LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL

459 PASSAIC AVENUE, WEST CALDWELL, NJ 07006 (973) 276-3018
Non profit - Corporation 56 Beds Independent Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
85/100
#51 of 344 in NJ
Last Inspection: March 2025

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

Overview

Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill has a Trust Grade of B+, indicating it is above average and recommended for families considering nursing home options. It ranks #51 out of 344 facilities in New Jersey, placing it in the top half, and #5 out of 32 in Essex County, meaning there are only four better options nearby. The facility is showing improvement, with issues decreasing from six in 2023 to three in 2025. Staffing is a strong point, earning a 5/5 rating with only a 19% turnover rate, significantly lower than the state's average, which suggests that staff members are experienced and familiar with the residents. Notably, there have been no fines recorded, indicating compliance with regulations. However, there have been concerning incidents, including one serious case where a resident developed a Stage III pressure ulcer due to inadequate care, and other issues related to medication disposal and vaccine policy updates that could impact resident health. Overall, while there are strengths in staffing and compliance, these care deficiencies highlight areas for improvement.

Trust Score
B+
85/100
In New Jersey
#51/344
Top 14%
Safety Record
Moderate
Needs review
Inspections
Getting Better
6 → 3 violations
Staff Stability
✓ Good
19% annual turnover. Excellent stability, 29 points below New Jersey's 48% average. Staff who stay learn residents' needs.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most New Jersey facilities.
Skilled Nurses
✓ Good
Each resident gets 53 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — more than average for New Jersey. RNs are trained to catch health problems early.
Violations
⚠ Watch
13 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★★★
5.0
Staff Levels
★★★★★
5.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2023: 6 issues
2025: 3 issues

The Good

  • 5-Star Staffing Rating · Excellent nurse staffing levels
  • 5-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Low Staff Turnover (19%) · Staff stability means consistent care
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover is low (19%)

    29 points below New Jersey average of 48%

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

The Bad

No Significant Concerns Identified

This facility shows no red flags. Among New Jersey's 100 nursing homes, only 1% achieve this.

The Ugly 13 deficiencies on record

1 actual harm
Mar 2025 3 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0583 (Tag F0583)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review it was determined the facility failed to provide physical privacy during a pressure ulcer treatment for 1 (Resident #21) of 9 residents reviewed for ...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review it was determined the facility failed to provide physical privacy during a pressure ulcer treatment for 1 (Resident #21) of 9 residents reviewed for privacy and dignity. The deficient practice was evidenced by the following. On 3/7/25 at 10:42 AM the surveyor observed Resident #21 awake and alert in bed. The resident had a private duty companion seated at the bedside. A review of the electronic medical record revealed the following information. The 1/27/25 admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment tool indicated the resident had moderate cognitive impairment and was admitted with a full thickness sacral pressure ulcer. The Resident Medical Profile included a 2/14/25 physician's order for nursing to cleanse the right sacrum with normal saline solution, pack with Iodoform packing strips, cover with dry gauze and foam dressing once daily. The surveyor approached Resident #21's room on 3/11/25 at 1:08 PM to observe the resident's pressure ulcer treatment which had been prearranged with the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who would perform the treatment. The surveyor knocked on the closed door. The LPN came out and left the door open. The resident was visible from the doorway. The resident was positioned on their left side facing the window. The resident's slacks were pulled down past their knees exposing their incontinence brief. The LPN prepared for the pressure ulcer treatment for 10 minutes while the resident remained exposed and visible from the hallway. At 1:19 PM the LPN approached the resident's bedside to begin the treatment. At that time the surveyor asked the LPN to speak with her near the doorway. The surveyor asked the LPN if privacy should be afforded to the resident and the LPN replied privacy should be provided and pulled the privacy curtain. The surveyor spoke with the Administrator and the Director of Nursing on 3/11/25 at 2:00 PM regarding the LPN's failure to provide the resident with physical privacy during the pressure ulcer treatment. The surveyor reviewed the 4/6/17 policy and procedure for providing a clean dressing change. The second step of the procedure, after identifying the resident, was to provide privacy. NJAC 8:39-4.1(a)16
CONCERN (D)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review it was determined the facility failed to follow appropriate infection control practices to prevent or reduce the spread of infection during a pressur...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review it was determined the facility failed to follow appropriate infection control practices to prevent or reduce the spread of infection during a pressure ulcer treatment for 1 (Resident #21) of 2 residents reviewed for pressure ulcers. The deficient practice was evidenced by the following. The surveyor observed Resident #21 awake and alert in bed on 3/7/25 at 10:42 AM . The resident had a private duty companion seated at the bedside. A review of the electronic medical record revealed the following information. The 1/27/25 admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment tool indicated the resident had moderate cognitive impairment and was admitted with a full thickness sacral pressure ulcer. The Resident Medical Profile included a 2/14/25 physician's order for nursing to cleanse the right sacrum with normal saline solution, pack with Iodoform packing strips, cover with dry gauze and foam dressing once daily. The surveyor observed the resident's pressure ulcer treatment on 3/11/25 at 1:08 PM. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) sanitized the over bed table, applied a clean disposable drape cloth to the table, and assembled the needed supplies for the treatment. A glass jar of Iodoform packing strips was taken from the treatment cart. The entire jar was brought into the resident's room and placed on the over bed table at the resident's bedside. At the completion of the treatment at 1:36 PM the LPN returned the jar to the drawer of the treatment cart without sanitizing it. When questioned by the surveyor, the LPN stated she should have sanitized the jar first. At that same time, the surveyor asked the LPN if she was done with the treatment pass. She replied she was. The surveyor noted the trash containing the soiled packing strip and the cover dressings were left in the room at the resident's bedside in the resident's trash can. The LPN stated she would remove the trash from the resident's room to the dirty utility room. The surveyor spoke with the Administrator and the Director of Nursing (DON) on 3/11/25 at 2:00 PM regarding the LPN's failure to follow standard infection control. The DON confirmed the jar should not have been replaced into the treatment cart without sanitizing it. The DON stated soiled dressings are to be removed from the resident's room upon completion of the treatment. The surveyor reviewed the 4/6/17 policy and procedure for providing a clean dressing change. The third step of the procedure was to place a plastic bag on the over bed table or in close proximity of the resident. The policy and procedure did not address removing trash from the room or returning unsanitized items back into the treatment cart. NJAC 8:39-19.1; 8:39-27.1(e)
CONCERN (E)

