CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0578
(Tag F0578)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the Practitioner Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST-used as directions to emergency health personnel in the event of cardia...
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Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the Practitioner Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST-used as directions to emergency health personnel in the event of cardiac or respiratory failure) was complete and code status (to resuscitate or not) orders were in place for one of six residents (Resident (R) 55) reviewed for advanced directives out of a total sample of 35 residents. This failure had the potential to negatively affect the dignity, designated wishes, and physical status of the resident in case of cardiac or respiratory arrest.
Findings include:
Review of R55's profile, located on the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed an admission date of 02/09/22 with a diagnosis of syncope and collapse, dementia in other disease classified elsewhere, unspecified severity, without behavioral disturbance, psychotic disturbance, mood disturbance and anxiety.
Review of R55's significant change Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an assessment reference date (ARD) of 08/09/22 revealed R55's had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 06, indicating R55 was severely cognitively impaired.
Review of R55's POLST (Practitioner Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form, located under the Miscellaneous tab of the EMR, revealed the following selections: under medical interventions when the person is breathing/has a pulse, limited treatment; under artificially administered nutrition no artificial nutrition was initially selected and then crossed out and defined trial period was selected and dated 05/19/22 (the form was otherwise undated). Further review revealed, under if the person has no pulse/is not breathing, Do not attempt resuscitation/DNAR (Allow Natural Death) and, if the person is in respiratory distress with a pulse, do not intubate, use oxygen were selected. The document revealed R55's daughter and a second surrogate decision were identified. The signatures section was blank, there were no representative signatures indicating they reviewed the form with a practitioner. There was no practitioner signature.
Review of R55's EMR Orders tab lacked documentation of a code status for R55.
During an interview with the Social Services Assistant (SSA) 07/26/23 at 2:18 PM, confirmed paperwork for the POLST had not been signed and R55 did not have a code status order. The SSA stated she spoke with the daughter yesterday and confirmed the DNAR status and it was now documented in R55's medical record that the resident is DNAR.
The POLST and advanced care planning policies were requested, and none were provided.
NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)4
NJAC 8:39-9.6(a)(b)
NJAC 8:39-35.2(d)14
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0583
(Tag F0583)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to provide privacy during per...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of facility policy, the facility failed to provide privacy during personal care for one (Resident (R)43) of 35 sampled residents.
Findings include:
Review of R43's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R43 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included schizophrenia.
Review of R43's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), with an assessment reference date (ARD) of 06/15/23 and located under the MDS tab of the EMR, revealed R43 scored a four out of 15 on her Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS), which indicated R43 was severely cognitively impaired. It was recorded, R43 required extensive assistance with bed mobility, transfers, dressing, and toilet use; limited assistance with personal hygiene; and was always incontinent of bladder and bowel.
During an observation on 07/23/23 at 11:11 AM, the door to R43 and R65's room was observed to be open. The privacy curtain was pulled to the end of the right side of R43's bed, and the resident was not seen from the hallway. The surveyor knocked on the door, heard someone say, come in, and then entered the room. Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) 1 was standing on the right side of R43's bed providing personal care and helping R43 dress. CNA1 pulled R43's top off, exposing her breasts. The privacy curtain between R43 and R65's bed was fully open. R65 was in her bed, with a full view of R43, and was watching CNA1 provide care to R43.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:16 AM, CNA1 stated the purpose of closing the privacy curtain was to provide privacy to residents during care. CNA1 stated she had made a mistake by not pulling the privacy curtain closed. CNA1 stated she did not always close the door to a resident's room during care because some residents did not like their door to be closed.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:44 AM, Unit Manager (UM) 1 stated it was her expectation that staff closed the privacy curtains while providing resident care.
Review of the facility's undated policy titled, Residents Rights Acknowledgment, revealed, . The resident has a right to personal privacy . Personal privacy includes . personal care .
NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)16
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
Transfer Notice
(Tag F0623)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure one of three residents (Resident (R...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure one of three residents (Resident (R) 27) reviewed for hospitalization out of a total sample of 35 residents and their resident representative were provided with a written transfer notice that stated the reason for transfer, the place of transfer, the name and contact information of the Ombudsman, and information concerning the right to appeal the transfer if desired. This failure had the potential to affect the resident and their Resident Representative (RR) by not having the knowledge of where and why a resident was transferred, and/or how to appeal the transfer, if desired.
Findings include:
Review of R27's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R27 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included history of falling and seizures.
Review of R27's Health Status Note, dated 07/22/23 at 3:44 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed, . At 7:26 AM, patient was standing by the elevator pressing its button when all of a sudden I saw patient lost his balance and fall backward and hit the back of his head against the wood of the wall of the nurses station. Patient was alert and confused, talking and blabbing. No physical injury noted. No bruises. No Hematoma. No shortness of breath noted. Patient denies pain . At 8:32 AM, pick up by EMT [emergency medical technician] Personnel . Did transfer hand over to . nurse at [hospital name withheld]. House nurse notified. [Family member] called and notified .
Review of R27's Summary for Providers, dated 07/22/23 and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed documentation of R27's vital signs, medical history, a summary of the events that occurred on 07/22/23, and the physician's order to send R27 to the hospital following the fall. The form did not include written notice to R27 or his representative of the reason for the transfer; the place of transfer; appeal rights; or the name, address, and telephone number of the Ombudsman.
Review of R27's entire EMR and hard chart revealed no documentation R27 or his representative had been provided a written transfer notice that contained the required information, included the effective date of the transfer, place of transfer, the reason for transfer, the Ombudsman's contact information, and notice of the right to appeal the transfer if desired.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 3:12 PM, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 1 stated that if a resident needed to be transferred to the hospital, the physician was called, orders were placed, documents from the medical record were prepared, vital signs were obtained, and the ambulance was called to pick the resident up. LPN1 stated a universal transfer form was completed listing all the resident's pertinent medical information and the name and contact number of the resident's representative. When asked if a transfer notice, containing all the required information, was provided to the resident and their representative, LPN1 stated he had no knowledge of that information being provided. LPN1 confirmed he did not provide the transfer notice information to R27 or his representative. LPN1 stated he notified R27's family member via telephone of the transfer, and that was all he did. LPN1 stated he did not know the facility's policy on providing the required transfer notice to the resident or representative.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 4:24 PM, Unit Manager (UM) 1 stated if a resident was able to understand at the time of discharge, the facility explained to them where they were going during an emergency transfer. UM1 stated staff would call the physician and the family before the resident left the facility and give report to the hospital where the resident was going. UM1 confirmed the facility did not provide written transfer notices when a resident was transferred to the hospital.
As of 07/25/23, R27 had not returned to the facility.
Review of the facility's policy titled, Transfer and Discharge (Including AMA [Against Medical Advice], revised 09/2022, revealed, . Provide transfer notice as soon as practicable to resident and representative . The policy did not address what information would be provided in the transfer notice to the resident or representative.
NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)31,32
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0625
(Tag F0625)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide one of three residents (Resident (...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide one of three residents (Resident (R) 27) reviewed for hospitalization out of a total sample of 35 residents and their representative written notice of the facility's bed-hold policy when the resident was transferred to the hospital. This failure created the potential for residents and/or responsible parties to not have the information needed to safeguard their return to the facility.
Findings include:
Review of R27's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R27 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included seizures, a history of falling, and hypertension.
Review of R27's Health Status Note, dated 07/22/23 at 3:44 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed, . At 7:26 AM, patient was standing by the elevator pressing its button when all of a sudden I saw patient lost his balance and fall backward and hit the back of his head against the wood of the wall of the nurses station. Patient was alert and confused, talking and blabbing. No physical injury noted. No bruises. No Hematoma. No shortness of breath noted. Patient denies pain . At 8:32 AM, pick up by EMT [emergency medical technician] Personnel . Did transfer hand over to . nurse at [hospital name withheld]. House nurse notified. [Family member] called and notified .
Review of R27's entire EMR and hard chart revealed no documentation R27 or his representative had been provided a written notice of the facility's bed-hold policy at the time of transfer.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 3:12 PM, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 1 confirmed he did not know a resident and their representative had to be provided written notice regarding the facility's bed-hold policy if the resident was sent to the hospital. LPN1 confirmed he did not provide such information when he sent R27 to the hospital.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 4:24 PM, Unit Manager (UM) 1 confirmed she had no knowledge of the requirement to provide written notice of the facility's bed-hold policy at the time of transfer.
As of 07/25/23 at 4:00 PM, R27 had not returned to the facility.
Review of the facility's policy titled, Transfer and Discharge (Including AMA [Against Medical Advice], revised 09/2022, revealed, . Provide a notice of the resident's bed hold policy to the resident and representative at time of transfer, if possible, but no later than 24 hours of the transfer .
NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)31
NJAC 8:39-5.3(b)
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Assessment Accuracy
(Tag F0641)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure accurate Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments for one of 35 sa...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure accurate Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments for one of 35 sampled residents (Resident (R) 119). Failure to code the MDS correctly can lead to inaccurate federal reimbursements and inaccurate assessment and care planning of the resident.
Findings include:
Review of R119's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R119 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included recurrent major depressive disorder and dementia.
Review of R119's Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Level 1 Screen, dated 11/16/22 and located under the Misc (Miscellaneous) tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R119 had a major mental illness diagnosis, had significant impairment in function related to the diagnosis, and had a positive mental illness screening. It was recorded a Primary Dementia Exclusion was requested for R119. The form recorded, . For an individual with a Positive Level I Screen for MI [mental illness] with a diagnosis of Dementia and the Dementia is primary or more progressed than the co-occurring MI, a referral to the DMHAS [Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services] for the PASRR Level II evaluation and determination is required prior to NF [nursing facility] admission .
Review of R119's PASRR Level II Determination Notification, dated 11/16/22 and located under the Misc tab of the EMR, revealed R119 was to have a psychiatric consult upon admission to the facility, routine follow-up visits with the primary care physician and psychiatrist, medication monitoring, supportive counseling, routine laboratory testing, formulation and implementation of a behavioral modification plant, and the development of a crisis intervention plan.
Review of R119's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 12/01/22, revealed R119 was coded as not being currently considered by the state level II PASRR process to have a serious mental illness.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 3:54 PM, the Social Services Director (SSD) confirmed R119 did have a positive screening for a serious mental illness. The SSD stated a Level II determination had been completed, and the information was in the EMR. The SSD stated the recommendations from the Level II determination were to be incorporated into R119's plan of care.
During an interview on 07/26/23 at 9:09 AM, the Regional MDS Coordinator (RMDSC) confirmed the MDS was coded incorrectly for R119.
Review of the RAI Manual, dated October 2019, indicated, The RAI process has multiple regulatory requirements. Federal regulation . require that the assessment accurately reflects the resident's status . A1500: Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) . Code 1, yes: if PASRR Level II screening determined that the resident has a serious mental illness . and continue to A1510, Level II Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Conditions . A1510: Level II Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Conditions . Code A, Serious mental illness: if resident has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness .
NJAC 8:39-11.2(e)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
PASARR Coordination
(Tag F0644)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to refer one (Resident (R) 57) of ten sampled residents reviewed for P...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to refer one (Resident (R) 57) of ten sampled residents reviewed for Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) out of a total sample of 35 residents for a Level II resident review after the resident experienced a significant change in status assessment related to new onset mental illnesses. This had the potential to cause R57 to not receive necessary mental health services.
Findings include:
Review of R57's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR) revealed R57 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included multiple sclerosis and hypertension.
Review of R57's Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Level I Screening Tool, dated 12/10/18 and located under the Misc (Miscellaneous) tab of the EMR, revealed R57 did not have a diagnosis or evidence of a major mental illness and had no significant impairment in functioning related to a suspected or known diagnosis of mental illness.
Review of R57's Diagnoses, listed under the Med Diag (Medical Diagnoses) tab of the EMR, revealed R57 was diagnosed as having adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct on 02/13/19 and with having unspecified psychosis not due to a substance or known physiological condition on 06/05/19, both during her stay at the facility.
Review of R57's entire EMR and hard chart revealed no documentation a new Level 1 PASRR screening had been completed after receiving the mental illness diagnoses or that R57 had been referred for a Level II resident review.
On 07/25/23 at 4:03 PM, the Social Services Director (SSD) confirmed the addition of the mental illness diagnoses for R57 were a change in condition for the resident and a new Level I PASRR and Level II resident review should have been completed at that time.
NJAC 8:39-11.2(i)
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0645
(Tag F0645)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure two of ten residents (Resident (R) ...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure two of ten residents (Resident (R) 43 and R95) reviewed for Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) out of a total sample of 35 residents had accurate screenings and/or were referred for a Level II review as required following a positive Level I screening. This had the potential to cause delay in receiving necessary mental health services for R43 and R95.
Finding include:
1. Review of R43's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R43 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included schizophrenia.
Review of R43's Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Level I Screening, dated 09/07/18 and located under the Misc (Miscellaneous) tab of the EMR, revealed documentation R43 did not have a serious mental illness and did not have significant impairment in functioning related to the diagnosis of a mental illness, and had not experienced one psychiatric treatment episode that was more intensive than routine follow-up care in the last two years.
Review of R43's Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Level I, dated 12/05/19 and located under the Misc tab of the EMR, revealed documentation R43 did have a serious mental illness, had significant impairment in functioning, and had experienced one psychiatric treatment that was more intensive than routine follow-up care and had at least one episode of significant disruption to her normal living situation requiring supportive services. It was documented R43's current location was a psychiatric hospital or unit. It was documented R43 had a positive screen for mental illness, and a 30-day exempted hospital discharge for a Level I positive screen was selected. The form recorded, . 30-day Exempted Hospital Discharge - Applies only to INITIAL NF [nursing facility] admission . NOT . NF readmission .
Review of R43's entire EMR and hard chart revealed no documentation a Level II resident review had been completed for R43.
