2 asked Resident #152 if he/she would like the brace on and the resident responded, yes. On 4/17/23 at 01:39 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) regarding the expectation of staffing following physician's orders. The ADON responded that everyone was expected to follow the physician's orders as written. When asked regarding residents with range of motion deficits and their splints the ADON stated the nurses were responsible to communicate to the aides and document. When asked if the splint and pillow physician's order were identified on Resident #152's care plan the ADON responded that she had just updated the care plan to include it. A review of the facility's untitled policy dated November 2013, included it was the facility's policy that each resident would have a comprehensive care plan which will include possible intervention, measurable objectives and target time to meet a resident's medical, nursing, physical and psychosocial needs .the interdisciplinary team will review and revise the comprehensive care plan and all interventions thereafter during quarterly, annual and with any significant change care conference to ensure all interventions are appropriate and set up next target date .the unit manager/nursing supervisor or licensed nursing representative during the [interdisciplinary care] meeting will revise and update the care plan as necessary (Examples: incidents, infections, behaviors, new interventions, new medications, wounds . A review of the facility's Fall Prevention Investigating and Management Policy & Procedure dated revised January 2023, included if a resident is determined to be a fall risk, a care plan will be initiated to promote independence and safety. Individualized interventions will be initiated based on the fall risk score of each resident . A review of the facility's untitled policy dated revised January 2023, included it was the facility's policy to maintain optimum function for the residents. Splints and other assistive devices will be utilized to achieve this goal .the licensed nurse will document in the [Treatment Administration Record] regarding usage .the CNA staff can assist with applying the splint/brace. The CNA staff will monitor the splint usage on a daily basis, and they will document said usage in the task tab in [electronic medical record]. CNA staff will report to licensed nurses any issues or concerns with resident's splint/brace or change in status for appropriate evaluations and interventions . NJAC 8:39-27.1(a) NJ Complaint #157789 Based on observations, interviews, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) implement care plan interventions of a silent bed alarm for a resident with a history of falls; and b.) develop and implement a care plan for a resident with limited range of motion which included daily right hand splints and a bilateral knee pillow. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 35 residents (Resident #15 and #152) reviewed for comprehensive care plans and the evidence was as follows: 1. On 4/6/23 at 9:37 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #15 sitting in their wheelchair in their room asleep. The resident was wearing non-skid socks. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #15. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected the resident was admitted to the facility in August of 2020 with diagnoses which included dementia, major depressive disorder, persistent mood disorder, unspecified psychosis not known to a substance or known physiological condition, insomnia, and essential hypertension (high blood pressure). A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), and assessment tool dated 2/16/23, reflected the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 3 out of 15, which indicated a severely impaired cognition. A further review in Section J. Heath Conditions, included the resident had two falls with no injury and one fall with injury (except major) which included skin tears, abrasions, lacerations, and superficial bruises since admission to the facility. A review of the Progress Notes included a Nurses Note dated 10/22/22 at 8:02 AM, that the resident was observed [scooting] on [his/her] buttock in the hallway around 7:10 AM. The resident was assessed with no injury or complaint of pain and was unable to state how he/she got to the floor. The resident's bed was noted on the lowest position, wheelchair was at bedside, and the resident wore non-skid socks. A further review of the Progress Notes included a Nurses Note written by Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN #1) dated 10/22/22 at 8:09 AM, that the resident was received in bed asleep upon my arrival on shift. The resident was redirected several times and assisted back to bed during the shift. Around 7:00 AM, staff noticed the resident on the floor at the entrance of his/her room and the Supervisor was made aware. Upon assessment, no injury was noted or pain. A review of the resident's comprehensive person-centered care plan included a focus area initiated on 8/20/2020, for the resident was at risk for falls with regards to impaired mobility, cognitive impairment/dementia with behaviors, poor safety awareness, history of falls, diagnosis of cataracts (clouding of a normally clear eye lens), pain, use of high-risk medications, depression, anxiety, insomnia, psychosis, incontinence, and hearing loss. Interventions included to silent bed alarm to bed, check placement/function every shift; bed against side of wall; and encourage to use call bell for assistance. A review of the Order Summary Report dated active orders as of 10/31/22, included a physician's order (PO) dated 10/11/22, for silent bed alarm connected to call bell; check placement and function every shift. On 4/11/23 at 9:00 AM, the surveyor requested from the Director of Nursing (DON) all incident and accident investigations for Resident #15. On 4/11/23 at 11:06 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #15 sitting in their wheelchair in the dayroom. The resident was sitting at the table having a snack repeating the word please, and was unable to be interviewed. On 4/11/23 at 11:47 AM, the surveyor received the requested investigations from the DON and the surveyor reviewed the unwitnessed incident report dated 10/22/22. The report included the resident was observed scooting on their buttocks in the hallway outside his/her room and was unable to give description; the resident was confused. The bed was noted in the lowest position, wheelchair was noted beside his/her bed, and he/she wore nonskid socks. Witness statements included from LPN #1 that the resident was received in bed and redirected several times back to bed. Around 7:00 AM, he/she was noticed on the floor by the entrance of their room and the Supervisor was made aware. An additional witness statement from Certified Nursing Aide (CNA #1) included I was about to walk down the hallway when I noticed Resident #15's feet out of the doorway on the floor; notified nurse and the resident's wheelchair was next to bed. Prior to the fall, CNA #1 indicated the resident was in bed asleep. The fall conclusion indicated probable causes of the fall unknown, fall interventions in place prior to fall were call light within reach, proper footwear, and bed against wall. Staff were at the Nurse's Station when they observed resident in the hallway scooting on their buttocks. Resident's bed was observed in lowest position, non-skid socks were on their feet, and wheelchair was noted next to bed. The investigation did not include the intervention of silent bed alarm. On 4/12/23 at 9:50 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON regarding the facility's investigation process. The DON stated that for a fall, staff interviewed and collected statements from any witnesses or staff that cared for the resident. The team reviewed all statements, any video surveillance footage, reviewed interventions put in place at the time to determine the cause of the incident and if new interventions should be implemented. The care plan was reviewed and updated as necessary. On 4/17/23 at 10:50 AM, the surveyor interviewed CNA #1 who stated that Resident #15 had behaviors of screaming and yelling, and they were non-compliant with asking for assistance from staff. CNA #1 stated on the day of the incident on 10/22/22, she was standing at the Nurse's Station, and she recalled hearing the resident's screams which sounded closer. She continued that she observed the resident scooting themselves down the hallway on their buttock. CNA #1 stated the resident had a silent bed alarm currently, but did not recall if at the time the resident had the silent bed alarm. CNA #1 continued that the silent bed alarm rang only at the Nurse's Station and the resident's light outside their door turned on when triggered. CNA #1 stated she did not recall hearing a bed alarm ring; she only heard the resident's screams. On 4/17/23 at 11:50 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #1 who stated the resident did not sleep at night and spent most of the night self-propelling in their wheelchair down the hallway screaming. LPN #1 continued that the resident had medication to manage their behaviors, but he/she refused their medication at night. LPN #1 continued that the resident had a history of falling because he/she tried to get out of bed without assistance. She continued that the resident had a silent bed alarm that she had to check the placement and function during her shift that rang at the Nurse's Station, but she could not recall when the alarm was ordered. LPN #1 stated she recalled on 10/22/22, seeing the resident's legs or feet in the hallway as the resident dragged themselves out of the room. The surveyor asked if the resident had a silent bed alarm at this time, and LPN #1 stated she did not recall hearing an alarm, and staff would have run into the room and she would not have been able to drag [him/herself] on [his/her] buttocks into the hallway; staff would have made it to her room by then. On 4/17/23 at 12:36 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manager/LPN (UM/LPN) who stated Resident #15 was a high risk for falls. The UM/LPN continued that the resident's had a silent bed alarm that rang at the Nurse's Station if the resident got out of bed without assistance. The UM/LPN stated the resident's had the silent bed alarm she thought since October 2022, and the nurses checked for placement and function every shift. The UM/LPN stated she was not in the facility at the time the resident's fall on 10/22/22, so she was unable to speak to it. On 4/17/23 at 12:46 PM, the surveyor accompanied by the UM/LPN went into Resident #15's room, and the UM/LPN checked the function of the resident's silent bed alarm. The surveyor observed the light outside the resident's room illuminate and observed the call system activate at the Nurse's Station and the alarm sound. On 4/19/23 at 10:46 AM, the DON in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and survey team acknowledged that the resident had a silent bed alarm at the time of the fall, but she could not speak to if the alarm was activated that morning.
CONCERN (D)

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

ADL Care (Tag F0677)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that residents who required extensive assistance from staff with activities of daily living (ADL) were provided care consistent with their needs and preferences. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 4 residents (Resident #223 and Resident #285) reviewed for activities of daily living, and was evidenced by the following: 1. On 4/4/23 at 10:10 AM, during the initial tour of the facility, the surveyor observed Resident #223 lying in bed awake. The resident stated that they had left sided weakness related to a cerebrovascular accident (CVA; a loss of blood flow to part of the brain, which damages brain tissue). Resident #223 held up his/her left hand and demonstrated an impaired ability to fully open and close their left hand. The surveyor observed that the resident's fingernails were long. The resident stated the staff did not offer to cut or trim his/her fingernails and the resident had tried to trim them by himself/herself. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #223. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility in June of 2022 with diagnoses which included transient ischemic attack [TIA or mini stroke], cerebral infarction [stroke] without residual deficits; acquired absence of left leg below knee [amputation]; and unspecified dementia. A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool dated 4/5/23, indicated the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 3 out of 15; which a severely impaired cognition. Further review of the MDS revealed that the resident required extensive assistance of one-person for personal hygiene. A review of the comprehensive care plan included a focus area for impaired functional status related to decline in mobility/generalized weakness status post recent hospitalization status post left below knee amputation. The resident's care plan did not include personal hygiene or nail care. A review of Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) ADL tracker, a communication tool used by CNAs with specific resident care needs and preferences, reflected the CNA's documentation from 4/1/23 to 4/18/23 reflected the resident only refused personal hygiene care on 4/14/23. The CNA ADL tracker did not include nail care. On 4/11/23 at 10:29 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #223 lying in bed awake watching television. The resident's teeth were observed with a buildup of a white-colored substance. Resident #223 stated that he/she had not had a toothbrush since being moved to the unit, and it bothered him/her to not have teeth brush. The resident's fingernails remained long and were not trimmed. The resident stated his/her left hand was weak, but he/she was going to peel his/her nails off. The resident stated that morning care was completed already. On 4/12/23 at 11:45 AM, the surveyor observed the resident and the resident's fingernails remained long and had not been trimmed. The resident stated his/her teeth had not been brushed. On 4/13/23 at 11:41 AM, the surveyor observed that the resident's fingernails had not been trimmed. The resident stated his/her teeth had not been brushed. On 4/13/23 at 11:46 AM, the surveyor interviewed CNA #1 who stated Resident #223 required complete care. CNA #1 stated that the care she provided to the resident included a complete bed bath, brief change, and linen change. The surveyor asked about the resident's mouth care and CNA #1 replied that the resident refused mouth care. The surveyor asked CNA #1 to show the surveyor where the resident's toothbrush was kept. CNA #1 responded, they may have thrown it away. She then proceeded to open the drawer and noted the toothbrush was not in the resident's basin. CNA #1 then found an opened multiple package container that contained one toothbrush and stated she did not see it that morning. The surveyor asked CNA #1 if she noted the length of the resident nails, to which CNA #1 replied, No, I did not. CNA #1 stated she would have reported it to the nurse and received permission to clip them if she did. On 4/13/23 at 11:55 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN #1) who was assigned to Resident #223. He stated that the resident was totally dependent for ADLs. The surveyor accompanied the LPN to observe the resident's fingernails. The LPN stated that the resident's nails were uneven, the fingernails were longer on the right side than on the left. The LPN agreed that the residents' nails needed to be trimmed. The LPN stated he did not observe the resident's need for oral care or nail care when medications were administered. On 4/13/23 at 12:10 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manager/LPN (UM/LPN) who stated that oral care should be done twice daily and nail care should have been assessed daily to see if the fingernails needed to be trimmed. The UM/LPN stated that at approximately 10:00 AM, she directed an extra nurse on the unit to assist with nail care. The UM/LPN stated she noticed that the fingernails of Resident #223 were a little long that morning, and she did not believe that CNAs documented nail care. The UM/LPN acknowledged it was concern and that she would have an aide complete the resident's nail and oral care. On 4/13/23 at 12:44 PM, surveyor interviewed LPN #2 who stated that she was asked to trim the fingernails of Resident #223 and she had cut them. LPN #2 stated the nails on the resident's right hand were longer than the left because the resident stated that he/she bit their fingernails, and that some of the resident's fingernails looked like the resident had ripped them off. LPN #2 also stated that the resident was eating their meal and did not want mouth care at that time. On 4/17/23 at 1:06 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated that staff assisted with resident ADLs based on care needs. The DON stated that both nail and mouth care should be offered daily as CNAs were taught this and know what was expected as a caregiver. On 4/19/23 at 9:48 AM, the surveyor asked the DON what the process was when a resident refused care. The DON stated that when a resident refused, the CNA should tell the nurse and the nurse should document the refusal. 2. On 4/5/23 at 10:50 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #285 in his/her room awake in bed. The surveyor asked Resident #285 about the care he/she received with their ADLs. Resident #285 stated that they were offered showers, but preferred bed baths so staff assisted him/her with bed baths. Resident #285 stated that he/she wanted their fingernails cleaned, but staff never offered or provided nail care. The resident stated, I don't know how they got so dirty. On 4/11/23 at 10:25 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #285 in bed. The surveyor observed the resident's fingernails were long, jagged, and soiled with black substance caked under all ten fingernails. The resident stated they were never given nail care. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #285. A review of the admission Record face sheet reflected the resident was admitted to the facility in March 2023 with diagnoses which included left closed hip fracture, diabetes mellitus, muscle wasting, sepsis and difficulty walking. A review of the admission MDS dated [DATE], reflected the resident had a BIMS score of 10 out of 15, which indicated moderately impaired cognition. A further review in Section G Functional Status reflected that the resident required one-person extensive physical assistance for personal hygiene. A review of the comprehensive care plan initiated on 3/13/23, included that the resident had impaired functional status with regards to a decline in mobility and generalized weakness due to left hip fracture post fall. Interventions included to assist with ambulation and bed mobility, and to encourage participation in ADLs as tolerated to increase independence. The comprehensive care plan did not include nail care or hygiene. A review of the resident's electronic CNA ADL tracker reflected the CNAs documented they provided a bath/shower or sponge bath for Resident #285 daily from 4/2/23 to 4/10/23. The document revealed that the resident refused their bath/shower/sponge bath one time on 4/3/23, during that time period. The ADL tracker did not include nail care. On 4/11/23 at 11:25 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manager/Registered Nurse (UM/RN) who stated that CNAs and nurses provide nail care to residents when needed. The UM/RN further stated the CNAs should check the residents' fingernails daily. The surveyor asked the UM/RN to observe Resident #285's fingernails and the UM/RN acknowledged that the resident's fingernails were long and soiled with black material caked under all ten nails. On 4/11/23 at 11:35 AM, the surveyor interviewed the CNA #2, the resident's aide, who stated that she had never assisted Resident #285 with their nail care because she had not noticed before this time how dirty his/her fingernails were. CNA #2 stated that Resident #285 usually refused their shower, but she never informed the UM/RN or any nurse when the resident refused his/her shower. At that time, the UM/RN asked Resident #285 if she could soak, clean, and clip their nails. Resident #285 replied, as long as you don't clip me, you can clean them but don't cut them too short. The surveyor observed the UM/RN cleaned the resident's nails with the resident's permission. On 4/11/23 at 12:05 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated it was the CNA's responsibility for providing nail care and all other ADL care and that if the resident refused any care, the CNA was responsible for informing the nurse and the nurse documented the refusal in their nursing progress note. On 4/12/23 at 12:25 PM, the surveyor interviewed Resident #285, who showed the surveyor his/her fingernails and stated that the nurse had cleaned and trimmed them. The resident smiled and stated, my nails are much better. On 4/18/23 at 1:32 PM, the surveyor informed the LNHA and DON the above observations and concerns. A review of the facility's Nursing Assistant Skills Review Checklist dated March 2023 included ADLs Care of Resident . nail care (no toenail clipping only clipping of fingernails.) .mouth Care . A review of the facility's Residents Hygiene policy dated revised October 2022 included residents will be offered shower/bath at least twice weekly . upon refusal of shower/bath from the resident, CNA will notify the nurse . NJ 8:39-27.1(a)
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0692 (Tag F0692)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure resident's weights obtained were accurate after significant weight cha...

