PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC

6989 RT18, OLD BRIDGE, NJ 08857 (732) 360-2277
For profit - Limited Liability company 140 Beds PREFERRED CARE Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
65/100
#63 of 344 in NJ
Last Inspection: March 2025

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

Overview

Preferred Care at Old Bridge, LLC has a Trust Grade of C+, indicating they are slightly above average but not without concerns. Ranking #63 out of 344 facilities in New Jersey places them in the top half, and they are the best option among 24 facilities in Middlesex County. The facility is improving, with reported issues decreasing from five in 2023 to three in 2025. Staffing is rated at 4 out of 5 stars, which is a strength, although the turnover rate is 44%, slightly above the state average. However, the facility has faced $56,610 in fines, which is concerning and suggests compliance problems. Specific incidents include a failure to adequately address a resident's significant weight loss, where their nutritional needs were not met, and another case involving a resident who did not receive timely pain medication despite showing clear signs of distress. While the overall quality and RN coverage are decent, these serious deficiencies highlight some weaknesses that families should consider.

Trust Score
C+
65/100
In New Jersey
#63/344
Top 18%
Safety Record
High Risk
Review needed
Inspections
Getting Better
5 → 3 violations
Staff Stability
○ Average
44% turnover. Near New Jersey's 48% average. Typical for the industry.
Penalties
○ Average
$56,610 in fines. Higher than 55% of New Jersey facilities. Some compliance issues.
Skilled Nurses
○ Average
Each resident gets 37 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — about average for New Jersey. RNs are the most trained staff who monitor for health changes.
Violations
⚠ Watch
13 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★★☆
4.0
Staff Levels
★★★★★
5.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2023: 5 issues
2025: 3 issues

The Good

  • 4-Star Staffing Rating · Above-average nurse staffing levels
  • 5-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover below average (44%)

    4 points below New Jersey average of 48%

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

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 44%

Near New Jersey avg (46%)

Typical for the industry

Federal Fines: $56,610

Above median ($33,413)

Moderate penalties - review what triggered them

Chain: PREFERRED CARE

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 13 deficiencies on record

2 actual harm
Jul 2025 2 deficiencies
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

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Complaint#: NJ187513, NJ187972Based on interviews, closed medical record review, and review of other pertinent facility documents on 7/10/2025, it was determined that the facility failed to develop an...

Read full inspector narrative →
Complaint#: NJ187513, NJ187972Based on interviews, closed medical record review, and review of other pertinent facility documents on 7/10/2025, it was determined that the facility failed to develop an elopement risk care plan (CP) for a resident (Resident #5) who was identified as an elopement risk. This deficient practice was identified in 1 of 4 residents reviewed for elopement risk. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following:The surveyor reviewed the closed medical record for Resident #5.According to the admission Record (AR), Resident #5 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses which included but were not limited to Diabetes, Anemia, Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol). A review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 5/11/2025, Resident #5 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) score of 12 out of 15, which indicated the resident had moderate cognitive impairment. A review of Resident #5's Elopement Risk Evaluation form dated 6/20/2025 revealed Resident #2 was at risk for elopement.A review of Resident #5's Care Plans (CP) revealed no elopement risk care plan for Resident #5.During an interview on 7/10/2025 at 3:30 PM with the Director of Nursing (DON) in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON stated that if a resident was an elopement risk they should have a care plan in place. The DON further indicated that it was important for nursing staff to update the care plan so that all staff know how to care for the resident. The DON confirmed that there was no elopement risk care plan for Resident #5. The DON stated that the nursing staff had 14 days to update the resident's care plan according to the facility policy. The DON further stated the resident was discharged prior to the 14-day period the staff had to update the care plan. A review of the facility's policy titled Care Plan Revisions Upon Status Change revised on 3/2025 revealed under Policy Explanation and Compliance Guidelines, 1. The comprehensive care plan will be reviewed, and revised as necessary, when a resident experiences a status change. 2. Procedure for reviewing and revising the care plan when a resident experiences a status change: d. The care plan will be updated with the new or modified interventions within 14 days.NJAC 8:39-27.1 (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

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interviews, medical record review, and review of other pertinent facility documentation on 7/10/2025 it was determined that the facility failed to follow their protocol and policy to prevent ...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on interviews, medical record review, and review of other pertinent facility documentation on 7/10/2025 it was determined that the facility failed to follow their protocol and policy to prevent the elopement of a safety awareness impaired resident (Resident #2) who exited the facility from the rear entrance when an incoming family member entered the facility and held the door for Resident #2 to leave the facility and return to their home with staff failing to adequately supervise resident and ensure safety of its residents. This REQUIREMENT is NOT MET as evidenced by:Complaint#: NJ187513, NJ187972Based on interviews, medical record review, and review of other pertinent facility documents on 7/10/2025, it was determined that the facility failed to follow their protocol and policy to prevent the elopement of a safety awareness impaired resident (Resident #2) who exited the facility from the rear entrance when an incoming family member entered the facility and held the door for Resident #2 to leave the facility and return to their home with staff failing to adequately supervise resident and ensure safety of its residents. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following:According to the admission Record (AR) Resident #2 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses which included but were not limited to: hypertension, altered mental status and vascular dementia.A review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 5/28/25. Resident #2 had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) score of 4 out of 15, which indicated the resident had moderate cognitive impairment.According to the facility reportable event (FRE) dated 6/17/2025, the FRE indicated that on 6/16/2025, Resident #2 was able to tell facility staff member that at approximately 6:30 PM resident chose to go home and arranged his/her own transportation. At approximately 7:15 PM facility staff received a phone call from the resident family member, asking why resident had gone home. The surveyor reviewed Resident #2's nurses (NN) dated 6/17/25 at 12:57 PM. The NN revealed that writer last checked Resident #2 around 6:00 PM in his/her room sitting in a chair. Around 7:15 PM, a call was received from family member stating can you explain to me how my (resident) got home when he/she is supposed to be at your facility. Writer went to resident room and resident was not there. All resident rooms were checked on the unit, resident was not located. On 7/10/2025 at 11:15 AM, the surveyor interviewed RN #1 who stated around 5 PM when she went into the room to give Resident #2's roommate medication, she saw Resident #2 sitting in a chair. RN #1 left the room to perform other duties and returned to resident room around 6 PM to check his/her blood pressure. Resident was observed to be sitting in same chair. RN #1 left the room to return to the nurses desk. At around 7:15 PM the phone rang with resident family member was on the phone asking how he/she got home. On 7/7/2025 at 2:25 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) in the presence of the Administrator. The DON stated that Resident #2 had no key to get into his/her home. He/she went to the neighbor next door to get the spare key. Afterwards, the neighbor called the family member to alert them that resident had asked for the key to get in and was at home. A review of the facility's policy titled Elopement Prevention and Management revised 10/24 revealed under Policy: The facility defines elopement as follows:, When a cognitively impaired resident/patient leaves the facility grounds unattended and without staff knowledge.NJAC 8:39-33.1(d)
Mar 2025 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D)

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

Unnecessary Medications (Tag F0759)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that all medications were administered without error of 5% or more. During the medication admin...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that all medications were administered without error of 5% or more. During the medication administration observation performed on 3/26/25, the surveyor observed three (3) nurses administer medications to five (5) residents. There were 32 opportunities, and two (2) errors were observed which calculated to a medication administration error rate of 6.25 %. This deficient practice was identified for one (1) of five (5) residents, (Resident #79), that were administered medications by one (1) of three (3) nurses. The deficient practice was evidenced as follows: On 3/26/25 at 8:10 AM, the surveyor observed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN #1) preparing to administer the morning medications to Resident #79. LPN #1 stated that according to the electronic medication administration record (EMAR), the resident had a physician's order (PO) for Insulin Lispro (a fast-acting insulin-a medication used to lower blood sugar) but had looked through the medication cart and could not find the resident's Insulin Lispro. LPN #1 stated that he would have to check the backup supply. LPN #1 then stated that he was going to administer the morning medications that were in the cart first. On 3/26/25 at 8:20 AM, the surveyor with the LPN #1, observed the resident in bed with a breakfast tray on the overbed table. The breakfast tray had an uncovered plate with part of an egg omelet remaining and an empty bowl with cereal residue. LPN #1 stated that the resident spoke another language but was able to understand that medications were being administered. The surveyor observed LPN #1 obtain a blood sugar (BS) result of 279 from Resident #79. Then, the surveyor observed LPN #1 administer seven (7) oral medications that had been crushed and placed in applesauce to the resident. On 3/26/25 at 8:30 AM, the surveyor with LPN #1, went to the medication room on the unit to look for the backup supply of Insulin Lispro. LPN #1 was joined by the Nurse Supervisor/Registered Nurse (NS/RN), and they were unable to find a backup supply of Insulin Lispro. The NS/RN stated that she would go to another unit to find the backup supply of Insulin Lispro. On 3/26/25 at 8:44 AM, the surveyor observed the NS/RN give a vial of Insulin Lispro to LPN #1. The NS/RN stated that she had retrieved the Insulin Lispro from the backup supply on the Rehab unit. On 3/26/25 at 8:52 AM, the surveyor observed LPN #1 administer six (6) units (U) of Insulin Lispro subcutaneously to the right abdomen of Resident #79. At that time, the breakfast tray was no longer observed in the room. On 3/26/25 at 8:53 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #1, at the medication cart, who stated that there were no other morning medications to administer to Resident #79. LPN #1 verified that the EMAR reflected a 9 AM time of administration for Insulin Lispro. LPN #1 stated he had 1 hour before and 1 hour after to administer the medication and was on time. LPN #1 also verified that breakfast was usually delivered to the floor between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM and that the resident had eaten breakfast before administering the Insulin Lispro. (ERROR #1) LPN #1 could not speak to why the Insulin had an administration time of 9 AM which would be after breakfast was finished. The surveyor reviewed the electronic medical record for Resident #79. A review of the resident's admission Record reflected that the resident had diagnoses, which included but not limited to; Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) (a diminished response to insulin causing inadequate control of glucose blood levels, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and dementia (a decline in cognitive abilities). A review of the most recent comprehensive quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care dated 2/23/25, reflected the resident had a brief interview for mental status (BIMS) score of three (3) out of 15, indicating that the resident had a severely impaired cognition. A review of the resident's Order Summary Report (OSR) reflected a PO with a start date of 3/3/25 for Insulin Lispro (1 Unit Dial) Subcutaneous Solution Pen-Injector 100 Unit (U)/ML (milliliter) (Insulin Lispro), Inject as per sliding scale: if 150-200 =2 U; 201-250 =4 U; 251-300 = 6 U; 301-350 = 8 U; 351-400 =10 U, subcutaneously (SC) three times a day for DM call MD(physician) if BS greater than 400 or less than 70. A review of the EMAR reflected the same PO as the above OSR with a time of administration of 9 AM. Further review of the EMAR revealed that the PO was discontinued on 3/26/25, after the medication administration observation and the same PO was entered on 3/26/25 with different times of administration for 7:30 AM, 11:30 AM and 4:30 PM. Further review of the EMAR, during reconciliation of the medications observed during the medication administration observation, revealed a PO dated 9/4/24 for Insulin Glargine (a long-acting insulin) Solution 100 U/ML, Inject 18 U SC in the morning for Diabetes, Rotate Sites, give after breakfast. The EMAR had a time of administration of 8:30 AM and was signed on 3/26/25 as being administered by LPN #1. A review of the resident's individualized Care Plan Report had a focus area of Has Diabetes Mellitus with an initiated date of 8/9/22 and interventions, which included but not limited to, Diabetes medication as ordered by doctor. Monitor/document for side effects and effectiveness and Fasting Serum Blood Sugar as ordered by doctor. On 3/26/25 at 11:36 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #1, who stated that he had changed the administration time of the Insulin Lispro from 9 AM to 7:30 AM because that was standard protocol. LPN #1 could not speak to the meaning of standard protocol. LPN #1 then verified that he had not administered the Insulin Glargine during the medication administration observation because he had administered that Insulin before the surveyor had joined him. LPN #1 then reviewed the PO for Insulin Glargine and acknowledged that the PO indicated a time of administration of 8:30 AM with instructions to give after breakfast. LPN #1 was unable to speak to why he had administered the Insulin Glargine before breakfast. (ERROR #2) On 3/26/25 at 1:49 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Consultant Pharmacist (CP) via telephone, who stated that he was the owner and could speak to any questions. The CP stated that the time of administration of insulins should depend on the mealtime. The CP added that the recommendation was that fast-acting insulins should be administered 15 minutes before eating a meal. On 3/27/25 at 8:10 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON), who stated insulin administration was coordinated according to the mealtimes of 7:30 AM, 11:30 AM and 4:30 AM. The DON added that insulin administration could be dependent on blood sugars and eating habits. The DON also stated that Resident #79 had a specific time of administration for insulin at 9 AM because they were not an early riser and woke up between 8 and 8:30 AM and tended to eat breakfast late. The DON also stated that physician's orders were to be followed. The DON acknowledged the insulin supply for current orders should have an adequate supply on hand. A review of an Inservice Attendance Sheet dated 3/3/25, provided by the DON revealed the topic of the inservice was Resident #79 and the subject was Resident prefers to sleep in until 8 AM and should have breakfast after that time. There was no documentation from the physician reflecting the BS be taken after breakfast and insulin administration to be administered after the meal. On 3/27/25 at 10:17 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Certified Nursing Aide (CNA #1), who stated that she was familiar with the care of Resident #79 and had fed the resident on the morning of 3/26/25. CNA #1 stated the resident was a diabetic and she had to make sure that the resident ate in the morning. She stated the resident required assistance and encouragement to eat. CNA #1 added that she brings the breakfast tray into the resident in the morning and the resident was able to indicate whether they were ready to eat breakfast. CNA #1 also stated that she remembered on 3/26/25 that the resident was up when she brought the tray in which she thought was after the breakfast trucks were usually delivered to the floor but was unsure of the exact time. CNA #1 added that she remembered the resident ate all their cereal and approximately half of the egg omelet. CNA #1 stated that she does not tell the nurses when the resident was ready to eat but she tells the nurse the percentage the resident ate after they finished the meal. On 3/27/25 at 12:29 PM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #2, who stated that she was the medication nurse for Resident #79 for the day. LPN #2 stated that she checked the resident's blood sugar before the resident ate breakfast and lunch and then administered the Insulin Lispro because it was a fast-acting insulin and should be administered right before a meal. LPN #2 added that the Insulin Glargine was administered in the morning after the resident finished their breakfast. LPN #2 could not speak to why there was a time of administration of 9 AM indicated on the EMAR for the Insulin Lispro. A review of an unsigned Medication Pass Observation for LPN #1 provided by the DON that had been completed on 9/18/24, revealed that there was no observation of insulin administration observed during that med pass. On 3/27/24 at 2:00 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON, who stated the 9/18/24 Medication Pass Observation was completed by a nurse who no longer worked at the facility and that med passes were performed yearly for the nurses. The DON added that an inservice was performed immediately after the med pass with the nurse if there were any discrepancies noted. A review of a Med Pass Inservice completed by the CP on 2/10/24, revealed an attendance sign in sheet that was not signed by LPN #1. The Medication Pass Inservice information sheets that the CP reviewed during the inservice revealed that one of the five rights was Right Time: Medication can be given 60 minutes before the time on MAR or 60 minutes after is considered correct, Exception medication to be given with regard to meals either AC (before meals) or PC (after meals) need to be given as such. In addition, another information sheet reviewed during the inservice Medications Administration with Regards to Meals revealed that Insulin Lispro was to be administered before a meal. On 3/31/25 at 10:41 AM, the survey team met with the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, Administrator in Training, DON and Regional DON. The DON stated that she had spoken with the family representative and the physician, and both agreed that they were more concerned with the resident exhibiting hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and wanted to make sure the resident had eaten breakfast before getting insulin. The DON acknowledged that the standard protocol for a fast-acting insulin was to be administered prior to a meal and that the PO had not indicated different instructions for the time of administration. A review of the facility policy dated as reviewed January 2025 for Medication Administration provided by the DON reflected Medications are administered by licensed nurses, or other staff who are legally authorized to do so in this state, as ordered by the physician and in accordance with professional standards of practice, in a manner to prevent contamination or infection. In addition, Administer medication as ordered in accordance with manufacturer specifications. A review of the facility policy dated as reviewed January 2024 for Insulin Administration Policy provided by the DON reflected All insulin will be administered in accordance with physician's orders. In addition, Insulin administration will be coordinated with mealtimes and bedtime snacks unless otherwise specified in the physician order. The policy also reflected, For current insulin orders, an adequate supply of insulin will be maintained for each resident. The manufacturer specifications for Insulin Lispro revealed Administer Insulin Lispro by subcutaneous injection into the abdominal wall, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks within 15 minutes before a meal or immediately after a meal. NJAC 8:39-11.2(b), 29.2(a)(d)
Mar 2023 5 deficiencies 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G)

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Deficiency F0692 (Tag F0692)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