On 07/25/23 at 3:54 PM, the Social Services Director (SSD) confirmed that neither of the Level I screenings completed for R43 were correct. The SSD confirmed that with the 09/07/18 screening, it should have been coded R43 did have a serious mental illness and had significant impairment in functioning related to the diagnosis. The SSD confirmed that with the 12/05/19 Level I screening, the 30-day Exempted Hospital Discharge request did not apply because R43 had already been admitted to the nursing facility. The SSD confirmed R43's screenings had been completed by people outside the facility but they should have been checked for accuracy by the facility. The SSD confirmed R43 should have had a Level II resident review.
2. Review of R95's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R95 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included schizophrenia.
Review of R95's Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Level I Screen, dated 10/27/21 and located under the Misc tab of the EMR, revealed R95 was determined to have a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, had significant impairments in functioning related to the known mental illness diagnosis, and had experienced one psychiatric treatment episode that was more intensive than routine follow-up care. It was recorded R95 had a Positive Screen MI (Mental Illness) Only. The form documented that for a Positive Screen MI Only, a referral to Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) was required. There was no documentation that any exceptions or exclusions had been requested.
Review of R95's entire EMR and hard chart revealed no documentation that the referral to DMHAS had been completed.
On 07/25/23 at 4:07 PM, the SSD reviewed R95's Level I PASRR and confirmed a referral should have been made for a Level II review. The SSD reviewed the EMR and R95's paper file and confirmed she could not find any information showing the referral had been made as required.
Review of the facility's policy titled, PASSR Policy and Procedure, reviewed 11/2022, revealed, . The Preadmission screening and Resident Review ensures that individuals are placed in the most appropriate setting for their needs . If the Level I is positive for serious mental illness then a copy of the Level I must be faxed to the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services . for a Level II Evaluation and Determination .
NJAC 8:39-11.2(i)
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0657
(Tag F0657)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, interviews, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure notification was provided for and care plan...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, interviews, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure notification was provided for and care plan meetings were conducted routinely for one (Residents (R ) R36) of a total sample of 35 residents.
Findings include:
R36's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the electronic medical record (EMR) under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and acute kidney failure. The document indicated R36 was her own responsible party (RP).
R36's quarterly Minimum Data Set assessment with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) assessment score of 14 out of 15 indicating R36 was cognitively intact.
Review of R36's comprehensive care plan indicated the plan of care was most recently revised with the resident's quarterly MDS assessment dated [DATE].
R36's Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) Notes, dated 03/30/23 and found under the Notes tab in the EMR, indicated a quarterly care planning meeting was held on that date with the resident present. There was no additional documentation in the resident's record to indicate a care planning meeting had been conducted with the resident since that date.
Comprehensive review of R36's EMR indicated nothing to show the resident had been invited to a care planning meeting since 03/30/23.
During an interview with R36 on 07/23/23 at 1:59 PM, she indicated she was her own RP and stated she did not recall having been invited to a care planning meeting with the Inter-Disciplinary Team (IDT) at any time recently. She indicated she would participate if invited.
During an interview with the Social Services Assistant (SS) on 07/25/23 at 7:47 PM, she indicated she was in charge of scheduling care planning meetings for residents. She stated if a care planning meeting had been held recently, documentation of the invitation to the meeting as well as notes from the meeting itself would be found in the progress notes in the EMR.
During an interview with the Regional Clinical Director (RCD) on 07/26/23 at 1:20 PM, she confirmed she was unable to locate any documentation to show R36 had been invited to a care planning meeting since 03/30/23, or that a care planning meeting had been held by the IDT for the resident since that date. The RCD stated her expectation was care planning meetings were to be conducted for residents at least quarterly and R36 should have been invited to the meeting and in attendance if she chose to be.
The facility's Residents Rights Policy, revised September 2022, read, in pertinent part, The resident has the right to participate in the development and implementation of his or her person-centered plan of care .and has the right to request meetings .and has the right to participate the establishment of expected goals and outcomes of care.
NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)3
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0685
(Tag F0685)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, interviews, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure broken hearing aids were repaired ...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, interviews, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure broken hearing aids were repaired for one of five residents (Resident (R)6) reviewed for hearing devices in a total sample of 35 residents.
Findings include:
Review of an undated Face Sheet, found in the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR) revealed R6 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including unspecified dementia.
Review of R6's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 05/19/23 revealed R6 was assessed as cognitively intact with a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 14 of a possible 15 points.
On 07/23/23 at 11:30 AM, R6 was observed in his room, sitting on the rollator. When screened in the initial pool portion of the survey R6 stated his main concerns were staffing, and that he had been asking for months for his hearing aids to be repaired. He stated the hearing aids don't work and had been stored on the nursing medication cart for months. When asked if he had alerted staff he said he told the Nurse Practitioner and the Activities staff. He stated the facility hadn't had a full time Social Worker (SW) for months. R6 said there had been some temp staff assisting, but nothing gets done.
A review of R6's EMR revealed his current physician orders had specific orders related to R6's bilateral hearing aids: 01/20/2017 .hearing aid accountability each shift .04/11/22 .hearing aids on in a.m. off at bedtime .09/30/22 Hearing aid to (bilateral right and left) ears ON in AM and OFF in PM every day and night shift Put on in AM and Remove in PM (Keep in Nurse's Cart)12/27/22 .Hearing aid to (bilateral) ears ON in AM and OFF in PM every day and night shift for Hearing loss .There were no SW notes to correspond with any of these orders.
Review of a Progress Note, found in the Progress Note tab of the EMR, revealed on 07/26/22 a nurse's note identified that R6's hearing aid was not functioning properly and a call was placed to the audiologist and was told .a rep [audiology representative] would be in by the end of the week to repair. R6 stated on 07/23/23 at 11:30 AM, that the hearing aids had never been fixed and were in the nurses' medication cart.
Continued review of the EMR revealed R6 had not received any SW assistance with his hearing aids. There were no social service visits in R6's EMR for over a year and none to respond to the multiple orders for his hearing aids to be repaired.
On 07/25/23 the Social Services Staff (SS) member was asked about R6's hearing aids and stated the hearing aids needed batteries. When asked if batteries had been provided SS stated as far as she knew they had not, she had been out on medical leave, but she would speak to the resident, and take care of that immediately. When asked if coverage was provided while she was out, she stated the facility had been trying to hire full time SW, but there were only temporary fill-ins while she was out for maternity leave.
On 07/26/23 at 3:35 PM the Interim Director of Nursing was asked if she felt the medically appropriate services had been provided to R6 related to his hearing aids. Her response was to shrug her shoulders and say, I guess not - I'm interim until the DON's licensure issues are resolved and I don't know a lot of the things that I'm being asked.
Review of a facility policy titled Vision and Hearing Services, revised 09/20/22, revealed It is the policy of this facility to ensure residents have access to and receive proper treatment and assistive devices to maintain hearing and vision abilities .2. Employees should refer any identified need for hearing and vision services/appliances to the Social Worker (SW)or designee .3. The social worker or designee is responsible to assist residents and/or families in locating and utilizing any available resources for the residents hearing and vision needs .Assistive devices to maintain hearing include but are not limited to hearing aids and amplifiers .
NJAC 8:39-27.5(a)
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
Pharmacy Services
(Tag F0755)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide routine pain medications as ordere...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interview, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide routine pain medications as ordered by the physician for one of 35 sampled residents (Resident (R) 61). This had the potential to cause unrelieved pain for R61.
Findings include:
Review of R61's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R61 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included post-traumatic stress disorder, stage 4 pressure ulcer of the sacral region, and adult failure to thrive.
Review of R61's Care Plan, dated 12/23/21 and located under the Care Plan tab of the EMR, revealed R61 had pain related to depression and a pressure ulcer. Interventions included administering pain medication as ordered.
Review of R61's Physician Orders, dated 01/17/22 and located under the Orders tab of the EMR, revealed R61 was to receive hydrocodone-acetaminophen (Norco, a narcotic pain medication) 5/325 milligrams (mg) one tablet by mouth four times daily for pain, at 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 9:00 PM.
Review of R61's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), with an assessment reference date (ARD) of 07/04/23 and located under the MDS tab of the EMR, revealed R61 scored an 11 out of 15 on the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS), which indicated R61 was moderately cognitively impaired. It was recorded R61 received scheduled pain medications and had received an opioid pain medication on seven of the preceding seven days.
Review of R61's Medication Administration Notes, dated 05/08/23 at 5:00 PM through 05/11/23 at 9:34 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed documentation R61 did not receive Norco 5/325 mg four times daily as ordered by the physician. It was documented the medication had not been delivered by the pharmacy and that a total of 14 doses were missed.
Review of R61's Medication Administration Notes, dated 05/28/23 at 9:28 AM through 05/28/23 at 9:43 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed documentation R61 did not receive Norco 5/325 mg four times daily as ordered by the physician. It was documented the medication had not been delivered by the pharmacy and that a total of four doses were missed.
Review of R61's Medication Administration Notes, dated 06/06/23 at 1:55 PM through 06/06/23 at 9:27 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR and Medication Administration Records (MARs), dated 06/06/23 and located under the Orders tab of the EMR, revealed documentation R61 did not receive Norco 5/325 mg four times daily as ordered by the physician. It was documented the medication had not been delivered by the pharmacy and that a total of three doses were missed.
Review of R61's MARs, dated 06/14/23 from 5:00 PM through 9:00 PM and located under the Orders tab of the EMR, revealed documentation R61 did not receive Norco 5/325 mg four times daily as ordered by the physician and missed two doses of the medication.
Review of R61's Medication Administration Notes, dated 06/14/23 at 9:06 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed, . Medication was re-ordered on 6/12/23, resident receive medication four times a day. Today 6/14/23, when nurse noticed medication was not yet delivered, nurse placed a call to pharmacy regarding medication refill, as per pharmacy tech . a script is needed for the refill. Nurse then placed a call to resident's primary [physician name withheld] to request the script in order to refill the medication, the doctor expressed anger toward nurse and demanded the DON [Director of Nursing] to call him. Unit Manager notified and called DON, unable to leave message .
Review of R61's MARs, dated 06/15/23 at 9:00 AM through 9:00 PM, revealed documentation R61 did not receive Norco 5/325 mg four times daily as ordered by the physician. There were a total of four doses that were missed.
Review of R61's Medication Administration Notes, dated 07/16/23 at 2:11 PM through 07/17/23 at 9:00 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed documentation R61 did not receive Norco 5/325 mg four times daily as ordered by the physician. There were a total of seven doses that were missed. It was documented that the facility was awaiting delivery of the medication from the pharmacy.
During an interview on 07/24/23 at 2:00 PM, R61 confirmed he did have pain and there were times, sometimes days, when he did not receive his pain medication. R61 stated the pain was not unbearable but it would have been better if he had his pain medication.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 9:56 AM, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 1 stated the facility's process for reordering narcotic medications was to take the sticker off of the medication card and either contact the pharmacy through telephone, computer, or fax and reorder the medication. LPN1 stated the pharmacy should be called to see if there was a valid prescription on file if the medication was a narcotic, and if not, the physician should be contacted to send a new prescription to the pharmacy. LPN1 stated staff might have to call the physician for a prescription but the pharmacy could call the physician as well. LPN1 stated if the medications did not arrive, staff should call the pharmacy. LPN1 stated the reason R61 went without his medications was because the pharmacy needed prescriptions for the refills, and they had difficulties in getting the prescriptions.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:03 AM, Registered Nurse (RN) 1 stated medications, including narcotics, should be reordered when the supply was down to the last row on the medication card. RN1 stated that with narcotics, staff was supposed to call the pharmacy and ensure there was a refill available. RN1 stated if there was not a refill, the physician was to be called. RN1 stated if the medications did not arrive in time, staff could see if there was a supply in the emergency medication kit located on the fourth floor.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:24 AM, the Medical Director confirmed his expectation was for staff to notify him if they were having a problem receiving medications from the pharmacy or with other physicians writing prescriptions for narcotic medications. The Medical Director stated, They could call me, and I would cover and go after the primary [physician].
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:29 AM, Unit Manager (UM) 1 stated the process for reordering narcotics consisted of reordering via computer, fax, or phone call when the supply was low. UM1 stated if a prescription was needed for the refill, the nurse might not know unless they called the pharmacy. UM1 stated if medications, including narcotics, were not available for a resident, the policy was for the staff member to check the emergency medication kit located on the fourth floor and then call the physician and let them know if a prescription was needed immediately. UM1 stated her expectation was for the staff to let her know if a medication was not available, and she would call the doctor herself to get a prescription. UM1 confirmed the emergency medication kit should have Norco in it but that R61 had not received any medication from the emergency medication kit.
Continuing with the interview on 07/25/23 at 10:29 AM, UM1 reviewed R61's medical record and stated she had called the nurse practitioner herself on 07/16/23 when R61 went without his pain medication for two days. UM1 confirmed she did not contact the Medical Director for his assistance at that time. UM1 stated the pharmacy and trying to obtain prescriptions were the problems with R61's medications. UM1 confirmed she had not involved the Medical Director in trying to ensure R61 had his pain medications.
During an interview on 07/26/23 at 3:19 PM, the Pharmacy Consultant confirmed narcotic refills should be called or faxed in at least three days before the supply ran out. The Pharmacy Consultant stated if a prescription was needed, the pharmacy would contact the physician.
Review of the facility's policy titled, Controlled Substances Policy, revised 08/2022, revealed no documentation related to the reordering of narcotic medications.
NJAC 8:39-29.2(d)
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
Drug Regimen Review
(Tag F0756)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff interviews, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure the appropriate nursing/phys...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff interviews, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure the appropriate nursing/physician response/follow-up to pharmacist recommendations were completed for one (Resident (R)46) of five residents reviewed for unnecessary medication in a total sample of 35 residents.
Findings include:
R46's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the electronic medical record (EMR) under the Profile tab, revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and history of stroke.