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Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure resident's weights obtained were accurate after significant weight changes. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 4 residents (Resident #47) reviewed for nutrition and the evidence was as follows: On 4/3/23 at 11:20 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #47 sitting in wheelchair in the unit's dayroom. Resident #47 was petite and dressed in well-fitted clothes. On 4/6/23 9:45 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #47 sitting at table in dayroom eating their breakfast independently. The resident consumed approximately 75% of their meal. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #47. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses that included cerebral infarction, vascular dementia, type 2 diabetes, and hypothyroidism. A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool dated 2/26/23, reflected that the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 3 out of 15; which indicated a severely impaired cognition. A further review of the MDS assessment reflected the resident had no significant weight loss or gain in the past one, three, or six months. A review of the resident's weights were as followed: 9/9/2022 99.6 pounds (lb.) 10/10/2022 99.1 lb. 11/14/2022 116.0 lb. 12/15/2022 86.5 lb. 1/17/2023 85.3 lb. 2/9/2023 84.1 lb. 3/21/2023 108.2 lb. This reflected a 24.1 lb. or a 22.27% significant weight loss in one month; a 21.7 lb. or 20% significant weight loss in three months; a 8.6 lb. or 7.95% significant weight loss in six months; and a 24.1 lb. or a 28.66% significant weight gain in one month. A review of the Quarterly Nutritional Assessment by the Director of Clinical Nutrition Services (DCNS) dated 2/24/23, the DCNS indicated that the resident's appetite and intake were good and physically the resident had appeared to maintain the same weight. The DCNS also documented Question accuracy of August and November weights and that the resident was Currently on weekly weights. A review of the comprehensive care plan included a focus area dated 8/8/22 and last revised 4/7/23, that the resident was at risk for alteration in nutrition related to therapeutic diet, diagnoses of vascular dementia, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular accident, dysphagia, hyperlipidemia. Intervention included to monitor weekly weights times four weeks, then continue monthly; and weekly as needed weights. On 4/6/23 at 12:07 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) about obtaining residents' weights. The LPN stated the Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) received a report in the morning who needed to be weighed, and the CNA weighed that resident, and the weights were faxed or emailed to DCNS who reviewed the weights and entered the weights in the electronic Medical Record (EMR). The LPN stated if there were significant weight changes, the DCNS asked the staff to re-weigh the resident. On 4/17/23 at 11:39 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DCNS who was resident's Registered Dietitian. The DCNS stated if there was a significant weight change of plus or minus five pounds, the resident would be re-weighed immediately to confirm the weight obtained. Weights were entered in the EMR and the Meal Tracker (a nutrition management software). The surveyor reviewed the resident's weights with the DCNS, and questioned the varying weights documented in the resident's medical record. The DCNS stated the weight of 116 lb. in November 2022 and 108.2 lb. in March 2023 were likely errors. The DCNS stated re-weighs would be done immediately, and if the results were the same, her clinical judgement of the resident's status, including eating habits and their physical appearance were considered, to determine if it was an error. The DCNS stated weekly weights were done for an identified weight loss, and she documented in her notes. The surveyor then asked the DCNS about the response to the identified weight errors, and she stated it was a scale versus human error. It would be reported to Maintenance to check for any issues with the scale. There were monthly weight meetings held with unit managers, nursing management, and interdisciplinary staff to discuss significant weight changes. The DCNS was asked about the errors in weights that have occurred and replied that she believed the weight errors had improved. The surveyor asked about the weekly weights for Resident #47. The DCNS stated weekly weights were entered in the Meal Tracker and would not be found in the resident's EMR. The DCNS provided a print-out copy for the surveyor of all the resident's weights recorded. The surveyor reviewed the Meal Tracker provided by the DCNS, which revealed the following additional weights were obtained: 12/22/22 94.0 lb. 12/28/22 85.0 lb. 2/21/23 96.7 lb. 3/20/23 108.2 lb. There was no evidence that re-weights were completed for a five-pound weight loss or gain. It was documented that on 3/20/23 and 3/21/23 the weights were both 108.2 lb. which contradicted DCNS's statement that the weight of 108.2 lb. in March of 2023 was not accurate. There was no documentation that the resident's weights were obtained weekly. A further review of the EMR revealed a weight of 114 lb. obtained on 4/17/23. On 4/18/23 at 10:11 AM, the surveyor informed the Director of Nursing (DON) about the concerns of the varying weights for Resident #47 and their discussion with the DCNS. The DON stated staff were trained on the use of scales and the process to obtain weights. The DON stated for a significant weight change, the resident should be re-weighed, and if there was a concern about the scale's accuracy, Maintenance should be notified to check the scale. The surveyor asked the DON if she was made aware by the DCNS or other staff about the concern of inaccurate weight results due to scale or human error. The DON stated No. The surveyor asked the DON if it was expected for weights in the EMR to be accurate and the DON replied yes. On 4/19/23 at 9:47 AM, the surveyor informed the DON and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) about the concerns with the varying weights recorded for Resident #47. The DON stated she discussed the concern with the DCNS, and Maintenance checked the scale yesterday and the calibration was fine. The DON acknowledged she reviewed the weights of Resident #47 and there were concerns with the varying weights. On 4/19/23 at 10:14 AM, the surveyor observed the Unit Manager/LPN (UM/LPN) weigh Resident #47 while seated in a wheelchair using a wheelchair scale. The resident's weight obtained was 99.5 lb. minus the weight of the wheelchair. The UM/LPN stated the resident weighed 98 lb. yesterday (4/18/23), which was documented in the EMR. The surveyor asked the UM/LPN about the varying weights, since it was documented in the EMR that the resident weighed 114 lb. on 4/17/23. The UM/LPN could not speak to this and stated that Maintenance came to calibrate scales and if any issues with weights, the Registered Dietitian was notified. The UM/LPN further stated the CNAs were trained to use the scales to weigh residents and were familiar with the process. The UM/LPN stated Resident #47 ate well, consumed his/her Glucerna (supplement drink), and there were no concerns with the resident's nutrition. On 4/19/23 at 11:00 AM, the surveyor informed the DON and LNHA of the weight observation. The surveyor asked the DON regarding the most recent weights: today's weight of 99.5 lb., yesterday's weight of 98 lb., and the weight on 4/17/23 of 114 lb. The DON stated that Maintenance checked the scale, and it was calibrated. The DON stated the CNAs were provided education on weighing residents, but would look into re-educating staff. The DON acknowledged it was concerning about the weight discrepancies. A review of the facility's undated Weight Policy included .Purpose to ensure resident's weight is monitored regularly/accurately. Any significant weight changes/potential nutritional risks are identified and managed appropriately .reweigh will be obtained upon dietician's request. Reweigh is required if the resident has weight change of plus or minus 5% (if over 100 lbs.) or plus or minus 3% (if 100 lbs. or less). Dietitian will follow up with any weight discrepancy [As soon as possible] .Dietician will review all weights and request reweighs, as needed . Dietitian will assess weights for any significant changes . Weight committee will meet on monthly basis to discuss any significant weight concerns . NJAC 8:39-27.2(a)
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0761 (Tag F0761)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to properly label and date medication in accordance with manufacturer recommenda...

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Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to properly label and date medication in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. This deficient practice was observed in 1 of 3 medication storage rooms (1 West) inspected and was evidenced by the following: On 4/17/23 at 12:07 PM, the surveyor in the presence of the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) inspected the 1 [NAME] medication room refrigerator. The surveyor observed an opened and undated bottle of lorazepam 2 milligrams per 1 milliliter (mg/ml) concentrated oral solution in active inventory. The prescription label as well as the product label instructed Discard opened bottle after 90 days. The LPN acknowledged that neither the medication bottle nor the medication box had been dated when opened or when to discard and should have been. On 4/17/23 at 12:24 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manager/LPN (UM/LPN) for the 1 [NAME] nursing unit. The surveyor and the UM/LPN reviewed the lorazepam in the 1 [NAME] medication room refrigerator, and the UM/LPN acknowledged there was no date on the lorazepam bottle as to when the bottle was opened or when the bottle should be discarded. The UM/LPN also acknowledged the manufacturer label which indicated short dating, and to discard the opened medication bottle 90-days after being opened. The UM/LPN confirmed that if the medication bottle was not dated, then the expiration date cannot be calculated properly. On 4/17/23 at 1:18 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) and together they reviewed the findings of the inspection of the 1 [NAME] medication storage room. The DON stated the lorazepam concentrated oral solution should have been dated when it was opened. The DON acknowledged the short dating for lorazepam concentrated oral solution, that opened bottles must be discarded after 90 days. A review of the facility's Medication Storage Policy dated revised March 2023 included multidose vials will be dated when opened and discarded as per guidelines . NJAC 8:39-29.4(h)
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