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

Pharmacy Services (Tag F0755)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

3. The surveyor observed the LPN administer medications to an unsampled resident on 3/11/25 at 8:16 AM. While administering the medications one pill dropped on to the resident's bed. The medication wa...

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3. The surveyor observed the LPN administer medications to an unsampled resident on 3/11/25 at 8:16 AM. While administering the medications one pill dropped on to the resident's bed. The medication was Metoprolol Succinate 25 mg., an antihypertensive medication. The LPN disposed of the pill in the open trash receptable affixed to the side of the medication cart located in the unit hallway. When questioned by the surveyor, LPN stated she should have used the Drug Buster, a receptacle used for the safe disposal of medications. The surveyor interviewed the Administrator and the DON on 3/11/25 at 2:00 PM. The DON stated the nurse should have used the Drug Buster which is located in each medication cart. NJAC 8:39- 29.2(a)(d); 29.4(i)(k); 29.7(c) Based on observations, interviews, record review, and review of other facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services in accordance with professional standards to ensure a.) stored narcotic medication was maintained with the safety tamper resistant seal (Resident #4), identified for 1 of 1 medication cart inspected, b.) ensure an accurate ordering and receiving of narcotic medications on the required Federal narcotic acquisition forms (DEA Form-222) were completed with sufficient detail to enable accurate reconciliation, identified for 7 of 9 provided DEA Form-222, and c.) medication was properly disposed after falling onto the bed, observed during medication pass observation. The deficient practice was evidenced by the following: 1.) On 3/11/25 at 9:29 AM, the surveyor and the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) began the narcotic medication inspection, which was stored in a mounted, double locked portion of the medication cart (narcotic box), assigned to the 2500 hall. At 9:32 AM, in the presence of LPN, the surveyor reviewed the accountability record (a shift-to-shift log; count/sign in sheet, used to account for the narcotic medications within the medication cart) was signed daily until the day shift of 3/11/25. The LPN stated that there were no discrepancies found that day. At 9:35 AM, the surveyor and the LPN reviewed the controlled medication utilization record (CMUR; a narcotic medication log that details the following: when the narcotic was received, starting quantity, the date, time, the dose removed from inventory, nurse administering, quantity remaining , wasted amount when pertinent and who checked the log) of Resident #4's Morphine Sulfate 100 milligram/ 5 milliliter (mg/ml; narcotic medication indicated for pain). The CMUR did not reflect the medication was used from the time it was received on 1/31/25. At that time, the surveyor and the LPN observed the safety tamper resistant seal (provides visual evidence of any attempt to open or manipulate the packaged medication) was missing for Resident # 4's Morphine Sulfate 100 mg/ 5 ml bottle. The Morphine had a pharmacy label dated 1/31/25, and the contents reflected approximately 30 ml. At that time, the LPN #1 stated she did not break the seal for Resident #4's Morphine Sulfate 100 mg/ 5 ml and that she had received the Morphine that way from the beginning of her shift that day. The LPN stated she did not inform the Director of Nursing about the missing tamper resistant seal. At 10:19 AM, the surveyor informed the DON of the concern regarding the missing tamper resistant seal for Resident #4's Morphine 100 mg/ 5 ml. At 10:40 AM, during a follow-up meeting with the surveyor, the DON acknowledged that all nurses on duty were responsible to ensure that bottled narcotic medications delivered from the pharmacy, had the tamper resistant seal and was stored in a manner that the tamper resistant seal was kept intact. 