R46's significant change Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 06/12/23, indicated a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) of 15 out of 15 indicating R46 was cognitively intact.
R46's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, revealed orders for Heparin Sodium (Porcine) Injection Solution 5000 UNIT/ML (milliliter).
Inject 5000 unit subcutaneously (into the resident's fatty tissue) every 12 hours for Anticoagulant. The order indicated an initial order date of 06/07/23.
R46's Anticoagulant Therapy Care Plan, dated 06/12/23 and found in the EMR under the Care Plan tab, indicated, [R46] will be free from adverse reactions related to anticoagulant use through the review date. Interventions included, Monitor/document/report to MD [Medical Doctor] PRN [as needed] s/sx [signs/symptoms] of anticoagulant complications: blood tinged or frank blood in urine, black tarry stools, dark or bright red blood in stools, sudden severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle joint pain, lethargy, bruising, blurred vision, SOB [shortness of breath], Loss of appetite, sudden changes in mental status, significant or sudden changes in v/s [vital signs]; and Resident/family/caregiver teaching to include the following: Take/give medication at the same time each day, Use soft toothbrush, Use electric razor, Avoid activities that could result in injury, Take precautions to avoid falls, Signs/symptoms of bleeding, Avoid foods high in Vitamin K. These include greens such as spinach and turnips, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, milk and cheese.
Review of R46's Pharmacy Consult Therapeutic Suggestions Report, dated 06/09/23 and provided directly to the survey team, indicated a recommendation to include a time duration for the administration of the resident's heparin.
Documentation of follow-up by the facility/resident's physician related to the pharmacist's recommendation or any attempt to add a time duration for the administration of R46's Heparin could not be found in the resident's record.
During an interview with the Interim Director of Nursing (iDON), the incoming Director of Nursing (DON), and Regional Clinical Director (RCD) on 07/25/23 at 3:57 PM, they confirmed the pharmacist was in the facility monthly to review every resident's medication regimen. The DON indicated she received the recommendations monthly via email and was then responsible for distributing the recommendations to the appropriate unit for follow-up. The iDON indicated she was then responsible for following up to ensure a response was received for each recommendation. The DON indicated it was her expectation that a response was received and initiated within 10 days of the pharmacist's recommendation. The DON and iDON indicated they had nothing to show a response to R46's pharmacy recommendation dated 06/09/23 after the initial recommendation was made and the DON indicated her expectation was follow-up should have occurred to ensure the resident was not receiving heparin unnecessarily for too long.
During an interview with the Pharmacy Consultant on 07/26/23 at 9:57 AM, she indicated she was in the facility monthly to review resident medications and stated she had been having some trouble with getting a facility response to her recommendations. She stated she sent her report out every month on the following business day after her visit to the facility for facility/physician follow-up. She stated, The concern is not receiving timely response [to her recommendations] from both the physician and nursing [staff]. The third floor [the floor on which R46 resided] doesn't have a unit manager and so that floor is more of a challenge. The Pharmacy Consultant stated, I usually want them [residents] to switch to oral [anticoagulants] if [they are] on Heparin if I see they have been on it a while [longer than a month].
The facility's Pharmacy Consultant Services Policy dated 09/2022 read, in pertinent part, It is the policy of this facility to use outside resources to furnish pharmacy services for each resident in order to identify irregularities and respond to those irregularities in a timely manner to prevent the occurrence of an adverse drug event.
NJAC 8:39-29.2(d)
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0757
(Tag F0757)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure one (Resident (R)46) of five residents reviewed for u...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure one (Resident (R)46) of five residents reviewed for unnecessary medication out of a total sample of 35 residents did not receive Heparin (an injectable anticoagulant) for longer than generally recommended after a surgical procedure.
Findings include:
R46's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the electronic medical record (EMR) under the Profile tab, revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and history of stroke. The resident was readmitted to the facility on [DATE] after a hospitalization for surgery on his digestive system.
R46's significant change Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 06/12/23, indicated a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) of 15 out of 15 indicating R46 was cognitively intact.
R46's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, revealed orders for Heparin Sodium (Porcine) Injection Solution 5000 UNIT/ML (milliliter).
Inject 5000 unit subcutaneously (into the resident's fatty tissue) every 12 hours for Anticoagulant. The order indicated an initial order date of 06/07/23.
R46's Anticoagulant Therapy Care Plan, dated 06/12/23 and found in the EMR under the Care Plan tab, indicated, (R46) will be free adverse reactions related to anticoagulant use through the review date. Interventions included, Monitor/document/report to MD (Medical Doctor) PRN (as needed) s/sx (signs/symptoms) of anticoagulant complications: blood tinged or frank blood in urine, black tarry stools, dark or bright red blood in stools, sudden severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, , diarrhea, muscle joint pain, lethargy, bruising , blurred vision, SOB (shortness of breath), Loss of appetite, sudden changes in mental status, significant or sudden changes in v/s (vital signs); and Resident/family/caregiver teaching to include the following: Take/give medication at the same time each day, Use soft toothbrush, Use electric razor, Avoid activities that could result in injury, Take precautions to avoid falls, Signs/symptoms of bleeding, Avoid foods high in Vitamin K. These include greens such as spinach and turnips, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, milk and cheese.
R46's Pharmacy Consult Therapeutic Suggestions Report, dated 06/09/23 and provided directly to the survey team, indicated a recommendation to include a time duration for the administration of the resident's heparin.
Documentation of follow-up by the facility/resident's physician related to the pharmacist's recommendation or any attempt to add a time duration for the administration of R46's Heparin could not be found in the resident's record.
During an interview with the Interim Director of Nursing (iDON), the incoming Director of Nursing (DON), and Regional Clinical Director (RCD) on 07/25/23 at 3:57 PM, the DON stated the administration of injectable Heparin was based on the resident's condition and the doctor's recommendation. She stated it was important for the doctor to receive and review pharmacy recommendations to ensure medications like Heparin were not administered for too long of a duration (usually no longer than 30 days).
During an interview with the Pharmacy Consultant on 07/26/23 at 9:57 AM, she indicated she stated, I usually want them [residents] to switch to oral [anticoagulants] if [they are] on Heparin and I see they have been on it a while [longer than a month].
During an interview with R46's Physician/Medical Doctor (MD 1) on 07/25/23 at 1:53 PM, he indicated he was very familiar with the resident and stated, regarding the administration of the resident's Heparin, I can't remember heparin orders off hand. He is a terrible risk for DVT [blood clot]. He is on mini dose (of Heparin) .You're right. I should have changed it [to an oral anticoagulant]. I do have to concede to the heparin [discontinuing it]. I will change it [the resident's anticoagulant order].
NJAC 8:39-29.2(d)
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 F0567
(Tag F0567)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews, the facility failed to ensure the timely availability of personal resident funds for one ...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews, the facility failed to ensure the timely availability of personal resident funds for one (Resident (R )21) of three residents reviewed for access to personal funds out of a total sample of 35 residents. The facility's banking hours were limited to Monday through Friday and residents did not have access to their money on weekends or on the same day if requested outside of the posted banking hours.
Findings include:
The facility's banking hours, posted in the hallway across from the nurse's station on each unit, indicated the facility's banking hours were Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
R21's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the electronic medical record (EMR) under the Profile tab, revealed R21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including emphysema and chronic respiratory failure.
R21's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 06/04/23, indicated a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 14 out of 15 indicating R21 was cognitively intact.
During an interview with R21 on 07/24/23 at 9:54 AM, she stated, If you need money you can go downstairs [to the Administrator to request it] and then it takes a while [to receive the money]. Last time I requested money I had to wait a week. We can only get money Monday through Friday. If you want money to spend on a weekend you have to [request it] on Friday.
During an interview with the Regional Business Office Manager (BOM) on 07/26/23 at 11:51 AM, she indicated there was not a BOM working in the facility but that the BOM position was a regional position, and she was responsible for managing several facilities. She indicated she was the BOM who was in charge of the facility, but day to day money management was handled by the facility's Administrator. She stated the residents' personal funds cash was kept in the Administrator's office but that when funds were requested by a resident the money was expected to be available the same day, including on weekends.
During an interview with the Administrator on 07/26/23 at 12:08 PM, he confirmed the cash used for resident fund requests was kept in his office and stated, This is the advice we give. If they [residents] want money on the weekend, they need to let us know on Friday. If they [residents] have to have it [money] on the weekend they have to let me know on Friday.
NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)10
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
Safe Environment
(Tag F0584)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to ensure a clean and sanitary environment for five of 35 sampled residents (Resident (R) 43, R83, R95, R20, and R61) and one (Cherry Blossom) o...
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Based on observation and interview, the facility failed to ensure a clean and sanitary environment for five of 35 sampled residents (Resident (R) 43, R83, R95, R20, and R61) and one (Cherry Blossom) of two treatment carts located on the second floor.
Findings include:
1. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 11:11 AM, R43's room was observed. The bed frame and overbed table frame were noted to have a buildup of dirt and debris. The wall behind the head of the bed was noted to have gouges. The floor was noted to be sticky.
2. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 1:56 PM, R83's room was observed. The overbed table frame and the bed frame were noted to have a buildup of dirt and debris. The floor around the perimeter of the bed was noted to be sticky.
3. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 2:43 PM, R95's room was observed. The overbed table frame, bed frame, and the front of the bedside table were noted to have a buildup of dirt and debris. The paint was chipping from the frame of the overbed table. The front of the television was noted to have splatters of an unknown substance.
4. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 6:05 PM, R20's room was observed. The overbed table frame and bed frame were noted to have a buildup of dirt and debris. The three-drawer bedside table had missing handles on the first and third drawers. Numerous splatters were observed on the wall behind the head of the bed, and the floor was sticky.
5. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 6:47 PM, R61's room was observed. The bed frame and overbed table were noted to have a heavy buildup of dirt and debris. There was a large buildup of dirt and debris under the bed. The oxygen concentrator was observed to have splatters, stains, and a buildup of debris on the front of the machine. The floor was sticky, and there was a hole in the wall behind the door where the doorknob came in contact with the wall.
During an interview on 07/23/23 at 12:01 PM Housekeeper (HSK) 1 stated she cleaned the rooms five days per week. HSK1 stated each day she swept, mopped, cleaned the overbed table, dusted, and cleaned the sink and toilet. HSK1 stated she cleaned the bed frames and overbed table frames daily.
6. During an observation and interview on 07/26/23 at 10:11 AM, the treatment cart for Cherry Blossom was noted to have dried spills down both sides of the cart. The top had numerous dried splatters of some substance, and the platform was observed to have a heavy buildup of dust and debris. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 2 stated the treatment carts were cleaned every two weeks by the housekeeping department.
7. During an observation and interview on 07/26/23 at 10:30 AM through 10:50 AM, the Administrator, Housekeeping Director (HSKD), and Regional Director of EVS (RDEVS) toured Hibiscus Highway on the second Floor and the following were noted:
At 10:33 AM, the HSKD stated R61's room was scheduled for a complete clean. The HSKD stated the debris and stains on the oxygen concentration should have been cleaned during the daily cleaning. The HSKD, Administrator and RDEVS stated the hole in the wall was not the responsibility of the housekeeping department but should have been reported and fixed.
At 10:36 AM, the HSKD stated R83's room needed some work and needed to be cleaned.
At 10:38 AM, the HSKD stated he did not know why the paint was chipping on R95's overbed table frame. He stated it might be the chemicals that were used to clean it. The RDEVS confirmed there were splatters on the front of the television, and it needed to be cleaned. The RDEVS stated the floor was sticky, but that could be due to the chemicals that were used to clean with. The HSKD confirmed the room and equipment needed to be cleaned thoroughly.
At 10:40 AM, R43's room was toured. The HSKD confirmed the bed and overbed table needed to be cleaned.
At 10:42 AM, R20's room was toured. The HSKD confirmed the bed frame and overbed table frame needed to be cleaned, the splatters on the wall should be cleaned if possible, and the drawer handles on the bedside table repaired.
At 10:44 AM, the HSKD confirmed the treatment cart for Cherry Blossom was dirty and needed to be cleaned. The HSKD stated it was the responsibility of the housekeeping department to clean bed frames, overbed tables, the outside of the treatment carts, the general environment, and the oxygen concentrators. The HSKD, Administrator, and Regional Director of EVS confirmed the housekeeping concerns.
During an observation, interview, and record review on 07/26/23 at 10:45 AM, the RDEVS stated there was a list of rooms located at the nurses' station that were designated for high priority room cleaning, indicating they were to be cleaned first with special attention. Taped to the wall at the nurses' station was a form titled, Hi Priority Room Cleaning, dated 07/2023. R83 and R20's room were listed on the form as high priority for cleaning.
NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)11
NJAC 8:39-31.8(e)
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
ADL Care
(Tag F0677)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide three residents (Re...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, interviews, record review, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide three residents (Resident (R)28, R88, and R36) who were unable to carry out activities of daily living (ADLs) the necessary services to maintain grooming, and personal hygiene out of a total sample of 35.
Findings include:
1. Review of an undated Face Sheet, found in the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R28 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including schizophrenia, unspecified dementia, and Parkinson's disease.
R28's annual Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 07/16/23 assessed R28 as severely cognitively impaired with a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of eight of a possible 15 points. R28 was ambulatory via wheelchair and required extensive one person/staff assist with toileting, bathing, and hygiene.
On 07/23/23 at 10:30 AM, R28 was observed in her room, on her bed, and calling out for assistance in Spanish. Her privacy curtain was partially opened and when approached she pointed angrily at her brief which was soaked with urine and stool seeped out of the leg openings of the brief. Her bedside table was cluttered including a breakfast tray not yet picked up. R28's call light was not accessible as she yelled out to be changed in Spanish. The call light was found on the floor behind the bed. The Unit Manager/Licensed Practical Nurse (UM1) was working the other end of the hall but stopped to locate a Certified Nurse Aid (CNA) to assist R28, and stated, there is only one CNA on this floor today with more than 50 people to get up. A follow-up visit an hour later confirmed R28 had been changed and her demeanor was much improved.