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

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) identify and address a severe weight loss of 7.6 pounds (lbs.) and 5.3% in one week from 9/15/22 through 9/22/22, and obtain a reweight for 1 of 4 residents, (Resident #97), b.) ensure that a resident identified as at risk for malnutrition or malnourished was comprehensively evaluated and assessed for 2 of 4 residents, (Resident #38 and #97), and c.) provide the recommended supplements to residents that experienced weight loss for 3 of 4 residents, (Resident #33, #38 and #97) reviewed for nutrition. The evidence was as follows: 1. On 3/2/23 at 11:25 AM, the surveyor observed Resident # 97 awake and seated in a wheelchair in front of the North nursing unit. At that time, the resident stated that he/she was aware of his/her weight loss. The surveyor reviewed the electronic and paper medical record for Resident # 97. Review of the admission Record (an admission summary), included that the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses that included but were not limited to; cerebral infarction (stroke), hemiplegia and hemiparesis (weakness of one side of the body) following cerebral infarction affecting the right dominant side, and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). Review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care dated 11/13/22, included a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 of 15, which indicated that the resident had an intact cognition. Review of the March 2023 Order Summary Report (OSR) indicated a physician order (PO) dated 8/15/22, for a Regular diet *Regular texture, Thin consistency. Review of the August 2022 through March 2023, electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) reflected the above corresponding PO. Review of the resident's weights included the following: 9/15/22 145.6 lbs. 9/22/22 138 lbs. Review of Nutrition Assessment -V2 dated 8/22/22, indicated that the Registered Dietitian (RD) #1 observed the resident consume > 50% of the breakfast meal. It further indicated that the resident's food preferences, diet, and weight history were obtained. It also included nutritional interventions for a super cereal (a nutritionally fortified hot cereal) at breakfast and a four ounce (oz) mighty shake for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to provide 200 calories and 6 grams of protein per four oz portion. There was no documented evidence in the resident's hybrid (electronic and paper) medical records that the above RD's recommended nutritional supplements were given, accepted, or consumed by the resident. Review of the resident's progress notes from the hybrid medical records from 9/22/22 through 2/22/23, reflected no documented evidence that the resident's severe weight loss was identified and addressed by the RD, Nursing, Attending Physician (AP) or the Nurse Practitioner (NP). Review of the Mini Nutritional assessment dated [DATE] which was completed by RD #2, indicated that the resident was identified as Malnourished, had a moderate decrease in food intake, and had a weight loss greater than 6.6 lbs. There was no documented evidence that RD #2 reassessed the resident and recommended nutritional interventions. Review of the resident's comprehensive care plan (CP), a nutrition CP initiated on 8/29/22 included interventions for .supplements as rx'd [prescribed]; monitor weight, labs, skin integrity, hydration status; honor food preferences; meds as rx'd. There was no documented evidence of a revised CP that addressed the severe weight loss. Review of the resident's meal tickets (documentation of what was provided on a meal tray for breakfast, lunch, and dinner) provided to the surveyor by the Food Service Director (FSD), in the presence of the Regional FSD on 3/2/23 at 10:08AM, did not reflect the RDs recommended nutritional supplements. Review of the Nursing Quality Assurance Performance Improvement Plan Monthly Review (NQAPIPMR) forms dated 9/22/22, 10/20/22, 11/28/22, and 1/26/23, included a Weight Variance Report that addressed residents who experienced weight losses. Resident #97 was not included. On 3/2/23 at 11:36 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Unit Manager/Licensed Practical Nurse (UM/LPN). She stated that the DON, RD, and UMs conducted monthly weight meetings and discussed those residents who experienced weight loss. She stated that the DON retained the weight meeting documentation records. She acknowledged that she was aware of the resident's severe weight loss and recently discussed this with the RD. The UM/LPN stated that the RD told her that maybe the original weight documentation was incorrect, but she was not sure if this was documented in the resident's medical record. On 3/2/23 at 11:52 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) #1 who was familiar with the resident. She stated that residents were weighed by CNAs monthly or sometimes twice weekly. She was not aware of the Resident #97's weight loss. The CNA could not speak to whether the resident received nutritional supplements on his/her meal trays. On 3/2/23 at 12:20 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON who stated that she, the RD, and UMs conducted monthly meetings to discuss residents who experienced weight loss. She further stated that the content of the meetings were documented on the NQAPIPMR forms. The DON provided copies to the surveyor. On 3/2/23 at 1:04 PM, the surveyor reviewed the NQAPIPMR forms which indicated a list of residents and their calculated weight loss. The report indicated whether the weight loss was desired, undesired, planned or unplanned. It further included nutritional interventions and the date the CPs were revised. Resident #97 was not included. On 3/2/23 at 1:24 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON in the presence of the survey team. She stated that RD #1 worked from November 2021 through December 31, 2022, RD #2 was employed from January 2023 through February 10, 2023, and RD #3 would be working as an interim from February 11, 2023, to present. On 3/2/23 at 2:04 PM, the surveyor interviewed RD #3 in the presence of the survey team. RD #3 confirmed the above statement from the DON regarding her employment timeline in the facility. She stated that she documented comprehensive nutritional assessments for new admissions and then initiated a comprehensive nutrition care plan and provided dietary recommendations. Furthermore, RD #3 also stated that she revised care plans quarterly, annually and on an as needed basis. She stated that we always update the care plans. RD #3 further stated that if she recommended nutritional supplements, she would complete a Dietitian Recommendations communication form. She stated that she then presented the form to the nurse who signed it and relayed the information to the physician. She stated that a copy went to the FSD, and a copy remained in the chart. She stated that the form was utilized to communicate initiation or discontinuation of nutritional supplements. She acknowledged that the RD and AP should have been notified of a resident's 5% or more weight loss in one week and that weekly weight monitoring should have been conducted. During the interview, RD #3 stated that the RDs reviewed residents' weekly or monthly weights depending on the status. She further stated that after she reviewed the weights, she conducts a nutritional assessment which would be documented in the medical record. She acknowledged that if a resident had a significant weight loss, she would request a re-weight to confirm the weight loss. She stated that if a significant weight loss was confirmed, she would conduct a root cause analysis to determine whether the weight loss was intentional or unintentional, make nutritional recommendations, and revise the care plan, all of which would be documented in the resident's medical record. On 3/3/23 at 10:25 AM, the surveyor had a follow up interview with Resident #97. The resident stated that he/she had not received mighty shake supplements. The resident further stated that he/she was just recently offered a vanilla mighty shake, but he/she refused it and stated it was too sweet. Resident #97 informed the surveyor that he/she never liked any kind of cereal, and the staff were aware of his/her food preferences. The resident also stated that the staff did not offer him/her other alternatives to choose from. On 3/3/23 at 10:33 AM, the surveyor conducted a follow up interview with the UM/LPN in the presence of a second surveyor. The UM/LPN informed the surveyor that the residents were weighed monthly by the CNAs. She stated that she would review the weights for discrepancies to confirm significant weight loss. She further stated that if a significant weight loss was confirmed, she or the nurse would document this in the resident's electronic medical records, and she would notify the RD. She stated that the RD would document a nutritional assessment and then communicate recommendations with the Dietician Recommendations form. The UM/LPN stated that she would sign the recommendation form in acknowledgement, then the RD would alert the kitchen of the nutritional supplements that needed to be provided to the resident. She further stated that the RD also notified her for any discontinuation of nutritional supplements and that the RD would directly speak to the kitchen staff to communicate the discontinued recommendations. During the interview, the UM/LPN stated that she would notify the AP and that the AP usually agreed to the RD recommendations. The UM/LPN stated that she only documented in the resident's medical records when the AP disagreed with the recommendations. The UM/LPN acknowledged that the resident received mighty shakes and super cereal on his/her meal trays in the past. She further acknowledged that the resident did not prefer the nutritional supplements and that the RD was notified of this. However, the UM/LPN could not speak to whether the RD reassessed the resident, updated his/her preferences and made new recommendations. The UM/LPN stated that she relied on the RD for weight calculation to determine weight loss. She further stated that she expected the RD to identify and address significant weight loss and provide nutritional interventions. On 3/3/23 at 12:55 PM, the LNHA and DON met with the survey team. The DON acknowledged that the CNAs obtained weights. She stated if there was a weight discrepancy, a re-weight should be obtained to confirm significant weight loss. She further stated that she expected the nurse to notify the RD of the confirmed weight loss, and that the RD should have addressed the weight loss with a nutritional assessment, revised CP, and provided nutritional interventions which may include supplements. Furthermore, the DON stated that nutritional supplements were provided with the resident's meal and acknowledged that there was no documented evidence to account for the administration and recorded consumption of the mighty shakes and super cereal. On 3/6/23 at 9:41 AM, the surveyor attempted to call the resident's AP in the presence of the survey team, but the AP was not available at that time. The AP's office manager (OM) informed the surveyor that the AP would be in the office at 3:00 PM. On 3/6/23 at 10:33 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON in the presence of the survey team. She stated that she reviewed Resident #97's paper medical records and acknowledged that there was no documented evidence from the AP and RD that addressed the residents severe weight loss, and she stated, I did not see any. On 3/6/23 at 12:20 PM, the LNHA, LNHA in training, and DON met with the survey team. The DON acknowledged that the resident's AP was aware of the resident's significant weight loss but did not address it. She further acknowledged that the RD was also aware of the resident significant weight loss, but the RD failed to document this in the resident's medical records. The DON stated that the resident had resolved edema which could have contributed to the resident's weight loss, and then acknowledged that there was no documented evidence related to when that occurred. The DON acknowledged that she was unable to correlate the resolved edema and the weight loss. During the interview the DON stated that the Mini Nutritional Assessment form was utilized to assess whether a resident was malnourished or at risk for malnutrition. The DON stated that she expected the RD to act upon when a resident was identified as malnourished or at risk with a documented comprehensive nutritional assessment and a revised CP to include dietary interventions. The DON informed the survey team that the Mini Nutritional Assessment was new to them, and she had never seen that form prior to surveyor inquiry. On that same date at 3:36 PM, the surveyor reattempted to conduct a telephone interview with the AP, but the OM stated that the AP was unavailable to speak to the surveyor. 3. On 2/22/23 at 12:13 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #33 in his/her room seated in a wheelchair in front of the lunch tray on an overbed table. The resident stated that he/she had not eaten lunch yet and the plate was covered with a domed lid. There was no mighty shake observed on the tray. On 2/24/23 at 12:53 PM and on 3/2/23 at 1:15 PM, the surveyor observed the resident in his/her room seated in a wheelchair in front of the lunch tray on an overbed table. There was no mighty shake observed on the tray. The surveyor reviewed the electronic and paper medical record for Resident #33. Review of the admission Record reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses which included but not limited to; dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and Alzheimer's disease, unspecified. Review of the admission MDS dated [DATE], reflected that the resident had a BIMS score of 12 out of 15, which indicated that the resident had a slightly impaired cognition. It further reflected that the resident was holding food in mouth/cheeks or residual food in mouth after meals, was 65 inches tall, weighed 125 lbs., experienced a significant weight loss of 5% or more in the last month or loss of 10% or more in the last 6 months and Yes, not on a physician-prescribed weight-loss regimen, and was on a mechanically altered diet-require change in texture of food or liquid . Review of the March 2023 OSR indicated a PO dated 11/7/22, for a Mechanical Soft Chopped meats texture. Review of the November 2022 through March 2023 eMAR, reflected the above corresponding PO. Review of the resident's weights included the following: 9/29/22 139 lbs. 11/2/22 125 lbs. Review of the Nutrition Assessment -V2 dated 11/7/22, included that the resident experienced a 10% weight loss x 60 days and that RD #1 observed the resident consumed > 50% of the lunch meal. It further indicated that the RD initiated a care plan. The RD further documented nutritional interventions which included a four oz mighty shake twice a day at lunch and dinner to provide 200 calories and 6 grams of protein per four oz portion. There was no documented evidence in the resident's hybrid medical records that the above RD's recommended nutritional supplements were given, accepted, or consumed by the resident. Review of the CP did not reflect documented evidence of a nutritional status CP that included the resident's weight loss, nutritional goals or interventions. Review of the resident's paper chart did not include Dietitian Recommendations forms. Review of the resident's meal tickets provided to the surveyor by the FSD, in the presence of the Regional FSD on 3/2/23 at 10:08AM, did not include a mighty shake for lunch or dinner. On 3/03/23 at 10:18 AM, the surveyor interviewed Resident #33, who stated that he/she had never received a mighty shake on the lunch or dinner tray. The resident stated that they came yesterday to ask about it. On 3/03/23 at 11:02 AM, the surveyor interviewed the residents regularly assigned CNA #3 who stated that she had not observed a mighty shake on the resident's lunch tray. On 3/03/23 at 1:20 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON in the presence of the LNHA and the survey team. She stated that when the RD assessed a resident and made recommendations, she assumed the RD would follow up. On 3/03/23 at 1:44 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON in the presence of the LNHA and the survey team. The DON acknowledged that there was no documented evidence that mighty shakes were provided to the resident. She further stated that if the RD discontinued the mighty shakes there should have been follow up documentation with a rationale. On 3/06/23 at 12:00 PM, the surveyor interviewed the LNHA in the presence of the DON, the LNHA in training and the survey team. The LNHA stated that RD #1 worked consistently throughout the entire year of 2022. On 3/06/23 at 12:53 PM, the surveyor conducted a phone interview with RD #3. She stated that the Mini Nutritional Assessment form was a screening tool used to identify a resident as malnourished or at risk for malnutrition. She stated that this tool was not considered a comprehensive nutrition assessment. She further stated that the RD should have completed a comprehensive follow up evaluation and assessment, and even if supplementation was not indicated, there should have been supporting documentation. RD #3 also stated that if the RD discontinued nutritional supplements, there should have been supporting documentation as well. On 3/6/23 at 1:34 PM, the survey team met with the LNHA, LNHA in training, and DON. There was no additional information provided. Review of the facility policy Weight Taking and Recording with a revised date of 5/2022, reflected that the policy was to . strive to prevent, monitor, and intervene for undesirable weight loss for our residents. In addition, it included to . to monitor weight changes. It also included the following: The dietitian will review the weight and will make recommendations as necessary . Any weight change of 5 lbs. +/- or more since the last weight assessment will be taken for confirmation with the license nurse. If the weight is verified the dietitian will be notified . The Unit Manager and the Dietitian will review the completed monthly weights . The threshold for significant unplanned and undesired weight loss will be based on the following criteria . 1 month - 5% weight loss is significant; greater that 5% is severe . The dietitian will review the weekly weight and will make necessary recommendations as necessary. Review of the facility policy Nutritional Management with a revised date of 10/22/22, included the following: The facility provides care and services to each resident to ensure the resident maintains acceptable parameters of nutritional status . Acceptable parameters of nutritional status refer to factors that reflect that an individual's nutritional status is adequate . such as weight, food/fluid intake, and pertinent laboratory values . A systematic approach is used to optimize each resident's nutritional status: a. Identifying and assessing each resident's nutritional status and risk factors, b. Evaluating/analyzing the assessment information, c. Developing and consistently implementing pertinent approaches, d. Monitor the effectiveness of interventions and revising them as necessary . A comprehensive nutritional assessment will be completed by a dietitian on all admission, annual, and upon significant change in condition . The assessment shall clarify the resident's current nutritional status and individual risk factors . The dietitian shall use data gathered from the nutritional assessment to estimate the resident's calorie, nutrient and fluid needs and whether intake is adequate to meet those needs . Care plan implementation: a. The residents' goals and preferences regarding nutrition will be reflected in the resident's plan of care. b) Interventions will be individualized to address the specific needs of the resident . Monitoring of the resident's condition and care plan interventions will occur on an ongoing basis . The care plan will be updated as needed, such as when a resident's condition changes . interventions are determined to be ineffective, or as new causes of nutrition-related problems are identified . The physician will be notified of significant changes in weight, intake, or nutritional status . The comprehensive care plan should describe any interventions offered but declined by the resident or resident's representative. NJAC 8:39-11.2(e)(2) (i), 17.1(c), 17.4(a)(3), 27.1(a) 2. On 2/22/23 at 10:15 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #38 seated in a wheelchair and listening to the radio. The resident appeared thin and did not respond to surveyor inquiries. On 2/27/23 at 12:15 PM, the surveyor observed the resident eating lunch independently. The resident meal consisted of a sweet potato, roasted pork and Brussel Sprouts. There was also a dessert and a low-fat milk on the tray. The resident stated that he/she consumed most of the roasted pork and sweet potatoes, and few of the Brussel sprouts. On 2/27/23 at 12:39 PM, the surveyor observed both the CNA #2 and an LPN in the resident's room encouraging the resident to consume more food. The surveyor observed that the resident consumed 0% of the lemon meringue pie dessert. In addition, there was no mighty shake or magic cup (supplements) observed on the resident's lunch tray or on the overbed table. The surveyor reviewed the electronic and paper medical record for Resident #38. Review of the admission Record reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses which included but not limited to; malignant neoplasm of prostate (prostate cancer), major depressive disorder (mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and a loss of interest), neutropenia (condition of few neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that fights infection), and anemia (condition that causes a lack of healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to body tissues). Review of the quarterly MDS dated [DATE], included that the resident had a BIMS score of 15 out of 15, which indicated that the resident had an intact cognition. Review of the March 2023 OSR POs indicated a PO for a Regular diet, Regular texture, and thin consistency with a start date of 3/5/21. It also included a PO dated 8/6/22, for Remeron 15 milligrams (mg) one tablet by mouth at bedtime as an appetite stimulant. Review of the September 2022 through March 2023 eMAR, reflected the above corresponding PO. Review of the resident's weights included the following: 8/11/22 96 lbs. 9/5/22 93 lbs. 10/3/22 97 lbs. 11/10/22 95 lbs. 12/9/22 95 lbs. 1/6/23 94 lbs. 2/1/23 92.6 lbs. Review of the resident's progress notes from the hybrid medical record from 9/1/22 through 02/22/23, included the following documentation related to the resident's nutritional status: Review of the nutritional progress note dated 9/8/22, indicated that the resident experienced a 9.7% weight loss over the last 90 days. It also indicated that the resident had a mildly depleted albumin (protein in the blood) level of 3.4 dated 7/8/22. RD #1 documented that she observed the resident consume less than 50% of breakfast that day and added the following supplements: a four oz mighty shake at lunch and dinner, which provided an additional 200 calories and six grams of protein per four oz portion, and a four oz magic cup at lunch and dinner, which provided an additional 290 calories and 9 grams of protein per four oz portion. There was no documented evidence in the resident's hybrid medical records that the above RD's recommended nutritional supplements were given, accepted, or consumed by the resident. Review of the Mini Nutritional Assessment completed by RD #2 and dated 1/9/23, identified Resident #38 as being at risk for malnutrition. There was no further documented evidence of a comprehensive nutrition assessment or revised nutritional interventions to address the risk for malnutrition, prior to surveyor inquiry. Review of the nursing progress notes from 9/1/22 until 2/22/23, did not include documented evidence that the resident received or refused the mighty shake and magic cups at lunch and dinner. Review of the resident's paper chart did not include Dietitian Recommendations (the communication form utilized by the RD to inform the nursing staff, the physician and the Food Service Department for the recommended nutritional supplements) forms. Review of the CP date initiated 9/8/22, included the following interventions, Diet, supplements, snacks, fortified foods as rx'd [prescribed]; honor food preferences; meds as rx'd; weight, labs, hydration status, diet counseling/education as needed. The CP did not include that the resident was at risk for malnutrition and there was no evidence of revisions, or additional interventions related to the identification of risk for malnutrition dated on or after 1/9/23, until to surveyor inquiry. Review of the resident's meal tickets provided to the surveyor by the FSD, in the presence of the Regional FSD on 2/27/23 at 10:00AM, did not include a mighty shake or magic cup for lunch or dinner. On 3/6/23 at 12:30 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON, in the presence of the LNHA and the survey team. She acknowledged that the 1/9/23, Mini Nutritional Assessment identified the resident at risk for malnutrition. She further stated that the RD should have documented a follow up comprehensive nutritional assessment and revised the care plan.
CONCERN (D)