2.) On 3/11/25 at 11:50 AM, the surveyor and the DON reviewed the facility's DEA Form-222 which revealed that the facility did not complete Part 5, the number of packages received or the date the medication was received as instructed to on the reverse of the DEA Form-222. The insufficient details were as follows: Order Form: #231101679, No number received, no date received. #231101681, No number received, no date received. #231101682, No number received, no date received. #231101683, No number received, no date received. #231101684, No number received, no date received. #231101686, No number received, no date received. #231101687, No number received, no date received. Additionally, the surveyor observed the DEA Form-222 did not have the associated invoice to show that upon receipt of the narcotic, the items received were reconciled against the DEA Form-222 as evidenced by the missing documentation on Part 5. On 3/11/25 at 1:22 PM, during a meeting with two surveyors, the DON acknowledged that the process for receiving narcotics, and the reconciliation process could be streamlined. The DON stated that she would retrieve the invoices from the nurses or the pharmacy. On 3/12/25 at 8:58 AM, during a follow-up meeting with the surveyor, the DON stated that they were unable to determine when the tamper resistant seal went missing. The DON also stated that the policy would be updated to include verification of the tamper resistant seal was intact along with the accuracy of the inventory count, this was to ensure the integrity of the medication. A review of the provided facility policy, Controlled Substances, dated 4/30/19, revision undated, included under record keeping did not include a process to ensure narcotic medications with tamper resistant seal were received, maintained and tracked. A review of the provided facility policy, Storage of Medications, dated 6/8/15, revision undated, included that the facility shall store all drugs and biologicals in a safe, secure and orderly manner. A review of the instructions for DEA Form-222 under Part 5, Controlled Substance Receipt included the following: 1. The purchaser fills out this section on its copy of the original order form. 2. Enter the number of packages received and date received for each line item .
Aug 2023 1 deficiency
CONCERN (E)

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

Deficiency F0883 (Tag F0883)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on interview, record review, facility policy review, and review of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, the facility failed to revise their pneumococcal vaccine polic...

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Based on interview, record review, facility policy review, and review of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, the facility failed to revise their pneumococcal vaccine policy to reflect current pneumococcal vaccination guidelines. This failure increased the risk for residents to not be vaccinated per current guidelines and contract pneumonia. Findings include: During an interview on 08/22/23 at 12:28 PM, the Infection Control Preventionist (ICP) stated that the facility only offers the PCV13 and was not familiar with the most current CDC recommendations for the pneumococcal vaccines. During an interview on 08/22/23 at 2:37 PM, the Director of Nursing (DON) stated the facility does have access to the PCV20 [Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines]. During an interview on 08/22/23 at 2:58 PM, the Administrator stated the pneumococcal policies were a work in progress and needed to be updated as the regulations change. Review of a policy provided by the facility titled Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccination Program for Residents/Participants, dated 01/18/18, indicated .To ensure that all residents/participants will be offered pneumococcal vaccines to aide in preventing pneumonia/pneumococcal infections .Administration of the pneumococcal vaccines or revaccinations will be made in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations at the time of the vaccination. Review of the CDC recommendations, revised on 02/09/23, indicated .CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all adults 65 years or older.If PCV20 is used, a dose of PPSV23 is NOT indicated. For adults 65 years or older who have only received PPSV23 [Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine], CDC recommends you.Give 1 dose of PCV15 or PCV20. The PCV15 or PCV20 dose should be administered at least 1 year after the most recent PPSV23 vaccination. Regardless of if PCV15 or PCV20 is given, an additional dose of PPSV23 is not recommended since they already received it. For adults 65 years or older who have only received PCV13, CDC recommends you either.Give 1 dose of PCV20 at least 1 year after PCV13.or.Give 1 dose of PPSV23 at least 1 year after PCV13. NJAC 8:39-19.4 (a)
Jan 2023 5 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Respiratory Care (Tag F0695)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