Report Alleged Abuse (Tag F0609)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. On 4/3/23 at 11:18 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 laying on the bed requesting assistance from the nursing staff. Th...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. On 4/3/23 at 11:18 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #152 laying on the bed requesting assistance from the nursing staff. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #152. A review of the admission Record face sheet reflected the resident was re-admitted to the facility in March of 2022 with diagnosis which included hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of the body) and hemiparesis (partial weakness of one side of the body) following cerebral infarction (disrupted blood flow to the brain) affecting right dominant side. A review of the most recent quarterly MDS dated [DATE], had a BIMS score of 9 out of 15, which indicated a moderately impaired cognition. Further review of the MDS indicated the resident was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living (ADLs). On 4/12/23 at 10:20 AM, the surveyor was informed by Resident#152 of a situation involving a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA #1). With Resident #152's permission, this conversation was held in the presence of their roommate (Resident #113). Resident #152 advised that CNA #1 grabbed my arm [ .] shook me [ .] I was crying. Resident #152 further stated that CNA #1 pulled on my arm [to cover me up] because I had a rash from dialysis. I told her I got a rash and she said you don't have [breasts] hanging out like that. Resident #113 confirmed the entire event and stated that Resident #152 was crying after the event. When asked if CNA #1 had been assigned to Resident #152 or Resident #113, they both confirmed that they have not seen CNA #1 since that time. On 4/13/23 at 2:15 PM, the surveyor reviewed the facility's Grievance Form dated 1/30/23, which included it was reported that the Social Worker (SW) met with Resident #152 on 2/1/23. Resident #152 reported that on 1/30/23, the resident's CNA #1 attended to the resident for care. Resident #152 stated that CNA #1 started pulling on my arm [ .] I told her that you don't have to touch me [ .] she kept pulling on my arm [ .] I was crying and so shocked. Under the section identified as Actions Taken, the following was handwritten, Allegation is unfounded. A review of CNA #1's written statement dated 1/30/23, revealed that CNA #1 entered the room and asked Resident #152 if he/she could fix the resident's gown to protect [his/her] dignity. CNA #1 reported that he/she would never grab someone's arm. I always ask the residents first before I help them. On 4/14/23 at 1:02 PM, the surveyor reviewed Resident #152's grievance with the DON. The surveyor asked the DON if the incident was reported to the NJDOH, and the DON responded that based on their investigation, this did not rise to the level of reporting. The surveyor inquired that if their investigation took two days to complete, was that longer than the two hour reporting requirement? The DON responded, of course. NJ Complaint #157789 Based on observations, interviews, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to report to the New Jersey State Department of Health (NJDOH) a.) an injury of unknown origin for an incident on 10/8/22; b.) an allegation of staff to resident abuse for an incident on 1/30/23; and c.) and allegation of staff to resident mistreatment on 9/24/22. This deficient practice was identified for 3 of 3 residents (Resident #15, #152, and #440) reviewed for abuse, and the evidence was as follows: 1. On 4/6/23 at 9:37 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #15 sitting in their wheelchair in their room asleep. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #15. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected the resident was admitted to the facility in August of 2020 with diagnoses which included dementia, major depressive disorder, persistent mood disorder, unspecified psychosis not known to a substance or known physiological condition, insomnia, and essential hypertension (high blood pressure). A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), and assessment tool dated 2/16/23, reflected the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 3 out of 15, which indicated a severely impaired cognition. A review of the Progress Notes included a Nurses Note dated 10/8/22 at 3:25 PM, that during morning medication administration, the resident was noted with discoloration around [his/her] right eye. The resident was unable to explain the discoloration. On 4/11/23 at 9:00 AM, the surveyor requested from the Director of Nursing (DON) all incident and accident investigations for Resident #15. On 4/11/23 at 11:06 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #15 sitting in their wheelchair in the dayroom. The resident was sitting at the table having a snack repeating the word please, and was unable to be interviewed. On 4/11/23 at 11:47 AM, the surveyor received the requested investigations from the DON. A review of an incident report dated 10/8/22 at 3:06 PM, included during medication administration, the resident was observed with discoloration right lower corner of right eye. (Nurse Note indicated discoloration around the eye) Resident was unable to explain the discoloration was noted on the side of the right eye and slightly under the eye. The resident was unable to explain what happened. The resident's mental status was confused. Staff was interviewed and surveillance video was watched. On 4/12/23 at 9:50 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON regarding the facility's process for investigations who stated the facility investigates falls, skin tears, bruises, any event out of the normal for the resident, resident to resident abuse, any allegations of abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, misappropriation of funds, injuries of unknown origin. The DON continued that the facility reported to the NJDOH any allegations of abuse, neglect, misappropriation of funds. During a follow-up interview on 4/13/23 at 9:14 AM, the DON confirmed the facility had two hours to report to the NJDOH anything that involved abuse including allegations, and twenty-four hours to report anything non-abuse related. On 4/14/23 at 9:08 AM, the surveyor asked the DON if she reported the injury of unknown origin for Resident #15 to the NJDOH, and the DON responded no because after an extensive investigation and went through hours of video surveillance, it was determined that the incident was not caused from abuse so it did not have to be reported. The surveyor asked if the facility had to report the injury of unknown origin prior to the conclusion of the investigation, and the DON responded no because she immediately investigated the situation spending hours reviewing surveillance videos. The surveyor asked if discoloration of the eye was considered a suspicious area, and the DON responded not in this case because I completed a full investigation. The surveyor continued to review the medical record. A review of the Progress Notes revealed a Physician's Progress Note dated 10/10/22 at 11:44 PM, which included the resident was being seen for a black eye (right side) and right hand bruising. Resident was unable to provide information regarding injury to right eye or hand; no witnessed falls or injuries noted by staff. On 4/14/23 at 1:03 PM, the DON informed the surveyor that based on the total eye was not black she did not suspect abuse. The DON confirmed when the discoloration of the eye was reported, it was unwitnessed. On 4/19/23 at 10:46 AM, the DON in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and survey team confirmed this incident was noted reported to the NJDOH. 3. The surveyor reviewed the closed medical record for Resident #440. A review of the admission Record face sheet reflected the resident was admitted to the facility in August of 2015, and had diagnoses which included transient cerebral ischemic Attack (TIA, a temporary period of symptoms similar to a stroke). A review of the admission MDS dated [DATE], indicated the resident had a BIMS score of 15 out of 15, which indicated that the resident's cognition was intact. A review of the facility's Grievance Form dated 9/24/22, revealed that the SW met with Resident #440 on 9/26/22. Resident #440 reported that on 9/24/22, the resident's [CNA #2] attended to the resident for care. The resident was thirsty and had called for CNA #2 again at 1:00 PM and 2:00 AM. CNA #2 stated to the resident, why do you have your [profanity] lights on again, I am changing other people, you have been changed. Resident #440 reported that CNA #2 should not have spoken that way to the resident. Further review of the Grievance Form dated and signed by the DON on 9/26/22, revealed that an investigation was initiated, and the DON interviewed Resident #440. Resident #440 confirmed that CNA #2 used profanity when speaking to the resident. CNA #2 was held off work and CNA #2 denied using profanity toward the resident. A review of CNA #2's written statement dated 9/24/22, revealed that CNA #2 changed Resident #440 at 2:30 AM, and two hours later the resident had their light on to be changed. CNA #2 explained to the resident that she just changed the resident and had begun changing other residents and would be back soon. Resident #440 demanded to be change now and was told by CNA #2 that when she was finished with the other resident, she would be back. Further review of CNA #2's statement revealed that CNA #2 was frustrated at the time, but denied threatening or using profanity toward the resident. On 4/14/23 at 12:55 PM, the surveyor reviewed Resident #440's grievance with the DON. The DON stated that CNA #2 used an inappropriate comment, and that CNA #2 was not using profanity directly to the resident. The surveyor re-read the DON's written interview to the DON. The surveyor asked the DON if the incident was reported to the NJDOH. The DON stated that based on their (the facility's) assessment, it was not a reportable event. A review of the facility's Abuse and Neglect Policy and Procedure dated November 2022, included the purpose was to ensure prevention, protection, prompt reporting and intervention in response to alleged, suspected or witnessed abuse, neglect, mistreatment, misappropriation of property, or exploitation of any facility resident .Investigative and Reporting Procedure .The Department of Health and Senior Services, and the Office of the Ombudsman if the resident is over 60, will be notified immediately (as soon as possible but not to exceed two hours) of the incident, followed by a written report within five days of the incident and if the alleged violation is verified, the facility shall take all appropriate action . NJAC 8:39-9.4(e)
CONCERN (E)

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

Tube Feeding (Tag F0693)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensur...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure the appropriate management of enteral feeding formula and piston syringes. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 3 residents (Resident #77 and #88) reviewed for tubing feeding, and was evidenced by the following: 1. On 4/3/23 at 10:50 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #88 in bed asleep with an enteral feeding tube pump (FT; a tube surgically inserted to the stomach to provide food and nutrients) administering Jevity 1.5 (nutritional formula) at a rate of 85 milliliters (mL) per hour. The surveyor observed the 1000 mL bottle of Jevity 1.5 had approximately 300 mL of formula remaining, and the label was not filled out with the resident's name, date, or rate of infusion (mL per hour). The surveyor also observed a piston syringe irrigation kit (used to flush the FT) dated 3/31/23. There was also no name labeled on the bag that contained the irrigation piston syringe kit. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #88. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected the resident was re-admitted to the facility in December 2022 and had diagnoses which included Alzheimer Disease (a disease that affects memory), unspecified protein calorie malnutrition, and gastrostomy tube (FT). . A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool dated 1/27/23, reflected that the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of 6 out of 15; which indicated a severely impaired cognition. A further review of Section K for Nutritional Status reflected that the resident received 51% or more of their nutrition through an enteral feeding tube and resident also received mechanically altered diet. A review of the Physician Order Summary Report dated as of 4/6/23, included the following physician's orders (PO): A PO dated 12/30/22, to provide 200 mL of water flushes every four hours via FT. A PO dated 1/4/23, for Jevity 1.5 administered 85 mL per hour for a total volume of 1000 mL. A PO dated 1/4/23, to change feeding every twenty-four hours. A PO dated 1/4/23, to change FT equipment (piston syringe irrigation kit) every twenty-four hours. A review of the corresponding April 2023 Enteral Administration Record (EAR) reflected that the nurses had signed the administration of the Jevity 1.5 daily. Further review revealed the nurses had signed that the equipment for the enteral feeding was hung every twenty-four hours since 4/1/23. A review of the comprehensive care plan dated 4/20/22, included a focus area that the resident received enteral feedings to meet nutrition and hydration needs. The goal of the care plan reflected that the resident would benefit enteral feeding without complications. The interventions included to administer feeding as ordered and to administer flushes as ordered. On 4/3/23 at 11:10 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manager/Registered Nurse UM/RN who stated that the nurses were responsible for the care of the resident's FT. On 4/3/23 at 11:50 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Resident #88's room, who acknowledged that the bottle of Jevity 1.5 was not dated, and she was not sure how much feeding the resident should have received. She stated that the 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM shift nurse hung a new bottle, and the bottle should be filled out. On 4/3/23 at 11:55 AM, the surveyor interviewed the UM/RN who stated that piston syringe irrigation kits were changed every shift, and the FT stopped at the total volume the pumps was set to. She stated that the Jevity 1.5 bottle should be filled out, so the nurses knew the time and date the bottle was hung because the formula was not good after twenty-four hours of being opened. The UM/RN also acknowledged that the irrigation set dated 3/31/23 for the resident was not acceptable. She further stated that during rounds, she noticed that the irrigation set for Resident #88 was dated 3/31/23, and discarded the irrigation set. On 4/10/23 at 12:13 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Staff Educator/LPN who stated all nursing staff were educated on FT. She stated that the piston syringe irrigation kits were changed at night, and should be labeled and dated with the resident's name, date, and room number. The Staff Educator/LPN stated that the formula bottles were expected to be labeled with the resident's name, date, the rate of infusion, and the time the bottle was hung. The Staff Educator/LPN stated that was the nurse's responsibility to make sure they were labeled and dated, and if they were not labeled, the nurse had to replace the formula and obtain a new irrigation set. The Staff Educator/LPN confirmed if the bottle was not labeled, the nurse would not know how long the bottle was up which would be an infection control issue and would not want the resident to get sick. On 4/17/23 at 9:41 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) who stated the formula bottles and the pistol syringe irrigation kits needed to be labeled and filled out because that was the facility's policy. The DON acknowledged that the formula should have been labeled and dated, and the piston syringe irrigation kits be changed daily. 2. On 4/3/23 at 11:25 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #77 in bed awake and alert, but non-responsive to surveyor questions. The surveyor observed on the resident's dresser a piston syringe irrigation kit dated 3/31/23. The resident had a FT that was not being administered and there was no formula hanging. The surveyor reviewed the medical records for Resident #77. A review of the admission Record face sheet reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility in September of 2022 with diagnoses which included cerebrovascular infarction (disrupted blood flow to the brain), aphasia (a language disorder caused by damage in specific area of the brain), and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). A review of the most recent quarterly MDS dated [DATE], reflected that the resident had a BIMS score of 0 out of 15; which indicated a severely impaired cognition. A further review in Section K Nutritional Status reflected that the resident received 51% or more of their nutrition through FT, and the resident also received a mechanically altered diet. A review of the April 2023 Physician Order Summary Report included a PO dated 12/16/22, for an enteral feeding order for water flushes of 200 mL every four hours. Further reviewed reflected a PO dated 9/1/23, for enteral feeding to change equipment (piston syringe irrigation kit) every twenty-four hours. A review of the corresponding April 2023 EAR reflected that the nurses were signing that the equipment was being changed daily at 2:00 PM. A review of the comprehensive care plan dated 9/1/22, included a focus area that the resident required an enteral feeding to meet nutritional and hydration needs. The goal was to benefit from the enteral feeding without complications. The interventions included to administer feeding as ordered and to administer flushes as ordered. On 4/3/23 at 11:10 AM, the surveyor interviewed the UM/RN who stated that the nurses were responsible for the care of the FT. On 4/3/23 at 11:50 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN who acknowledged that piston syringe irrigation kits were changed every shift and stated that she did not use the piston syringe irrigation kit that was dated 3/31/23. The LPN stated she did not leave the piston syringe irrigation that she used for Resident #77 in the room that day. She confirmed that the kit dated 3/31/23 should not have been available at the bed side. On 4/3/23 at 11:55 AM, the surveyor interviewed the UM/RN who stated that piston irrigation kits changed every shift. The UM/RN stated the piston syringe irrigation kits dated 3/31/23 for the resident was not acceptable. On 4/10/23 at 12:13 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Staff Educator/LPN who stated that all nursing staff were educated for FT. She stated that the piston syringe irrigation kits were changed at night, and they should be labeled and dated with the resident's name, the date, and the room number. The Staff Educator/LPN stated that she expected that they would be labeled, and it was the nurse's responsibility to make sure they were labeled and dated. The Staff Educator/LPN continued if they were not labeled, the nurse replaced the bottle and got a new piston syringe irrigation kit because it was an infection control issue and would not want the resident to get sick. On 4/17/23 at 9:41 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated the piston syringe irrigation kits needed to be labeled and filled out because that was the facility's policy. The DON acknowledged that the piston irrigation kit dated 3/31/23 should not have been used or in the resident's room on 4/3/23. A review of the facility's Gastric Tube Feeding Management policy and procedure dated revised 1/26/23 included, feeding sets are to be labeled and dated and are replaced every 24 hours . A review of the facility's Gastric Tube Feeding Management policy and procedure include .The nurse shall label the feeding container with the date and time the feeding was started . NJAC 8:39-27.1(a)
CONCERN (E)

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

Pharmacy Services (Tag F0755)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined the facility failed to a.) ensure an accurate ordering and receiving of narcotic medications on the requi...