2. Review of an undated Face Sheet, found in the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R88 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including Alzheimer's disease, abnormal/ unsteady gait, history of falls, and unspecified dementia.
R88's quarterly MDS assessment with an ARD of 05/16/23 assessed R88 with moderate cognitive impairment with a BIMS score of 11 of a possible 15 points. R88 was independently ambulatory in her room and used a wheelchair for distance. R88 required extensive one person/staff assist with toileting, bathing, and hygiene.
Observation on 07/25/23 at 9:30 AM revealed R88 was dressed and (R28's roommate) lying on her bed with a strong urine odor present. When asked, R88 nodded to indicate she was wet/soiled and pulled her shirt up to reveal a urine-soaked brief. The call light was initiated by R88 on request. After 10 minutes this writer looked to see if staff were in the hallway to respond to the call light. The LPN3 assigned to care for the residents on R28's and R88's hallway was located in Dayroom [ROOM NUMBER] on her cell phone. LPN3 was advised that R88 required assistance with her hygiene. LPN3 entered R88's room four minutes later. When LPN3 entered the room, R88 was exiting the bathroom with no brief on and pulling up her soaked pants. LPN3 instructed R88 to go back in the bathroom to put on a dry brief but did not offer assistance or provide dry clothing. CNA3 was passing in the hallway and stopped to assist R88 with her hygiene and clean clothes. CNA 3 was assigned to the other end of the hall, and not specifically to R28 and R88. CNA3 stated she was nearby and came to help R88. CNA3 stated everybody had to pitch in when we are short staffed and she worked both halls and was familiar with R28 and R88.
Observation on 07/26/23 at 9:45 AM revealed R88 and R28 were in their room. R88 was lying on top of her bed and was asked if she was going to a 10 o'clock activity in the dayroom. She said no and pointed to her groin area to reveal she was in a soaked brief and pants, so she didn't want to leave her room.
On 07/26/23 at 11:30 AM the Interim Director of Nursing (iDON) was interviewed regarding the ADL concerns for R28 and R88. She stated, R88 couldn't be wet because she [iDON] was just in there . When advised that one of the two women in that room had been found (by this writer) with soiled briefs each day of the survey, the iDON stated, .well, she's a heavy wetter . When pushed further for an interview the iDON stated .I am only interim while the new DON get her licensure issues worked out . when asked about staffing she stated, yes, she was a nurse but, no, she had not worked the floor to assist with the staffing shortages. 3. R36's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and acute kidney failure.
R36's quarterly MDS assessment, with an ARD of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15,indicating R36 was cognitively intact. The MDS assessment indicated R36 required assistance from one staff member to bathe/shower.
Review of R36's Activities of Daily Living Care Plan, dated 03/30/23 and found in the EMR under the Care Plan tab, indicated the resident was at risk for self-care deficit related to bathing. Interventions included maintain consistent schedule with daily routine and provide assistance with ADLs as needed.
R36's undated Daily Rhythm of Life Document, found in the ADL book at the nurses station, indicated the resident's preference was to bathe on the day shift (7 AM to 3 PM) on Mondays and Fridays.
R36's Stop and Watch Forms (staff documentation of resident bathing), dated 07/01/23 through 07/26/23 and found in the ADL book at the nurses station, indicated R36 received baths/showers on 07/09/23, 07/10/23, 07/11/23, 07/20/23, 07/21/23 and 07/24/23. There was no documentation in the resident's record to indicate R36 refused to shower/bathe during the referenced time frame.
During an interview with R36 on 07/23/23 at 2:03 PM, she stated she had not received a shower in who knows how long. She further stated, There is no staff, and if no staff .no shower. That's the way it is.R36 was observed to be unkempt during the interview and her hair appeared oily.
During an interview with the Interim Director of Nursing (iDON) on 07/25/23 at 3:48 PM, she indicated her expectation was residents receive baths/showers at least twice weekly/per their preference and that all shower/bath documentation was kept at the nurses' stations in ADL books. She indicated refusals to bathe/shower were expected to be documented in each resident's progress notes in the EMR. The iDON indicated residents were scheduled for bathing by room number and the schedule was also kept in the ADL books at the nurses' stations.
A review of an undated facility policy titled ADL Care revealed Policy: It is the policy of this facility to provide ADL care to residents requiring such assistance to ensure all ADL needs are met on a daily basis .each residents physical functioning will be assessed .the level of ADL assistance required will be included on the residents care plan .a variety of approaches will be utilized in assisting residents with dementia .
NJAC 8:39-27.2(g)(h)(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 F0679
(Tag F0679)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of an undated Face Sheet, found in the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R88 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] wit...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of an undated Face Sheet, found in the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R88 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including Alzheimer's disease, abnormal/ unsteady gait, history of falls, and unspecified dementia. R88's quarterly MDS assessment with an ARD of 05/16/23 assessed R88 with moderate cognitive impairment with a BIMS score of 11 of a possible 15 points. R88 was independently ambulatory in her room and used a wheelchair for distance. She required supervision and cueing for some of her Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), and extensive one person/staff assist with toileting, bathing, and hygiene.
Observations of R88 on 07/23/23 at 2:30 PM revealed she was in her room sitting on the bed. She did not have anything to occupy or entertain her. R88 stated, .nothing to do .sit here all day and do it again tomorrow . R88 was ambulatory and could participate in many activities with some encouragement and cueing to keep her on task. She enjoys trying to help others.
4. Review of an undated Face Sheet, found in the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R97 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including unspecified psychosis, mood/adjustment disorder, and sepsis with metabolic encephalopathy.
R97's MDS assessment with an ARD of 07/01/23 assessed R97 as cognitively intact with a BIMS score of 15 of a possible 15 points. R97 was ambulatory via wheelchair and required supervision by one person/staff assist with toileting, bathing, and hygiene. R97 was able to self-direct his activities but the thing he planned his day around was smoking. He stated that . other than smoking and tv there is absolutely nothing to do and they won't even let me go outside to feed the birds .
A group meeting was conducted with six cognitively intact residents on 07/24/23 at 11:00 AM.
The group agreed that staffing is their primary issue, and it interferes with their ability to enjoy activities, or go outside on nice days, or just get the care they need, especially on night shift. The activity calendar was reviewed, and the group stated they rarely followed the calendar and there was little to do to occupy their interests. The residents from the third floor stated there are activities scheduled every day at 10:00 AM, and activity staff don't even arrive until 11:00 AM. The group identified activities as a concern in the group meeting in May and were told there would be more outdoor activities, and new board games and puzzles were to be provided for resident use. They were told that the group could choose a special meal at least monthly, but they haven't received any follow up about any of those things
NJAC 8:39-7.3(a)
2. Review of R43's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R43 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included schizophrenia, hypertension, and unstable angina.
Review of R43's annual MDS with an ARD of 09/15/22 and located under the MDS tab of the EMR, revealed R43 scored a nine out of 15 on the BIMS which indicated R43 was moderately cognitively impaired. It was recorded it was very important to R43 to listen to music she liked, be around animals such as pets, do things with groups of people, do favorite activities, and go outside to get fresh air when the weather is good. It was also recorded R43 required extensive assistance with bed mobility and transfers.
Review of R43's Care Plan, revised 03/23/23 and located under the Care Plan tab of the EMR, revealed, . attends all activities and is assisted as necessary .
Review of the facility's Activity Calendar, dated 07/23/23 and provided by the Activities Director, revealed the following activities were scheduled for R43's floor:
10:00 AM - Rise and Shine Café
10:30 AM - Anagrams
2:15 PM - Karaoke
During an observation and interview on 07/23/23 at 11:11 AM, Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) was observed providing personal care for R43. CNA1 confirmed R43 had not been out of bed to attend the activities at 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM.
During a continuous observation on 07/23/23 from 1:39 PM through 2:30 PM, R43 was observed in her bed. R43's television was not on, and there was no music playing. Staff did not enter her room during that time, and R43 did not attend the Karaoke activity.
Review of R43's Record of Record of One-to-One Activities and Resident Participation Record, dated 07/23/23 and provided by the Activities Director (AD), documented R43 had independent activity pursuits and watched television on 07/23/23.
Review of the facility's Activity Calendar, dated 07/24/23 and provided by the Activities Director, revealed the following activities were scheduled for R43's floor:
10:15 AM - Move to the Groove
10:30 AM - Guess Who?
2:15 PM - Balloon Volleyball
During observations on 07/24/23 at 10:15 AM, 10:30 AM, and 2:15 PM, R43 was observed in her bed. R43 did not attend the scheduled activities for the day, and there was no television or music playing in her room.
Review of R43's Record of Record of One-to-One Activities and Resident Participation Record, dated 07/24/23 and provided by the Activities Director (AD), documented R43 had independent activity pursuits and watched television on 07/24/23.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:08 AM, CNA1 confirmed R43 liked to attend most activities but she had been the only aide on R43's floor on 07/23/23 and she did not have time to get R43 up to attend the activities.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 5:11 PM, Unit Manager (UM) 1 was asked why R43 was not taken to activities on 07/23/23 and 07/24/23. UM1 confirmed there was not enough staff to get R43 up to get her to activities.
Based on record review, interviews, and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide a consistent program of preferred and planned activities for four (Residents (R)21, R43, R88, and R97) of seven residents reviewed for activities out of a total sample of 42 residents. Activities were not provided routinely for residents per their assessed preferences due to a lack of both nurse and activities staffing. In addition, activities posted on the activities schedule on the facility's third floor were not provided per the posted schedule.
Findings include:
The facility's Third Floor Activity Calendar, posted in the hallway across from the nurses' station, indicated the following scheduled activities during the survey period: Sunday 07/23/23 10:30 AM Anagrams and 2:15 PM Would You Rather, Monday 07/24/23 10:15 AM Move to the Groove, 10:30 AM Karaoke Fun, 2:15 PM BINGO, and 2:15 PM Balloon Volleyball, and Tuesday 07/25/23 10:15 AM Tone Up Tuesday, 10:30 AM Balloon Volleyball, 2:15 PM Afternoon Movie, and 4:00 PM Room Visits/Sensory Stimulation.
1. R21's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the electronic medical record (EMR) under the Profile Tab, revealed R21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including emphysema and chronic respiratory failure.
R21's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 06/04/23, indicated a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 14 out of 15, indicating R21 was cognitively intact. This MDS assessment indicated R21 required extensive assistance from staff to transfer in and out of bed and her wheelchair.
R21's Activities Care Plan, dated 06/04/23 and found in the EMR under the Care Plan tab, indicated the resident engaged in group activities when not pursuing self-directed leisure. The resident's preferred activities were listed as reading, socializing, Resident Council, menu planning, video chatting, going outside when the weather was nice, crossword puzzles, parties, socials, and bingo. Interventions included: Provide with activity calendar monthly and Staff provide independent leisure materials of choice.
R21's Life Enrichment Evaluation, dated 03/07/22 and found in the EMR under the Evaluations tab, indicated it was Very Important for the resident to: do things with groups of people, listen to music she liked, do her favorite activities, and go outside to get fresh air when the weather is good and Somewhat Important for the resident to: have books, newspapers, and magazines to read, be around animals such as pets, and keep up with the news. Preferred activity pursuits on the assessment included games, crafts, sports, talking/conversing, walking/wheeling outdoors, music, reading/audio books, writing, baking/cooking, trips/shopping, TV viewing, watching movies, groups/club organizations, and parties/social events. The resident's indicated preferred activity setting was Day/Activity Room.
R21's Activity Participation Logs were not able to be located anywhere in the resident's record or in the Activity Logbook kept by the facility's Interim Activities Director.
R21 was observed lying in her bed or in her wheelchair on 07/23/23 at 10:59 AM, on 07/24/23 at 9:51 AM, 12:01 PM, and 3:49 PM, and on 07/24/23 at 9:33 AM, 10:25 AM, 10:46 AM, and 12:03 PM. R21 was not engaged in any scheduled activities during the observations. The resident's television set was on during all the observations.
None of the scheduled activities listed on the published and posted third floor Activity Calendar, with the exception of the 10/25/23 10:30 AM Balloon Volleyball Activity, were observed to be offered on the facility's third floor. Observation of the 10/25/23 Balloon Volleyball activity revealed three residents invited and participating in the activity, which was conducted at 11:15 AM rather than 10:30 AM since the Activities Assistant assigned to the third floor on that date had working hours of 11:00 AM until 7:00 PM. One of the residents observed attending the activity slept through the entire activity and no attempt was made by the activity assistant to awake and involve the resident in the activity.
During an interview with R21 on 07/23/23 at 10:59 AM, she stated she was not able to get out of bed on that day to attend any activities because there was not enough (nursing) staff. She stated, Only one aide and two nurses (are working today) so they told her can't get me up. I have to stay in bed today. This happens frequently.
During an interview with R21 on 07/24/23 at 9:51 AM, she stated, They [the facility] don't have anything [activities] on the weekends. Every weekend is like that. They [activities staff] will put something on the calendar but none of it happens. They don't have enough people. A lot of people stay in bed [instead of attending activities].
During an interview with R21 on 07/24/23 at 12:01 PM, she indicated none of the scheduled activities (per the posted activity calendar) had happened that morning. She stated she had been up out of bed and would have attended activities if they had been offered that morning.
During an interview with R21 on 07/24/23 at 3:49 PM, she stated BINGO had been on the activity calendar for that afternoon at 2:30 PM, but the activity had not happened. She stated, They did not do [the scheduled] balloon volleyball at 2:15 [PM], either. No one has been here to invite me to anything.