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

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to maintain oxygen supplies in a manner that was consistent with infection control protocols and professional standards of practice. This was found with 1 of 3 residents reviewed for respiratory care, Resident # 26. The deficient practice was evidenced by the following: On 1/23/23 at 9:23 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #26 in bed, awake. The resident was receiving oxygen through a nasal cannula (plastic prongs inserted into the nostrils to deliver oxygen) that was connected to an oxygen concentrator with oxygen tubing. The oxygen concentrator was set to deliver oxygen to the resident at a rate of 2 liters per minute. The tubing that delivered the oxygen from the concentrator was dated 12/20/22. On 1/24/23 at 12:17 PM, the surveyor went to the resident's room but the resident wasn't there. The resident was in Physical Therapy (PT). The resident's Private Aide was in the resident's room and said the resident would be out of the room for the afternoon due to PT and then lunch. The oxygen concentrator was in the room with the tubing and the nasal cannula attached. The oxygen tubing attached to the oxygen concentrator was dated 1/24/23. The private aide said the resident only used the oxygen in bed. On 1/24/23 at 12:21 PM, the surveyor observed the resident arrive in the dining area without wearing oxygen. The resident's private aide wheeled the resident over to a table. The resident completed the meal without wearing oxygen. On 1/24/23 at 12:52 PM, the surveyor spoke with the resident's Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and asked how often the oxygen tubing should be changed. The LPN said weekly, she said the night shift changed the tubing weekly. The surveyor asked the LPN if she routinely checked the oxygen tubing when she was in the room to make sure the tubing was not out dated. The LPN said yes. The surveyor told the LPN that the tubing was dated 12/20/22 the day before, on 1/23/23, and asked if she noticed that. The LPN said no, she did not notice. The surveyor asked the LPN if she worked full time on that wing. The LPN said yes. On 1/24/23 at 1:05 PM, the surveyor reviewed the resident's medical record which revealed the following: A Face Sheet with diagnoses which included, Covid-19 (past), Chronic Cough, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Acute or Chronic Diastolic (Congestive) Heart Failure, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. An annual minimum data set (MDS-An assessment tool used by the facility) assessment dated [DATE]. The MDS indicated that the resident scored a 9 when the brief interview for mental status was done. This indicated that the resident had moderate cognitive impairment. The MDS also indicated that the resident received oxygen therapy while a resident at the facility. A Physician's Order Sheet with an order dated 3/16/22 that read O2 at 2 L/m via nasal cannula with humidification by shift. A Care Plan with a problem listed which read [Resident] has alteration in respiratory status due to need for breathing treatments. Intervention #5 read Provide oxygen as ordered. An electronic treatment administration record (ETAR) with an order that read O2 at 2 L/m via nasal cannula with humidification by shift. The order date was 3/16/22. It was signed every day, every shift by the nurse to indicate that the resident had received the oxygen. On 1/25/23 at 11:35 AM, the surveyor reviewed the facility's policy and procedure titled Oxygen Administration Under After Care Number 1. read Change oxygen tubing and humidifier, if in use, weekly according to facility schedule. Number 3. read The tubing is to be dated and initialed at the time of the weekly change. On 1/26/23 at 1:15 PM, the surveyor spoke with the Director of Nursing (DON) about the concern with the oxygen tubing being dated 12/20/22. The DON confirmed that the tubing should have been changed weekly and that it was an error on the nurses part, the tubing should not have been out dated. NJAC 8:39-27.1 (a)
CONCERN (D)