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

MDS Data Transmission (Tag F0640)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on interview and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to timely transmit a resident's Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care in...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on interview and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to timely transmit a resident's Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care in accordance with federal guidelines. This deficient practice was identified for one (1) of 28 residents, (Resident #87) reviewed for the timely transmission of MDS's and was evidenced by the following: The MDS is a comprehensive federal mandated process for clinical assessment of all residents that has to be completed and submitted to the Quality Measure System. The facility must electronically transmit the MDS up to 14 days of the assessment being completed. After transmitting of the MDS, it will generate a quality measure to enable a facility to monitor the residents decline and progress. According to the latest version of the Center for Medicare/Medicaid Services (CMS) - Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) 3.0 Manual (updated October 2019) page 2-33, 05. Quarterly Assessment (A 0310 A = 02) .The MDS completion date (item Z 0500 B) must be no later than 14 days after the ARD (Assessment Reference Date) (ARD + 14 calendar days). On Page 2-17 indicates, Transmission Date no later than .MDS completion date +14 calendar days. On 3/1/23 at 10:18 AM, the surveyor reviwed the survey's Facility Assessment Task which includes a review of designated residents' MDS Assessments. Resident#87 was triggered under the survey facility task as MDS record over 120 days old. On that same date at 10:20 AM, Resident #87 had a Quarterly MDS with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 1/23/23, that was completed on 2/6/23, and was Accepted on 2/27/23. The MDS should have been transmitted no later than 2/20/23. On 3/2/23 at 10:20 AM, the surveyor reviewed the MDS submission report which revealed that the resident's 1/23/23, MDS assessment was submitted on 2/27/23, and indicated Record Submitted Late: The submission date was more than 14 days after Z 0500 B . On that same day at 12:47 PM, the surveyor spoke to the Registered Nurse (RN)/MDS Coordinator in the presence of the survey team regarding the above finding. She acknowledged that the MDS assessments must be electronically transmitted up to 14 days of the assessment completion date. The RN/MDS Coordinator further acknowledged that the assessment was not submitted timely in accordance with the federal regulations, until after the surveyor's inquiry when she ran the MDS transmission reports. On that same day at 3:15 PM, the surveyor discussed the above finding with the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), LNHA in training, and the Director of Nursing (DON) in the presence of the survey team. On 3/6/23 at 1:34 PM, the LNHA, LNHA in training, and the DON met with the survey team. No additional information was provided. NJAC 8:39-11.1
CONCERN (D)

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

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

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

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to develop a comprehensive, person-centered care plan for residents with nutritional concerns, weight loss and malnutrition. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 27 residents reviewed for comprehensive care plans (Resident #33 and #264), and was evidenced by the following: 1. On 2/22/23 at 12:13 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #33 in his/her room seated in a wheelchair in front of the lunch tray on an overbed table. The resident stated that he/she had not eaten lunch yet and the plate was covered with a domed lid. The surveyor reviewed the electronic and paper medical record for Resident #33. Review of the admission Record (an admission summary) reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses which included but were not limited to dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and Alzheimer's disease, unspecified. Review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care dated 11/8/22, reflected that the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 12 out of 15 which indicated that the resident had a slightly impaired cognition. It further reflected that the resident was holding food in mouth/cheeks or residual food in mouth after meals,was 65 inches tall, weighed 125 pounds, experienced a significant weight loss of 5% or more in the last month or loss of 10% or more in the last 6 months and Yes, not on a physician-prescribed weight-loss regimen, and was on a mechanically altered diet-require change in texture of food or liquid . In addition, the Care Area Assessment (CAA) Worksheet which was completed and signed by the Registered Nurse (RN) MDS Coordinator on 11/14/22, included Will Nutritional Status - Functional Status be addressed in the care plan? Yes and reflected that the overall objectives included improvement, slow or minimize decline and maintain current level of functioning in the area of nutritional status. Review of the resident's weights included the following: 9/29/22 139 pounds (lbs.) 11/2/22 125 lbs. Review of the Nutrition Assessment -V2 dated 11/7/22, included that the resident experienced a 10% weight loss x 60 days and that the Registered Dietitian (RD) observed that the resident consumed >50% of the lunch meal. It further indicated that the RD initiated a care plan. The RD further documented nutritional interventions which included a four-ounce mighty shake twice a day at lunch and dinner to provide 200 calories and 6 grams of protein per four-ounce portion. Review of the comprehensive care plan (CP) did not reflect documented evidence that the resident's nutritional status, weight loss, nutritional goals and interventions were included or addressed. 2. On 2/22/23 at 11:55 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #264 in his/her room seated in a wheelchair in front of an overbed table. The resident appeared thin. The resident's lunch tray arrived, and he/she was able to feed themselves and began to consume the lunch meal. The surveyor reviewed the electronic and paper medical record for Resident #264. Review of the admission Record reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses that included but were not limited to unspecified protein-calorie malnutrition (protein calorie malnutrition happens when you are not consuming enough protein and calories), dementia, dysphagia and adult failure to thrive (can occur when an older adult has a loss of appetite, eats and drinks less than usual, loses weight, and is less active than normal). Review of an admission MDS dated [DATE], reflected that the resident had a BIMS score of 14 out of 15, which indicated that the resident had an intact cognition. It further reflected that the resident had a diagnosis of Malnutrition (protein or calorie) or at risk for malnutrition. It also reflected that the resident was holding food in mouth/cheeks or residual food in mouth after meals,was 62 inches tall, and weighed 112 lbs. In addition, the Care Area Assessment (CAA) Worksheet which was completed and signed by the RN MDS Coordinator on 2/16/23, included Will Nutritional Status - Functional Status be addressed in the care plan? Yes and reflected that the overall objectives included improvement, slow or minimize decline and maintain current level of functioning in the area of nutritional status. Review of the Mini Nutritional Assessment dated 2/6/23, reflected that the resident had a moderate decrease in food intake, experienced a weight loss of 2.2 to 6.6 lbs. during the last three months, had a Body Mass Index (BMI) [measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women] of 19 to less than 21 and was assessed as malnourished. Review of the Medical Nutrition Therapy Assessment dated 2/17/23, reflected to Proceed with POC [plan of care]. Review of the CP did not reflect documented evidence that the resident's nutritional status, nutritional goals and interventions were included or addressed. On 3/02/23 at 12:47 PM, the surveyor conducted a phone interview with the RN MDS Coordinator in the presence of the survey team. She stated that a nutrition care plan should have been initiated for Resident #33 and #264. On 3/03/23 at 1:20 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) in the presence of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and the survey team. The DON stated that she expected the RD to initiate a nutrition care plan on admission and update the care plan periodically for quarterly reviews and significant changes. On 3/03/23 at 1:44 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON in the presence of the LNHA and the survey team. The DON acknowledged that there was no nutrition care plan for Resident #33 and #264. In addition, the DON stated that the MDS Coordinator and the team were responsible to ensure that the residents comprehensive care plans addressed the CAA's. On 3/06/23 at 12:53 PM, the surveyor conducted a phone interview with RD #3 who stated that if the CAA's triggered for nutritional status, the RD should have initiated a care plan. On 3/6/23 at 1:34 PM, the survey team met with the LNHA, LNHA in training, and DON. There was no additional information provided. Review of the facility policy Nutritional Management with a revised date of 10/22/22, included the following: The facility provides care and services to each resident to ensure the resident maintains acceptable parameters of nutritional status . A comprehensive nutritional assessment will be completed by a dietitian on all admission, annual, and upon significant change in condition . Care plan implementation: a. The residents' goals and preferences regarding nutrition will be reflected in the resident's plan of care. b) Interventions will be individualized to address the specific needs of the resident . Monitoring of the resident's condition and care plan interventions will occur on an ongoing basis . The care plan will be updated as needed, such as when a resident's condition changes . interventions are determined to be ineffective, or as new causes of nutrition-related problems are identified . The comprehensive care plan should describe any interventions offered but declined by the resident or resident's representative. Review of the facility policy Comprehensive Care Plans with a revised date of 4/1/22, included the following: It is the policy of this facility to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered care plan for each resident . The comprehensive care plan will be developed withing 7 days after the completion of the comprehensive MDS assessment. All Care Assessment Areas (CAAs) triggered by the MDS will be considered in developing the plan of care . The facility's rationale for deciding whether to proceed with care planning will be evidenced in the clinical record . The comprehensive care plan will describe at a minimum, the following: a.) The services that are to be furnished to attain or maintain the resident's highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being . The comprehensive care plan will be prepared by an interdisciplinary team, that includes, but is not limited to: .A registered nurse with responsibility for the resident . A member of the food and nutrition services staff . The RAI [Resident Assessment Instrument] coordinator . Review of the facility policy Resident Assessment - RAI with a revised date of 10/22/22, included that The current version of the RAI (MDS 3.0) will be utilized when conducting a comprehensive assessment of each resident in accordance with the instructions found in the RAI Manual. NJAC 8:39-11.2(d), (e)(2), (i), 27.1(a)
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0804 (Tag F0804)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure the safe and appetizing temperatures of food and drink served to the re...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, interview and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure the safe and appetizing temperatures of food and drink served to the residents. This deficient practice was identified by 4 of 5 residents, who during the 2/27/23, Resident Council group meeting stated that hot foods were received cold, and confirmed during the lunch time meal service on 3/3/23, on 1 of 3 nursing units (South) tested for food temperatures by two surveyors, and was evidenced by the following: On 2/22/23 at 9:54 AM, the surveyor conducted an initial tour of the kitchen with the Food Service Director (FSD). During the tour, the surveyor observed that the department had a functioning plate warmer and a method to heat the plate liners to assist in maintaining hot food temperatures during tray delivery to the residents. Towards the end of the tour, the FSD stated that he conducted test tray audits (a tool that evaluates how long it takes to deliver resident trays, meal appearance, taste, portion sizes, tray accuracy and acceptable food temperatures) and resident meal satisfaction surveys. He presented the binders for the completed forms to the surveyor and further stated that there were no concerns regarding food temperatures or meal satisfaction. On 2/27/23 at 11:27 AM, the surveyor met with the five residents for the Resident council meeting. Four out of five residents stated that they were displeased with food temperatures and that hot foods were received cold. On 3/03/23 at 11:50 AM, the surveyor observed the second South unit enclosed food truck delivered to the unit. On 3/03/23 at 11:54 AM, the surveyor calibrated (calibration ensures that the thermometer is accurate and precise for the measurement of food temperatures) a state issued digital thermometer to 31.7 degrees Fahrenheit (F) via the ice bath method in the presence of a second surveyor and a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). On 3/03/23 at 12:05 PM, the last tray was delivered to the residents. At that time, the surveyor obtained food and fluid temperatures in the presence of a second surveyor and the Registered Nurse (RN)/Unit Manager (UM) who acknowledged each of the temperature readings. The temperatures were as follows: Seafood oriental (chopped w/ sauce): 117 degrees F Rice (was scooped in a tight ball): 119.3 degrees F Broccoli (chopped): 124 degrees F Four-ounce cardboard container of skim milk: 53 degrees F Coffee: 141.5 degrees F On 3/03/23 at 12:25 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Regional FSD who stated that both methods for maintaining hot food temperatures during tray transport to the residents were working properly. He also stated that the department placed cold beverages in the freezer a half hour before meal service to help maintain cold temperatures during tray transport to the residents. He also acknowledged that he delivered the second South unit lunch food truck at 11:50 AM. On 3/6/23 at 9:00 AM, the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) provided the surveyor with copies of Test Tray forms which indicated that the Acceptable Temp for Serving included the following criteria; hot foods should be served above 135 degrees F, cold foods should be served below 45 degrees F, hot beverages should be served above 135 degrees F, and cold beverages should be served below 45 degrees F. On 3/06/23 at 11:00 AM, the surveyor interviewed the FSD in the presence of the Regional FSD, who acknowledged and confirmed that the Serving Temp referred to the temperatures taken after the last tray was served on the nursing unit. On 3/6/23 at 1:34 PM, the survey team met with the LNHA, LNHA in training, and the Director of Nursing (DON). There was no additional information provided. Review of the facility policy Food Temperatures with a revised date of April 2022, included that All hot food items must be cooked to appropriate internal temperatures, held, and served at a temperature of at least 135 degrees Fahrenheit . All cold food items must be stored and served at a temperature of 41 degrees or below. Review of the facility policy Meal Distribution with a revised date of May 2022, included that Meals are transported to the dining locations in a manner that ensures proper temperature maintenance, protects against contamination, and are delivered in a timely and accurate manner. NJAC 8:39-17.4 (a) 2, (e)
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0710 (Tag F0710)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

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

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure the physician addressed severe weight loss for 1 of 4 residents (Resident #97) reviewed for nutrition. The evidence was as follows: On 3/2/23 at 11:25 AM, the surveyor observed Resident # 97 awake and seated in a wheelchair in front of the North nursing unit. At that time, the resident stated that he/she was aware of his/her weight loss. The surveyor reviewed the electronic and paper medical record for Resident #97. Review of the admission Record (an admission summary) included that the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses that included but were not limited to cerebral infarction (stroke), hemiplegia and hemiparesis (weakness of one side of the body) following cerebral infarction affecting the right dominant side, and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). Review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care dated 11/13/22, included a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 of 15, which indicated that the resident had an intact cognition. Review of the resident's weights included the following: 9/15/22 145.6 lbs. (pounds) 9/22/22 138 lbs. Review of the Mini Nutritional assessment dated [DATE], indicated that the resident was identified as Malnourished, had a moderate decrease in food intake, and had a weight loss greater than 6.6 lbs. Review of the resident's progress notes from the hybrid medical records from 9/22/22 through 2/22/23, reflected no documented evidence that the resident's severe weight loss was identified and addressed by the Attending Physician (AP) or the Nurse Practitioner (NP) prior to surveyor inquiry. On 3/6/23 at 9:41 AM, the surveyor attempted to call the resident's AP in the presence of the survey team, but the AP was not available at that time. The AP's office manager (OM) informed the surveyor that the AP would be in the office at 3:00 PM. On 3/6/23 at 10:33 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON in the presence of the survey team. She stated that she reviewed Resident #97's paper medical records and acknowledged that there was no documented evidence from the AP that addressed the residents severe weight loss, and she stated, I did not see any. On 3/6/23 at 12:20 PM, the LNHA, LNHA in training, and DON met with the survey team. The DON acknowledged that the resident's AP was aware of the resident's significant weight loss but did not address it in the resident's hybrid medical records. On 3/6/23 at 1:34 PM, the survey team met with the LNHA, LNHA in training, and DON. There was no additional information provided. On 3/6/23 at 3:36 PM, the surveyor reattempted to conduct a telephone interview with the AP, but the OM stated that the AP was unavailable to speak to the surveyor. NJAC 8:39-23.2 (b)
Mar 2021 5 deficiencies 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G)