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Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined the facility failed to a.) ensure an accurate ordering and receiving of narcotic medications on the required Federal narcotic acquisition forms (DEA 222 forms) were completed with sufficient detail to enable accurate reconciliation for 6 of 6 forms provided; and b.) to accurately document the administration of controlled medication for 2 sampled residents (Resident #19 and Resident #216) identified upon inspection of 1 of 6 medication carts (1 [NAME] right hall cart). The evidence was as follows: 1. On 4/17/23 at 1:37 PM, the surveyor reviewed the facility provided DEA 222 forms which revealed on six of the six provided forms Part 5, had not been completed upon receipt of the medications from the Provider Pharmacy as instructed on the reverse of the ordering form. The forms were as follows: Order form number: 221704808; 221704809; 221704810; 221704811; 221704812; and 221704816. On 4/17/23 at 2:13 PM, the surveyor and Director of Nursing (DON) reviewed the provided DEA 222 forms. The DON acknowledged she should have completed the Part 5 as instructed on the reverse of the DEA 222 form as required. A review of the Instructions for DEA Form 222, under Part 5. Controlled Substance Receipt, 1. The purchaser fills out this section on its copy of the original order form. 2. Enter the number of packages received and date received for each line item . 2. On 4/17/23 at 11:40 AM, the surveyor in the presence of the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) inspected the 1 [NAME] right hall medication cart. The surveyor and the LPN reviewed the narcotic medication located in a secured and locked narcotic box. When the narcotic inventory was compared to the corresponding declining inventory sheet, the surveyor identified the following concerns. Resident #19's oxycodone immediate release (IR) 5 milligram (mg) tablet, a medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain, did not match the physical inventory. The blister pack contained 24 tablets and the declining inventory sheet indicated there should be 25 tablets remaining. Resident #216's lorazepam 0.5 mg tablets also did not match. The blister pack contained 27 tablets and the declining inventory sheet indicated there should be 28 tablets remaining. At this time, the surveyor interviewed the LPN who stated he had administered the medications earlier to both residents, and he had forgotten to sign the declining inventory sheet for the doses he had administered. The LPN acknowledged the declining inventory sheet should be signed when the medication was removed from the packaging. On 4/17/23 at 12:24 PM, the surveyor interviewed the 1 [NAME] Unit Manager/LPN (UM/LPN) who acknowledged the LPN should have signed the declining inventory sheet immediately after removing the medication from the packaging. She further acknowledged this was the process to ensure the accurate inventory of all controlled medications. On 4/17/23 at 1:18 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated as soon as medication was removed from the packaging, the nurse must sign the declining inventory sheet. This was the process to ensure accountability and ensure the medication counts were correct. A review of the facility's provided Medication Administration General Guidelines for the Administration of Medications policy dated updated March 2023 included Administration of Controlled Dangerous Substances is also recorded on the Declining Inventory Form as soon as medication is removed . NJAC 8:39- 29.2(d), 29.7(c)
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0804 (Tag F0804)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure appetizing and palatable temperature of food for 1 of 1 lunch meals ob...

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Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure appetizing and palatable temperature of food for 1 of 1 lunch meals observed on 1 of 6 nursing units (1 East). This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: On 4/10/23 at 10:14 AM, the surveyor conducted a Resident Council meeting which included six residents (Residents #87, #118, #135, #208, #212, and #260). All six residents informed the surveyor that the food was served cold on all shifts to which they attributed to short staffing. On 4/14/23 at 8:35 AM, the surveyors informed the Assistant Food Service Director (AFSD) that they wanted to observe the lunch meal service for that day including food temperatures. The AFSD acknowledged the request and stated that lunch service began at 11:15 AM. On 4/14/23 at 11:20 AM, the surveyor observed the Chef Manager (CM) who had already began to serve food on the tray line. When interviewed, the CM stated that the food temperatures were already completed by the AM Cook. The CM stated that she obtained plates from the hot box to warm them prior to plating food on them, as the pellet warmer (heated plate liner) was not working. The CM utilized plastic insulated domes and bases and heated plates to maintain temperature. On 4/14/23 at 11:33 AM, the surveyors requested to have a regular tray and a pureed tray prepared and placed on the second food truck for 1 East nursing unit as a test tray. The surveyor requested that the CM record temperatures of the food in the presence of the surveyors on the nursing unit using a calibrated (procedure used to confirm accuracy) thermometer. On 4/14/23 at 12:07 PM, the CM calibrated a digital, thin probe thermometer in an ice bath to 32 degrees Fahrenheit (F). The CM and the surveyors then immediately proceeded to leave the kitchen and followed the food cart to the 1 East nursing unit. On 4/14/23 at 12:09 PM, the Dietary Aide (DA) arrived on the 1 East nursing unit with the food truck and the aides began to deliver meal trays to the residents. On 4/14/23 at 12:18 PM, the CM confirmed that the last resident's meal tray had been served. The surveyor asked the CM what temperature should hot foods and cold foods be served at, and the CM responded that hot food should be served at 135 F or above and cold food should be served at 40 F or below. At this time, the surveyor observed the CM obtain the following temperatures using the calibrated thermometer for the regular lunch meal tray: Fish 104.4 F Peas 106.6 F Sweet Potatoes 109 F Blueberries 37 F Apple Juice 45 F Milk 47 F Coffee 132 F At that time, the CM stated that the coffee was cold. She further stated that she received one to two resident complaints about cold coffee per day. On 4/14/23 at 12:27 PM, the CM obtained the following temperatures from the pureed texture lunch meal using a calibrated thermometer: Fish 123 F Peas 122 F Sweet potatoes 128 F Milk 48 F Apple Juice 48 F Yogurt 57 F Coffee 125 F At that time, the CM stated that the yogurt was not safe to eat and could make someone sick. On 4/14/23 at 12:41 PM, the surveyors returned to the kitchen with the CM and requested to review the food temperature logs from today's lunch meal. The CM reviewed the log and stated that the AM [NAME] failed to obtain both the breakfast and lunch temperatures today, which was contradictory to what the CM informed the surveyors earlier when they requested to observe the food temperatures taken. The CM stated that if temperatures were not completed prior to the meal service, the residents could get sick. On 4/14/23 at 1:53 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and the Director of Nursing (DON) in the presence of the survey team, who acknowledged and expressed their shared concerns regarding the food temperatures. A review of the facility's undated Temperatures policy, included all hot food items must be cooked to appropriate internal temperatures, held and served at a temperature of at least 135 F. Take temperatures often to monitor for safe temperatures ranges of at or below 41 F for cold foods and at or above 135 F for hot foods . NJAC 8:39-17.4(a)(2)
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 review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to: a.) store, label, date and properly document and cool potentially hazardous ...