During an interview with R21 on 07/25/23 at 10:31 AM, the resident indicated she would have liked to attend the morning's scheduled activities (Tone-Up and Balloon Volleyball), however she was still in bed since nursing staff had not been in to get her up into her wheelchair yet that morning and so was unable to attend. She stated she had not been asked if she would like to participate in activities yet that morning, and stated she did not want to stay in bed but would rather get up and attend activities.
During an interview with the Interim Activities Director (iAD) on 07/25/23 at 1:44 PM, she indicated she had been the interim director of activities since 04/02/23 and stated activities were scheduled to begin every morning at 10:30 AM. She stated different activities were scheduled each day. She stated morning activities were scheduled between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM and then afternoon activities were scheduled between 2:15 PM and 3:00 PM. The last activity in the morning is 10:30 to 11:00 and then afternoon 2:15 until 3:00. The iAD stated her expectation was activities were to be offered based on the calendar for each unit on the weekend as well as during the week. She stated activity participation logs were kept for each resident to document attendance at activities.
During a follow-up interview with the iAD on 07/25/23 at 2:41 PM, she stated she had not been able to find activity participation logs for any of the residents residing on the facility's third or fourth floor, including R21, from 04/02/23 through 07/25/23. She indicated her expectation was the Activity Aides would invite residents to activities, conduct the activities, and then document resident attendance at the activities. The iAD stated each floor had a different activities calendar each month, but some activities were provided jointly for the third and fourth floors. She stated if a joint activity was to occur, it was conducted in the Lounge on the third floor. The iAD confirmed BINGO had not been offered at all per the schedule on 07/24/23 and stated it was supposed to have been offered on the third floor on that day.
During an interview with the iAD and Activity Assistant (AA) AA1 on 07/25/23 at 2:58 PM, AA 1 indicated he frequently worked on the third floor, was familiar with residents on the unit, and stated R21 enjoyed activities like reading, word searches, and BINGO. He stated his work hours were 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM and indicated morning activities were not offered on the floor he was working on each shift until after his arrival at 11:00 AM. The iAD confirmed morning activities were not being provided on the floor AA 1 was working on each shift since he did not arrive at work until after the scheduled morning activities were to be offered.
During an interview with the Regional Activities Director (RAD) on 07/25/23 at 3:19 PM, she stated it was her expectation the activities calendar be followed for each floor. She stated, If it is on the calendar, it should be happening. Unless there is an emergency. She further stated resident attendance at all activities was expected to be recorded in the Activity Attendance Log. She stated activities staff was expected to be in the building and on the unit inviting residents to activities 15 to 30 minutes prior to the beginning of each activity to encourage residents to attend.
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 F0700
(Tag F0700)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of R95's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R95 was admi...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. Review of R95's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the electronic medical record (EMR), revealed R95 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included schizophrenia, anxiety, major depressive disorder, and seizures.
Review of R95's Physician's Orders, dated 10/27/21 and located under the Orders tab of the EMR, revealed an order for bilateral half bed rails as an enabler for positioning.
Review of R95's quarterly MDS with an ARD of 05/21/23 and located under the MDS tab of the EMR, revealed a BIMS was not attempted due to R95 rarely/never understood and that R95 had long and short-term memory problems. It was recorded R95 required extensive assistance with bed mobility, transfers, and walking; was dependent on staff for eating, personal hygiene, and bathing; and did not walk.
Review of R95's Care Plan, dated 06/21/23 and located under the MDS tab of the EMR, revealed a focus related to R95 being found lying between her mattress and side rail. The goal was R95 would remain safe. Interventions included to reinforce the use of padded side rails at all times. Further review of R95's care plan revealed no focus, goals, or interventions related to R95's use of side rails.
Review of R95's Side Rail Assessment, dated 05/08/23 and located under the Evaluations tab of the EMR, revealed R95 was non-ambulatory, was not comatose, had a history of falls, demonstrated poor bed mobility or difficulty moving to sitting position on the side of the bed, had poor balance or poor trunk control, took medications which required safety precautions, was not using the side rail for positioning or support, and previous interventions included lowering the bed to the floor, providing frequent staff monitoring at night, and periodic assistance to toileting for R95 at night. It was recorded that the recommendation for R95 was to use half side rails on each side of the bed.
Review of R95's Health Status Note, dated 06/21/23 at 9:28 PM and located under the Progress Notes tab of the EMR, revealed, . Around 5:30 pm resident was observed lying between her bed mattress and the siderail, resident unable to give description, resident was assessed head to toe, no apparent injury noted, v/s [vital signs] stable, resident remains alert, with no sign of pain, no seizure activity noted . resident was properly repositioned in bed and made comfortable, safety/seizure precaution maintained, staff continue to monitor .
During an observation on 07/23/23 at 11:06 AM, R95 was observed lying in bed. There were half side rails in the up position on each side of the bed. R95 was moving about bed without intention.
During an observation on 07/23/23 at 2:43 PM, R95's bed was observed. The left side rail was noted to be padded and loose. When the left side rail was pushed away from the mattress, a gap measuring six inches was created between the mattress and the side rail.
During an interview on 07/23/23 at 2:50 PM, Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) 1 confirmed R95 did not use her side rails to reposition in the bed.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 9:12 AM, Unit Manager (UM) 1 stated the facility utilized an assessment on admission and conversations with the resident and the resident's family in order to determine if siderails would be used for a resident. UM1 stated R95 had been admitted to the facility prior to her employment but she knew R95 had a history of seizures, and the side rails had most likely been implemented due to the seizures. UM1 stated on 06/21/23, R95 had turned herself sideways in the bed and was found by staff with her head resting on the padded left side rail. UM1 stated that was one reason she reinforced the use of the padding on the side rails. UM1 stated she would not confirm the side rail was an accident hazard for R95 because whether R95 was in her bed or in her geriatric chair, R95 would turn herself around. UM1 stated staff had to constantly reposition R95. UM1 stated she ensured the side rails were not a risk for R95 by padding them and making frequent rounds.
Continuing with the interview on 07/25/23 at 9:12 AM, UM1 stated the facility's policy related to the use of side rails was to determine medical necessity before side rails were used. UM1 stated R95 was no longer able to transfer herself or assist with positioning while in the bed. UMCC stated she and the MDS Coordinator were responsible for ongoing assessments and evaluations to determine if side rails were appropriate for any resident. UM1 confirmed the medical record contained no documentation to show what the medical necessity was for the use of side rails for R95. UM1 was asked to provide the informed consent for the use of side rails with R95. UMCC stated she believed the informed consent was completed on admission and she was unsure if the document was still in R95's clinical record.
During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 9:42 AM, UM1 and the surveyor observed R95's side rails. UM1 was shown the gap between R95's mattress and left side rail. UM1 stated, It's an accident hazard. UM1 confirmed the left side rail was loose and needed to be tightened. UM1 stated it was her expectation that staff notify her and maintenance when a side rail was noted to be loose.
During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 12:38 PM, the Maintenance Director (MD) and Regional Director of Plant Operations (RDPO) observed R95's side rail. The MD confirmed the left side rail was loose, needed to be tightened, and had a gap greater than four inches. The MD stated there should be no gap or a bolster should be placed in the gap area. The MD stated staff was expected to call, page, or text with any concerns such as loose side rails or gaps between mattresses and side rails.
On 07/26/23 at 10:06 AM, UM1 stated it was her responsibility to develop a comprehensive care plan related to the use of side rails. UM1 confirmed that R95's care plan did not address the use of side rails.
On 07/26/23 at 12:21 PM, the Interim Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed the facility could not find any informed consents for the use of side rails for R95.
4. Review of R20's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R20 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included Parkinson's disease, vascular dementia, and repeated falls.
Review of R20's Physician Order, dated 09/2021 and located under the Orders tab of the EMR, revealed . Half Side Rails up x [times] 2 .
Review of R20's Care Plan, revised 01/26/22 and located under the Care Plan tab of the EMR, revealed a focus related to the use of bilateral half side rails as a positioning enabler. It was documented R20 had been educated on the risks and benefits of bilateral half side rails and provided consent for the use of the rails.
Review of R20's annual MDS, with an ARD of 05/24/23, revealed R20 had a BIMS score of 13 out of 15, which indicated R20 was cognitively intact. It was recorded R20 required extensive assistance with bed mobility, transfers, dressing, toileting, personal hygiene, and bathing. It was recorded R20 had no functional limitations in range of motion and bed rails were not in use.
Review of R20's Side Rail Assessment, dated 07/11/23 and located under the Evaluations tab of the EMR, revealed R20 was non-ambulatory, was not comatose, had demonstrated poor bed mobility or difficulty moving to a sitting position on the side of the bed, had poor balance or poor trunk control, had postural hypotension, was on medications which would require safety precautions, currently used the side rail for positioning or support, had not expressed a desire to have the side rails raised while in bed for their own safety or comfort, and had not expressed a desire to have side rails not be released while sleeping. There was no recommendation marked related to if side rails were recommended and if so, what type.
Review of R20's EMR and hard chart revealed no documentation related to the medical necessity for the use of bilateral side rails or an informed consent related to the use of the side rails.
During an observation and interview on 07/23/23 at 11:34 AM, R20 was observed in her bed. The bed had padded half side rails in the up position on each side. CNA1 was assisting R20 with personal care. CNA1 stated R20 was unable to transfer to the side of the bed independently, roll independently, and did not use the side rails as a positioning enabler. R20 was unable to answer any questions related to orientation.
During an observation on 07/23/23 at 11:49 AM, the left side rail on R20's bed was observed to be loose and unsecure. The side rail would move greater than one inch in all directions when in the up and locked position.
During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 9:12 AM, UM1 stated R20 had been using bilateral side rails since admission. UM1 stated when R20 was sleeping, she could not control her movements. UM1 stated the side rails were used for safety and to help prevent falls. UM1 confirmed R20 could not intentionally roll in bed or transfer herself. UM1 was asked what the facility's policy was related to the use of side rails. UM1 stated it depended on the resident or the family or if the rails were medically necessary. UM1 stated she could not recall any interventions that had been attempted before using side rails on R20's bed. UM1 stated she did not know if there was an informed consent for the use of side rails with R20. UM1 and the surveyor observed R20's side rails. UM1 confirmed R20's left side rail was loose and moved more than one inch in all directions when in the up and locked position.
4. Review of R43's admission Record, located under the Profile tab of the EMR, revealed R43 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included schizophrenia, hypertension, and unstable angina.
Review of R43's Physician's Order, dated 01/23/20 and located under the Orders tab of the EMR, revealed, . Bilateral side rail x 2 .
Review of R43's Side Rail Assessment, dated 04/06/21 and located under the Evaluations tab of the EMR, revealed R43 was non-ambulatory, was not comatose, had a history of falls, demonstrated poor bed mobility or difficulty moving to a sitting position on the side of the bed, had difficulty with poor balance or poor trunk control, took medications which would require safety precautions, and expressed a desire to have side rails raised while in bed for her own safety and/or comfort. Interventions included lowering R43's bed to the floor and periodic assistance with toileting at night. Recommendations were listed as bilateral half rails. Review of R43's EMR and hard chart revealed no documentation of a more recent side rail assessment.
Review of R43's Care Plan, revised 12/23/21 and located under the Care Plan tab of the EMR, revealed a focus related to the use of bilateral half side rails. It was recorded R43 knew the risks and benefits of having bilateral side rails and that they were used for safety to promote R43's independence. It was documented R43 provided consent for the use of the side rails.
Review of R43's quarterly MDS, with an ARD of 06/16/23 and located under the MDS tab of the EMR, revealed R43's BIMS score was four out of 15, which indicated R43 was severely cognitively impaired. It was recorded R43 required extensive assistance with bed mobility, transfers, dressing, and toileting.
During an observation on 07/23/23 at 11:11 AM, R43 was observed lying in bed. Bilateral half side rails in the up position were noted on the bed. The side rails were noted to be loose and would move greater than one inch in all directions when pushed. The bed was not in the lowest position.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 9:15 AM, UM1 confirmed R43 could not transfer herself to the side of the bed and required extensive assistance with bed mobility. UM1 stated R43 did not use the bed rails on her bed. UM1 confirmed there was no medical reason listed in the clinical record for the use of side rails, that the latest side rail assessment was 04/06/21, and there was no signed informed consent contained in the medical record. UM1 confirmed side rail assessments were to be completed quarterly and stated she did not know why there was not one since 04/06/21. UM1 stated informed consents for the use of side rails were obtained on admission to the facility.
During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 9:42 AM, UMI confirmed R43's bilateral side rails were loose, unsecure, and moved more than one inch in all directions when in the up and locked position.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 3:36 PM, the Interim Director of Nursing (DON) and Regional Nurse confirmed side rail assessments should be completed upon admission and quarterly thereafter. The Regional Nurse stated the side rails should be reassessed if there were any incidents and informed consents for the use of side rails should be obtained yearly. The Regional Nurse confirmed a comprehensive care plan should be developed for the use of side rails.
The facility's Proper Use of Side Rails Policy; most recently revised in 09/2022, read, in pertinent part, It is the policy of the facility to utilize a person-centered approach when determining the use of side rails; and 3. If after an attempted alternative to side/bed rails has been made, and the alternatives do not meet the resident's needs, the facility shall: a. Evaluate the alternatives and document how these alternatives failed to meet the resident's assessed needs. If there is no appropriate alternative, document reason. b. Assess the resident for risks of entrapment, and other risks associated with the use of side/bed rails. c. Obtain informed consent from the resident, or the resident representative for the use of bed rails, prior to installation/use. d .and f. Obtain physician's orders for the use of side rails; and 5. The use of side rails will be specified in the residents plan of care.
NJAC 8:39-27.1(a)
Based on record review, interviews, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure the use of side rails was assessed, physician's orders obtained, care plans developed, and/or informed consent obtained for the use of side rails for five (Residents (R )5, R36, R95, R20, and R43) of eleven residents who were reviewed for accidents out of a total sample of 42 residents.