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Deficiency F0697 (Tag F0697)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to: a.) administer breakthrough pain medication in a timely manner when a resident visually and verbally e...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, interview and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to: a.) administer breakthrough pain medication in a timely manner when a resident visually and verbally exhibited signs of unmanaged pain during movement, b.) ensure the same resident was appropriately assessed and pre-medicated for breakthrough pain prior to performing wound care and activities of daily living, and c.) place a pressure-relieving gel seat cushion to the chair when out of bed to offload pressure and reduce pain associated with the resident's full thickness tissue loss pressure ulcer. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 3 residents reviewed for pain management (Resident #25). The evidence was as follows: On 3/2/21 from 11:28 AM to 11:57 AM, the surveyor observed that Resident #25 was in bed on an air mattress. The resident's eye's were closed and the room was darkened. The surveyor interviewed the resident's roommate who stated that Resident #25 was very sick. The surveyor asked the roommate how he/she knew Resident #25 was very sick and he/she replied that Resident #25 would shout out but the roommate was unable to elaborate further. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #25. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected that the resident had diagnoses which included altered mental status, abnormalities of gait and mobility, atrophy (muscle wasting due to a lack of physical activity), abdominal aortic aneurysm, multiple sites of idiopathic gout (arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints with an unknown cause), edema (swelling), and anxiety. A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 12/22/20 reflected that the resident had a brief interview for mental status score of 11 out of 15 indicating an intact cognition with moderate forgetfulness. The MDS assessment included that the resident had no behaviors in the last seven days of rejecting care, or physical or verbal behaviors. It further included that the resident required an extensive two person physical assist for bed mobility and personal hygiene, and only transferred out of bed 1-2 times in the last seven days. The assessment indicated that the resident had a functional limitation in range of motion affecting one side of the upper extremity and one side of the lower extremity. The resident's pain was further assessed at that time to reflect that he/she had occasional pain level of 5 out of 10 on a pain scale, a moderately distressing pain, that did not impact sleep or day to day activities. The MDS reflected that the resident received a scheduled opioid pain medication 7 out of the last 7 days, and in addition received pain medication as needed (PRN). A review of the resident's individualized comprehensive care plan initiated on 9/20/19 reflected that the resident needed pain management due to multiple conditions including but not limited to degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine, gout, episodes of on and pain to the left lower abdomen related to an aortic aneurysm, a history of hemorrhoidal pain, osteoporosis (a condition that causes weak and brittle bones), neuropathy (weakness, numbness, and pain from nerve damage usually in the hands and feet), and a history of a surgical incision on the inguinal area. The goal indicated that the resident will maintain an adequate level of comfort as evidenced by no signs or symptoms of unrelieved pain or distress, or verbalizing satisfaction with level of comfort. Interventions included to Administer medication as ordered .Evaluated characteristics and frequency/pattern of pain .evaluate what makes the patient's pain worse .monitor swelling/pain of joints and Notify MD [Medical Doctor]. The care plan initiated on 8/19/20 further reflected that the resident had acute/chronic pain from his/her medical conditions and that he/she had range of motion limitations due to immobility. The goal for managing the resident's pain was revised on 2/20/21 and included that the resident will have an acceptable pain level one hour after intervention was initiated with a goal date of 6/20/21. Interventions included to: Avoid pressure on the areas of pain; Complete pain assessment; Distracting activities; Evaluate the effectiveness of pain medications, Give pain medications; Re-position for comfort. (The care plan addressed neither the resident's acceptable numeric level of pain nor any precipitating factors that were known to cause him/her increased pain). Further review of the resident's individualized comprehensive care plan dated 10/26/2020 revealed that the resident had a behavior sometimes of refuses to get OOB [out of bed] but it did not specify why the resident refused to get out of bed. A review of the Certified Nursing Aide Kardex for Resident #25 included to complete pain assessment as needed .ROHO Cushion to wheelchair when OOB [out of bed]. A review of the most recent Wound Consult report dated 3/3/21 reflected that Resident #25 also had a Stage III (full thickness tissue loss) pressure ulcer to the sacrum that was improving. The wound measured 2 centimeters (cm) x 1.5 cm x 0.3 cm and was draining a moderate amount of serous (clear) drainage. The Wound Consult report indicated that the wound bed was covered in 30% slough (yellowing dead tissue), which was debrided (removed the dead tissue) using a blade and Benzocaine 20% spray (a topical anesthetic) without complications. The Wound Consultant/Advanced Practice Nurse (WC/APN) recommended to perform a wound dressing change daily to the sacral ulcer by applying Santyl (a debriding agent) in a nickel-thick amount to the wound, apply collagen powder and calcium alginate cut to fit the size of the wound base and cover the wound with a bordered foam dressing. An additional Order included to avoiding position directing pressure to Wound site .continue use of ROHO cushion (a seat cushion to relieve pressure and allows for more comfort while sitting for longer periods of time). The resident's care plan initiated on 9/20/19 did not specifically address that the resident had a Stage III pressure ulcer to the sacrum. Interventions in the care plan for Impaired Skin Integrity dated 8/20/20 only included vague descriptions of the resident's skin including that the resident had a skin issue, open areas, area monitored but it did not specify a sacral ulcer or the implications of pain related to a Stage III pressure ulcer to the sacrum. An intervention dated 12/9/2020 included to use a ROHO cushion to wheelchair when out of bed. Interventions did not address assessing or pre-medicating the resident prophlyactically for pain prior to daily wound treatments. A review of the physician's Order Recap Report for March 2021 and the electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) for March 2021 included the following physician's orders (PO) to assess the resident's pain score every shift as of 9/30/20 and to address the resident's pain as follows: 1.) a PO dated 11/25/20 for a narcotic analgesic, Oxycodone Hydrochloride (HCl). The order specified to administer one tablet of 5-milligrams (mg) by mouth every eight (8) hours around the clock for pain management. The eMAR was plotted for the Oxycodone HCl to be administered at 6 AM, 2 PM and 10 PM. 2.) a PO dated 9/30/20 for Tylenol 325 mg (an analgesic that treats minor aches and pains). The order specified to administer two tablets to equal 650 mg every four (4) hours as needed for mild pain (numeric pain scale of 1-3). The eMAR was plotted for the Tylenol to have a Pain Level numeric assessment documented with the PRN dose. 3.) a PO dated 10/22/20 to administer the schedule-IV controlled opioid analgesic, Tramadol HCl tablet. The order specified to administer 100 mg by mouth every eight (8) hours as needed for moderate to severe pain with numeric levels of 4-10 on a pain scale of 0 to 10. The eMAR was plotted to be administered PRN. 4.) a PO dated 12/9/20 to apply Lidocaine Ointment (a topical numbing cream) 5% to the sacral area topically every 24 hours as needed for numbing prior to the wound treatment, and that it may be used less than or equal to four times daily. The eMAR was plotted for the ointment to be applied PRN. The Order Recap Report for March 2021 further reflected a PO dated 9/30/20 for Pramoxine Cream 1-2.5% for rectal inflammation to be applied topically every 6 hours PRN, and a PO dated 11/14/20 for a daily scheduled medication used to treat gout (Allopurinol 100 mg). There were no other physician orders used to medicinally manage the resident's pain. The surveyor continued to observe and conduct interviews with facility staff. The following was revealed: On 3/9/21 at 10:40 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 in bed on an air mattress. The resident was awake and the resident's assigned Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) was in the resident's room. The CNA stated that she had finished providing morning care to Resident #25. The surveyor asked the resident in the presence of the CNA if he/she could show the surveyor their hands from under the blanket, and the resident just stared at the surveyor. At that time, the CNA slowly removed the resident's blanket that was covering his/her body and began to gently touch and open the resident's right and left hand. There was no visible acute swelling to either the left or right arm. As the CNA opened the resident's left hand, the surveyor observed the resident quickly pulled back the left arm and make a facial grimace as though he/she had pain. The CNA acknowledged the resident's discomfort in moving his/her upper left extremity. The CNA then showed the surveyor the resident's feet from under the blanket. The surveyor observed that both legs were elevated on a single pillow and the left leg had more swelling that the right leg. The resident's left foot was in a plantar flexion (when the top of the foot points away from the leg) and the left leg was laterally rotated. The resident's left heel was in direct contact with the resident's lateral right ankle. There was no positioning devices in place. The CNA separated the resident's left and right leg from touching, and the resident immediately flinched and grimaced. The CNA then covered the feet with a blanket. At that time, the resident's cell phone rang and the CNA assisted the resident with the phone call by holding the phone to the resident's ear. The surveyor observed that the resident was not verbally communicating back with the caller. After the CNA terminated the call after several minutes of the resident not verbally engaging, the surveyor interviewed the CNA. The CNA stated that Resident #25 was alert and oriented and in the past could usually make his/her needs known without an issue, but in the last two months the resident has had a decline in cognition and function. The CNA confirmed that the resident was not verbally responding to the caller and that his/her cognition and ability to communicate would wax and wane. The CNA continued that she now had to anticipate all of the resident's needs because he/she was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living and required at least two people to provide care because the resident was unable to turn in bed or hold a phone to the ear anymore. The CNA elaborated that the resident would wear specialized boots when out of bed, but that Resident #25 would often refuse to get up or accept showers on shower days anymore. The surveyor asked the CNA why the resident refused to get out of bed or allow for showers anymore, and the CNA stated that it may be because [he/she] had pain. The CNA added that she thought it was because of pain because the resident cries when I wash him/her. The CNA acknowledged that on gentle touch or movement of the left arm and leg in the presence of the surveyor, the resident exhibited signs of discomfort. The CNA stated that movement would often increased the resident's pain, so when the resident would cry during care, she would immediately stop and get the nurse and the nurse would administer pain medication to the resident. She stated that she would return to finish care after about 30 minutes so the medication could take effect. The CNA stated that the resident could usually say if he/she was in pain or if he/she didn't want to eat, but it depended on the day. The CNA stated that the resident had a little open wound on the buttock that the nurse puts a treatment on everyday. The CNA stated that she thought the resident developed the wound in the hospital. The CNA wasn't sure if the resident received pain medication prior to care, adding that the surveyor would have to ask the nurse that question. On the same day 3/9/21 at 11:03 AM, the surveyor interviewed the resident's assigned Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The LPN stated that this was her first day with Resident #25 because she was an agency nurse. The LPN stated that she was orienting with a Registered Nurse (RN) but the RN was also new and had only been working at the facility for about three to four weeks herself. She stated that she couldn't speak to much about the resident. The surveyor asked what information she received on the shift to shift report about Resident #25, and neither the LPN nor RN could speak to the information they received on report about Resident #25. The LPN stated that she did just finish a wound treatment with the RN for Resident #25 around between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM this morning. The surveyor asked the LPN about how the resident tolerated the wound dressing change, and the LPN stated that the resident didn't complain of any pain in the moment. The surveyor inquired about the pain assessment done prior to the wound care, and the LPN stated that the resident did not give her a numeric pain scale number, so she didn't need the pain meds at the time. The LPN stated that she did not pre-medicate the resident for any pain because the resident did not complain of pain. The surveyor asked how she assesses for pain and she stated that she asks for a numeric number and depending on the number she will medicate for pain. She added that I typically give pain meds before a dressing change but that she did not do it today. The LPN stated that she did the wound care with the RN today. At 11:15 AM, the surveyor interviewed the RN who stated that the resident had a pressure ulcer to the sacrum about the size of a nickel and that it was not draining. The surveyor asked the RN if she had conducted a pain assessment prior to the wound care, and the RN stated that she asked the resident are you in pain? and the resident reported that the pain was a 2-3 out of 10, but she didn't need to give the resident any medication because the resident had already received a dose of Oxycodone HCl at 6 AM. The RN confirmed that a wound treatment performed between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM was between 3 to 3.5 hours since the last dose. The RN did not speak to the administration of Tylenol for mild pain of 1-3, or the order for the Lidocaine cream to be applied PRN prior to wound care. At 11:21 AM, the LPN/Unit Manager (LPN/UM) overheard the surveyor interviewing the LPN and the RN, and the LPN/UM stated that she was there also during the wound treatment this morning with the resident because the resident needs assistance with turning and the resident was new to the nurses. The LPN/UM stated that the resident didn't say a word and that the resident was not moaning. The LPN/UM stated that had she seen the resident flinch in pain, moan or scream, she would stop or have the nurses stop and medicate the resident for pain and return. The surveyor asked why they would wait until the resident was in pain to medicate him/her, instead of offering a prescribed medication (Tylenol, Tramadol, or Lidocaine as ordered by the physician) prophlyactically to prevent any pain. The LPN/UM acknowledged that it was easier to prevent pain than to treat pain, but kept insisting that the resident did not even flinch in pain. The surveyor asked the LPN/UM about the resident's pain management, and the LPN/UM stated that the resident has a history of generalized pain mostly to the lower extremities and that he/she would sometimes just lay in bed and scream. She added that when the resident gets out of bed he/she screams also and therapy was working with the resident. She stated that medications were adjusted and whatever [he/she] is getting now is effective. The surveyor asked the LPN/UM what makes the pain worse for Resident #25, and she stated that if someone goes to change the resident just touching him/her the resident will yell Oww! Oww! as though in pain. She elaborated that repositioning makes the pain worse, and because the resident will sometimes scream without anyone even touching him/her, it's more of a behavior and not necessarily pain. The LPN/UM continued to state that despite the resident's history of flinching when changing him/her, or touching and repositioning causing the resident to report signs of pain, that this did not occur during the wound treatment that morning. The LPN/UM confirmed that the resident did not get pre-medicated prior to the wound treatments. The surveyor reviewed the resident's eMAR for March 2021 together with the LPN, the RN and the LPN/UM who confirmed that there was no record of administration of any pain medication administered including the Tylenol, Tramadol, or the Lidocaine numbing ointment given prior to the wound care in accordance with the physician's order. The surveyor reviewed the Individual Patient Controlled Drug Records for the Oxycodone 5 mg and the Tramadol 100 mg order in the presence of the LPN, the RN, and the LPN/UM. The declining inventory record revealed that the last dose of Oxycodone 5 mg was removed from inventory on 3/9/21 at 6 AM that morning and the last dose of Tramadol was removed on 3/2/21 at 9:42 AM. At 11:30 AM, the RN stated to the surveyor that it was a standard of practice to give a pain medication prior to treatment. The RN stated that because the pain medication doses were PRN and not routinely scheduled, and because it didn't look like the resident was in any pain, it wasn't needed. The LPN and RN both stated that they would only chart by exception that if a resident exhibited pain during a wound treatment than they would document how the resident tolerated the procedure, but otherwise they wouldn't need to document how he/she tolerated the dressing change. The LPN/UM further expressed that the resident had a psychiatric consult on 2/19/21 for evaluation of a gradual dose reduction of his/her psychotropic medications, and the psychotropic medications were subsequently discontinued. The LPN/UM stated that the resident's calling out in pain was sometimes behavioral and we had to determine if the resident was really in pain or if it was a behavior. She stated that they thought it might be behavioral because the resident would receive pain medication and after it was effective, the resident would continue exhibit signs of pain. The surveyor asked how she knew the pain medication given was effective if the resident was showing or verbalizing pain, and the LPN/UM stated that it was because the resident was already medicated. The LPN/UM confirmed that it could also mean that the medication was not effective if the resident continued to exhibit signs of pain. She acknowledged that pain was subjective and tolerance to pain can vary between individuals. She was not aware of the resident's numeric acceptable pain level. The surveyor asked to see any Psychiatric consults, Physiatrist Consults or any other Physician notes that addressed the resident's verbalizations of pain as being a behavior. The LPN/UM stated that she would get back to the surveyor. On 3/9/21 at 11:54 AM, the surveyor and the LPN entered the room of Resident #25 who was in bed with eyes closed. The LPN attempted to move the resident's left leg and the resident pulled back the leg and grimaced. The LPN stated that this was indicative of pain and that he/she could receive pain medication now. She stated that the resident appears comfortable until moving him/her. She confirmed that avoiding movement can be an alleviating factor for pain, and assessment for pain involves more than just looking at a resident. She confirmed pain assessment should include how the resident responds to normal activities of daily living, repositioning, touching and other visual cues of pain, and not just when looking at a resident at rest. She could not speak to if the resident responded in the same way during the wound treatment that morning between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM. The LPN stated that she would give the resident pain medication now. A review of the eMAR's for February 2021 and March 2021 did not reflect documented evidence that the resident received the PRN Lidocaine ointment to the sacrum prior the dressing change. The eMAR's were also blank to reflect the resident did not receive any doses of Tylenol PRN for mild to moderate pain of 1-3 out of 10 on the pain scale. The eMAR for February 2021 further reflected that the resident only got Tramadol 100 mg on 2/5/21 at 9:35 AM for a pain of 5 out of 10 on the pain scale; on 2/12/21 at 9:10 PM for a pain of 4 out of 10 on the pain scale; 2/19/21 at 9:36 AM for a pain of 5 out of 10 on the pain scale; and on 2/20/21 at 11:00 AM for a pain of 7 out of 10 on the pain scale. The Tramadol was documented as effective on those dates. There was no documented evidence that these doses of Tramadol were given prophlyactically prior to wound care of the Stage III pressure ulcer to the sacrum. A review of the eMAR for March 2021 conducted on 3/9/21 reflected that the resident received Tramadol on 3/1 at 11:30 AM for a pain of 5 out of 10 on the pain scale which was effective; on 3/2/21 at 9:43 AM for a pain of 4 out of 10 on the pain scale which was effective, and on 3/9/21 at 12:00 PM for a pain of 4 out of 10 on the pain scale. On 3/9/21 as of 1:32 PM, there was no documented evidence that the resident had been re-evaluated for the effectiveness of the 12:00 PM dose of Tramadol given on 3/9/21. Further, there was no documented evidence that these doses of Tramadol were given prophlyactically prior to wound care of the Stage III pressure ulcer to the sacrum. A review of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Follow up notes dated 10/26/20 reflected that the resident had good pain control status post right knee injection during the last visit. Extremities were noted to have gross edema .not tenderness to the right knee at this time, continues to have left knee tenderness to palpation with no swelling . The Plan was to use Tylenol PRN and Tramadol PRN . the MD performed a steroid injection to the left knee. A review of the most recent Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Follow up note dated 12/3/20 reflected that the resident was seen for a chief complaint of generalized weakness and muscle atrophy and denies any acute issues at that time. Range of Motion assessment revealed right lower extremity was impaired at the knee. The left lower extremity was impaired at the hip, the right upper extremity was impaired at the shoulder and elbow, and the left upper extremity was within functional limits. The Plan for pain included Tylenol PRN and Tramadol PRN, and otherwise as per eMAR, and to monitor for side effects and efficacy. Medical team to follow up. The next day on 3/10/21 at 8:38 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 awake in bed on an air mattress. The surveyor attempted to interview the resident about his/her pain and the resident verbally responded to the surveyor. The resident stated that he/she had pain in the back-side. The resident was only able to elaborate on the location of the pain, and not the type, severity, duration or other possible causes of the pain. The resident stated that he/she got pain medication that morning, and when asked if the medication was effective at relieving the pain, the resident replied, No. The resident continued to state that not only did he/she have pain to the back-side but also had pain that also went up higher and the resident kept repeating that the pain was across the shoulders, too. At 8:43 AM, while the surveyor was interviewing Resident #25, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) assigned to care for Resident #25 entered the resident's room. The LPN was not the same LPN as assigned to the resident on 3/9/21. The surveyor observed that the LPN was holding a medicine cup filled with apple sauce. The LPN stated that a Certified Nursing Aide (CNA #2) had reported to her that Resident #25 was experiencing pain during morning care. The LPN stated that the Tylenol that she gave that morning around 7 AM was not effective and therefore she was going to administer a PRN dose of Tramadol for breakthrough pain. The surveyor observed the LPN put two whole tablets of the Tramadol into the resident's mouth at one time using a cup of apple sauce, and gave the resident a cup of water with a straw. The resident did not drink through the straw, so the LPN used the teaspoon from the apple sauce to collect water from the drinking cup and attempted to give the resident water using a spoon-feeding method with two teaspoons of water. The LPN encouraged the resident to swallow the medication, but the resident pocketed it and then spit out both of the tablets and the remaining applesauce from his/her mouth. At that time the LPN confirmed that the resident spit out the two tablets of Tramadol, and she accessed a brown paper towel and wiped the resident's mouth with the paper towel. The surveyor observed the LPN roll up the two whole Tramadol tablets into the paper towel, and crumpled it into a ball. She then removed her gloves over the brown paper towel with the Tramadol tablets inside it and threw it all in the resident's regular trash can at the door. The LPN exited the resident's room and stated that she was going to get another dose of Tramadol and crush it up this time, so the LPN returned to the medication cart. The surveyor observed the LPN open the Narcotic book and access the resident's Individual Patient's Controlled Drug Record (a declining inventory sheet used for the accountability of controlled drugs) for the Tramadol tablets. The drug record reflected the Tramadol tablets were white oblong in color and shape. The LPN turned to the back of the drug record which was used for signing Destroyed/Wasted Medication Doses. The LPN filled out the form reflecting that tablets number 16 and 17 had been wasted because resident spit out. The LPN signed for the destruction of the Tramadol. The LPN then signed out two additional tablets (Tablet 14 and 15) of Tramadol from the resident's Individual Patient's Controlled Drug Record, removed the two tablets from the the medication card, and proceeded to crush them into fine granules and put it into a cup of applesauce for ease of swallowing. At approximately 8:57 AM, the LPN spoon fed the two tablets of crushed Tramadol into the resident's mouth, and upon the medication sitting in the resident's mouth, the resident began to grimace and repeating, I don't like that, I don't like that. At 8:59 AM, the resident stated that he/she was going to throw up and the resident began to spit out the crushed up Tramadol tablets in the presence of a Registered Nurse (RN) and the surveyor. The LPN stated that the resident was not able to take the Tramadol after two attempts, so she collected the crushed Tramadol granules that the resident spit out, put it back into the medicine cup and brought it to the medication cart. She then opened the Narcotic book and returned to the resident's Individual Patient Controlled Drug Record for the Tramadol, and on the back of the form she began to fill out the destruction/wasting of Tramadol dose 14 and 15, but she didn't fully record a reason for why the tablets were not given. At 9:01 AM, the LPN informed the surveyor that because the two attempts to administer Tramadol was ineffective and that he/she spit them both out, that she was going to call the Medical Doctor (MD) to get an order for a pain medication that can be taken by an alternate route that didn't require swallowing such as a sublingual tablet (which can dissolve under the tongue) or an analgesic suppository. The LPN stated that the resident looked comfortable and that because the RN was in the resident's room that she had time to call the MD and get the order for a new pain medication. On the same day on 3/10/21 at 9:15 AM, the LPN showed the surveyor the Lidocaine 5% ointment from the treatment cart. The ointment tube was designated for Resident #25 and had a delivery date of the day before on 3/9/21 and an open date of 3/10/21, and the tube appeared to have been used. The LPN confirmed that the Lidocaine was delivered yesterday or last night. She could not speak to if they had the Lidocaine had been available prior to yesterday or if there was any housestock. She stated that the Wound Consultant had made rounds at approximately 6:30 AM that morning and that she had done the wound treatment for Resident #25 and had used the Lidocaine numbing ointment. On 3/10/21 at 9:17 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Rehab Director/Physical Therapist (PT). The PT stated that the resident received Occupational Therapy (OT) services from 10/1/2020 until 11/20/2020, and Physical Therapy services form 10/1/2020 until 12/4/2020. She stated that she had worked with the resident on and off during his/her time receiving Physical Therapy. She stated that the resident had been hospitalized in September 2020, and was readmitted to the facility with weakness and required a maximum assistance for bed mobility and transfers. She stated that the resident was also evaluated for the use of positioning boots because of identified plantar flexion of the foot, and that the boots were necessary to stabilize and prevent further contractures of the feet. She stated that the resident was tolerating the multipodus boots for up to three hours while in bed upon discharge from rehab services. The surveyor asked the PT about the resident's pain during rehab services, and the PT stated that the therapists performed active range of motion exercises with the resident during therapy services and used positioning wedges for the left leg due to the left hip that was rotated causing the resident pain. She stated that the resident would say no at times to things such as sitting up in the chair because he/she could not tolerate it due to discomfort. At the time the resident was able to articulate any pain the exercises or plan for the day were adjusted to meet the resident's needs and tolerance levels. She added that the resident was not able to tolerate sitting in a chair and that the rehab team offered the resident maximum encouragement but the resident would sometimes clearly say no. She stated that the rehab team would make sure the resident was pre-medicated for pain prior to therapy in order to prevent pain. She confirmed that pain would be voiced during movement specifically with the left leg due to hip flexion, foot drop and formation of contractures (shortening of muscles and soft tissues caused by immobility) to the left hip and ankle. The PT could not speak to if the resident had a decline in the bilateral lower extremities, since she had not seen the resident for services since 12/4/20. The surveyor requested a copy of all in-service records provided by the PT regarding caregiver training for Resident #25. The PT stated that she would have to get back to the surveyor because it was filed and not e[TRUNCATED]
CONCERN (D)