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Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to: a.) store, label, date and properly document and cool potentially hazardous foods to prevent food-borne illness; b.) discard potentially hazardous foods past their date of expiration; c.) ensure that dented cans were removed from storage; d.) ensure that serving trays were dried in a safe and sanitary manner prior to meal service; e.) ensure that food was served in a safe and sanitary manner to prevent contamination; f.) ensure that the dish machine in use maintained the appropriate temperature and sanitizer levels according to the manufacturer's specifications; and g.) maintain multiuse food-contact surface cutting board and can opener in a manner to prevent microbial growth. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: On 4/3/23 at 9:33 AM, the surveyors entered the kitchen and asked to tour with the Food Service Director (FSD). The surveyors met with the FSD who stated that both the hot water booster and chemical sanitizer were down on the dish machine and the repair technician was notified. At this time, the surveyors and the FSD toured the kitchen and observed the following: 1. In the walk-in refrigerator, there was an 84 count box of frozen omelettes that were stored in a plastic bag within a box that was opened to air and did not have an opened date or use by date. The FSD reached into the box with his bare hands and removed one omelette for demonstrative purposes. He stated, I will throw this one out. 2. In the milk-box, on the top shelf of a rolling cart there was a 50-pound pork roast (according to the FSD) that was loosely covered with aluminum foil and the meat was largely exposed to air on the right side and partially exposed to air on the top. The FSD stated, It should be kept open to air so that you do not get steam regeneration. The FSD stated that cooling process was to get the temperature to 135 degrees Fahrenheit (F) in two hours, then to 40 F in four hours. The FSD stated the pork roast was to be served on Wednesday. The FSD stated that the pork was 170 F when removed from the oven and cooled down to 135 F before it was placed in the refrigerator. The FSD agreed to furnish the cooling temperature logs. 3. In the deep freezer, there were two-pounds of cheese dated 8/22. The FSD stated that it should have been thrown out after six months. 4. In the dry storage room, on the can rack, there was a seven-pound can of beets that was dented. The FSD removed the can from the rack and placed it on the dented can rack. 5. In the dry storage room, on the can rack, there was a five-pound can of artichokes that was dented. The FSD removed the can from the rack and through it to the ground. He stated, It hit the floor, I have to throw it away. 6. In the dry storage room, on the rear can rack, a six-pound can of tropical fruit was dented. 7. In the dry storage room, on the rear can rack, a six-pound and twelve-ounce can of rice pudding both dented. The FSD stated, it was debatable, as there was a small dent on both the top and bottom of the can. 8. In the Unit #6 refrigerator, there was a staff member's lunch box and a bottle of soda. The FSD stated that it should not be in there. 9. The FSD stated that the dish machine was reportedly repaired according to the repair technician who was present in the kitchen. The FSD stated that it was a low temperature machine that operated on chemical sanitizer. A Dietary Aide (DA #1) was observed running dishes through the dish machine. She stated, It was not up to temperature and a lot of the plates were not coming clean all of the way. DA #1 stated they had to be sent back, sprayed with water, and ran back through the dish machine. At that time, the FSD ran a rack of dishes through the dish machine and tested some water that had pooled on a dish with a chlorine test paper strip. The FSD stated, No sanitizer level was detected. The FSD stated that the lunch meal service was to be served on paper products until the dish machine was repaired. The FSD reviewed the dish machine log and noted that it was not filled in on 4/3/23. The FSD stated that a maintenance request for assessment of the dish machine was placed at 8:30 AM. The FSD stated that with the booster, the wash cycle should have been 160 F and the final rinse cycle should have been between 180 F and 190 F. On 4/3/23 at 1:40 PM, the surveyors returned to the kitchen and the FSD confirmed that the dish machine had been repaired and agreed to furnish the surveyor with a work order from the repair technician. On 4/4/23 at 2:35 PM, the surveyor reviewed the Daily Cooling Log for Hot Potentially Hazardous Foods which specified: Remember to use ice bath and/or shallow pans to decrease cooling times and reviewed an entry dated 4/2/23 for a pork loin. The start time was 5:30 AM and the recorded temperature was 178 F and the end time was 11:50 AM. The surveyor requested to speak with the [NAME] who completed the entry on the log. At that time, the [NAME] stated that the Main [NAME] arrived at work at 4:00 AM, and she arrived at work at 6:15 AM. The [NAME] stated that when she arrived, she checked the pork loin temperature for doneness with a thermometer and it should be 165 F or higher. The [NAME] stated that she also slit the middle to ensure there was no pinkness or bleeding. The [NAME] stated that she returned it to the oven as it looked raw, and was more than a little pink. The [NAME] stated that there were eight pans total. The pork came out whole and we cut it in half. Then cut the pork to fit in little pans once done. Then we placed it into one large pan and split it three ways. The [NAME] stated that her process was to place the pan in the freezer to cool it at 178 F, then go back later and check again and pulled it out of the freezer and the temperature was 80 F to 90 F so it had to be put back in the freezer. The [NAME] stated that she did not want the meat to freeze. The [NAME] stated she thought at 11:50 AM, she put the meat back in the walk-in refrigerator. The [NAME] explained that even though the log indicated that the documented time was 11:50 AM, that was the last obtained temperature of the meat at 58 F when it went into the second walk-in refrigerator; otherwise known as the milk-box. The [NAME] stated that though she did not record the temperature, she checked the temperature again at 2:00 PM. The [NAME] stated that she had obtained the final temperature and covered it with foil before she left for the day. The [NAME] stated the meat was cooled down and she placed foil over it tightly. The [NAME] stated that the FSD informed her this morning that the meat was not fully covered. The [NAME] stated that no one ever said anything to her about having the meat exposed to air in the milk-box. The [NAME] stated that she assumed that it was okay because it was cold in there. The surveyors requested to go to the kitchen to see the pork loin and the [NAME] stated that the pork loin had already been sliced down to be served tomorrow. On 4/4/23 at 2:48 PM, the surveyor interviewed the FSD who stated, there was a remote possibility of air particles on the pork loin if it was not fully covered which could cause cross-contamination. The FSD then explained the cooling process of the pork loin. He stated that the pork loin came out of the oven in two or three pieces, then it was placed in a pan and then placed into the freezer to cool. The FSD stated that according to [Food Safety Course] cooling process, the meat was cut into smaller pieces and cooled to 130 F. The FSD stated that you could cool it in the refrigerator or freezer, dealer's choice. The FSD stated that no matter how he cooled it, the meat was exposed. At that time, the FSD clarified that there was eighty-pounds total of pork loin; twelve long pieces cut into six to eight pound loins. The [NAME] who was present stated, when she placed the meat in the freezer, it was not covered at all. The FSD stated the pork loin was then loosely covered to allow it to cool down. The [NAME] stated she covered it at 2:00 PM and placed it in the refrigerator and left at 2:30 PM. The [NAME] stated that she had to cool the pork loin from 135 F to 70 F in two hours then from 70 F to 40 F in two hours. Then the foil was removed, and the meat was put in sheet pans. The [NAME] stated that today the pork loin was likely reheated to between 165 F to 170 F. The [NAME] further stated that their process was to cook it twice. The [NAME] further stated, We do that with turkey and pot roast also. At that time, the FSD stated that if there was any cross-contamination of the pork loin roast it was still safe to serve as long as it was reheated to 170 F. The FSD stated that all food was exposed to air. The FSD stated that we should have taken a temperature of the pork loin yesterday while you were there so we could see. The FSD stated that what was missing from the log was: the starting point of 135 F when it was time to start the clock on the cooling process, and the final temperature taken when it was placed in the milk-box at 2:00 PM. The surveyor asked why the pork loin temperature was not monitored after the [NAME] left at 2:00 PM by the dietary staff? The FSD stated that the Night Cooks did not get involved with any roasting because they prepared food for residents. The FSD stated, I am going to eliminate the roasting process. I need staff to do it safely. The FSD stated that steam regeneration was worse than anything you could imagine, it was bacteria. The [NAME] stated, To avoid this, I put it in the freezer to cool it quicker. The FSD stated, I am going to speak with corporate because I did not have the staff [take the temperature] safely as it takes ten hours. The FSD stated to the Cook, when you left at 2:00 PM, the problem was that we did not know at what point the pork loin hit 135 F. The FSD maintained that the pork loin was still safe to serve, because the reheating process was everything. The FSD stated that every food was a potentially hazardous food. On 4/5/23 at 9:56 AM, the surveyor observed the FSD who calibrated a thermometer probe in an ice bath to 32 F. The FSD then obtained a temperature of sliced pork with sauerkraut which was 180 F. The FSD stated that the pork loin was held in a warmer at 170 F. On 4/5/23 at 11:31 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Registered Dietician (RD) who stated that the freezer stopped the growth of bacteria, the faster the better. The RD stated it would be appropriate in cooling. The RD stated that once the pork loin reached 135 F it was placed in the refrigerator. The RD stated that the threshold was to cool from 135 F to 70 F in two hours and from 70 F to 41 F in four hours for a total of a six hour process. The RD reviewed the, Daily Cooling Log for Hot Potentially Hazardous Foods and agreed that the form did not illustrate that the pork loin met the time and temperature required for proper cooling and did not illustrate the detailed cooling from 135 F to 70 F within two hours and then cooled from 70 F to 41 F within four hours. The RD stated that the form only showed the starting time and the end time. The RD stated that there was no one in the kitchen at 5:30 AM in the morning who could confirm the times. The RD stated that she had suggested that the cooling process was done correctly in the refrigerator. The RD confirmed that the cooling logs were incomplete and were not filled out to include the critical point. The RD stated that she did not dispute the 58 F that was recorded as the end temperature of the pork loin was a temperature in the danger zone and the bacteria could continue to grow at that temperature. The RD stated she did not like the log because they were confusing. The RD further stated that it was important to know the time and temperature for food safety. On 4/14/23 at 11:20 AM, during a follow-up visit to the kitchen, the surveyor observed the following in the presence of the Chef Manager (CM): 1. During the food line observation, the surveyor noted that the trays that were used to serve the residents' lunch meal were wet, and DA #2 used a disposable dish cloth to dry them. The CM stated that if the trays were not fully dried prior to service, that it could result in contamination. The Assistant Food Service Director (AFSD) was present and stated, The trays were not properly dried in the dish room. The AFSD stated that it was acceptable to wipe the trays down that were wet to dry them before they went out because the facility did not have enough trays to fully dry them between meal services. 2. The surveyor observed DA #2 who wiped the wet trays which had napkins and silverware on them. When interviewed, she stated that wet trays were placed in the food truck in stacks of nine. DA #3 who assisted on the food line, stated that she had loaded the trays onto the food truck in bundles of nine. When interviewed at that time, the CM confirmed that the trays were wetnested (a build up of bacteria caused by stacking wet dishes) while they were stacked wet in groups of nine inside of the food truck prior to use. 3. The surveyor observed the DM who placed a metal serving utensil on the stainless steel edge of the steam table. The CM then placed the serving utensil to a plate. The CM then picked up the plate and placed food on it and then passed it to DA #3 who placed it on a meal tray to be served to a resident. 4. The surveyor observed DA #3 who used her gloved hands and touched her face mask three times before she touched the lid of a tray and continued to work on the food line. On 4/14/23 at 12:32 PM, the CM stated that serving utensils should have been placed on a plate or in the food when food was served and should not have been laid on the stainless steel surface and then placed on a plate to be served to a resident due to a potential of contamination. The CM stated that the DA #2 and DA #3 should have washed their hands after they touched their masks and then touched plates and lids as it could lead to cross-contamination. The CM stated that the DA's have been told about that prior. On 4/14/23 at 12:48 PM, the surveyor returned to the kitchen with the CM to review temperature logs and dish machine function. At that time, the surveyor noted a can opener that was mounted to the surface of a prep station. The CM pulled the can opener out of the holder and showed the surveyor the blade which contained a thick black substance. When interviewed, the CM stated that the can opener blade was not clean and should have been cleaned once or twice per day. On 4/14/23 at 12:51 PM, the surveyor observed the Food Service Worker (FSW) who operated the dish machine. When interviewed, he stated that he had worked at the facility since 2006 as a pot washer. The surveyor requested that the FSW demonstrate use of the dish machine. The FSW took a test strip from the three compartment sink and attempted to use it to test the function of the dish machine. On 4/14/23 at 12:56 PM, the Night Operations Manager (NOM) who was present, stated that the FSW should not have used the test strip from the three compartment sink to test the dish machine as the results were not accurate. The surveyor requested to view the dish machine log at that time. The NOM stated that the dish machine function was not tested today, and was not recorded on the log. The NOM stated, We cannot guarantee that the dishes used to serve residents were effectively cleaned. The NOM stated that the log was supposed to be done first thing in the morning to ensure everything was rinsed, cleaned, and sanitized. He further stated, Otherwise, we could be serving dirty dishes to residents. On 4/14/23 at 1:12 PM, the NOM obtained a chlorine test strip to test the function of the dish machine and touched the test strip inside the entrance of the dish machine under the jet stream of water and held it there for one second and pulled it out. The NOM stated that the test strip did not yield a result because the bleach base liquid was empty. The surveyor noted an empty bottle that hung on the wall next to the dish machine. A new replacement bottle was available directly below it. The kitchen staff was unable to state how long the dispenser had been empty. On 4/14/23 at 1:17 PM, the AFSD stated that the staff were responsible to test the function of the dish machine in the morning, make sure there was chemical cleaner available to run the machine, test the sanitizer level, and complete the log. On 4/14/23 at 1:20 PM, the AFSD stated that the chlorine test strip should have been dipped after a load was run through the machine, not at the beginning of the cycle as the NOM had incorrectly demonstrated. The AFSD stated that the dish machine was required to meet a minimum wash temperature of 120 F and a rinse temperature of 140 F. The AFSD stated that the log was required to be documented at the time it was done. The AFSD stated the test strip should be held in the water for twenty seconds. The AFSD then proceeded to hold the test strip in the water that came out of the dish machine for twenty seconds. The AFSD repeated the test after holding the test strip in against a wet plate for ten seconds. On 4/14/23 at 1:27 PM, the surveyor reviewed the directions on the side of the chlorine test strips which directed to dip and remove the strip quickly, blot with a paper towel, compare to color chart (desired level was 50 to 200 parts per million). The surveyor asked the AFSD for a policy related to the test strips. The AFSD stated, we do not have a policy on everything. The AFSD stated that staff only needed to know how to scrape and wash the dishes. The AFSD stated that the FSD, AFSD and the NOM did the chemical sanitizer testing. The AFSD stated that staff were not in-serviced on dish machine function on low operating temperature settings and processes. On 4/14/23 at 1:36 PM, the surveyor noted plastic cutting boards that were on a drying rack. There were three large red cutting boards, seven large white cutting boards and four large green cutting boards that were pitted, and discolored. The AFSD stated that the cutting boards were not supposed to be used due to the potential for bacterial growth. The AFSD stated, We do not even use those. On 4/14/23 at 1:54 PM, the surveyors met with the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and the Director of Nursing (DON) to discuss their concerns that were identified in the kitchen regarding dish machine function and food service. On 4/17/23 at 10:39 AM, the LNHA informed the surveyor that he called in the Regional Food Service Director (RFSD) on Friday (4/14/23) at 4:00 PM, and he had worked twelve hour shifts all weekend to ensure that the staff was in-serviced and the policies were reviewed. A review of the facility's Food Storage policy dated revised 1/22/21, included .dented, bulging or leaking cans will be discarded, or returned to vendors for appropriate credit .all food shall be protected from contamination and spoilage . A review of the facility's Food Preparation Standards policy dated revised 1/22/21, included .only nonabsorbent cutting boards are used .meat, fish, eggs, and milk products will be prepared as close to serving time as possible . A review of the facility's Food Preparation Standards policy dated revised 1/22/21, included .foods will be held below 40 F or above 140 F to prevent growth of micro-organisms .foods will be prepared and served in small batches to prevent long holding periods .all foods shall be covered, labeled and dated . A review of the facility's Dishwashing policy dated revised 1/22/21, included .supervisors will record dish machine temperatures daily. A dish machine temperature log is maintained to document that temperatures meet the established standards .employees will ensure dish washer temperatures are accurate according to standards before running items through the dish washer to be cleaned and ensure proper sanitation .if proper dish washing temperatures can not be maintained, management will not serve food on un-sanitized serving pieces. Paper and disposables will be used until dish machine is repaired and items are properly sanitized. A review of the facility's undated Dishwashing policy included .be sure the wash and rinse temperatures are appropriate for your dish machine. Document temperatures regularly on a temperature log. Use one staff to load dirty dishes and another to pull clean dishes. Air dry-use drying racks if needed; do not stack dishes immediately before or after washing. never dry with a towel . NJAC 8:39-17.2(g)
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