Findings include:
1. R5's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and polyneuropathy.
R5's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD)of 07/06/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) assessment score of 15 out of 15 indicating R5 was cognitively intact. The assessment indicated R5 required limited assistance from staff to complete all of his Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including transfers in and out of bed, and indicated bed rails were not in use for the resident.
Review of R5's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, revealed orders for the resident to have bilateral half rails applied to his bed as an enabler for positioning.
Review of R5's comprehensive care plan, dated 07/06/23 and found in the EMR under the Care Plan tab, indicated no care plan to address the resident's use of side rails.
R5's most recent Side Rail Assessment, dated 06/29/23 and found in the EMR under the Evaluation tab, indicated the resident was to have bilateral side rails placed on his bed to be used for an enabler for positioning in bed.
Comprehensive review of R5's record revealed nothing to show informed consent had been obtained for the resident's use of side rails.
R5 was observed in his room lying in bed or seated in his wheelchair on 07/23/23 at 1:53 PM, and on 07/25/23 at 9:36 AM, 10:44 AM, and 11:30 AM. The resident's bed was observed to have bilateral half side rails installed at the head of the bed. The resident stated he used his side rails for positioning in bed as well as to transfer in and out of bed to wheelchair.
2. R36's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and acute kidney failure.
R36's quarterly MDS assessment, with an ARD of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15 indicating R36 was cognitively intact. The assessment indicated the resident required extensive assistance from staff to complete all her Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including transfers in and out of bed, and indicated bed rails were not in use for the resident.
Review of R36's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, revealed orders for the resident to have bilateral half rails applied to her bed as an enabler for positioning.
Review of R36's comprehensive care plan, dated 03/30/23 and found in the EMR under the Care Plan tab, indicated no care plan to address the resident's use of side rails.
R36's most recent Side Rail Assessment, dated 02/21/23 and found in the EMR under the Evaluation tab, indicated the resident was to have bilateral side rails placed on her bed to be used for and enabler for positioning in bed.
Comprehensive review of R36's record revealed nothing to show informed consent had been obtained for the resident's use of side rails.
R36 was observed in her room seated in bed or on the side of her bed on 07/23/23 at 2:06 PM, on 07/24/23 at 10:17 AM, and on 07/25/23 at 9:33 AM. The resident's bed had bilateral quarter rails installed at the head of the bed. The resident stated she used her side rails for positioning in her bed as well as to transfer in and out of her bed to her wheelchair.
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 F0725
(Tag F0725)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff and resident interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure sufficient staffing to m...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff and resident interviews, and record reviews, the facility failed to ensure sufficient staffing to meet the needs of the 141 residents in the facility. Five residents (Resident (R) 21, R36, R97, R17, R83, and R5) and staff members Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA 1), the facility's Medical Director, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN anonymous), and Unit Manager (UM) 1 voiced concerns regarding sufficient staffing, and the facility exhibited multiple failures related to a lack of sufficient staffing throughout the survey.
Findings include:
1. Review of the facility's 07/24/23 Resident Census and Conditions of Resident, provided on paper by the Interim Director of Nursing, revealed the facility had a current census of 141 residents. Of those residents, 45 were dependent with bathing, 31 were dependent with dressing, 39 were dependent with transferring, 39 were dependent for toilet use, and 20 were dependent for eating. Additionally, 94 residents required assistance of one to two staff with bathing, 100 required assistance with dressing, 75 required assistance with transferring, 72 required assistance with toilet use, and 56 required assistance with eating. There were 83 residents who were occasionally or frequently incontinent of bladder, 64 residents with dementia, and 41 residents received antipsychotic medications.
Upon entry to the facility on [DATE] at 9:30 AM, there were two nurses and one aide observed on the 2nd floor to care for 49 residents. There were two nurses and one aide on the 3rd floor to care for 60 residents.
2. During Initial Pool interviews and observations, five residents voiced concerns related to a lack of sufficient staffing:
a. R21's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the electronic medical record (EMR) under the Profile Tab, revealed R21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including emphysema and chronic respiratory failure.
R21's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 06/04/23, indicated a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 14 out of 15 indicating R21 was cognitively intact.
During an interview with R21 on 07/23/23 at 10:59 AM, she stated she was not able to get out of bed on that day to attend any activities because there was not enough (nursing) staff. She stated, Only one aide and two nurses [are working today] so they told me they can't get me up. I have to stay in bed today. This happens frequently [on the weekends].
During an interview with R21 on 07/24/23 at 9:51 AM, she stated, They [the facility] don't have anything [activities] on the weekends. Every weekend is like that. They [activities staff] will put something on the calendar but none of it happens. They don't have enough people. A lot of people stay in bed [instead of attending activities due to lack of nursing staff on the weekends].
b. R36's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and acute kidney failure.
R36's quarterly MDS assessment, with an ARD of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS Tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15 indicating R36 was cognitively intact.
On 07/23/23 at 11:26 AM, R36 stated there was not enough staff to care for the residents. R36 stated there was only one aide to care for the residents on the 3rd floor.
During an interview with R36 on 07/23/23 at 2:03 PM, she stated she had not received a shower in who knows how long. She further stated, There is no staff, and if no staff .no shower. That's the way it is. The resident was observed to be unkempt during the interview and he hair appeared oily.
c. On 07/23/23 at 12:40 PM, R97 stated there was only one aide and two nurses on the 3rd floor. R97 stated the residents who smoked could not go smoke because there were not enough staff for supervision.
d. R17s admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile Tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including Multiple Sclerosis.
R17's admission MDS assessment, with an ARD of 06/08/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS Tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15 R17 was cognitively intact.
During an interview conducted with R17 on 07/23/23 at 1:01 PM, she stated there were not enough nursing staff on most days. She indicated she was not able to get out of bed as frequently as she wanted to because of frequent lack of nursing staff and stated, We [residents] need help. It [the lack of nursing staff] isn't fair for the staff or for us [residents]. It [staffing shortage] used to be just on weekends but now it's most days. I'm supposed to be in my [wheelchair] twice a week at least. I only get in my chair once a month when my brother visits [because of lack of staffing]. They [nursing staff] have to have two staff and a lift to get me up, so I don't get up. They'll probably say I don't want to get up [out of bed] but that's not true.
e. On 07/23/23 at 1:42 PM, R83 and her family member stated there was not enough staff to meet the residents' needs. The family member stated they had made many complaints about the staffing but nothing was done. R83 stated she did not feel like the aides gave her a thorough bath because they did not have time to do so.
f. R5's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile Tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and polyneuropathy.
R5's admission MDS assessment, with an ARD of 07/06/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS Tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 15 out of 15 indicating R5 was cognitively intact.
During an interview with R5 on 07/23/23 at 10:48 AM, he stated, There are two nurses and one CNA for this entire floor today. R5 indicated staffing had been very short on the weekends since his admission on [DATE].
3. Additional concerns related to short staffing were voiced by the staff during the survey:
During an interview with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) LPN 5 on 07/23/23 at 11:56 AM, she indicated there were almost 60 residents on the third floor and there were only two nurses and one CNA working the day shift to take care of everyone on the floor and stated, Staffing is like this [the observed one CNA and two nurses on the third floor] frequently on the weekend. Then us [sic] nurses can't do our job because we have to act as an aide. It is hard. Like today there aren't enough people to get everyone up, so residents will have to stay in bed.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:08 AM, Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) 1 stated the facility might put two aides on the schedule for the 2nd and 3rd floors, but only one would show up. CNA1 stated she was unable to provide the care the residents needed by herself. CNA1 stated it was all she could to do just keep the residents clean, and sometimes she could not do that.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:27 AM, the facility's Medical Director confirmed, The facility is chronically understaffed.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:44 AM with a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), who wished to remain anonymous, stated the facility had been hiring staff but they did not stay. The LPN stated one aide could not care for all the residents on the 2nd or 3rd floor. The LPN stated, It's impossible.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 3:10 PM, Unit Manager (UM)1 reported the family member of R20 had showed up with an ambulance and transferred R20 to a different facility because of the staffing concerns.
During an interview with LPN 4 and Unit Clerk (UC) UC 1 on 07/25/23 at 10:55 AM, both stated, Weekends are bad for staffing. LPN 4 stated she worked every other weekend in the facility and though there were supposed to be at least five CNAs scheduled on the third floor, there were typically only one or two CNAs actually working on Saturdays and Sundays on the third floor. LPN 4 stated the staffing observations made by the survey team on Sunday 07/23/23 were typical for the facility. LPN 4 stated, We need hands to be able to take everyone out [get everyone up from their beds] and so it happens where we cannot get everyone out of bed [on the weekends] and we get as much done as we can with ADLs/baths with the people [residents] we have but can't always get it [ADL care/bathing] done.
During an interview with CNA 3 on 07/25/23 at 11:04 AM, she indicated she worked full time on the third floor and was scheduled to work every other weekend. She stated nursing staffing was low on the weekends. She stated, It happens that we have one or two aides on the weekends. I have had that happen more than two times recently. They offer a bonus if we come in. They ask people to come in but because of the shortage sometimes people don't want to come in. CNA 3 indicated showers could be done for residents who were ambulatory when staffing was short, but residents who were dependent upon staff to get out of bed were given bed baths on weekends when there was not enough staff.
During an interview with an anonymous frequent visitor to the facility/family member on 07/25/23 at 12:28 PM, she indicated she visited the facility most days and stated, The weekends are terrible here for staff. I come here every weekend. I was [the resident's] care giver at home. I can't take care of him at home anymore, but he is my father! I found him in urine last weekend. He was soaked. During the week they have staff. It's the weekends that are the problem.
4. During the survey from 07/23/23 through 07/26/23, the following deficient practices related to insufficient staffing were identified:
The facility failed to maintain residents' privacy during care in their rooms. Cross-reference F583: Personal Privacy/Confidentiality of Records.
The facility failed to provide adequate and timely incontinence care. Cross-reference F677: Activities of Daily Living Care Provided for Dependent Residents.
The facility failed to provide an individualized program of activities for dependent residents. Cross-reference F679: Activities Meet the Interests/Needs of Each Resident.
The facility failed to have a qualified activities director. Cross-reference F680: Qualifications of Activity Professional.
The facility failed to obtain informed consents, failed to conduct side rail evaluations, and failed to develop care plans related to the use of side rails. Cross-reference F700: Side Rails.
The facility failed to have a full-time Registered Nurse (RN) Director of Nursing (DON) from 06/01/23 through 07/11/23. Cross-reference F727: RN 8 Hours/7 days/Week, Full Time DON.
The facility failed to have sufficient/competent staff to meet the behavior health needs of residents. Cross-reference F741: Sufficient/Competent Staff for Behavioral Health Needs.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 4:44 PM, the Administrator stated the facility had a mock survey on 07/20/23 where it had been identified the facility had a staffing shortage. The Administrator stated, We've known about it for a while but identified it again on Thursday. The Administrator verbalized the facility was attempting to look at long-term staffing needs. The Administrator was asked why the unit managers, the Director of Nursing, and himself were not present at the facility on 07/23/23 when the survey began if they were aware of the staffing shortage. The Administrator did not comment. The Administrator was asked why the corporate nurses were not assisting in caring for the residents if it was known there was a staffing shortage. The Administrator did not comment.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 7:09 PM, the Interim DON reported the facility did not have a policy on sufficient staffing. The Interim DON stated the facility staffed related to the state requirements to the best of their ability.
NJAC 8:39-25.2(a)(b)
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
Menu Adequacy
(Tag F0803)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on resident council interview, staff interview, and record review, the facility failed to
follow the menu and provide men...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on resident council interview, staff interview, and record review, the facility failed to
follow the menu and provide menus for meal selection for four (Resident (R)5, R21, R36, and R46) of 35 sampled residents. This deficient practice had the potential to affect 137 out of 141 (four residents received tube feedings) residents not affording them the opportunity to choose foods from the menu but instead receive whatever was being served.
Findings include:
On 07/23/23 at 10:32 AM during a tour of the kitchen, review of the menu for lunch revealed, BBQ Pork Lion, Country vegetable blend, baked beans, cornbread, margarine, and strawberry shortcake. The alternative was hamburger steak with grilled onions, brown gravy, seasoned spinach, and mashed potatoes.
Observations of lunch on 07/23/23 at 12:30 PM revealed resident received BBQ Pork Lion, or hamburger steak, (no onions or gravy), country vegetable blend and mashed potatoes with ice cream. Residents were upset that strawberry shortcake was not provided as indicated.
Observations of dinner on 07/24/23 at 4:30 PM revealed baked chicken, beef patty, sauteed green beans, mashed potatoes, and ice cream. The menu was country fried steak with mushroom gravy, sauteed green beans, mashed potatoes, dinner roll/bread, margarine, and vanilla ice cream. The alternative included garlic baked pork chop, buttered whole kernel corn (veg), and parsley noodles.
During an interview on 07/24/23 at 4:33 PM with the Registered Dietician (RD) revealed whenever there is a menu substitution, we have a substitution for that must be competed and I am required to sign off on the substitution. Staff can reach me or the other dietician to discuss menu substitutions.
Review of the menu substitution log revealed the last substitution was noted on 06/22/23 although observations on 07/23/23 revealed menu substitutions.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:56 AM with the Director of Dining (DM), Assistant Director of Dining (ADM), and the Ambassador of Dietary Services (ADS), revealed when substitutions must be made to the menu, they are written on the substitution log. When asked how residents know about the substitution, the ADM indicated when they [residents] get their trays. 1. R5's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and polyneuropathy.
R5's admission MDS assessment, with an ARD of 07/06/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 15 out of 15 indicating R5 was cognitively intact.
Review of R5's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, indicated orders for a Controlled Carbohydrate Diet and a 2-gram sodium restriction.
Review of R5's Food Preferences Assessment, dated 07/26/23 and provided directly to the survey team, indicated No food refusals, or specific likes or dislikes.