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 observation, interview, record review, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility ...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure: a.) the appropriate disposition of a Scheduled-IV controlled drug (Tramadol), and b.) appropriately sign for the destruction of the Tramadol for 2 of 2 opportunities for medication destruction for 1 of 8 residents reviewed for medications management (Resident #25). This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 2 nurses on 3/10/21, and was evidenced by the following: On 3/10/21 at 8:38 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 awake in bed on an air mattress. The resident stated to the surveyor that he/she had pain in the back-side. The resident was only able to elaborate on the location of the pain, and not the type, severity, duration or other possible causes of the pain. The resident stated that he/she got pain medication that morning, and when asked if the medication was effective at relieving the pain, the resident replied, No. At 8:43 AM, while the surveyor was interviewing Resident #25, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) assigned to care for Resident #25 entered the resident's room. The LPN was holding a medicine cup filled with apple sauce. The LPN stated that a Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) had reported to her that Resident #25 was experiencing pain during morning care. The LPN stated that the Tylenol that she gave that morning around 7 AM was not effective and therefore she was going to administer Tramadol (a scheduled-IV controlled drug). The LPN added that she had two tablets of Tramadol in the medicine cup, and the surveyor observed two medium sized white oblong pills in the applesauce in addition to at least one other unidentified small round pill. The LPN put the two tablets into the resident's mouth at one time, and gave the resident a cup of water with a straw. The resident did not drink through the straw, so the LPN used the teaspoon from the apple sauce to collect water from the drinking cup and attempted to give the resident water using a spoon-feeding method with two teaspoons of water. The LPN encouraged the resident to swallow the medication, but the resident pocketed it and then spit out both the tablets and remaining applesauce. At that time the LPN confirmed that the resident spit out the two tablets of Tramadol, and she accessed a brown paper towel and wiped the resident's mouth with the paper towel and used the same paper towel to collect the two tablets of Tramadol. The surveyor observed the LPN roll up the two whole Tramadol tablets into the paper towel, and crumpled it into a ball. She then removed her gloves over the brown paper towel with the Tramadol tablets inside it and threw it all in the resident's regular trash can at the door . The LPN exited the resident's room and stated that she was going to get another dose of Tramadol and crush it up this time. The LPN returned to the medication cart. The surveyor observed the LPN open the Narcotic book and access the resident's Individual Patient's Controlled Drug Record (a declining inventory sheet used for the accountability of controlled drugs) for the Tramadol tablets. The drug record reflected the Tramadol tablets were white oblong in color and shape. The LPN turned to the back of the drug record which was used for signing Destroyed/Wasted Medication Doses. The LPN filled out the form reflecting that tablets number 16 and 17 had been wasted because resident spit out. The LPN signed her name for the destruction of the Tramadol. At 8:52 AM, the LPN called upon the LPN/Unit Manager (LPN/UM) who was walking down hallway and requested her to sign her name as the witness for the destruction of the Tramadol. Without requesting to see the tablets of Tramadol or witnessing them being destroyed/wasted, she proceeded to sign her initials as the witness. The LPN/UM asked the LPN if there was a drug buster (a drug disposal system) in the medication cart and the LPN replied, No and so the LPN/UM went down the hallway and returned with a drug buster and put it into the medication cart. At 8:55 AM, the LPN then began to put the one small round pill that was still in the medicine cup with the apple sauce into the drug buster in the presence of the LPN/UM and surveyor. As she putting the pill into the drug buster, the LPN stated to the LPN/UM that the one small round tablet was the Tramadol. The LPN/UM proceeded to walk down the hallway. The LPN then signed out two additional tablets (Tablet 14 and 15) of Tramadol from the resident's Individual Patient's Controlled Drug Record, removed the two tablets from the the medication card, and proceeded to crush them into fine granules and put it into applesauce for ease of swallowing. At approximately 8:57 AM, the LPN spoon fed the two tablets of crushed Tramadol into the resident's mouth, and upon the medication sitting in the resident's mouth, the resident began to grimace and repeating, I don't like that, I don't like that. At 8:59 AM, the resident stated that he/she was going to throw up and the resident began to spit out the crushed up Tramadol tablets in the presence of a Registered Nurse (RN) and the surveyor. The LPN stated that the resident was not able to take the Tramadol after two attempts, so she collected the crushed Tramadol granules that the resident spit out, put it back into the medicine cup and brought it to the medication cart. She put the cup of the crushed Tramadol into the bottom drawer of medication cart and stated that she would get someone to sign for wasting the medication later. She then opened the Narcotic book and returned to the resident's Individual Patient Controlled Drug Record for the Tramadol, and on the back of the form she began to fill out the destruction/wasting of Tramadol dose 14 and 15, but she didn't record a reason or her initials or get another nurse to witness for the wasting at the time the drug was spit out. At 9:06 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN. The surveyor asked the LPN if the Tramadol was a small round pill, and the LPN stated that what she put into the drug buster with the LPN/UM was the Tramadol. The surveyor asked what she threw away in the brown paper towel in the resident's trash can and she stated that there were no pills in there. The LPN went to the trash can to retrieve the brown paper towel stored inside the pair of used gloves that she had thrown away. Upon opening the brown paper towel, there were the two white oblong tablets. The LPN then acknowledged the tablets that were in the paper towel were actually the two Tramadol tablets. The surveyor observed the LPN independently open the medication cart and put the two tablets of Tramadol into the drug buster. There was no witnessing nurse present. The LPN neither requested to have the LPN/UM return to observe the Tramadol get wasted once it was identified in the paper towel, nor did she request any other nurse to witness the tablets being destroyed. The LPN confirmed that a witnessing nurse was supposed to watch as any controlled drug was destroyed into the drug buster and confirmed that she had not properly done that. She could not speak for why the LPN/UM would sign as a witness of drug destruction, if she did not visualize the Tramadol tablets getting destroyed. At 9:43 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN/UM regarding how controlled drugs were to be properly destroyed with a witnessing nurse. The LPN/UM stated that drugs were supposed to be destroyed by placing the pill into a drug buster. The LPN/UM stated that this was why she went to get one for the LPN when it was not available in the medication cart. She confirmed that medications, especially unused controlled drugs, should not go inside the regular trash can in the resident's room. The surveyor asked when witnessing nurses are supposed to sign for the destruction of a wasted controlled drug, and the LPN/UM acknowledged that witnessing nurses are supposed to sign after they observe the drug get wasted and not before. The surveyor asked if she saw the LPN waste the Tramadol, and the LPN/UM stated that she assumed that the small round pill that the LPN was putting in the drug buster in the presence of the surveyor, was the Tramadol. She acknowledged that Tramadol was not small and round but a white oblong tablet, and that the resident had two tablets that were being wasted when she signed. The LPN/UM was not aware that the LPN had thrown the Tramadol into the resident's trash can and could not speak to why the LPN would discard the Tramadol in that manner. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #25. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected that the resident had diagnoses which included altered mental status, idiopathic gout in multiple sites (a form of inflammation in the joints that is characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness) and atrophy (muscle wasting due to a lack of physical activity). A review of the most recent quarterly MDS assessment dated [DATE] reflected that the resident had a brief interview for mental status score of 11 out of 15 indicating an intact cognition with moderate forgetfulness. The next day on 3/11/21 at 11:00 AM, the surveyor returned to review the resident's Individual Patient Controlled Drug Record for the Tramadol. The declining inventory record revealed that the LPN had signed out two tablets of Tramadol on 3/10/21 at 9 AM, but had never signed with a witnessing nurse that those tablets which were crushed in applesauce were wasted when the resident had spit them out in the presence of the surveyor. The LPN had only signed for dose 14 and 15 as being destroyed/wasted, but there were no nurse signatures or a listed reason. On 3/10/21 at approximately 1:05 PM, the surveyor discussed the findings with the Director of Nursing (DON) and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) in the presence of the survey team. At 11:07 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN/UM who confirmed that she was aware that the Tramadol dose signed out for 3/10/21 at 9 AM was wasted, and confirmed that there were no witnessing signatures. She could not speak to who or if anyone had witnessed the wasting of the medication. The surveyor and a Registered Nurse looked inside the drawers of the medication cart where the surveyor had observed the LPN to place the medicine cup with the crushed Tramadol that the resident had spit out on 3/10/21, and it was not in the medication cart. The LPN/UM and the RN confirmed it was not there and that the LPN must had thrown it out yesterday at the end of her shift. They could not speak to who wasted it with her, if there was no signature. On 3/11/21 at 12:00 PM, the surveyor interviewed the DON and LNHA who were unable to speak to if Tramadol doses 14 and 15 had been witnessed as wasted if the form had not been signed as wasted with a witnessing nurse on 3/10/21. They confirmed that the LPN did not follow the protocol for the destruction of medication, and that the LPN and LPN/UM should not have signed for the wasting of the medication if it was not observed by both nurses. The DON stated that this issue had not come up as a problem in the past and she provided the surveyor a copy of the facility's policy on drug destruction. According to facility policy Discarding and Destroying Medications, revised October 2014, included the following: 2. Controlled and Non-controlled medication will be disposed of in accordance with state regulations and federal guidelines regarding disposition of medications . 5. c. Both controlled and non-controlled substances may be disposed of in the collection receptacle . 6. b. Mix medication, either liquid or solid, with an undesirable substance. Undesirable substances include sand, coffee grounds, kitty litter, or other absorbent materials. Place the waste mixture in a sealable bag, empty can, or other container to prevent leakage. c. Dispose with the solid waste (i.e., regular trash) in the presence of two witnesses. d. Document the disposal on the medication disposition record. e. Include the signature(s) of at least two witnesses .13. Staff shall contact the provider pharmacy if they are unsure of proper disposal methods for a medication. NJAC 8:39-29.4(h)
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