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 8. On 4/4/23 at 9:18 AM, during the initial tour of the facility, the surveyor observed signage for TBP outside of Resident room...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 8. On 4/4/23 at 9:18 AM, during the initial tour of the facility, the surveyor observed signage for TBP outside of Resident room [ROOM NUMBER] which indicated that a gown and gloves were required to be worn when entering the room and when touching the resident's intact skin, surfaces, articles in close proximity or potentially contaminated environmental surfaces. The surveyor observed LPN #3 who wore a surgical mask and goggles, but failed to don a gown and gloves that were readily available outside of the room before she entered the room. The surveyor observed LPN #3 as she placed her ungloved hands on the foot board of the first bed inside the room. When interviewed, LPN #3 stated that she was an Agency nurse and did not see the TBP sign or PPE bin outside of the room. LPN #3 stated, I just walked in. LPN #3 stated that she did not know why the resident was on TBP as she was only assigned to check the dates on the resident's oxygen tubing today. LPN #3 stated that since she had not worn PPE into the room as required, there was a chance that she could spread disease. On 4/4/23 at 9:30 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #4 who stated that LPN #3 was an Agency nurse who had just begun her shift, and she did not know that Resident room [ROOM NUMBER] was on TBP for ESBL (Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase, enzymes produced by some bacteria that may make them resistant to some antibiotics) in the urine. On 4/11/23 at 11:13 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manger/LPN (UM/LPN) who stated that there were signs posted outside of Resident room [ROOM NUMBER], and we educated all staff to look at the signs before entering the room to observe the required precautions. The UM/LPN stated that no matter what, if a resident was on TBP, gloves were required to be worn and hand hygiene was required to be performed as you could not be sure if the resident had touched anything in the room. On 4/12/23 at 12:17 PM, the surveyor interviewed the IP/RN who stated that for contact isolation (TBP), gown and gloves were required to enter the room and for activities. The IP/RN further stated, The policy is to don a gown and gloves in case the foot board was contaminated. 9. On 4/12/23 at 10:09 AM, the surveyor observed signage for TBP outside of Resident #19's room, which indicated that a gown and gloves were required to be worn when entering the room and when touching the resident's intact skin, surfaces, articles in close proximity or potentially contaminated environmental surfaces. The surveyor observed HK #4 who wore a gown, mask, and goggles as she cleaned Resident #19's room. Resident #19 was present in the room and was seated in a wheelchair at the bedside. HK #4 exited the room with her gown and accessed the housekeeping cart and obtained a roll of trash bags. HK #4 went back into the room and placed her right ungloved hand on the foot board of the resident's bed while she conversed with the resident. HK #4 laid a roll of trash bags on the resident's bed and donned a pair of gloves. HK #4 then entered the bathroom with a mop and mopped the bathroom floor. HK #4 then proceeded to use the same microfiber cloth that covered the mop head to mop the bathroom to mop the floor in the hallway outside of the resident's room. HK #4 then doffed her gloves, and she untied the gown at her waist level posteriorly (behind) and left the ties secured around her neck posteriorly. HK #4 then proceeded to doff the gown by lifting the gown over her head and discarded both the gown and gloves in the trash receptacle on the housekeeping cart. At that time, Resident #19 called HK #4 back into the room to receive holy water that the resident had in a small bottle. HK #4 returned to the room without performing hand hygiene or donning any PPE. Resident #19 placed the holy water in HK #4's ungloved hands. HK #4 stated, I just realized that I was not supposed to come in here like this (without PPE on). HK #4 did not perform hand hygiene before she pushed her housekeeping cart across the hall to Resident room [ROOM NUMBER] (another resident's room), which did not have any signage or PPE outside of the room to indicate that it was an isolation (TBP) room. At that time, HK #4 proceeded to don a pair of gloves without first performing hand hygiene, before she entered Resident room [ROOM NUMBER]. HK #4 went into the resident's bathroom and proceeded to clean the bathroom. When finished, she bagged the microfiber cloths that she used to clean the bathroom and placed them on the housekeeping cart. HK #4 then proceeded to mop the floor. When finished, she moved the resident's cell phone, and a sealed pack of crackers from the television cart and placed it on the resident's bed with her gloved hand before she cleaned the top of the television cart. When finished, she returned both the cell phone and crackers to the television cart. HK #4 began to mop the area around the resident's bed when she noted the resident's urinal was full. With resident permission, she carried the urinal into the bathroom and proceeded to empty the urinal into the toilet. HK #4 informed the resident that she planned to hang the urine bottle in a plastic bag at the bottom of the bed until the resident received another. HK #4 then proceeded to clean the shelf of the television stand when she noted the resident's shoehorn, wiped it, and placed it on the resident's bed. HK #4 then exited the room, doffed her gloves and failed to perform hand hygiene as she prepared to clean the next room in the hall. On 4/12/23 at 10:44 AM, the surveyor interviewed HK#4 who stated that she worked on this hall today because the facility was short staffed. HK #4 stated that a gown, gloves, and mask were required to be worn in isolation (TBP) rooms to prevent staff from getting hurt and to provide protection from body fluids. HK #4 stated that she was not permitted to return to Resident #19's room after she had doffed her PPE. HK #4 stated that she had already doffed her gloves when she received holy water from Resident #19 in her ungloved hands and then touched her forehead and uniform to mark the sign of the cross on her body. HK #4 stated that she may have contaminated her uniform in the process. HK #4 stated that she should have washed her hands because there was hand sanitizer available in every room. On 4/12/23 at 10:58 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DH who stated that housekeeping staff were trained to pay attention to signage. The DH further stated that contact isolation (TBP) required gloves, gown, mask or goggles. He stated that staff were never permitted to go into the room without PPE in order to protect themselves and residents from spreading and passing germs from room to room, as there was a chance of contamination. The DH stated that housekeeping staff were trained to clean isolation (TBP) rooms last to prevent from spreading anything. The DH stated staff were not permitted to doff their gloves without performing hand hygiene. The DH stated that when HK #4 failed to perform hand hygiene after she doffed her gloves and went into another resident's room and touched personal effects like a cell phone, crackers, shoehorn and urinal there was a chance of contamination. The DH stated that if HK #4 did not wash her hands after surveyor inquiry there was a chance of contamination. The DH further stated, she should know, she has been here for a long time. On 4/12/23 at 12:17 PM, the surveyor interviewed the IP/RN who stated that HK #4 should have had gloves on regardless of isolation status. The IP/RN stated that PPE should be doffed and disposed of inside of resident rooms. The IP/RN stated that if HK #4 lifted the soiled gown over her head after she left Resident #19's room, she could spread ESBL, as there could be germs on her hair and face. The IP/RN stated that if HK #4 mopped the room of a resident who was positive for ESBL and then mopped the hallway with the same mop head there was a potential for contamination. IP/RN stated that HK #4 should have performed hand hygiene when she left the room. The IP/RN stated that HK #4 should not have emptied a urinal. The IP/RN stated that housekeeping was trained to clean from clean to dirty and isolation should have been cleaned last to stop the spread of infection. On 4/17/23 at 12:49 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated that all donning and doffing of PPE should have been done inside the room. The DON stated that HK #4 should have declined the holy water. The DON stated that HK #4 was required to round from clean to dirty to avoid cross contamination and prevent the spread of infection. The DON stated that when HK #4 emptied the urinal, there was a chance of contamination and spread of ESBL. A review of a facility's Oxygen Tubing and Respiratory Products policy dated revised in January 2023, included that all nebulizer tubing and equipment should be kept in a bag and dated . A review of a facility's Resident Room Cleaning -Occupied Isolation Room- Non C-diff dated revised August 2022, included .gather waste, place sealed plastic bags from waste containers into a second clearly tagged and/or labeled liner and seal that liner . A review of the facility's Isolation Precautions/COVID-19 policy dated revised January 2023, included facility will ensure that appropriate isolation precautions are maintained as advised by attending physician .remove gloves promptly before leaving resident's room and wash hands immediately to avoid transfer of microorganisms to other residents and environment .isolation precautions .transmission based precautions will be used for identified residents .contact precautions: contact measures that are intended to prevent transmission of infectious agents .gloves are to be worn if patients items in room are to be touched. gowns and gloves are worn if rendering personal care and contact with infected body fluids is expected A review of the facility's Hand Hygiene policy dated revised January 2023, included .wash hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer after contact with inanimate objects (including medical equipment) in the immediate vicinity of the patient. wash hand or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after removing gloves . NJAC 8:39-19.3(b); 19.4(a)(b)(c)(k)(i)(n) 5. On 4/11/23 at 9:41 AM, the surveyor toured the S1 nursing unit and observed Resident #33 in their room sitting in a wheelchair. The surveyor observed the resident's nebulizer mask face down on top of the nebulizer machine. There was no storage bag observed in the resident's room for the face mask. The resident stated nebulizer treatments were given at 6:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 4:30 PM, and 10:00 PM. On 4/11/23 at 1:21 PM, the surveyor observed the resident's nebulizer mask on top of the nebulizer machine. There was no storage bag observed in the resident's room for the face mask. At that time, the surveyor interviewed the assigned LPN #2 who was outside the resident's room. LPN #2 stated she prepared the resident's nebulizer that day and stayed the entire duration of the nebulizer treatment. She stated after the nebulizer was finished, she washed it out, dried it and placed it on a holder. The surveyor brought LPN #2 into the resident's room. LPN #2 acknowledged that the mask was face down on the nebulizer machine and connected the mask to a holder on the machine. LPN #2 stated she was not aware the mask should not have been placed face down on the nebulizer machine, and she was not aware of any other way to store the mask. On 4/13/23 at 10:35 AM, the surveyor interviewed the IP/RN regarding storage of nebulizer masks. The IP/RN stated after the nebulizer was wiped down, the nurse should have stored it in a bag for infection control. On 4/19/23 at 10:23 AM, the DON and LNHA spoke about the above concerns. The DON stated that the nurse should have ensured Resident #'33's nebulizer mask was stored properly. 6. On 4/13/22 at 9:33 AM, the surveyor toured the 1 [NAME] nursing unit and observed signage outside of Resident room [ROOM NUMBER] that indicated, Stop Contact Precautions. The signage indicated TBP, and instructed the to perform hand hygiene before entering and before leaving the room; wear gloves when entering room or cubicle, and when touching patient's intact skin, surfaces, or articles in close proximity; wear gown when entering room or cubicle and whenever anticipating that clothing will touch patient items or potentially contaminated environmental surfaces; and use patient dedicated or single use disposable shared equipment or clean and disinfect shared equipment (BP, Cuff, thermometers) between patients. At that time, the surveyor observed an open bag of garbage which included used isolation gowns inside the resident's room located directly on the resident's floor. HK #3 was inside the room wearing a mask, eyewear, gown, and gloves. HK #3 stated to the resident, I'm going to leave this here, if anyone asks, I'll be right back. HK #3 doffed (removed) her gown and gloves and exited the room. On 4/13/23 at 9:43 AM, HK #3 returned to the resident's room. At that time, the surveyor interviewed HK #3 who stated that the garbage should not have been opened and on the floor, and that she should have taken it directly to the soiled utility room. On 4/17/23 at 10:32 AM, the surveyor interviewed the IP on the resident rooms who were on contact precautions. The IP stated that all staff were educated on PPE and should be following the contact precaution instructions on the signage for both of the residents in the room for ESBL. She stated that garbage should not be on the floor and should be bagged in the resident's room and taken to soiled utility. On 4/19/23 at 10:23 AM, the DON and LNHA spoke about the above concerns. The DON stated that HK #3 should have removed the garbage when she left the room. 7. On 4/14/23 at 10:02 AM, the surveyor toured the 1 East unit and observed signage outside of Resident room [ROOM NUMBER] which revealed that the residents were on TBP. The surveyor observed a Social Worker (SW) inside the resident's room holding a pen and a clipboard. The SW was wearing eyewear and a surgical mask. The SW gave her pen and the clipboard to the resident to write on a piece of paper. The SW took the pen and clipboard from the resident and placed the clipboard on the resident's bedside table, picked it back up and exited the room without performing hand hygiene or sanitizing her pen and clipboard. At that time, the surveyor interviewed the SW about the signage outside the resident's room. The SW stated she was supposed to wear a gown and stated that she used hand sanitizer prior to exiting the resident's room. On 4/17/23 at 10:32 AM, the surveyor interviewed the IP on the resident rooms who were on contact precautions. The IP stated that all staff were educated on PPE and should be following the TBP instructions on the signage for both of the residents in the room for TBP. On 4/19/23 at 10:23 AM, the DON and LNHA spoke about the above concerns. The DON stated that the SW should have followed the signage for the required PPE for the rooms on TBP and sanitized their hands. She added that the SW should not have used her pen and clipboard for the resident to use. Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that infection control practices were followed by ensuring a.) appropriate personal protection equipment was worn for residents on transmission-based precautions; b.) appropriate hand hygiene including donning (put on) and doffing (removing) of gloves and hand washing; c.) appropriate disposal of resident's garbage in the room; d.) appropriate storage of respiratory equipment; and e.) sanitizing of reusable equipment in accordance with nationally accepted guidance and facility policy. This deficient practice was identified in 4 of 6 nursing units (S1, S2, 1 West, and 1 East) with multi-disciplinary staff and was evidenced by the following: 1. On 4/5/23 at 10:30 AM, the surveyor observed outside Resident room [ROOM NUMBER] a sign that indicated the resident was on transmission-based precautions (TBP) and prior to entering and exiting room you must perform hand hygiene; wear gloves when entering room; and wear a gown upon entering the room. The surveyor observed outside the door a plastic cart with drawers which contained personal protective equipment (PPE) of disposable gowns and gloves. At that time, the surveyor observed an Occupational Therapist ( OT) inside the room wearing a surgical mask, goggles, and gloves. The surveyor observed no gown. The OT assisted the resident out of the bathroom, and transferred the resident from the wheelchair to their bed. The OT picked up the walker, and left the room without removing her gloves or performing hand hygiene. The surveyor interviewed the OT who stated that she did not need to wear a gown in the room because it was the roommate that was on the TBP. The OT further stated that she did not need to disinfect the walker since the resident did not use it. The OT acknowledged that she should have removed her gloves and performed hand hygiene before she left the room. On 4/5/23 at 10:41 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN #1) on the S2 nursing unit. LPN #1 stated that all staff entering a room on TBP were instructed to wear full PPE including mask, gown, eye protection, and gloves prior to entering the room even if providing care to the resident that was not on TBP. On 4/14/23 at 10:05 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Infection Preventionist/Registered Nurse (IP/RN) who stated that all staff and visitors entering a room with TBP must wear full PPE including mask, eye protection, gown, and gloves regardless of which resident they are seeing. The IP/RN further stated that all multiuse equipment that was brought into the room; whether or not it was used should be disinfected prior to leaving the room. On 4/18/23 at 1:32 PM, the surveyor informed the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and Director of Nursing (DON) the above concerns. 2. On 4/5/23 at 10:43 AM, the surveyor observed the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA #1) exit Resident Room #S235 wearing gloves and carrying two plastic bags; one with soiled linen and one with trash. The surveyor interviewed CNA #1 who stated that she should not wear gloves in the hallway and further stated that she should have removed them before leaving the room but stated she forgot. On 4/14/23 at 10:05 AM, the surveyor interviewed the IP/RN who stated that gloves should not be worn in the hallway; staff must remove gloves and perform hand hygiene prior to exiting room. On 4/18/23 at 1:32 PM, the surveyor informed the LNHA and DON the above concerns. 3. On 4/10/23 at 12:10 PM, the surveyor observed Housekeeper (HK #1) on the L2 nursing unit cleaning Resident Room #L230. The surveyor observed HK #1 leave the room without removing her gloves or performing hand hygiene. HK #1 removed the wet mop she had used in Resident Room #L230, removed her gloves, applied a new pair of gloves and without performing hand hygiene, proceeded to clean Resident Room #L228. On 4/10/23 at 12:15 PM, the surveyor interviewed HK #1 who stated, I forgot the sanitizer, I left it in my locker, I'm sorry. HK #1 removed a container of purple-top sanitizer wipes from the cart and stated, I sometimes use these to clean my hands. The surveyor and HK #1 observed that the label on the sanitizer wipes warned to avoid contact with skin. On 4/14/23 at 10:05 AM, the surveyor interviewed the IP/RN who stated that staff were expected to remove their gloves and perform hand hygiene prior to changing gloves or exiting a resident's room. The IP/RN further stated that staff should not use the purple-top sanitizing wipes to clean their hands; sanitizer was on the housekeeping carts and in resident rooms. On 4/18/23 at 1:32 PM, the surveyor informed the LNHA and DON the above concerns. 4. On 4/11/23 at 10:40 AM, the surveyor observed HK#2 on S2 nursing unit wet mopping Resident Room #S232 wearing a surgical mask, goggles and gloves. The surveyor observed HK #2 leave the room without removing her gloves or performing hand hygiene. HK#2 then removed the wet mop in the hallway, removed her gloves, applied a new pair of gloves, with no observed hand hygiene, and proceeded to clean Resident Room #S231 which had a TBP sign outside the door which indicated to wear gown and gloves inside room. The surveyor observed HK#2 enter the resident's room wearing a surgical mask, eye protection, gloves, and no gown. HK#2 brought in one bottle of cleaner and went into the bathroom, sprayed the chemical in the bathroom, then proceeded to bed B, sprayed the chemical, cleaned the room, then proceeded back to the hallway and placed the bottle on the housekeeping cart. There was no observed glove change or hand hygiene. HK #2 then grabbed the wet mop, mopped the bathroom floor and room floor. HK #2 removed her gloves, and donned a new pair of gloves without performing hand hygiene. HK #2 went back into the room and removed the garbage from bed A, then she removed and discarded her gloves and left the room without performing hand hygiene. On 4/11/23 at 11:00 AM, the surveyor asked HK #2 what PPE should be worn in Resident Room #S231 since the sign indicated that Resident Room #S231 was on TBP? HK #2 replied that she had not noticed the TBP sign until the surveyor pointed it out to her. HK #2 further stated that she should have cleaned that room after she was done cleaning all of the other rooms that were not on TBP. HK#2 further stated that she should have performed hand hygiene using soap or water or sanitized her hands with alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) before leaving the resident's room and acknowledged she should not wear gloves in the hallway. On 4/11/23 at 11:10 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Housekeeping (DH) who stated that HK #2 was expected to clean the TBP rooms last. The DH further stated that HK #2 should not enter a room on TBP without the proper PPE which included a surgical mask, goggles, gown, and gloves, and she should remove the gown and gloves in resident rooms, perform hand hygiene using soap and water for at least twenty seconds prior to exiting the room. On 4/14/23 at 10:05 AM, the surveyor interviewed the IP/RN who stated that all staff and visitors entering a room with TBP must wear full PPE including mask, eye protection, gown, and gloves. The IP/RN stated gowns and gloves should be removed prior to exiting the room, and hand hygiene performed. On 4/18/23 at 1:32 PM, the surveyor informed the LNHA and DON the above concerns.