R5 was observed eating his lunch in his room on 07/23/23 at 1:41 PM. The resident was served two hot dogs with beans. The resident's menu indicated he was to be served strawberry shortcake and cornbread with his meal, but neither were observed on the resident's meal tray. R5 stated, The menu had strawberry shortcake and corn bread and I did not get either of them today. We haven't been getting cookies or cakes for weeks now. The food is horrible. If we don't want what is on the menu, they give us whatever they choose. They ran out of coffee this morning. They keep telling us the ice machine is broken. We don't get ice a lot.
During an interview with R5 on 07/25/23 at 9:15 AM, he stated, Dinner last night was pork chops, and they were like rocks. The lunch peas yesterday were cold/almost frozen. This morning they ran out of sugar packets. They only have aspartame. They won't get it [regular sugar] until tomorrow, so I had no sugar with my oatmeal this morning.
R5 was observed eating his lunch in his room on 07/25/23 at 12:23 PM. The resident was served a double portion of peas, chicken, potatoes, and gravy. The resident's menu indicated he was to be served a chocolate chip cookie, but no cookie was observed to be served with the resident's meal. The resident instead received two small cups of diced peaches. R5 stated, Them potatoes look like a rock in the garden. I don't know what those are. I was given pink sugar [Aspartame packets] instead of regular sugar and I don't like that pink stuff. I get regular sugar. They say they are out of it [sugar]. Those potatoes? Oh No I won't touch that.
2. R21's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed R21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including emphysema and chronic respiratory failure.
R21's quarterly (MDS with an ARD of 06/04/23, indicated a BIMS score of 14 out of 15 indicating R21 was cognitively intact.
Review of R21's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, indicated orders for a regular diet with no salt packet served on tray.
Review of R21's Food Preferences Assessment, dated 07/26/23 and provided directly to the survey team, indicated the resident's regular diet and indicated no specific food likes, but indicated the resident disliked eggplant parmesan. The assessment indicated the resident wanted to be served a baked cheese omelet every morning for breakfast.
During an interview with R21 on 07/24/23 at 9:59 AM, she stated, Yesterday I didn't get the strawberry shortcake I was supposed to have with my lunch. I get an omelet with cheese on it [every day for breakfast]. I always get that. They [staff] know. Saturday morning, they sent scrambled eggs and no cheese, and it was cold. The [dietary staff working that day] didn't tell them [the cooks] .They [staff] don't bring ice because the machine is broke [sic]. I like ice.
R21 was observed eating her lunch in her room on 07/25/23 at 12:09 PM. The resident was served her lunch tray with chicken, potatoes, peas, and iced tea with a pink (Aspartame) sugar packet. The chocolate chip cookie the resident's menu indicated she was to receive with the meal was not served. R21 was served pudding instead. R21 stated, I was supposed to have a chocolate chip cookie and they gave me a pink sugar packet instead of real sugar. I would rather have real sugar.
3. R36's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and acute kidney failure.
R36's quarterly MDS assessment, with an ARD of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15 indicating R36 was cognitively intact.
Review of R36's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, indicated orders for a regular renal (kidney) diet with controlled carbohydrates.
Review of R36's Food Preferences Assessment, dated 07/26/23 and provided directly to the survey team, indicated the resident's regular controlled carbohydrate renal diet and indicated no specific food likes, but indicated the resident disliked a variety of different kinds of prepared shrimp.
R36 was observed eating her lunch in her room on 07/23/23 at 1:41 PM. The resident was served a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. The resident's menu indicated she was to be served strawberry shortcake with her meal, but it was not observed on the resident's meal tray. R36 stated, I did not get my strawberry shortcake. The resident further stated desserts had not recently been served per the menu. She stated, We haven't been getting dessert like strawberry shortcake and cookies for weeks. R36 stated the facility kept running out of ice because the ice machine was broken.
R36 was observed eating her lunch in her room on 07/25/23 at 12:19 PM. The resident was served peas, chicken, potatoes, and gravy. R36 stated, I'm not eating those potatoes. I don't like potatoes anyway and those are burnt. R36 stated she was supposed to have been served a sugar cookie per her menu, but the cookie was not served with her meal. The resident was instead served a container of ice cream and a small bowl of canned peaches.
4. R46's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and history of stroke.
R46's significant change MDS with an ARD of 06/12/23, indicated a BIMS of 15 out of 15 indicating R46 was cognitively intact.
R46's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, revealed orders for the resident to receive a regular mechanical soft diet.
Review of R46's Food Preferences Assessment, dated 07/26/23 and provided directly to the survey team, indicated the resident's regular mechanical soft diet and indicated the resident liked cranberry juice and disliked/was unable to have a large variety of foods including potatoes.
During an interview with R46 on 07/24/23 at 10:56 AM, the resident indicated he could not eat potatoes, but potatoes were frequently served with his meals.
R46 was observed eating his lunch in his room on 07/25/23 at 12:46 PM. The resident was served mashed potatoes, chicken and gravy (chopped), and peas. The resident again indicated he did not eat potatoes and was not supposed to be getting them. In addition, the resident was not served a sugar cookie per his menu. R46 was served pudding instead. R46 stated he wanted the cookie that was indicated on his diet card.
NJAC 8:39-17.2(b)
NJAC 8:39-17.4(e)
NJAC 8:39-18.4(e)
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 F0804
(Tag F0804)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, and interview, the facility failed to provide meals that were palatable and attractive to two residents (...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, and interview, the facility failed to provide meals that were palatable and attractive to two residents (Resident (R)5 and R36) out of a sample of 35 residents. Specifically, the potatoes that were served to residents were burnt.
Findings include:
Observation of the serving line for lunch 07/25/23 revealed lunch being served was baked chicken, peas, roasted potatoes, the alternative was meatballs, mashed potatoes, and peas. Dessert was mixed fruit. In the preparation of the plates, it was asked if the potatoes were burnt, the cook replied, only on the top and they continued to fix plates to go out residents.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 11:50 PM with the Assistant Director of Dietary (ADM) revealed some problems with the oven not cooking evenly, and that was why they had not been able to bake cookies in the oven.
Observations of lunch trays being served to the second floor; the burnt potatoes were on the resident's plates.
1. R5's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and polyneuropathy.
R5's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 07/06/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) assessment score of 15 out of 15 indicating R5 was cognitively intact.
R5 was observed eating his lunch in his room on 07/25/23 at 12:23 PM. The resident was served a double portion of peas, chicken, potatoes, and gravy. R5 stated, Them [sic] potatoes look like a rock in the garden. I don't know what those are. Those potatoes? Oh No I won't touch that.
2. R36's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and acute kidney failure.
R36's quarterly MDS assessment, with an ARD of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15 indicating R36 was cognitively intact.
R36 was observed eating her lunch in her room on 07/25/23 at 12:19 PM. The resident was served peas, chicken, potatoes, and gravy. R36 stated, I'm not eating those potatoes. I don't like potatoes anyway and those are burnt.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 3:06 PM with the Director of Dining (DM), Assistant Director of Dining (ADM), and the Ambassador of Dietary Services (ADS), in talking about the potatoes being burnt during lunch, no one commented. The DM that was assisting on the serving line revealed some of the potatoes were over cooked.
NJAC 8:39-17.4(a)2
NJAC 8:39-17.4(e)
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
Room Equipment
(Tag F0908)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on observation, interview, record review, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure the ice machine was functioning properly to ensure residents received ice. Three of 35 sampled resident...
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Based on observation, interview, record review, and policy review, the facility failed to ensure the ice machine was functioning properly to ensure residents received ice. Three of 35 sampled residents (Resident (R)5, R36, and R21) and five residents in a group meeting (R6, R13, R97, R114 and R130) expressed frustration that the facility ice machine was down, and the facility had not supplied sufficient ice despite voiced concerns by residents.
Findings include:
1. During the initial observation of the kitchen on 07/23/23 at 10:32 AM, the ice machine had very little ice. The freezer contained three five-pound bags of ice. The Dietary Aide (DA) indicated the ice machine was down and had been down for about a week or so and we are having to bring ice into the facility. At one point it was over filling, now it is not making ice.
2. R5 was observed eating his lunch in his room on 07/23/23 at 1:41 PM. R5 stated, . They keep telling us the ice machine is broken. We don't get ice a lot .
R5's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment with an assessment reference date (ARD) of 07/06/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS Tab, revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status assessment score of 15 out of 15 (cognitively intact).
3. R36 was observed eating her lunch in her room on 07/23/23 at 1:41 PM. R36 stated the facility kept running out of ice because the ice machine was broken.
R36's quarterly MDS assessment with an ARD of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS Tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15 (cognitively intact).
4. During an interview with R21 on 07/24/23 at 9:59 AM, she stated, They [staff] don't bring ice because the machine is broke. I like ice.
R21's quarterly MDS with an ARD of 06/04/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS Tab,, indicated a BIMS score of 14 out of 15 (cognitively intact).
5. A group meeting was held on 07/24/23 at 11:00 AM with five alert and oriented residents present (R6, R13, R97, R114 and R130). There was at least one resident from each hall/unit in attendance to represent the other residents. The residents stated the ice machine had been down for nearly a month and they cannot even get a cold drink. They have complained about not having any ice in the middle of summer but nothing ever happens.
6. During an interview on 07/24/23 at 4:14 PM, the Registered Dietitian (RD) stated without ice in cups, residents are not likely to drink their drinks, because they are not cold, which could cause some hydration problems.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 10:56 AM, the Ambassador of Dietary Services (ADS) revealed the ice machine has been broken for about a week or so. Our corporate maintenance people have been working on it and finally decided they will need to order a part. At this point we are having a company drop off bags of ice and keeping it in the cooler and on the units for residents.
Review of Proposal No: 6432 from Automatic Ice Maker Co, dated 07/24/23 revealed a controller board has been ordered for and the date of acceptance was 07/24/23.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 11:49 AM, the ADS indicated, corporate has been coming back and forth to fix the ice machine and yesterday got the quote for the controller board. They have been working on the ice machine for a couple of weeks now. The ADS was asked to provide documentation of the work being done on the ice machine. This information was not provided.
During an interview on 07/26/23 at 12:43 PM, the Maintenance Director (MD) revealed a technician that worked with the corporate company has been coming in to work on the ice machine. The MD stated the technician was in the building on Monday (07/24/23) working on the ice machine, and a part had been ordered. The ice machine was taking double the time to fill. The MD indicated he had been on the job for almost two weeks and the machine has been broken since he started, since Monday (07/24/23) we have been getting bags of ice for the residents.
Review of the policy titled Safe Operation of Equipment revised 01/02/18 under Maintenance Service revealed, Maintenance service shall be provided to all areas of the building, grounds and equipment. The maintenance department is responsible for maintaining the building's grounds and equipment in a safe and operable manner at all times. Providing routinely scheduled maintenance service to all areas, including but not limited to: . Dietary equipment .
NJAC 8:39-31.2(e)
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 F0909
(Tag F0909)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 2:43 PM, R95's bed was observed. The left side rail was noted to be padded and loose. Wh...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 3. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 2:43 PM, R95's bed was observed. The left side rail was noted to be padded and loose. When the left side rail was pushed away from the mattress, a gap measuring six inches was created between the mattress and the side rail.
During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 9:42 AM, Unit Manager (UM1) and the surveyor observed R95's side rails. UM1 was shown the gap between R95's mattress and left side rail. UM1 stated, It's an accident hazard. UM1 confirmed the left side rail was loose, unsecure, and needed to be tightened. UM1 stated it was her expectation that staff notify her and maintenance when a side rail was noted to be loose. UM1 stated she would have the side rail tightened immediately.
4. During an observation on 07/23/23 at 11:49 AM, the left side rail on R20's bed was observed to be loose and unsecure. The side rail would move greater than one inch in all directions when in the up and locked position.
During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 9:12 AM, UMI confirmed R20's left side rail was loose and moved more than one inch in all directions when in the up and locked position.
5. During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 9:42 AM, UMI confirmed R43's bilateral side rails were loose, unsecure, and moved more than one inch in all directions when in the up and locked position
During an observation and interview on 07/25/23 at 12:38 PM, the Maintenance Director (MD) and Regional Director of Plant Operations (RDOP) observed R95, R20, and R43's side rails. The MD confirmed the side rails were loose and needed to be tightened. The MD and RDOP confirmed that bed and side rail inspections should occur annually and that the inspections consisted of observing for damaged mattresses, loose railings, remotes that were not working, and the general function of the beds. The MD and RDOP stated the facility did conduct the inspections yearly. They were asked to provide the bed and side rail inspection reports for the past year.
During an interview on 07/25/23 at 2:15 PM and 4:45 PM, the surveyors again requested the inspection reports from the Administrator.
Review of the facility's Maintenance Records indicated nothing to indicate routine physical inspections were being conducted for any of the beds in the facility with side rails applied to them.
During an interview with the interim Director of Nursing (iDON), the incoming Director of Nursing (DON), and the Regional Clinical Director (RCD) on 07/25/23 at 3:35 PM, they confirmed their expectation was routine physical inspections of any resident bed with side rails was to be done to ensure resident safety.
During an interview with the Administrator on 07/25/23 at 5:20 PM, he confirmed the facility was unable to locate any documentation to show routine physical inspections of resident beds with rails applied to them. He stated, I feel safe to say they [the inspections] have not been done.
The facility's Proper Use of Side Rails Policy; most recently revised in 09/2022, read, in pertinent part, It is the policy of the facility to utilize a person-centered approach when determining the use of side rails; and 6. d. The maintenance director, or designee, is responsible for adhering to a routine maintenance and inspection schedule for all bed frames, mattresses, and rails.