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

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure: a.) a medication used to treat low blood pressure (Midodrine) was administered in accordance with the hold parameters prescribed by the physician which occurred for 19 different nurses over a period of six months, and b.) the accurate documentation of a resident's skin condition in accordance with professional standards of nursing practice. This deficient practice was identified for 3 of 22 residents reviewed for professional standards of practice (Resident #10, #25, and #77). Reference: New Jersey Statutes Annotated, Title 45. Chapter 11. Nursing Board. The Nurse Practice Act for the State of New Jersey states: The practice of nursing as a registered professional nurse is defined as diagnosing and treating human responses to actual and potential physical and emotional health problems, through such services as casefinding, health teaching, health counseling, and provision of care supportive to or restorative of life and wellbeing, and executing medical regimens as prescribed by a licensed or otherwise legally authorized physician or dentist. Reference: New Jersey Statutes Annotated, Title 45, Chapter 11. Nursing Board. The Nurse Practice Act for the State of New Jersey states: The practice of nursing as a licensed practical nurse is defined as performing tasks and responsibilities within the framework of casefinding; reinforcing the patient and family teaching program through health teaching, health counseling and provision of supportive and restorative care, under the direction of a registered nurse or licensed or otherwise legally authorized physician or dentist. The evidence was as follows: 1. On 3/10/21 at 9:03 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #10 in bed awake. At that time the surveyor interviewed Resident #10 regarding his/her medication regimen. The resident expressed that he/she had no concerns. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #10. According to the Order Summary Report for March 2021 in the electronic medical record (EMR), Resident #10 was admitted with diagnoses which included but not limited to: generalized muscle weakness, unspecified lack of coordination, and difficulty in walking. A review of the annual Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 2/18/21 reflected that the resident had a Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) score of 13 out of 15 which indicated the resident had intact cognition. It further reflected that the resident required extensive assistance with most activities of daily living, including bed mobility, transferring, dressing and toileting. A review of the medications on the Order Summary Report for March 2021 indicated a physician's order (PO) dated 7/27/2020 for a medication to assist in raising the blood pressure (BP), Midodrine Hydrochloride (HCL) tablet 5 milligrams (mg). The order specified to administer one (1) tablet by mouth every eight (8) hours (three times a day) for hypotension (low blood pressure). Further, the order included parameters to hold the medication if the systolic blood pressure (SBP; top number of a blood pressure reading) was greater than 120. A review of the electronic Medication Administration Record's (eMAR) from 9/1/2020 to 3/10/2021 revealed the following: -The eMAR for September 2020 for the dates 9/1/20 to 9/30/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters six (6) times out of 90 opportunities by three (3) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 9/3/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 126 by License Practical Nurse (LPN) #9. 9/19/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 127 by LPN #4. 9/22/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 130 by LPN #4. 9/23/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 130 by Registered Nurse (RN) #7. 9/28/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #4. 9/29/20 at 6 AM for a SBP for 127 by LPN #4. -The eMAR for October 2020 for the dates 10/1/20 to 10/31/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters five (5) times out of 93 opportunities by four (4) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 10/1/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 130 by LPN #4. 10/2/20 at 10 PM for a SBP of 122 by LPN #5. 10/3/20 at 10 PM for a SBP of 136 by LPN #7. 10/21/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 125 by LPN #9. 10/27/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 133 by LPN #5. On 10/28/20 the 2 PM dose was blank. -The eMAR for November 2020 for the dates 11/1/20 to 11/30/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters two (2) times out of 90 opportunities by two (2) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 11/1/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 122 by LPN #7. 11/15/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 124 by LPN # 10. -The eMAR for December 2020 for the dates 12/1/20 to 12/31/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters six (6) times out of 93 opportunities by four (4) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 12/13/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 125 by LPN #13 12/13/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 130 by RN #7. 12/19/20 at 10 PM for a SBP of 125 by an Agency Nurse (AN #6). 12/22/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 126 by LPN #4. 12/25/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #4. 12/29/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #4. -The eMAR for January 2021 for the dates 1/1/21 to 1/31/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters four (4) times out of 93 opportunities by four (4) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 1/13/21 at 2 PM for a SBP of 130 by AN #5. 1/15/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 129 by LPN #6. 1/20/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 125 by LPN #7. 1/25/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 155 by LPN #8. -The eMAR for February 2021 for the dates 2/1/21 to 2/28/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters seven (7) times out of 84 opportunities by six (6) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 2/9/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 121 by AN #2 2/10/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 128 by AN #3. 2/12/21 at 2 PM for a SBP of 135 by RN #6. 2/16/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 130 by AN #2. 2/17/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 148 by LPN #6. 2/17/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 129 by RN #5. 2/27/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 130 by AN #4. -The eMAR for March 2021 for the dates 3/1/21 to 3/10/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters three (3) times out of 30 opportunities by three (3) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 3/4/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 121 by AN #1 3/6/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 138 by LPN #4. 3/9/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #11. A review of the electronic Progress Notes (ePN) from September 2020 to March 2021 did not reflect documented evidence as to why the Midodrine was signed as given without regards to the hold parameters on the dates identified. On 3/10/21 at 1:03 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) in the presence of the survey team. The DON stated the expectation of the nurses when a medication error occurs was to notify the primary physician. The DON further stated that all medication errors were documented on a medication error form, the physician gets notified, and the nurses are re-educated about the medication error. On 3/11/21 at 8:33 AM, the surveyor interviewed RN #8 regarding the process for administering medications specifically Midodrine. RN #8 stated prior to administering Midodrine she checks the resident's BP and then she checks the PO to verify the parameters, adding that she did not because Midodrine was only to be given when the BP is too low. She further stated, if the SBP was less than 120 she would administer the medication. However, if the SBP was above 120 it would be too high and therefore she would not administer the Midodrine. RN #8 concluded if she did not administer the the medication, she wrote a progress note under the hold medication option in the eMAR. On 3/11/21 at 8:39 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse/Unit Manager (LPN/UM). The LPN/UM stated the DON provided her a copy of the Consultant Pharmacist's (CP) monthly recommendations to be reviewed and she notified the physician of the recommendations. The surveyor and LPN/UM together reviewed the Consultant Pharmacist's monthly recommendations for November 2020, December 2020 and January 2021. The LPN/UM stated a check mark on the January 2021 CP recommendation for Resident #10 meant she notified the physician and addressed the recommendation. For the November and December 2020 CP recommendations for Resident #10 there were initials. The LPN/UM stated the initials handwritten on the CP recommendations represented the nurse that had made the medication error, and it was subsequently addressed. The LPN/UM explained both she and the DON would conduct in-service educations with the staff that made the medication errors. She stated the training included that all nurses should read the entire PO prior to administering the medication. The LPN/UM stated when the Midodrine medication error kept repeating for Resident #10. she discussed it with the resident's physician. She emphasized the physician would be notified of the medication error on the same day she received the CP recommendations. She further stated the physician would have nursing assess and monitor Resident #10 after any medication error. The LPN/UM concluded the medication errors were not documented in the progress notes or in the electronic medical record but documented on the medication error sheet which the DON kept in an internal document file. On 3/11/21 at 8:48 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #12. LPN #12 stated Midodrine had parameters and if the SBP was above 120 then she would hold the medication and if it was below 120, she would administer the medication. She explained if she held the medication and clicked no, a progress note box opens and then she would document the reason she held the medication. She stated that she would document the reason it was held such as elevated SBP. She then stated every resident may have different parameters for Midodrine which was why nurses have to read the entire PO for each resident. She elaborated that the nurses sometimes have to take the extra step to click on the more link within the order if you can not see the entire order on the screen. She explained when you click more in the eMAR it showed the entire order and the instructions including the hold parameters. She continued to explain that in the eMAR, if she administered a medication it would show a check mark and if she did not administer the medication she wrote the progress note and documented a numeric code which had specific meanings such as 4 which meant vital signs not in parameters or 5 which meant hold see nurses notes. She stated that both numeric codes meant the medication was not administered to the resident. A review of the Individual Inservice Record provided by the DON reflected continuing to violate the policy of Preferred Care in the above listed matter is subject to disciplinary action The surveyor reviewed the electronic Medication Administration Record's (eMAR) from 9/1/2020 to 3/10/2021 for nurses who administered Midodrine more than once without regard to the hold parameters for Resident #10; LPN #4 had eight (8) medication errors with the Midodrine, and LPN #5, LPN #6, LPN #7, LPN #9 and the AN #2 had two (2) errors administering the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters. The surveyor reviewed multiple Individual Inservice Record for LPN #7 and LPN #13 for Midodrine administered outside of the hold parameters. A review of the Medication Administration Error/Medication Documentation dated 1/4/21 indicated, LPN #4 and LPN #13 did not follow the PO for Midodrine. The LPN/UM educated LPN #4 and LPN #13 the same day regarding not reading the entire order prior to administration of the medication. A review of the Medication Administration Observation Quality Improvement Program dated 1/7/21 reflected LPN #13 observed the LPN/UM conduct the critical elements of medication administration including, .MAR is read prior to preparing medications A review of an in-service sign in sheet provided by the DON dated 1/26/21 for Medications with hold parameters indicated the DON presented an in-service to the nursing staff which covered Midodrine order - read thoroughly for hold parameters. A review of the Medication Administration Error/Medication Documentation dated 1/31/21 indicated, LPN#6, LPN # 7, LPN #8, AN #5 did not read instructions adequately for the medication Midodrine and the medication should have been held for Resident #10. A review of the Individual Inservice Record dated 2/2/21 reflected the LPN/UM conducted an inservice with LPN #6, LPN #7, LPN #8, and AN #5 regarding the medication error. A review of an in-service attendance sheet provided by the DON dated 2/12/21 and 3/3/21 for Medication pass and medication error reduction presented to the nursing staff reflected Nurses must read the entire medication order before administration. Be mindful of medications with hold parameters especially, Midodrine, blood pressure medications .and document in the MAR 3. On 3/10/21 at 8:38 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 awake in bed on an air mattress. The resident stated to the surveyor that he/she had pain in the back-side. The resident was only able to elaborate on the location of the pain, and not the type, severity, duration or other possible causes of the pain. The resident stated that he/she got pain medication that morning, and when asked if the medication was effective at relieving the pain, the resident stated, No. The resident was unable to speak to if he/she had a wound to the back-side. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #25. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected that the resident had diagnoses which included altered mental status and atrophy (muscle wasting due to a lack of physical activity). A review of the most recent quarterly MDS assessment dated [DATE] reflected that the resident had a brief interview for mental status score of 11 out of 15 indicating an intact cognition with moderate forgetfulness. The MDS assessment included that the resident had moisture-associated skin damage (MASD; inflammation and excoriation to the skin that is caused by prolonged exposure to moisture), and that he/she was receiving ointments to the affected area. A review of the electronic Progress Notes (ePN) dated 11/23/20 at 2:35 PM reflected that Resident #25 was noted with an open area on the sacrum that appears red and pink with a scant amount of blood noted. The open area measured 4 centimeters (cm) x 5 cm x 0.1 cm, and the physician was made aware and ordered Medihoney wound gel (a debriding ointment) to be applied to the wound with calcium alginate (an absorbent dressing) and cover it with a dry dressing. The family was made aware of the new wound. A review of the Physician's Order sheet dated 11/23/20 reflected the corresponding physician's order (PO) to cleanse the sacral wound with normal saline solution, pat it dry and apply Medihoney gel and calcium alginate to the wound and cover it with a bordered gauze every evening shift. A review of the resident's individualized care plan reflected it was updated on 11/23/20 that Resident #25 developed MASD on the buttocks and interventions included, treatment orders for Medicated Honey and calcium alginate will be initiated and area monitored for improvement. A review of the electronic Treatment Administration Record (eTAR) for November 2020 did not reflect the corresponding physician's order dated 11/23/20 for the wound treatment to the sacrum or evidence of accountability for the wound from 11/23/20 to 11/25/20, until 11/26/20 when the order was appropriately added to the eTAR. A review of the electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) for November 2020 reflected that the nursing staff were signing in the eMAR instead of the eTAR during the 3 PM-11 PM shift that they were cleansing the sacral wound with normal saline solution, patting it dry and applying Medihoney gel and a calcium alginate dressing on the wound for 11/23/20, 11/24/20 and 11/25/20. A review of subsequent ePN's dated 11/24/20, 11/25/20, 11/26/20 and 11/27/20 did not address follow-up assessments on the resident's skin breakdown, nor did it accurately reflect the current condition of the resident's skin despite signing in the eMAR and the eTAR that a wound treatment was being performed to the resident's sacrum. The ePN dated 11/24/20 at 6:30 PM reflected that evening care was provided and the resident was kept clean and dry with No acute changes noted. The ePN 11/25/20 at 2:33 PM, 11/26/20 at 1:35 PM, and 11/27/20 at 3:19 PM reflected skin warm and dry to touch but it did not address the resident's skin breakdown or how the resident tolerated the wound dressing change. A review of the Skilled Evaluation for nursing dated 11/24/20 at 2:24 PM, 11/25/20 at 2:33 PM, 11/26/20 at 1:35 PM, and 11/27/20 at 3:19 PM reflected that the resident's skin was warm/dry with skin turgor normal and no surgical sites. The assessment question that asked are there any current skin impairment(s)? The nurses marked No for each assessment. The narrative notes that corresponded with the evaluation assessments did not address the resident's skin breakdown and the nurse documented Skin warm to touch . no acute changes noted . incontinent of bowel and bladder. On 3/10/21 at 8:06 AM, the surveyor interviewed the resident's assigned Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who confirmed that the resident had a wound on the sacrum and that the treatment had been done by the Wound Consultant at approximately 6:30 AM that morning. She and the surveyor reviewed the eTAR together and saw that the treatment had not yet been signed for as completed. The LPN acknowledged that the eTAR wasn't signed yet, and that she didn't know who was responsible to sign it if the Wound Consultant performed the treatment and not the nurse, adding that she did not know because she only worked per-diem. On 3/10/21 at 11:05 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 in bed. Two Certified Nursing Aides (CNA's) were positioning the resident on a mechanical lift pad. During the positioning, one CNA showed the surveyor a wound dressing on the resident's sacrum with initials and a date written on it: 3/10/21. Both CNA's confirmed that the resident had a wound to the sacrum. On 3/10/21 at 1:02 PM, the Director of Nursing (DON) stated in the presence of the survey team that the Wound Consultant does rounds with the Unit Manager, but if the Wound Consultant arrived before the UM, than she would do rounds with the 11 PM to 7 AM shift (night) nurse and the night nurse would sign for the accountability of the wound treatment. The surveyor discussed the findings with the DON and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) regarding the accuracy of the skin assessments for four days from 11/24/20- 11/27/20, when the resident was receiving a wound treatment in accordance with the physician's order. On 3/11/21 at 11:39 AM, the DON acknowledged that the documentation was not accurate in the Skilled Nursing notes or the ePN and that nurses should have been accurately documenting in the notes to reflect that there was current skin breakdown in accordance with the resident's skin condition. The DON acknowledged that because the nurses were signing for the application of a sacral wound treatment in the eMAR on the dates in question, would suggest that the resident's skin was not intact at the time the Skilled Nursing notes were written on 11/24/20, 11/25/20, 11/26/20 and 11/27/20. The DON confirmed that the sacral wound that started as MASD on 11/23/20 had not yet healed but was improving in size. The DON confirmed that the ePN's did not reflect the breakdown of the skin on those dates either. NJAC 8:39-3.2(a), (b); 11.2 (b); 27.1(a) 2. On 3/4/21 at 2:15 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #77 in his/her room. The resident stated that he/she had just returned from the dialysis center. The resident also stated that the nurses gave him/her medications without an issue. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #77. A review of the admission Record indicated that the resident had a readmission date of 1/31/21 with diagnoses which included orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when arising from a seated or lying down position) and Chronic Kidney Disease. A review of the resident's current interdisciplinary care plan revealed a focused area of an altered cardiovascular status as related to hypotension (low BP) with an initiation date of 9/14/2020 and an intervention of Midodrine use. A review of the readmission MDS dated [DATE] reflected that the resident had a BIMS score of 12 out of 15, indicating that the resident had intact cognition. A review of the medications on the Order Summary Report for March 2021 revealed that Resident # 77 had a physician's order (PO) dated 2/2/21 for Midodrine Hydrochloride (HCL) tablet 10 mg. The order specified to administer one (1) tablet by mouth three times a day for orthostatic hypotension. Further, the order included parameters to hold the medication if the systolic blood pressure was greater than 120. A review of the eMAR from February 2021 and March 2021 revealed that the medication Midodrine was plotted to be administered at 9 AM, 1 PM and 5 PM on non-dialysis days and 6 AM, 1 PM and 5 PM on dialysis days. A review of the eMAR for February 2021 for the dates of 2/1/21 to 2/28/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters three (3) times out of 76 opportunities by three (3) nurses. The EMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: On 2/12/21 at 5 PM for a SBP of 121 by AN#7. On 2/22/21 at 9 AM for a SBP of 126 by LPN#5. On 2/25/21 at 1 PM for a SBP of 121 by RN#5. The eMAR for March 2021 for the dates of 3/1/19 to 3/11/19 reflected that the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters one (1) time out of 31 opportunities by one (1) nurse. The eMAR reflected that on 3/5/21 the nurse signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters as follows: on 3/5/21 at 5 PM for a SBP of 132 by AN#1. On 3/11/21 at 8:34 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN #18) who was assigned to administer medications to Resident #77. She stated that Resident #77 was at dialysis and had a PO for Midodrine. The LPN reviewed the eMAR with the surveyor which indicated a PO for Midodrine with a requirement to Hold if SBP is greater than 120. She explained that if the blood pressure is greater than 120 she would click on N for not administered in the computerized order and then have to enter the BP that was obtained. In addition, the LPN stated that she would have to write a progress note as to why the medication was not administered. On 3/11/21 at 8:38 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #19, who was administering medications. She stated that any medication with Hold parameters was noted on the eMAR in the physician's order and would have to be followed. The LPN added that Midodrine usually had to be held if the SBP was higher than 120 or whatever the physician indicated in the PO. The LPN added if the SBP was greater than the PO indicated she would click on N in the computerized order indicating not administered and would then be able to enter the numeric code 4, which according to the Chart Codes on the eMAR, indicated vitals outside of parameters. She added that she would then be able to enter the exact SBP that was obtained from the resident to show that the blood pressure was outside of the parameters verifying the reason the medication was not administered and this documentation would be reflected in the progress notes. A review of the progress notes from 2/1/21 to 3/10/21 for Resident #77 reflected documentation of dates and times when Midodrine administration was held with regard to the BP. There was no documented evidence as to why Midodrine was administered without regard to the hold parameters on 2/12, 2/22, 2/25 and 3/5. On 03/11/21 at 8:44 AM, the surveyor interviewed UM/LPN #2 who stated that she received the Consultant Pharmacist (CP) report from the DON. The UM/LPN #2 added that she would work on the recommendations that were made and return the report to the DON when she had finished. On 03/11/21 at 10:28 AM, the surveyor with UM/LPN #2 reviewed Resident #77's eMAR for February with regard to the Midodrine administration. The UM stated that the DON was aware of the incorrect administration of Midodrine and there had been education with the nurses that had administered the Midodrine in error. The UM added that the CP usually sends a report which would indicate that there was an error. On 3/11/21 at 11:28 AM the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), DON and Regional Nurse met with the survey team. The DON stated that the CP emails their report and then she distributes the section of the report to the corresponding UM of each wing. The DON added that the UM will work on the recommendations and return the completed report within 7 to 14 days. The DON also stated that Individual Inservice Reports were completed for each nurse that a medication error reported. In addition, the DON stated that the primary physicians were notified and a review was requested of the need to continue the use of the Midodrine. The DON also added that she had noticed looking through the CP reports of the repeated incidents of Midodrine being administered incorrectly and a QAPI was started at the end of January 2021. The DON added that she had requested at the end of January that the CP restart on-site medication pass observations. The DON stated that she felt the reasons for the errors were that the nurses were not reading through the order, being hasty and not realizing what the medication is being used for. In addition, the DON stated that staffing has required agency nurses to be used and the facility has hired new nurses which has also contributed. The DON stated that the nurses were inserviced specifically on Midodrine and understanding the usage and reading the parameters that are noted on the eMAR. The DON stated that she felt there was a reduction in February 2021 and the goal was to have zero errors. The DON stated that neither Resident #10 and Resident #77 had any adverse events associated with the Midodrine being given for elevated SBP. She stated that the residents were monitored by the nurses vital signs were being taken every shift. On 3/11/21 at 2:06 PM, the surveyor conducted a phone interviewed the Consultant Pharmacist. The CP stated that he was not the CP who had completed the drug regimen reviews but could speak to the content of the reviews and the services provided to the facility. The CP stated that drug regimen reviews were completed remotely and a report was emailed to the Director of Nursing (DON). The CP added that an on site visit was performed once a month for unit inspections only. The CP verified that repeat findings regarding the inaccurate documentation on the electronic medication administration record for the administration of Midodrine by the nursing staff was on the reports. The CP added that those findings were noted on the report for the specific resident and noted as a Medication Error. The CP added that when repeat findings were noted on the reports, the CP would have a conversation with the DON as part of company practice. The CP added that there was a discussion with the DON regarding the Midodrine medication errors and that the DON was going to follow up by performing a quality assurance improvement plan which included educating and inservicing the nursing staff. The CP also stated during the month of February the DON had requested from the CP to reinstitute performing on-site medication pass observations with the nurses. The CP could not speak to whether there was improvement noted. A review of the February CP Summary Report that was emailed to the facility indicated that on 2/26/21 a Med Error was noted for Resident #77 regarding the Midodrine administration and the report was assigned to Administration. There was no CP report completed for March as of 3/11/21. The surveyor reviewed the facility undated policy for Medication Administration Procedures provided by the DON which included, as part of the five (5) rights of medication administration which are to be reviewed three (3) times before administration of any medication, to check the order and check for vital signs or monitoring parameters ordered to be done prior to medication administration. A review of the facility's policy, Medication Error created 6/15/2020 included, the facility shall ensure that residents are free of medication error rates of five (5) percent or greater .medications shall be administered according to physician's order in accordance with accepted standards and principles which apply to professionals providing services . a medication error report will be completed by the license nurse .The resident will be monitored NJAC 8:39-11.2(b), 29.2(a), 29.2(d), 29.3(a)(5)
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0688 (Tag F0688)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