Apr 2021 3 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. According to the admission Record, Resident #20 was admitted to the facility with medical diagnoses that included, left sided...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. According to the admission Record, Resident #20 was admitted to the facility with medical diagnoses that included, left sided Hemiplegia (paralysis on one side of the body) following a stroke and Benign Prostate Hypertrophy (BPH) (an enlarged prostate which can cause the blocking of urine out of the bladder). Review of the Quarterly MDS, an assessment tool, dated 04/14/21, revealed Resident #20 was cognitively intact, required the use of an indwelling catheter and needed extensive assistance from staff for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) (transfers, dressing, toileting, personal hygiene and bathing). Review of Resident #20's current care plan included risk for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) related to catheter usage with a goal to remain free from complications r/t [related to] catheter use evidenced by remaining free from the signs and symptoms of UTI. Review of the Order Summary Report for Active Orders as of 04/21/21 revealed orders for Foley Catheter care every shift ordered 01/26/21 and to maintain Foley Catheter privacy bag at all times, check placement every shift ordered 01/26/21. On 04/13/21 at 9:55 AM, the surveyor observed the resident's urinary catheter bag lying on the ground next to the bed in a privacy bag. The resident had just received AM care. On 04/15/21 at 8:48 AM, the surveyor observed the resident's urinary catheter bag lying on the floor, out of the privacy bag. On 04/21/21 at 9:03 AM, the surveyor observed the urinary catheter bag secured to side of bed touching the floor. At that time, the surveyor interviewed the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) about the catheter bag placement. The CNA stated, The privacy bag needs to be tightened. it shouldn't be touching the floor. The CNA adjusted the privacy bag and urinary catheter bag to position it off the floor. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/21/21 at 9:20 AM, the LPN UM stated, The catheter bag is supposed to be in a privacy bag and it's not supposed to be touching the floor. If the catheter bag is touching the floor, we have to educate the CNA. If the CNA doesn't know the proper procedure, then we show her what to do. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/22/21 at 9:15 AM, the DON stated that the urinary catheter bag should not be touching the floor. Review of the facility's Urinary Catheters policy dated 01/23/2021 revealed, The catheter and collecting tubing should be kept from kinking and the collection bag should always be kept below the level of the bladder (and not touching the floor). NJAC 8:39-19.4 Based on observation, interview and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) ensure that staff wore Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) properly when caring for long term care residents, this was noted for 1 staff member on 1 of 6 units (2 West); and b.) ensure the urinary catheter drainage bag (drainage bag) was stored in an appropriate manner to prevent the spread of infection for Resident #20, 1 of 3 resident's reviewed for the use of an indwelling urinary catheter. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: 1. During the Entrance Conference with the facility on 04/13/21 at 9:50 AM, the Director of Nursing (DON) stated that the required PPE used on all units was an N95 face mask and face shield or goggles. The DON stated that S1 and S2 units house the new admission and readmission residents and 1 East, 1 West, 2 East and 2 [NAME] Units house the long term care residents. On 04/15/21 at 11:37 AM, the surveyor observed a Registered Nurse (RN) at the medication cart in the hallway near room [ROOM NUMBER] on the 2 [NAME] Unit. The surveyor observed that the RN was wearing an N95 face mask. The surveyor further observed that the RN had her face shield (consisting of glasses with a clear shield attached to the glasses) positioned on the top of her head. The surveyor observed that the face shield did not cover the RN's eyes, nose or mouth. At that time, the surveyor observed the RN gathered supplies from the medication cart in preparation to hang an IV. The RN applied her gloves, knocked on Resident # 246's door and entered the room carrying the IV supplies. The surveyor observed that the RN did not lower her face shield to cover her eyes, nose or mouth prior to entering the resident's room. The surveyor observed the RN hang the IV on the IV pole and leave the room returning to the medication cart with her face shield positioned on the top of her head. At that time, the RN applied gel to her hands and gathered supplies to take a resident's blood sugar. The surveyor observed that the RN applied gloves, knocked on Resident #121's door and entered the room carrying the supplies. The surveyor observed that the RN did not lower her face shield to cover her eyes, nose or mouth prior to entering the resident's room. The surveyor further observed that the RN took the blood sugar of Resident #121 with her face shield positioned on top of her head and then returned to the medication cart. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/21 at 11:57 AM, the RN stated that she was an agency nurse. She stated that when she comes in, she generally goes to the nursing office to get instruction on what PPE is required. The RN stated that she always wears the N95 face mask and has her face shield with her. The RN told the surveyor that she sometimes wears the face shield down and that she should be wearing it down. The RN stated, I'm not sure if we need the face shield, but definitely need the N95. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/21 at 12:02 PM, the Licensed Practical Nurse Unit Manager (LPN UM) stated that the required PPE for this unit is a face shield and an N95 face mask. The LPN UM stated that when agency staff come onto the unit, they are told what PPE is required. The LPN UM confirmed that the RN was made aware of the required PPE. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/21 at 1:06 PM, the Infection Preventionist (IP) stated that the agency nurses received orientation for PPE. The IP stated that when staff checks in for their shift, there is PPE available. The IP further stated that we have PPE signage when staff checks in and there are signs posted prior to entering each unit. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/21 at 1:50 PM, the Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed that agency staff receive orientation regarding PPE and the required PPE are posted on the units. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/21 at 1:50 PM, the Day Supervisor stated that the LPN UM would be one person who made sure that staff have on and wear the required PPE. The Day Supervisor further stated that when she made rounds, she would ensure that staff were wearing the appropriate PPE. The Day Supervisor further stated that when she went to see the RN, she had the face shield pushed up and covering her nose. The Day Supervisor stated that the RN would push up her shield to see the computer screen. The Day Supervisor further stated that the face shield should be worn flush against the nose, and that she would expect staff to have their face shield down when entering a resident's room. On 04/21/21 at 2:04 PM, surveyor interviewed the DON and Administrator. The DON stated that it's hard to miss the big yellow signs regarding what PPE to wear. The Administrator stated that the signs for PPE requirements were posted at the entrance where the staff were screened and at the entrance to each unit. The Administrator stated that every department head and nurse ensure that PPE was properly worn by staff. The Administrator confirmed that the facility had been using the N95 face mask and a face shield since March of 2020 and will continue to do so. Review of the facility's agency employee orientation checklist dated 02/01/21 for the RN revealed that the RN received education regarding Infection Control, PPE and Handwashing. Review of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, Guidance for Wearing Masks Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19, updated 04/19/21, under the section Face shield and goggles included, Choose a face shield that wraps around the sides of your face and extends below your chin. Review of the U.S. CDC guidelines, Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) When Caring for Patients with Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19, dated 06/3/2020, included, Face shields provide full face coverage.
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) supervise the administrati...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) supervise the administration of one medication and b.) follow their policy for self-medication administration for 1 of 3 residents (Resident # 77) reviewed for oxygen, c.) follow fluid restriction instructions in accordance with the physician's order, professional standards of care and the care plan for 1 of 5 residents (Resident #242) reviewed for unnecessary medications, and d.) verify and accurately document the presence of a physician ordered pressure relieving device to the bed for 1 of 3 residents (Resident #242) reviewed for pressure ulcer/injury. This deficient practice evidenced by the following:. Reference: New Jersey Statutes, Annotated Title 45, Chapter 11. Nursing Board. The Nurse Practice Act for the state of New Jersey states: The practice of nursing as a registered professional nurse is defined as diagnosing and treating human responses to actual or potential physical and emotional health problems, through such services as case finding, health teaching, health counseling and provision of care supportive to or restorative of life and wellbeing, and executing medical regimes as prescribed by a licensed or otherwise legally authorized physician or dentist. Reference: New Jersey Statutes, Annotated Title 45, Chapter 11. Nursing Board. The Nurse Practice Act for the state of New Jersey states: The practice of nursing as a licensed practical nurse is defined as performing tasks and responsibilities within the framework of case finding, reinforcing the patient and family teaching program through health teaching, health counseling and provision of supportive and restorative care, under the direction of a registered nurse or licensed or otherwise legally authorized physician or dentist. According to the admission Record, Resident #77 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses that included: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Chronic Respiratory Failure. Review of the resident's Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool, dated 02/03/2021, reflected the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status of 13, which indicated the resident's cognition was intact. Review of the resident's Order Summary Report, dated 04/15/2021, revealed a physician's order for Albuterol Sulfate Nebulization (Neb) Solution 0.083% 1 mL (milliliter) inhale orally via nebulizer every 4 hours for SOB (Shortness of Breath)/COPD. The Order Summary Report did not include an order for the resident to self-administer the nebulizer medications. Review of Resident #77's Medication Administration Record (MAR), dated 04/15/21, indicated the administration times for Albuterol Sulfate were at 12:00 AM, 4:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 8:00 PM. Review of the resident's Care Plan dated 11/10/2020, included a focus for [history] of refusing care, noncompliant with medication usage (nebs), refusal of medication, refusing to get [out of bed], and other interventions. The Care Plan did not include interventions for the resident to self-administer medications. On 04/13/2021 at 9:54 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #77 sitting up in bed and a nebulizer mouthpiece with a clear liquid inside the medication chamber was on the resident's overbed table. On 4/14/2021 at 9:36 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #77 asleep in bed. The surveyor further observed a nebulizer mouthpiece with a clear liquid inside the medication chamber on the resident's overbed table. On 04/15/2021 at 10:15 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #77 sitting up in bed. The surveyor further observed a nebulizer mouthpiece with a clear liquid inside the medication chamber on the resident's overbed table. When interviewed, the resident stated that the nurse set up his/her neb treatment, but he/she hadn't taken the treatment yet. The resident further stated that he/she would take the medication later. At 10:18 AM, the surveyor observed the resident's Registered Nurse (RN) enter the room to check if the resident took his/her neb treatment and the resident informed the RN that he/she had not taken it yet. The surveyor further observed that after the RN left the room, the resident turned on the neb machine and self-administered the neb treatment. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/2021 at 11:12 AM, the RN stated that she set up Resident #77's neb treatment in the morning and turned on the machine at that time, but the resident is non-compliant by turning on and off the machine on their own. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/2021 at 11:18 AM, the Unit Manager (UM) stated Resident #77 is non-compliant with nebulizer treatments. The UM further stated the resident will tell the nurse to set up the neb medication in the medication chamber and leave it at the bedside so the resident can self-administer it himself/herself. The RN stated the process for a resident to self-administer a medication included assessing the resident, educating the resident and having the resident perform a return demonstration of the medication administration. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/15/2021 at 11:33 AM, the Director of Nursing (DON) stated the process for a resident to self-administer medications included a physician's assessment of the resident's ability to self-administer, a physician's order, revision of the care plan to include self-administration and documentation of the resident's return demonstration of self-administering medications. The DON further stated that nurses should remain in the resident's presence when administering neb treatments; and if a resident refuses to take the treatment, the nurse should remove the medication from the room, reattempts, document the refusal and notify the doctor. During a follow-up interview with the surveyor on 04/15/2021 at 1:44 PM, the DON stated the importance of following the procedure for a resident to be able to self-administer their medications is to ensure the resident is physically and mentally capable of safely administering medications as prescribed. Review of the facility's Medication Administration policy, revised 01/2021, included, The nurse will remain in the presence of the resident while the resident takes the medication. Review of the facility's Self Medication Administration policy, revised 01/2021, included, If the resident chooses to self-administer medication, the licensed nurse will assess the resident's cognitive, physical, and visual ability to administer his/her own medications and document in [electronic medical record], The attending physician will be notified, and order will be obtained, and All self-administration residents will be trained in the self-administration of medication by the nursing staff documentation will be done in [electronic medical record]. 2.) According to the admission Record, Resident #242 was readmitted to the facility with medical diagnoses that included: Congestive Heart Failure, Diabetes, generalized edema, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Review of the Quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], revealed that Resident #242 was cognitively intact, required extensive assist of two staff for activities of daily living, and was at risk of developing pressure ulcer/injuries. A review of Resident #242's Care Plan on 04/16/21 at 10:05 AM revealed that Resident #242 had a nutritional risk related to therapeutic diet, altered lab values, edema/diuretic therapy, and fluid restriction. The Care Plan further revealed an intervention that was initiated on 03/22/21, for fluid restriction of 1000 millimeters (ml) daily. The resident's daily fluid allowance was divided between nursing and dietary departments and indicated for nursing to provide 280 ml/day while dietary provided 720 ml/day for a total of 1000 ml/day. Review of Resident #242's Order Summary Report revealed a physician's order (order) dated 03/19/21, for 1000 ml Fluid Restriction per day. The order indicated 720 ml for dietary per day and 280 ml for nursing. The order further instructed a fluid restriction of 120 ml on 7-3 shift (day shift), fluid restriction of 120 ml on 3-11 shift (evening shift), and fluid restriction of 40 ml on 11-7 shift (night shift). Review of the 03/22/21 Comprehensive Nutrition Assessment revealed an estimated fluid need of 1000 ml fluid restriction. Review of Resident #242's March 2021 and April 2021 Electronic Medication Administration Records (eMARs) reflected the above 03/19/21 order for 1000 ml Fluid Restriction per day. The order was also specified on the eMARs as: 120 ml on day shift, 120 ml on evening shift, and 40 ml on night shift. The March 2021 eMAR reflected that nurses administered fluids outside the physician ordered fluid restriction as follows: 03/20/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift 03/21/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift. 03/25/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift. The physician order reflected Nursing was to administer 120 ml on day shift. 03/20/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on evening shift. The physician order reflected Nursing was to administer 120 ml on evening shift. 03/19/21: the nurse administered 60 ml on night shift. 03/20/21: the nurse administered 120 ml on night shift. 03/23/21: the nurse administered 90 ml on night shift. The physician order reflected Nursing was to administer 40 ml on night shift. The April 2021 eMAR reflected that nurses administered fluids outside the physician ordered fluid restriction as follows: 04/03/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift 04/04/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift. 04/12/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift. 04/13/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift. 04/17/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on day shift. The physician order reflected Nursing was to administer 120 ml on day shift. 04/08/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on evening shift. 04/11/21: the nurse administered 330 ml on evening shift. 04/15/21: the nurse administered 200 ml on evening shift. 04/16/21: the nurse administered 200 ml on evening shift. 04/17/21: the nurse administered 500 ml on evening shift. The physician order reflected Nursing was to administer 120 ml on evening shift. 04/01/21: the nurse administered 280 ml on night shift. 04/06/21: the nurse administered 100 ml on night shift. 04/09/21: the nurse administered 100 ml on night shift. 04/14/21: the nurse administered 60 ml on night shift The physician order reflected Nursing was to administer 40 ml on night shift. Further observation of the resident throughout the survey and the review of medical record did not reveal that Resident #242 sustained adverse effects from receiving extra fluids than was ordered. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/21/21 at 9:10 AM, the Registered Nurse Unit Manager (RN/UM) stated that nursing had a certain amount they were allowed to administer by shift. The RN/UM further stated the nurses should follow the physician's fluid restriction order and document on the eMAR the amount given on their shift. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/22/21 at 9:16 AM, the DON stated that the amount allotted to nursing was 280 ml and that staff were aware of the physician order. The DON further stated that the nurses may have included dietary liquids in with the nursing. DON stated the nurses should follow the physician order and should be documenting the amount of fluids allotted to nursing which was 120 ml for day and evening shift and 40 ml for the night shift. A review of Resident #242's March 2021 and April 2021 Progress Notes revealed no documentation that a change was made to the resident's order, reflecting that the order for 1000 ml of fluid per day was the only active order for the resident. A review of the facility's Fluid Restriction Policy, with the revision date of 01/12/21, reflected the purpose was to ensure fluids served by nursing and dietary services would not exceed a physician ordered fluid restriction. The policy further reflected that nursing would record the resident's fluid intake on the eMAR and ensure the total per 24-hour period did not exceed the specified amount. 3.) During the tour of the S1 unit on 04/13/21 at 10:42 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #242 seated in a geri-chair. Resident #242 stated that he/she had a wound to the sacral area that was currently being treated at the facility. The resident was unable to provide any additional information about the current status of the sacral wound. The surveyor observed a regular mattress applied to Resident #242's bed. A review of Resident #242's April 2021 Order Summary Report on 04/16/21 at 10:24 AM revealed an order dated 03/19/21, for air mattress on bed for pressure prevention. The order further instructed to check the setting and function on the air mattress every shift. On 04/14/21 at 10:45 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #242 resting in bed with the head of bed elevated. The surveyor observed that the resident did not have an air mattress applied to the bed. The surveyor made the same observation on 04/15/21 at 10:13 AM, 04/16/21 at 12:32 PM, 04/20/21 at 10:34 AM and 12:38 PM. Review of Resident #242's April 20201 Electronic Treatment Administration Records (eTAR) reflected the above 03/19/21 order for air mattress on bed for pressure prevention and to check the setting and function on the air mattress every shift. The April 2021 eTAR reflected that nurses documented the air mattress was present and that the setting and functioning were checked and verified on the following dates and shifts: 4/13/21: evening and night shifts. 4/14/21: day, evening, and night shifts. 4/15/21: day, evening, and night shifts. 4/16/21: day, evening, and night shifts. 4/17/21: day, evening, and night shifts. 4/18/21: day, evening, and night shifts. 4/19/21: day, evening, and night shifts. 4/20/21: day shift. During an interview with Resident #242 on 04/20/21 at 12:22 PM, Resident #242 was unable to provide information on the use of the physician ordered air mattress. During an interview with the surveyor on 4/20/21 at 12:27 PM, the CNA stated that Resident #242 required total assist with activities of daily living. The CNA further stated the resident previously had a wound that had since healed. The CNA was unable to provide information on the use of the physician ordered air mattress. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/20/21 at 12:31 PM, the LPN stated that she was regularly assigned to the S1 unit and that Resident #242's required total assist with activities of daily living. The LPN further stated the resident currently had an air mattress applied to bed and that it was checked on every shift daily. The surveyor requested the LPN to accompany surveyor to Resident #242's room to check the setting and functioning of the resident's air mattress. The LPN and the surveyor donned on the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and entered Resident #242's room. At which time, the LPN noted and confirmed that resident did not have an air mattress applied to the bed. During a follow up interview with the surveyor on 4/20/21 at 01:30 PM, the LPN stated that she did not know what happened to Resident #242's air mattress. The LPN further stated she did not know when it was discontinued and that she thought the air mattress was still on the resident's bed. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/21/21 at 9:10 AM, the RN/UM stated that wound rounds were completed on 04/13/21 and that the resident's air mattress was discontinued at that time. The RN/UM further stated that she should have discontinued the physician order when the air mattress was removed. The RN/UM stated that she expected the nurses to check the setting and function of the air mattress before signing off on the eTAR. The RN/UM was unable to provide an answer as to why the nurses continued to sign off on the air mattress order. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/22/21 at 09:16 AM, the DON stated the resident's wound was resolved on 04/13/21 and it was decided at that time to discontinue the air mattress. The DON stated that the nurses should have obtained an order to discontinue the air mattress. The DON further stated that she expected the nurses to check for the status of the air mattress before signing off on the eTAR. NJAC 8:39-27.1(a); 29.2 (c)
MINOR (B)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Assessment Accuracy (Tag F0641)

Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, interview and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Quarterly assessment was completed accurately. This was observed...

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Based on observation, interview and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Quarterly assessment was completed accurately. This was observed for 1 of 38 residents observed for MDS accuracy. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: According to the admission Record, Resident #20 was admitted to the facility with medical diagnoses that included left sided Hemiplegia (paralysis on one side of the body) and Hemiparesis (weakness of one side of the body) following a stroke. Review of the Quarterly MDS, an assessment tool, dated 04/14/21, revealed Resident #20 was cognitively intact, needed extensive assistance from staff for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) (transfers, dressing, toileting, personal hygiene and bathing). The 04/14/21 Quarterly MDS did not reflect an impairment to the upper or lower extremities. On 04/19/21 at 10:26 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #20 in bed eating breakfast. Resident #20 stated that he/she was unable to use his/her left side and his/her left hand was observed to be contracted, with very little movement. The surveyor observed the resident was eating with the right hand. On 04/19/21 at 10:42 AM, the surveyor reviewed Resident #20's Care Plan which indicated the resident required complete care from the staff for all Activities of Daily Living (ADLS). On 04/19/21 at 11:17 AM, the surveyor interviewed the MDS Coordinator who stated that because Resident #20 doesn't have an impairment of daily functions. The resident had no impairment that puts them at risk for injury or function because the resident doesn't get out of bed. The MDS Coordinator provided the surveyor with three pages of the CMS RAI 3.0 manual, pages G-36 through G-38, dated October 2019, which noted a specific example regarding one-sided impairment on a resident with left hemiplegia/hemiparesis from a prior stroke, and was able to use their right side. The RAI manual coded it as an impairment on one side, of the upper and lower extremity. The RAI manual noted coding should be upper extremity impairment on one side and lower extremity impairment on one side. The rationale was as follows: Impairment due to left hemiparesis/hemiplegia affects both upper and lower extremities on one side. The MDS Coordinator stated that because Resident #20 functions without limitations with the use of his right side, the resident should be coded as no impairment. The MDS Coordinator was unsure if the resident could perform his/her own ADLs, but stated that when you meet the resident, he/she is able to function and is not impaired, even though the resident cannot use the left side at all. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/19/21 at 12:00 PM, the Licensed Practical Nurse Unit Manager ( LPN UM) on 2 [NAME] Unit stated that Resident #20 had limited movement on the left side due to a stroke. The LPN UM stated that she would code Resident #20 as an impairment on one side of the upper and lower extremities. Resident #20 was asked in the presence of the LPN UM to move his/her left hand and left leg. Resident #20 stated that he/she was unable to move the left extremities since he/she was disabled. Resident #20 stated that if he/she had to move the left leg, he/she used the right leg to do so. Resident #20 stated that he/she was not able to move his/her left hand to rub his/her head or comb his/her hair. Resident #20 stated that he/she could use his/her right hand to do that, but his/her left side was not functional. During an interview with the surveyor on 04/20/21 at 09:34 AM, the Director of Nursing (DON) regarding the MDS for resident. The DON stated the staff was well aware of Resident #20's impairment and the resident was paralyzed on the left side. The facility policy Comprehensive RAI Process MDS/CAA/Plan of Care Guidelines not dated, noted under Purpose: The purpose of the RAI is to incorporate the identified medical, nursing, nutritional, rehabilitative, spiritual, and psychosocial needs of each resident into resident-centered goals and interventions to meet those needs. The RAI is a process that defines an interdisciplinary approach to resident assessment and development of an individualized plan of care to help the resident attain and maintain the highest practicable physical, mental and psychosocial well-being. Further noted under #3: The RNAC establishes a schedule for each subsequent assessment and reviews changes in residents as they occur to determine if a Significant Change MDS assessment is clinically warranted and #7: The MDS is completed through interview of the resident, resident representative and staff members and review of assessments and documentation. NJAC 8:39 (11.1)
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

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

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Licensed and certified facility. Meets minimum state requirements.
Concerns
  • • 24 deficiencies on record, including 1 serious (caused harm) violation. Ask about corrective actions taken.
  • • $67,732 in fines. Extremely high, among the most fined facilities in New Jersey. Major compliance failures.
  • • Grade F (35/100). Below average facility with significant concerns.
Bottom line: Trust Score of 35/100 indicates significant concerns. Thoroughly evaluate alternatives.

About This Facility

What is Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC an overall rating of 2 out of 5 stars, which is considered below average nationally. Within New Jersey, this rating places the facility higher than 0% of the state's 100 nursing homes. A rating at this level reflects concerns identified through health inspections, staffing assessments, or quality measures that families should carefully consider.

How is Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc Staffed?

CMS rates ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC's staffing level at 2 out of 5 stars, which is below average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 49%, compared to the New Jersey average of 46%.

What Have Inspectors Found at Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc?

State health inspectors documented 24 deficiencies at ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC during 2021 to 2025. These included: 1 that caused actual resident harm, 22 with potential for harm, and 1 minor or isolated issues. Deficiencies causing actual harm indicate documented cases where residents experienced negative health consequences.

Who Owns and Operates Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc?

ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by OCEAN HEALTHCARE, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 300 certified beds and approximately 290 residents (about 97% occupancy), it is a large facility located in BLACKWOOD, New Jersey.

How Does Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc Compare to Other New Jersey Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in New Jersey, ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC's overall rating (2 stars) is below the state average of 3.2, staff turnover (49%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (2 stars) is below the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "Can you walk me through typical staffing levels on day, evening, and night shifts?" "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" "Can I speak with family members of current residents about their experience?" These questions are particularly relevant given the below-average staffing rating.

Is Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC has a clean safety record: no substantiated abuse findings (meaning no confirmed cases of resident harm), no Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death), and is not on the Special Focus Facility watch list (a federal program monitoring the lowest-performing 1% of nursing homes). The facility has a 2-star overall rating and ranks #100 of 100 nursing homes in New Jersey. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc Stick Around?

ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC has a staff turnover rate of 49%, which is about average for New Jersey nursing homes (state average: 46%). Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc Ever Fined?

ELMWOOD HILLS HEALTHCARE CENTER LLC has been fined $67,732 across 1 penalty action. This is above the New Jersey average of $33,756. Fines in this range indicate compliance issues significant enough for CMS to impose meaningful financial consequences. Common causes include delayed correction of deficiencies, repeat violations, or care failures affecting resident safety. Families should ask facility leadership what changes have been made since these penalties.

Is Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center Llc on Any Federal Watch List?

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