NJAC 8:39-31.2(e)
NJAC 8:39-31.4(a)(c)
Based on record review, interviews, and facility policy review, the facility failed to ensure physical bed inspections were routinely conducted related to the use of side rails for five (Residents (R) R5, R36, R95, R20, and R43) of eleven residents who were reviewed for accidents out of a total sample of 35 residents.
Findings include:
1.R5's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and polyneuropathy.
R5's admission Minimum Data Set assessment, with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 07/06/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) assessment score of 15 out of 15 indicating R5 was cognitively intact. The assessment indicated the resident required limited assistance from staff to complete all of his Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including transfers in and out of bed, and indicated bed rails were not in use for the resident.
R5's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders tab, indicated orders for the resident to have bilateral half rails applied to his bed as an enabler for positioning.
R5 was observed in his room lying in bed or seated in his wheelchair on 07/23/23 at 1:53 PM, and on 07/25/23 at 9:36 AM, 10:44 AM, and 11:30 AM. The resident's bed was observed to have bilateral half side rails installed at the head of the bed. The resident stated he used his side rails for positioning in bed as well as to transfer in and out of bed to wheelchair.
Comprehensive review of R5's record indicated nothing to show the resident's bed had been physically inspected for safety since his admission to the facility on [DATE].
2.R36's admission Record, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Profile tab, revealed she was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including type 2 diabetes and acute kidney failure.
R36's quarterly MDS assessment, with an ARD of 06/21/23 and found in the EMR under the MDS tab, revealed a BIMS assessment score of 14 out of 15 indicating R36 was cognitively intact. The assessment indicated the resident required extensive assistance from staff to complete all her Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including transfers in and out of bed, and indicated bed rails were not in use for the resident.
R36's Order Summary Report, dated 07/26/23 and found in the EMR under the Orders Tab, indicated orders for the resident to have bilateral half rails applied to her bed as an enabler for positioning.
Comprehensive review of R5's record indicated nothing to show the resident's bed had been physically inspected for safety since his admission to the facility on [DATE].
R36 was observed in her room seated in bed or on the side of her bed on 07/23/23 at 2:06 PM, on 07/24/23 at 10:17 AM, and on 07/25/23 at 9:33 AM. The resident's bed had bilateral quarter rails installed at the head of the bed. The resident stated she used her side rails for positioning in her bed as well as to transfer in and out of her bed to her wheelchair.
CONCERN
(F)
📢 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 F0680
(Tag F0680)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
Based on interviews and job description review, the facility failed to have a qualified Activities Director to oversee the activities department for all 141 current residents in the facility. This fai...
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Based on interviews and job description review, the facility failed to have a qualified Activities Director to oversee the activities department for all 141 current residents in the facility. This failure resulted in all residents not being provided with resident specific activities.
Findings include:
During an interview on 07/26/23 at 7:27 PM, the Administrator revealed that the previous activity director quit without notice in May 2023 and the facility started looking for a new candidate to fill that position. He confirmed that the current Activity Director (AD) was not qualified but stated they were looking to fill the role with the right person, felt the current AD was the best fit and was in school and would be completing the program in August 2023. The Administrator stated that finding staff currently is very difficult, when faced with something like this, you just do your best.
During an interview on 03/01/23 at 9:44 AM, the Activity Director (AD) stated she had been the AD, since the previous Activities Director left in May. She verified that she had not completed her schooling or certification as an Activities Director. AD stated she was currently enrolled and attending courses for Recreational Therapy and would be completed in August 2023.
Review of the undated job description titled, Director of Recreation reflects in part, Accepts professional obligations and commitments to professional development, by actively supporting local , state, and national organizations for the Recreational/Activity Coordinator, participating in basic and continuing education through professional organizations and educational institutions, keeping abreast of Federal, State and local requirements regarding activity programming, as well as current developments in long term health care, and by identifying and correcting deficiencies inn knowledge and skills.
NJAC 8:39-7.1(b)
CONCERN
(F)
📢 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 F0727
(Tag F0727)
Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and job description review, the facility failed to have a licensed Director of Nursing to oversee the care o...
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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews and job description review, the facility failed to have a licensed Director of Nursing to oversee the care of all 141 current residents in the facility. This failure increased the risk that all residents would not be provided with appropriate and accurate care and assessments.
Findings include:
During an interview on [DATE] at 9:44 AM, the Director of Nursing (DON) stated that she was not currently working as the DON due to her Registered Nurse (RN) license being expired and waiting on it to be reinstated. Her RN license expired on [DATE].
During an interview on [DATE] at 7:27 PM, the Administrator confirmed that he was notified on [DATE] by an email from corporate that the DON's RN license was expired and would need to be reinstated. The Administrator stated that the Interim Director of Nursing (iDON) was contacted about taking over as the Director of Nursing until the current DON's license was reinstated. He notified corporate to change the DON to the iDON on [DATE] stating that it took some time to get it worked out with the iDON.
Review of the undated job description titled, Director of Nursing Services reflects in part, Must possess a valid Registered Nurse (RN) license, in good standing in accordance with laws of this stated, from an approved NJ Nursing School of Nursing. A minimum of five (5) years full time or equivalent clinical experience is required and a minimum of two years of clinical experience in long term care nursing with one year in a management/administrative or supervisory capacity is preferred.
NJAC 8:39-25.1(a)
CONCERN
(F)
📢 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
Garbage Disposal
(Tag F0814)
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 have a system in place to ensure that facility garbage receptacles were covere...
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Based on observation, interview and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to have a system in place to ensure that facility garbage receptacles were covered, and all garbage was contained and removed timely to prevent a buildup of refuse, and that the receptacles including a trash compactor and the surrounding areas were maintained in a clean manner to prevent the accumulation of debris, pests and foul odors.
The deficient practice was evidenced as follows:
On 9/14/23 at 9:20 AM, two surveyors arrived at the facility's back parking lot and observed mounds of uncontained garbage bags approximately three to six feet high and approximately 50 feet long alongside the right side of the fence leading to a dumpster and trash compactor towards the back fence. The surveyors observed garbage bags piled at least six feet high behind and between two fences at the juncture of the right and back fence of the back parking lot. The rust-colored metal mesh dumpster was uncovered and overflowing with cardboard, with additional cardboard piled along the left side of the dumpster approximately five feet high. The door of the trash compactor could barely be accessed due to piled bags of clear and black bags of garbage. Multiple bags were ripped open exposing food debris and soiled briefs. There were an enormous amount of flies and yellow jacket bees at the dumpster's. There were additional black bags of garbage piled approximately six feet high behind the dumpster up to the back fence. There was a strong foul smell that permeated the parking lot.
At 9:25 AM, the survey team entered the facility, and the receptionist informed the surveyors that the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) had not yet arrived at the facility. Shortly after, the LNHA arrived and stated that the garbage was supposed to be picked up today and the facility was having trouble with the refuse company. He further stated that he was going to call the refuse company again today and that the garbage should be picked up today. He stated, corporate had a contract with the refuse removal company. The LNHA further stated that he could not speak to how long it has been since the garbage was picked up.
At approximately 9:35 AM, the surveyor took pictures and a video of the outdoor refuse area and the extensive buildup of debris.
At 9:40 AM, a family member approached the survey team and stated that the outside garbage area is like that all the time.
At 10:17 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Food Service Director (FSD) about the garbage disposal process and the buildup of refuse at the dumpster area in the presence of a second surveyor. He stated, I don't know what to tell you about it. They were supposed to pick it up. I think they come once a week on Friday. He acknowledged that there was a buildup of uncontained garbage. The FSD stated that clear garbage bags were used by housekeeping and that the black garbage bags were for kitchen refuse. He further stated that maybe once or twice before there were extra garbage bags outside the dumpster. He stated that he has no direct oversight for garbage pickup and did not have the contact information for the refuse removal company. In addition, the FSD stated that if he noticed a pile up of garbage that he emailed the LNHA and the Regional FSD.
At 10:30 AM, the FSD provided the surveyor a copy of an email titled GARBAGE, dated 9/7/23. The email was sent to the LNHA, the Regional FSD and three others. Review of the email indicated the following content: GOOD AFTERNOON, TOMORROW IS FRIDAY AND THE GARBAGE IS OUT OF CONTROL. CAN WE GET AN ETA ON PICKUP? THANK YOU .
At 11:00 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Maintenance in the presence of a second surveyor. He stated that he started five days ago. He stated that when he started there was an overflow of garbage and further stated, I have no idea why the contractor had not picked up the garbage. In addition, he stated that he was told that part of his job was to keep that area clean and that because he was new, he cannot speak to much yet.
At 11:40 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Environmental Services (DES) in the presence of a second surveyor and the Regional of Environmental Services (RES). The DES stated, It is my role to make sure trash goes into the compactor and to police the area around the compactor and the parking lot area to make sure there's no debris. He stated that the compactor was emptied today, and the RES stated that occurred at 9:10 AM. The DES further stated, I think they come for the compactor biweekly. The RES stated that approximately 30 days ago corporate started negotiations with another waste management company and we think that is why the current company are not picking up that frequently. The DES stated that the last time the garbage was picked up was three to four weeks ago.
At 11:53 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LNHA in the presence of a second surveyor. He stated that corporate handles the contractor. He stated that we are having constant problems with the company and were notified that corporate is negotiating with a new company and as of 10/1/23, we will be using the new company. The LNHA stated that the refuse company came today at 6 AM to get the old compactor and drop off an empty one. He stated, I have been calling corporate and the contractor for the last 2 weeks - It's not the correct thing to do to have the garbage build up.
The LNHA further stated, I asked them to bring two other open containers for the extra garbage on the ground, but what I ask and what they do are two different things. He stated that this was the second time that he had trouble with this company, which was a month ago. The LNHA stated that it was his responsibility to call the contractor when the garbage needed to be picked up and that he did not think there were set days for pickup indicated in the contract. He stated that the DES or the FSD notified him when the compactor was almost full and then he called for service. He acknowledged that the directors were not usually the staff to dispose of garbage and that the directors relied on their staff to communicate when the compactor or dumpster were full. The LNHA could not speak to if this was part of the staff's job descriptions. In addition, he stated that he felt because corporate was changing waste management companies that retaliation was the reason the contractor had not picked up the garbage.
At 12:45 PM, three surveyors and the LNHA toured the outside of the facility. The LNHA acknowledged that the buildup of garbage was unacceptable and acknowledged the foul odor including the odor of soiled briefs. He acknowledged that there was an extraordinary amount of uncontained and ripped open garbage bags and pests. He also acknowledged that it was difficult to access the door of the compactor due to having to step on and over open bags of garbage and swarms of pests. The LNHA also acknowledged that the cardboard dumpster was uncovered and that the cardboard debris was overflowing. He stated that the cardboard refuse was not picked up today and could not speak to the last time it was picked up. He could not speak to how frequently it gets picked up and stated that he calls when it is full. In addition, he stated, I didn't see it was that full till today and that the cardboard on the left side of the dumpster was probably from one day. The LNHA stated that he called the Procurement Officer multiple times for invoices of service and for a copy of the contract for refuse disposal with the waste management company.
At 1:40 PM, the LNHA provided the surveyor copies of email exchanges between himself and corporate starting from 9/4/23. Review of the emails indicated the following:
On 9/4/23 at 10:35 AM, the LNHA emailed the Procurement Officer an email titled Trash Compactor. The content indicated . I called, [name redacted] on Friday regarding emptying the compactor. The trash is now being dumped on the ground with the result that the whole area smells and maggots are all over. I am sure that sooner than later, the neighbors, residents and visitors alike will start calling both local and state dept's. Please help .
On 9/4/23 at 11:38 AM, the Procurement Officer responded and included seven other email addresses. The email was titled Trash compactor. The content indicated, Team please see below so we can assist canterbury Thanks.
On 9/5/23 at 7:24 PM, an email was sent to the LNHA from someone who he stated was my direct boss. She included seven others on the email titled Trash compactor. The content indicated, This is very concerning do we have a response here?
On 9/12/23 at 1:12 PM, the LNHA sent an email to the Procurement Officer, his direct boss and included six others on an email titled Trash compactor. The content indicated Good afternoon all, Any updates on trash pickup? The trash on the grounds at this point will fill up two containers and require two staff x 8 hours to throw into the containers. Can we rent open containers while waiting to resolve issue with waste management? Thanks .
On 9/12/23 at 4:25 PM, the LNHA sent an additional email to the same recipients noted above. The email was titled Trash compactor and indicated the following content [name redacted] from Cedar Grove Health Dept. just called and spoke with the maintenance director stating that they have multiple calls from neighbors complaining about trash on our parking lot.
At 1:45 PM, in the presence of the survey team, the LNHA stated there was no facility policy related to garbage disposal or the maintenance of the dumpster area.
At 1:54 PM, the LNHA provided two unsigned invoices from the waste management company dated 7/25/23 and 8/15/23, which he received from the Procurement Officer. He stated that he requested a copy of the waste management contract multiple times today from corporate but was unable to provide it.
At 2:25 PM, in the presence of the survey team, the Chief Clinical Officer and the LNHA stated that they do not have a policy for garbage disposal or maintenance of the dumpster area.
Review of the two unsigned invoices provided to the surveyor from waste management company #1 indicated that the facility was billed for services invoice number 00886246 dated 7/25/23 for 7/19/23 30 cubic yard trash compactor 14.49 tons and 7/25/23 30 cubic yard trash compactor 3.14 tons, and invoice number 00886265 dated 8/15/23 for 7/20/23 30 yard open top container 5.93 tons - Emergency/Expedited Service.
Review of the job descriptions the facility provided to the surveyor, did not include evidence that there was any specific delineation of responsibility to notify the LNHA for the need to notify the waste management company for refuse pickup. The job descriptions provided and reviewed were as follows: Assistant Manager & Executive Chef of Dining Services (undated), Food Service Aide (undated), Environmental Services Director (undated), six additional housekeeper positions (undated) and the Maintenance Director (undated).
NJAC 8:39-31.4(b); 31.5(a)