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

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure: a.) the application of a positioning wedge in accordance with a resident's Physical Therapy recommendations and the individualized care plan, b.) the application of multipodus boots in accordance with a resident's discharge physical therapy recommendations, restorative mobility program and physician orders, c.) the individualized care plan had a measurable goal for the resident's range of motion limitations and that the care plan was developed for the resident's Restorative Nursing Program with the multipodus boots. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 2 residents reviewed for restorative programming (Resident #25). The evidence was as follows: On 3/2/21 at 11:57 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 in bed on an air mattress. The resident's eye's were closed and the room was darkened. The surveyor observed a pair of multipodus boots (a boot that supports the ankle and foot and is typically used to prevent foot drop contractures due to a lack of immobility) on the resident's night stand. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #25. A review of the admission Record face sheet (an admission summary) reflected that the resident had diagnoses which included altered mental status, abnormalities of gait and mobility, and atrophy (muscle wasting due to a lack of physical activity). A review of the most recent quarterly MDS assessment dated [DATE] reflected that the resident had a brief interview for mental status score of 11 out of 15 indicating an intact cognition with moderate forgetfulness. The MDS assessment included that the resident had no instances of rejecting care in the last seven days. It further included that the resident required an extensive two person physical assist for bed mobility and transfers, and had a functional limitation in range of motion affecting one side of both the upper extremity and the lower extremity. The assessment further reflected that the resident had been discharged from physical therapy services on 12/4/2020, and that in the last 7 days, the resident had had 0 days of a Restorative Nursing Program (RNP) with at least 15 minutes a day of restorative exercises and 0 days of splint or brace assistance. A review of the Physical Therapy Discharge Summary signed on 12/9/20 reflected that the resident was discharged from physical therapy (PT) on 12/4/20. The Discharge summary reflected to Establish RNP to maintain current level of function. The summary reflected that previously on 11/23/20 an Inservice done with staff in terms of proper wedge placement under LLE [left lower extremity] to help with proper positioning of LLE, will initiate training with multipodus boots. The Discharge Summary for 12/4/20 included that an Inservice done with staff in terms of proper wedge placement under LLE to help with proper positioning of LLE, and also with multipodus boots BLE [bilateral lower extremities]. Tolerating for 3 hours, educated for skin checks pre and post application, RNP established for donning and doffing the boots and rolling in bed. The PT Discharge Summary further reflected a goal that the resident will be able to tolerate multipodus boots to the bilateral lower extremities for 4 hours when in bed for proper positioning of legs and prevent contractures. At baseline on 11/17/21, the resident was able to tolerate 1 hour and 30 minutes of the multipodus boots and the wedge on the LLE to prevent rotation of LLE when in bed. Inservice done with nursing staff, orders initiated. On 11/23/20 the resident was able to tolerate 2 hours of the multipodus boots and upon discharge on [DATE] the resident was able to tolerate 3 hours with no abnormal response noted. Inservices done. Recommendations included that the resident will continue to use the wedge under LLE for proper positioning of leg and also use of multipodus boots for 3 hours, in-service done, skin checks to be done pre and post application. RNP established. Recommended OOB [out of bed] to regular chair with proper positioning .and use of foot [NAME] [foot rest support board used when out of bed]. The Summary included that RNP was necessary to facilitate patient maintaining current level of performance and in order to prevent decline . The Rehab Director/Physical Therapist signed the Discharge Summary on 12/9/20 and the Medical Doctor (MD) electronically signed the PT Discharge Summary in agreement with the plan on 12/10/20 at 11:44 AM. A review of the resident's individualized comprehensive care plan initiated on 9/20/19 reflected that the resident was at risk for falls related to impaired mobility and needs assistance for activities of daily living. Interventions initiated 12/11/2020 included for Nursing, CNA's and Occupational Therapy to apply a wedge under the left lower extremity when in bed for proper positioning of left leg. Skin checks to be performed pre-and post application and Q [every] shift. The care plan also reflected that the resident had a physical functioning deficit related to mobility impairment and range of motion (ROM) limitations initiated on 9/20/19. The Goal was revised on 2/20/21 to reflect that the resident will maintain his/her current level of physical functioning and ROM. There was no measurable goal and the care plan inappropriately reflected further that the resident required moderate independence with transfers and that he/she was very capable of ironing [his/her] clothes safely. Interventions included to monitor and report changes in physical functioning ability and monitor and report changes in ROM ability. The care plan did not address the resident's multipodus boots or that he/she was on a Restorative Nursing Program. A review of the Order Recap Report with physician's orders printed for March 2021 included a physician's order dated 12/9/20 to continue with the Restorative Nursing Program as of 12/7/20. In addition there was another order dated 12/9/20 which read: Late order 12/04 Patient to use Multipodus boots when in bed for 3 hours to help with proper foot positioning. Skin checks to be performed pre and post application. (This order did not specify what shift was responsible for the application of the multipodus boots). Further there was a physician's order dated 11/24/20 for the wedge under the left lower extremity when in bed for proper positioning of left leg but it was discontinued on 12/11/20. There was no corresponding progress notes to reflect why it was discontinued when the resident had just been using it as part of the Physical Therapy discharge plan which was signed on 12/9/20. The care plan was not updated to reflect that the order for the wedge had been discontinued on 12/11/20. The surveyor attempted to review the Restorative Nursing Program accountability logs from December 2020 to March 2021, but there was no evidence of a Restorative Nursing Program accountability logs in either the electronic Medical Record or the hybrid medical chart. A review of the electronic Treatment Administration Record (eTAR) and electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) for December 2020, January 2021, February 2021 and March 2021 did not reflect evidence of accountability for the multipodus boots in accordance with the physician's order, or any other wedge positioning device in accordance with the resident's care plan. On 3/9/21 at 10:40 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 in bed on an air mattress. The surveyor observed the same pair of multi podus boots on the resident's night stand. At that time, the resident's assigned Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) assisted the resident with a phone call. The CNA held the phone to the resident's ear, but the resident was not verbally communicating back with the caller. After the CNA finished assisting the resident, the surveyor interviewed the CNA. The CNA stated that Resident #25 was alert but has had some increased moments of confusion lately. The CNA confirmed that the resident was not verbally responding to the caller, but stated that the resident has had a decline in the last two months. The CNA stated that the resident was fully dependent on staff for activities of daily living (ADL) and that the resident needed at least two people to provide care because the resident was unable to turn in bed. She stated that while she was not always assigned to the resident, she has known him/her for a long time. The surveyor asked the CNA about the multi podus boots on the night stand, and the CNA stated that Resident #25 only wears the boots when [he/she] gets out of bed. She stated that most days when she was assigned to the resident, the resident refuses to get out of bed, and therefore the boots would not be worn on her shift. The CNA further added that she elevated the resident's feet on pillows when in bed. At that time, the CNA showed the surveyor the resident's feet by removing the blanket. The surveyor observed that the resident's left foot was in a plantar flexion (when the top of the foot points away from the leg) and the left leg was laterally rotated. The resident's left heel was in direct contact with the resident's lateral right ankle. There was no wedge in place. The CNA repositioned the resident's left and right foot to avoid pressure points, and covered the feet back up with a blanket. The resident's left leg continued to be rotated laterally. She could not speak to the use of the multi podus boots any further and did not address any other positioning devices that the resident uses, including the wedge in accordance with the resident's care plan. On 3/9/21 at 11:54 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 in bed. The multipodus boots were still on the night stand. The resident's assigned Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) entered the resident's room and the LPN showed the surveyor the resident's bilateral feet. The resident's left foot was in the plantar flexion and was rotated laterally on a pillow and his/her left heel was back in direct contact with the resident's lateral right ankle. There was no wedge in place in accordance with the resident's care plan and the resident was not wearing the multipodus boots. On the next day on 3/10/21 at 8:38 AM, the surveyor observed the resident in bed awake. The resident's multi podus boots were on the night stand. The surveyor attempted to interview the resident regarding the use of the wedge and the multi-podus boots for the feet, but the resident kept repeating the location of his/her pain. From 8:43 AM to 9:06 AM, the resident's assigned LPN attempted to administer pain medication twice to Resident #25, but was unsuccessful. The LPN stated to the surveyor that she would call the Physician to order a pain medication that could be dissolved under the tongue or given through a suppository route, one that the resident would not need to swallow. At 9:08 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN regarding positioning devices, multipodus boots and the RNP for Resident #25. The LPN stated that she only works perdiem and does not apply the multipodus boots nor does she need to sign to account that the multipodus boots are on during her shift. She stated that if she had to sign, it would be in the electronic Treatment Administration Record (eTAR) for electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR). The LPN showed the surveyor that there was no order for the multipodus boots or any other positioning devices (wedge) on the eTAR or eMAR for March 2021. The surveyor reviewed the physician's orders together with the LPN. The LPN read the physician's order dated 12/9/20: Late order 12/04 Patient to use Multipodus boots when in bed for 3 hours to help with proper foot positioning. Skin checks to be performed pre and post application. The LPN confirmed that the order was for the resident to wear the multipodus boots in bed but she could not speak to when the three hours were supposed to start and end. She stated that the order would have to be clarified with the physician. The surveyor asked who was responsible for clarifying orders, and the LPN stated any nurse assigned to the resident or the LPN/Unit Manager. She stated that the Rehab Director/Physical Therapist entered the physician's order into the Physician's Order Sheet for the multipodus boots. On 3/10/21 at 9:17 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Rehab Director/Physical Therapist (PT). The PT stated that the resident received Occupational Therapy (OT) services from 10/1/2020 until 11/20/2020, and Physical Therapy services form 10/1/2020 until 12/4/2020. She stated that she had worked with the resident on and off during his/her time receiving Physical Therapy. She stated that when the resident had been hospitalized , he/she returned with weakness and required maximum assistance for bed mobility and transfers. She stated that the resident was also evaluated for the use of multipodus boots because of identified plantar flexion of the foot, and that the it was necessary to stabilize and prevent further contractures of the feet. She stated that the resident was tolerating the multipodus boots for up to three hours while in bed. She stated that the resident was supposed to get the boots for three hours a day as part of his/her restorative nursing program. The surveyor asked the PT to look at the physician's order dated 12/9/2020 and the PT acknowledged that she entered the order into the resident's medical record. She stated that therapy can get the physician's order and enter it into the physician's order sheet within the electronic Medical Record. She stated that it was then up to the nurse when to put it on but stated that they were doing it during the day. She stated that the nurses are supposed to sign for the accountability of the multipodus boots in the eTAR. She stated that as far as she knew the resident was tolerating the multipodus boots for 3 hours a day. If the resident was not tolerating it, she would have a referral to evaluate for alternative modalities. She acknowledged she did not receive any updated referral since his/her discharge date on 12/4/20. The PT further stated that the LPN/UM was aware of the multipodus boots for the resident and that she had attended the training with two other CNA's. The PT acknowledged that the order she entered did not specify when the multipodus boots were supposed to be applied, but that nursing could make that decision when they would be applied. The PT stated that they performed active range of motion exercises with the resident during therapy services and used positioning wedges for the left leg due to the left hip that was rotated causing pain. She stated that the resident would say no at times to things such as sitting up in the chair because he/she could not tolerate it. The PT could not speak to if the resident had a decline in the bilateral lower extremities, since she had not seen the resident for services since 12/4/20. The surveyor requested a copy of all in-service records provided by the PT regarding caregiver training for Resident #25. The PT stated that she would have to get back to the surveyor because it was filed and not easily accessible. On 3/10/21 at 9:43 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN/UM who stated that the facility had a full time Restorative CNA (R/CNA) but that he was not available today for an interview. The surveyor asked about the use of the multipodus boots and the LPN/UM could not speak to when or if the resident wore them. The LPN/UM stated that she believed that the R/CNA would come to her at times to tell her that the resident did not want to wear the multipodus boots, but she could not speak to where they gets documented. She reviewed the physician's order for the multipodus boots and confirmed that the order was not specific as to when the boots were to be applied, stating that it was for anytime the resident may be more lucid. The surveyor asked who was responsible for the accountability of the boots and the LPN/UM stated that there was no accountability for the boots. She confirmed that it was not on the eTAR or eMAR for the nurses to sign. The surveyor asked if there was an RNP accountability form, and the LPN/UM confirmed she was not aware of any accountability for the boots. The surveyor asked how she knew if the resident was wearing them or tolerating them if there was no accountability, and the LPN/UM could not speak to it. At 11:10 AM, the surveyor interviewed two Certified Nursing Aides (CNA's) who were preparing to get the Resident #25 out of bed using a mechanical lift. Both CNA's confirmed that the resident does not wear the multipodus boots during their shift. One of the CNA's stated that while she was not assigned to the resident today, she was assigned to the resident all last month and that the resident never wears those boots. The surveyor asked what they were for and why the resident never wore them, and the CNA was not sure. She stated that wasn't told that she ever had to apply them, so it wasn't something she had to do or sign for. She stated that the resident was very sensitive to pain when touched and that may be why. The other CNA stated that she didn't have to apply the boots but that she would put them on when the resident got out of bed to the gerichair. At 11:39 AM, the surveyor observed the resident's assigned CNA apply the multipodus boots to the resident's feet while in the gerichair in the presence of the LPN/UM. As the CNA lifted the resident's legs to apply the boots one at a time, the resident began to grimace and moan. Once each boot was on and the foot was placed back on the pillow, the resident stopped moaning and grimacing. At 12:05 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #25 in the day room positioned in a gerichair still wearing the multipodus boots. At approximately 12:30 PM, the PT provided the surveyor a copy of one In-Service Form with caregiver training dated 11/17/20 which was 17 days prior to discharge from Physical Therapy Services. The In-service form reflected that the Physical Therapy Assistant and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant provided training that included proper positioning in chair with foot board/[NAME] and multipodus boots to be worn in bed in AM 2-3 hours or as tolerated. skin checks pre and post application. The training did not address the wedge for the left leg. The PT confirmed this was the only in-service training record available. The caregivers in attendance included an LPN, the LPN/UM, and two CNA's. Neither of the CNA's that attended the caregiver training were the designated R/CNA. On 3/11/21 at 12:15 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) in the presence of the survey team. The DON stated that the R/CNA was putting the multipodus boots on the resident and signing in a Restorative Nursing Program log. The DON provided the surveyor a copy of a handwritten Restorative Nursing Flow Sheet for Resident #25. The DON could not speak to why the assigned LPN and the LPN/UM was unaware of the Restorative Nursing book. The Regional Nurse stated that the LPN/UM should have known about the Restorative book where the R/CNA signs for it. They confirmed it was not in the resident's medical record and all the months were kept in a separate binder. The surveyor reviewed the December 2020 Restorative Nursing Flow Sheet which reflected a goal of Proper Application of multipodus boots to bilateral lower extremities to be worn in bed 3-4 hours with skin checks. The RNP was inappropriately plotted to be done on two eight hour shifts: 7 AM to 3 PM shift and the 3 PM to 11 PM shift. The Certified Nursing Aides on both shifts were signing that the resident refused the boots 12 times during the day shift, and 15 times during the evening shift. It was further signed to reflect that during the day shift the resident would only have the multipodus boots on for 5 minutes and up to 25 minutes, and not for 3-4 hours as prescribed. In the evening shift, the resident would only wear the multipodus boots from 5 minutes to 15 minutes maximum. There was no accountability for the application of the wedge from 11/24/20 until 12/11/20 when the order for the wedge was discontinued by the MD. A review of the January 2021 Restorative Nursing Flow Sheet reflected that the multipodus boots were not worn for the 3-4 hours in accordance with the RNP but it was documented that they were worn for 5-20 minutes during the day shift with 18 day shifts out of 31 that the resident refused them. The evening shift reflected that the resident wore the boots from 10-20 minutes for 15 out of 31 evening shifts. This did not correspond with the physician's order for 3-4 hours. A review of the February 2021 Restorative Nursing Flow Sheet for the multipodus boots reflected that the resident wore the multipodus boots for 5-30 minutes maximum and refused 13 day shifts out of 28. The RNP was signed to reflect that during the evening shift the multipodus boots were worn for 5-15 minutes maximum, but had refused it 8 evening shifts out of 28. This did not correspond with the physician's order for the 3-4 hours. A review of the March 2021 reflected that the resident refused the Multipodus boots during the day shift 5 day shifts out of 9 days, and 5 evening shifts out of 9 days and resident only wore the boots for 15-20 minutes and not the 3-4 hours as ordered by the physician. At 12:17 PM, the surveyor continued to interview the LNHA who stated that the R/CNA was not available for an interview today. The surveyor asked who was responsible for reviewing the RNP Flow Sheets and the DON confirmed the LPN/UM. The surveyor asked why the CNA's were signing for 5-30 minutes of the multipodus boots at a time when the order was for 3-4 hours, and the DON acknowledged she could not answer if it was because the resident was not tolerating it beyond 30 minutes or if it was because the CNA's and R/CNA was not signing to reflect they were accurately following the physician order. The DON stated that the resident has had a recent decline in status prior to the implementation of the multipodus boots, and that there was no evidence that the resident had further decline as a result of only receiving the boots up to 30 minutes at a time. The DON was unable to provide any other documentation regarding notification of physician that resident refused the multipodus boots or a screening from therapy to address the resident's refusals and decreased use of the boots from the PT Discharge baseline of 3 hours. The DON was also unable to provide documented evidence that the refusals were addressed in the care plan. The DON provided the surveyor a copy of the CNA's [NAME] with an effective date of 3/11/21. The [NAME] reflected to apply a wedge under the left lower extremity when in bed for proper positioning of the left leg (which according to the physician order sheet had been discontinued on 12/11/20) but it did not address the use of the multipodus boots. According to facility policy Restorative Nursing: Splint Use, reviewed on 2/10/2020, included the following: A splint is a support that is used to rest an extremity or joint in an optimum position, relieve swelling, an/or (sic) allow continuing function despite a painful joint, or to correct/prevent deformities . 1. Follow the therapist instructions for the application, time periods for use, and care of the splint. NJAC 8:39-27.1(a)
CONCERN (E)

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

Drug Regimen Review (Tag F0756)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

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

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that the Consultant Pharmacist recommendations regarding the use of a medication to treat low blood pressure (Midodrine) were acted upon in a timely manner when the medication was identified to not be administered in accordance with the physician prescribed hold parameters for a period of six (6) months. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 6 residents reviewed for Consultant Pharmacist reviews (Resident #10 and #77), and was evidenced by the following: 1. On 3/10/21 at 9:03 AM, observed Resident #10 in bed awake, at that time the surveyor interviewed Resident #10 regarding his/her medication regimen. The resident expressed that he/she had no concerns. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #10. According to the physician's Order Summary Report for March 2021 in the electronic medical record (EMR), reflected that Resident #10 was admitted with diagnoses which included but not limited to: generalized muscle weakness, unspecified lack of coordination, and difficulty in walking. A review of the annual Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 2/18/21 reflected that the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 13 out of 15 which indicated the resident had an intact cognition with mild forgetfulness. A review of the medications on the Order Summary Report for March 2021 indicated a physician's order (PO) dated 7/27/2020 for a medication to assist in raising the blood pressure (BP), Midodrine Hydrochloride (HCL) tablet 5 milligrams (mg). The order specified to administer one (1) tablet by mouth every eight (8) hours (three times a day) for hypotension (low blood pressure). Further, the order included parameters to hold the medication if the systolic blood pressure (SBP; top number of a blood pressure reading) was greater than 120. A review of the electronic Medication Administration Record's (eMAR) from 9/1/2020 to 3/10/2021 revealed the following: -The eMAR for September 2020 for the dates 9/1/20 to 9/30/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters six (6) times out of 90 opportunities by three (3) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 9/3/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 126 by License Practical Nurse (LPN) #9. 9/19/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 127 by LPN #4. 9/22/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 130 by LPN #4. 9/23/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 130 by Registered Nurse (RN) #7. 9/28/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #4. 9/29/20 at 6 AM for a SBP for 127 by LPN #4. -The eMAR for October 2020 for the dates 10/1/20 to 10/31/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters five (5) times out of 93 opportunities by four (4) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 10/1/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 130 by LPN #4. 10/2/20 at 10 PM for a SBP of 122 by LPN #5. 10/3/20 at 10 PM for a SBP of 136 by LPN #7. 10/21/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 125 by LPN #9. 10/27/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 133 by LPN #5. 10/28/20 the 2 PM dose was blank. -The eMAR for November 2020 for the dates 11/1/20 to 11/30/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters two (2) times out of 90 opportunities by two (2) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 11/1/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 122 by LPN #7. 11/15/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 124 by LPN # 10. -The eMAR for December 2020 for the dates 12/1/20 to 12/31/20 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters six (6) times out of 93 opportunities by four (4) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 12/13/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 125 by LPN #13 12/13/20 at 2 PM for a SBP of 130 by RN #7. 12/19/20 at 10 PM for a SBP of 125 by Agency nurse (AN) #6. 12/22/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 126 by LPN #4. 12/25/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #4. 12/29/20 at 6 AM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #4. -The eMAR for January 2021 for the dates 1/1/21 to 1/31/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters four (4) times out of 93 opportunities by four (4) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 1/13/21 at 2 PM for a SBP of 130 by AN #5. 1/15/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 129 by LPN #6. 1/20/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 125 by LPN #7. 1/25/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 155 by LPN #8. -The eMAR for February 2021 for the dates 2/1/21 to 2/28/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters seven (7) times out of 84 opportunities by six (6) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 2/9/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 121 by AN #2 2/10/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 128 by AN #3. 2/12/21 at 2 PM for a SBP of 135 by RN #6. 2/16/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 130 by AN #2. 2/17/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 148 by LPN #6. 2/17/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 129 by RN #5. 2/27/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 130 by AN #4. -The eMAR for March 2021 for the dates 3/1/21 to 3/10/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters three (3) times out of 30 opportunities by three (3) nurses. The eMAR reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: 3/4/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 121 by AN #1 3/6/21 at 6 AM for a SBP of 138 by LPN #4. 3/9/21 at 10 PM for a SBP of 128 by LPN #11. On 3/10/21 at approximately 10 AM, the surveyor reviewed Consultant Pharmacist (CP) Recommendations in the EMR. A review of the progress notes section revealed that on 9/29/20, 10/27/20, 11/30/20, 12/29/20 and 1/31/21, the CP wrote: Medication Regime Review (MRR) completed - Recommendations sent to facility. There were no other entries by the CP on either the EMR or the resident's hybrid chart. On 3/10/21 at 10:14 AM, the surveyor conducted a phone interview with the CP. The CP stated that he was not the CP who had completed the drug regimen reviews but could speak to the content of the reviews and the services provided to the facility. The CP stated the drug regimen was reviewed remotely and the CP entered a progress note into the EMR, and that all the recommendations were emailed to the Director of Nursing (DON). On 3/10/21 at 12:36 PM, the License Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) provided the surveyor with the CP's Medication Regimen Review (MRR) for Resident #10 since September 2020. A review of the Consultant Pharmacist's monthly Summary Report for November 2020, December 2020, and January 2021 reflected repeated recommendations to address that the Midodrine was being given without regard to the SPB hold parameters for Resident #10. The comments specifically stated .Medication error - Midodrine signed for as administered with SBP above hold parameter of 120 .please review, correct and report as per facility policy. The September 2020, October 2020 and February 2021 CP report did not address the errors with the Midodrine. On 3/10/21 at 1:03 PM, the surveyor interviewed the Director of Nursing (DON) in the presence of the survey team. The DON stated the expectation of the nurses for when a medication error occurs was to notify the primary physician. The DON further stated that all medication errors were documented on a medication error form, the physician gets notified, and the nurses get re-educated about the medication error. On 3/11/21 at 8:39 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse/Unit Manager (LPN/UM).The LPN/UM stated the DON provided her a copy of the CP monthly recommendations to be reviewed and she notified the physician of the recommendations. The surveyor and LPN/UM reviewed together the Consultant Pharmacist's monthly recommendations for November 2020, December 2020, and January 2021. The LPN/UM stated a check mark on the January 2021 CP recommendation for Resident #10 meant she notified the physician and addressed the recommendation. For the November 2020 and December 2020 CP recommendations for Resident #10 there were initials. The LPN/UM stated the initials that were handwritten on the CP recommendations represented the nurse that had made the medication error, and it was subsequently addressed. The LPN/UM explained both her and the DON would conduct in-service educations with the staff that had the medication errors. She stated the training included that all nurses should read the entire PO prior to administering the medication. The surveyor continued to interview the LPN/UM regarding the medication error protocol. The LPN/UM stated when the Midodrine medication error kept repeating for Resident #10 she discussed it with the resident's physician. She emphasized the physician would be notified of the CP recommendations on the same day she received the CP recommendations. She further stated the physician would have the nursing assess and monitor Resident #10 for any effects related to not following the hold parameters. The LPN/UM concluded the medication errors were not documented in the progress notes or in the electronic medical record but documented on the medication error sheet which the DON kept in an internal document file. The LPN/UM confirmed there were 33 instances of not following hold parameters for Resident #10 since September 2020 until present. On 03/11/21 at 11:29 AM, the surveyor interviewed the DON in the presence of the survey team. The DON stated the facility had a lot of agency nurses and several new nurses. However, she had completed inservices on medication administration and medication errors, specifically for Midodrine and holding the medication in accordance with the hold parameters. She further stated that on 1/22/21 she started a Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) project on the Midodrine medication errors because she felt either the nurses were not reading the entire PO or not understanding the PO. The DON expressed she felt the inservices were effective because there was a reduction in occurrences from one month to the next, but that it was still an ongoing issue particularly with agency nurses. She confirmed it was not yet been fully corrected because the goal was to have zero medication errors with the Midodrine, but that Resident #10 did not have any adverse effect from the Midodrine being given when the SBP was over 120. The DON stated if a nurse had multiple medication errors then disciplinary actions would occur. A review of the Consultant Pharmacist's expectations of the facility for the administration of medications, undated included, Review Medication Administration Record (MAR) for medication to be administered . review cautionaries A review of the facility's policy, Medication Administration Procedures, undated included, .check for vital signs, other tests to be done during/prior to medication administration obtain and record any vital signs or other monitoring parameters ordered or deemed necessary prior to medication administration .and document in the MAR . A review of the facility's policy, Medication Error created 6/15/2020 included, the facility shall ensure that residents are free of medication error rates of five (5) percent or greater .medications shall be administered according to physician's order in accordance with accepted standards and principles which apply to professionals providing services . 2. On 3/4/21 at 2:15 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #77 in his/her room. The resident stated that he/she had just returned from the dialysis center. The resident also stated that the nurses gave him/her medications in accordance with the dialysis schedule. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #77. A review of the admission Record indicated that the resident had a readmission date of 1/31/21 with diagnoses which included orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when arising from a seated or lying down position) and Chronic Kidney Disease. A review of the resident's current interdisciplinary care plan revealed a focused area of an altered cardiovascular status as related to hypotension (low BP) with an initiation date of 9/14/2020 and an intervention of Midodrine use. A review of the readmission MDS dated [DATE] reflected that the resident had a BIMS score of 12 out of 15, indicating that the resident had an intact cognition. A review of the medications on the Order Summary Report for March 2021 revealed that Resident # 77 had a physician's order (PO) dated 2/2/21 for Midodrine Hydrochloride (HCL) (a medication to raise the blood pressure) tablet 10 mg. The order specified to administer one (1) tablet by mouth three times a day for orthostatic hypotension. Further, the order included parameters to hold the medication if the SBP was greater than 120. A review of the eMAR from February 2021 and March 2021 revealed that the medication Midodrine was plotted to be administered at 9 AM, 1 PM and 5 PM on non-dialysis days and 6 AM, 1 PM and 5 PM on dialysis days. A review of the eMAR for February 2021 for the dates of 2/1/21 to 2/28/21 reflected the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters three (3) times out of 76 opportunities by three (3) nurses. The eMAR further reflected that on the following dates and times the nurses signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters: on 2/12/21 at 5 PM for a SBP of 121 by AN#7. on 2/22/21 at 9 AM for a SBP of 126 by LPN#5. on 2/25/21 at 1 PM for a SBP of 121 by RN#5. The eMAR for March 2021 for the dates of 3/1/19 to 3/11/19 reflected that the medication Midodrine was administered outside of the physician ordered parameters one (1) time out of 31 opportunities by one (1) nurse. The eMAR reflected that on 3/5/21 the nurse signed for the administration of the Midodrine without regard to the hold parameters as follows: on 3/5/21 at 5 PM for a SBP of 132 by AN#1. On 3/11/21 at 8:34 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN #18) who was assigned to administer medications to Resident #77. She stated that Resident #77 was at dialysis and had a PO for Midodrine. The LPN reviewed the eMAR with the surveyor which indicated a PO for Midodrine with a requirement to Hold if SBP is greater than 120. She explained that if the blood pressure is greater than 120 she would click on N for not administered in the computerized order and then have to enter the BP that was obtained. In addition, the LPN stated that she would have to write a progress note as to why the medication was not administered. On 3/11/21 at 8:38 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #19, who was administering medications. She stated that any medication with Hold parameters was noted on the eMAR in the physician's order and would have to be followed. The LPN added that Midodrine usually had to be held if the SBP was higher than 120 or whatever the physician indicated in the PO. The LPN added if the SBP was greater than the PO indicated she would click on N in the computerized order indicating not administered and would then be able to enter the numeric code 4, which according to the Chart Codes on the eMAR, indicated vitals outside of parameters. She added that she would then be able to enter the exact SBP that was obtained from the resident to show that the blood pressure was outside of the parameters verifying the reason the medication was not administered and this documentation would be reflected in the progress notes. A review of the progress notes from 2/1/21 to 3/10/21 for Resident #77 reflected documentation of dates and times when Midodrine administration was held with regard to the BP. There was no documented evidence as to why Midodrine was administered without regard to the hold parameters on 2/12, 2/22, 2/25 and 3/5. On 03/11/21 at 8:44 AM, the surveyor interviewed the UM/LPN #2 who stated that she received the Consultant Pharmacist (CP) report from the DON. The UM/LPN #2 added that she would work on the recommendations that were made and return the report to the DON when she had finished. On 03/11/21 at 10:28 AM, the surveyor with the UM/LPN #2 reviewed Resident #77's EMAR for February with regard to the Midodrine administration. The UM stated that the DON was aware of the incorrect administration of Midodrine and there had been education with the nurses that had administered the Midodrine in error. The UM added that the CP usually sends a report which would indicate that there was an error. On 3/11/21 at 11:28 AM the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON and Regional Nurse met with the survey team. The DON stated that the CP emails their report and then she distributes the section of the report to the corresponding UM of each wing. The DON added that the UM will work on the recommendations and return the completed report within 7 to 14 days. The DON also stated that Individual Inservice Reports were completed for each nurse that a medication error was identified. In addition, the DON stated that the primary physician's were notified and a review requested of the need to continue the use of the Midodrine. The DON also added that she had noticed looking through the CP reports of the repeated incidents of Midodrine being administered incorrectly and a Quality Assurance Improvement Plan (QAPI) was started at the end of January. The DON added that she had requested at the end of January that the CP restart on site medication pass observations. The DON stated that she felt the reasons for the errors to continue were that the nurses were not reading through the order, being hasty and not realizing what the medication is being used for and in addition, staffing has required agency nurses to be used and the facility has recently hired new nurses. The DON stated that the nurses were inserviced specifically on Midodrine and understanding the usage and reading the parameters that are noted on the EMAR. The DON stated that she felt there was a reduction in February and the goal was to have zero errors. A further review of the nurses identified as administering the Midodrine without regard to the parameters revealed that after education and inservicing had repeated the error as follows: on 2/22 LPN #5 had repeated the error. on 2/25 RN #5 had repeated the error. on 3/5 AN#1 had repeated the error. The DON could not speak to why there were nurses that repeated the error in the month of February 2021 after education and inservicing had been done. The DON stated that there were no repercussions after a repeat medication error. There was no documentation provided of the physician's rationale for continuing the Midodorine with the same parameters. On 3/11/21 at 2:06 PM, the surveyor interviewed the CP via telephone. The CP stated that he was not the CP who had completed the drug regimen reviews but could speak to the content of the reviews and the services provided to the facility. The CP stated that drug regimen reviews were completed remotely and a report was emailed to the DON. The CP added that an on site visit was performed once a month for unit inspections only. The CP verified that repeat findings regarding the inaccurate documentation on the electronic medication administration record for the administration of Midodrine by the nursing staff was on the reports. The CP added that those findings were noted on the report for the specific resident and noted as a Medication Error. The CP added that when repeat findings were noted on the reports, the CP would have a conversation with the DON as part of company practice. The CP added that there was a discussion with the DON regarding the Midodrine medication errors and that the DON was going to follow up by performing a quality assurance improvement plan which included educating and inservicing the nursing staff. The CP also stated during the month of February the DON had requested from the CP to reinstitute performing on-site medication pass observations with the nurses. The CP could not speak to whether there was improvement noted. A review of the February CP Summary Report that was emailed to the facility indicated that on 2/26/21 a Med Error was noted for Resident #77 regarding the Midodrine administration and the report was assigned to Administration. There was no CP report completed for March as of 3/11/21. A review of the facility policy dated 6/15/20 for Medication Errors provided by the DON included that the policy explanation and compliance guidelines were that medications shall be administered according to physician's orders and in accordance with accepted standards and principles which apply to professionals providing services. In addition, the policy included that a medication error report would be completed by the nurse and reported to the primary physician. There was no documentation provided that addressed a procedure for repeated medication errors. NJAC 8:39-29.4(d)(3)
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

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

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • 44% turnover. Below New Jersey's 48% average. Good staff retention means consistent care.
Concerns
  • • Multiple safety concerns identified: 2 harm violation(s), $56,610 in fines. Review inspection reports carefully.
  • • 13 deficiencies on record, including 2 serious (caused harm) violations. Ask about corrective actions taken.
  • • $56,610 in fines. Extremely high, among the most fined facilities in New Jersey. Major compliance failures.
Bottom line: Mixed indicators with Trust Score of 65/100. Visit in person and ask pointed questions.

About This Facility

What is Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, which is considered much above average nationally. Within New Jersey, this rating places the facility higher than 99% of the state's 100 nursing homes. This rating reflects solid performance across the metrics CMS uses to evaluate nursing home quality.

How is Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc Staffed?

CMS rates PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC's staffing level at 4 out of 5 stars, which is above average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 44%, compared to the New Jersey average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc?

State health inspectors documented 13 deficiencies at PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC during 2021 to 2025. These included: 2 that caused actual resident harm and 11 with potential for harm. Deficiencies causing actual harm indicate documented cases where residents experienced negative health consequences.

Who Owns and Operates Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc?

PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by PREFERRED CARE, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 140 certified beds and approximately 116 residents (about 83% occupancy), it is a mid-sized facility located in OLD BRIDGE, New Jersey.

How Does Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc Compare to Other New Jersey Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in New Jersey, PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 3.3, staff turnover (44%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc?

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

Is Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC has a clean safety record: no substantiated abuse findings (meaning no confirmed cases of resident harm), no Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death), and is not on the Special Focus Facility watch list (a federal program monitoring the lowest-performing 1% of nursing homes). The facility has a 5-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in New Jersey. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc Stick Around?

PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC has a staff turnover rate of 44%, which is about average for New Jersey nursing homes (state average: 46%). Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc Ever Fined?

PREFERRED CARE AT OLD BRIDGE, LLC has been fined $56,610 across 1 penalty action. This is above the New Jersey average of $33,645. Fines in this range indicate compliance issues significant enough for CMS to impose meaningful financial consequences. Common causes include delayed correction of deficiencies, repeat violations, or care failures affecting resident safety. Families should ask facility leadership what changes have been made since these penalties.

Is Preferred Care At Old Bridge, Llc on Any Federal Watch List?

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