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

Pharmacy Services (Tag F0755)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services in accordance with professional standards to ensure a.) expired narcot...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to provide pharmaceutical services in accordance with professional standards to ensure a.) expired narcotic medications were removed from active inventory b.) dispensed and received medication from the pharmacy were reconciled for accuracy which resulted in the wrong dosage stocked in the active inventory for one of one of the electronic emergency (backup) machine observed, and c.) proper disposal of medication during medication administration observation for one of two nurses. The deficient practice was evidenced by the following: 1. On 1/24/23 at 9:34 AM, during an interview with the surveyor, the Registered Nurse/Unit Manager (RN/UM) stated every nurse had their own log on for the backup machine and the pharmacy provider [name redacted] performed their own count weekly. The medications that were not at PAR level (minimum and maximum quantity limits that was set for a certain medication) were sent with the regular delivery and marked nurse supervisor, back up replacement. When the medication was received, the Director of Nursing (DON), or the supervisor logged on and restocked the machine. We entered the quantity, expiration date, scanned the barcoded medication then placed the medication into its designated compartment. On 1/24/23 at 10:01 AM, during an interview with the surveyor, the DON stated we do not do a shift-to-shift count for the backup machine, and we do not have a logbook. In the event the nurse who retrieved the narcotic identified a discrepancy, a sheet would have printed from the backup machine. The printout would have been left for me which I checked weekly. On 1/24/23 at 10:29 AM, the surveyor observed the RN/UM begin the cycle count for the controlled substance (narcotic) medications. On 1/24/23 at 10:38 AM, the surveyor in the presence of RN/UM observed three (3) tablets of eight (8) tablets for Alprazolam 0.25 milligram (mg) tablet that expired on 11/30/22. 2. On 1/24/23 at 11:40 AM, during the cycle count for the non-controlled medications the surveyor and RN/UM observed the compartment for Amlodipine 5 mg that contained six tablets of Amlodipine 2.5 mg with thirteen tablets of Amlodipine 5 mg. On 1/23/23 at 11:58 the surveyor and RN/UM observed a second compartment for Amlodipine 5 mg that contained ten tablets of Amlodipine 2.5 mg. A review of the facility provided, Item Table List Report for the backup machine revealed Amlodipine 2.5 mg had zero quantity on-hand (the total amount the facility had physically available). During an interview with the surveyor, the RN/UM stated it was important not to have expired medications in the active inventory because the resident would not receive the full efficacy, it may not work. At that time, the RN/UM stated that medications received from the pharmacy should have been reconciled properly to avoid medication administration error. The wrong dosage could have been given to the resident. The RN/UM also stated that she would remove the expired item and inform the DON of the discrepancies found. On 1/26/23 at 9:55 AM, in the presence of the survey team, DON and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the technician for the backup machine stated he arrived every month. He was in the facility on 1/3/23, conducted a cycle count for non-controlled medications only and had not observed the Amlodipine 2.5 mg in the incorrect compartments. The DON is responsible for the narcotics. At that time, the DON stated that the misplaced Amlodipine 2.5 mg in the wrong compartments was because of a scanner issue. The DON explained that when the manufacturer of the medication on record in the backup machine was different from the manufacturer sent by the pharmacy provider, the medication could not be scanned. At that time the DON stated there was no policy for the backup machine accountability. On 1/27/23 at 8:51 AM, during a follow up interview with the surveyor, the DON stated the cycle counts were done weekly based on discrepancy slips and random reports. She stated she had not received printed sheets since the supervisors had been proactive in resolving discrepancies. The DON stated that there appeared to be a miscommunication between her and the supervisors. The DON clarified that random reports included all narcotic medications, PAR level counts and as needed. The DON stated the last time she had checked Alprazolam 0.25 mg was in November 2022 and have not checked it since. The DON acknowledged that random report checks of medications needed to be improved. Refer to F760 3. On 1/25/23 at 9:33 AM, during the medication administration observation for Resident #245, the surveyor and the LPN reviewed the electronic Medication Administration (eMAR) record together against the bingo cards (blister packet which contained the medications). The eMAR revealed one order of Eliquis 5 mg (a blood thinner, used to lower the risk of strokes and blood clots in people with an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation), 1 tablet two times a day starting 1/18/23 with an administration schedule of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. During review of the bingo cards, the LPN stated she had 2 different bingo cards of Eliquis 5 mg for Resident #245. The LPN stated she should have dispensed only 1 tablet of the Eliquis 5 mg tablet from one of the two bingo cards. The LPN acknowledged it was her error. The LPN removed one tablet of the Eliquis 5 mg from the dosing cup and disposed the Eliquis tablet into the sharps container (red needle container) attached to the medication cart. At that time, the LPN stated she did not have a drug disposal solution (bottle of solution used to disintegrate pills and tablets) in the medication cart, ours is in the medication room. The LPN also stated that she was oriented to dispose medications into the red needle container. On 1/26/23 at 11:19 AM, during an interview with the surveyor, the RN/UM stated that disposal of all medications such as dropped or refused, were to be placed into the drug disposal solution which was located-in the medication room. It was expected that the nurse would walk to the medication storage room to dispose of medications. The RN/UM informed the surveyor that the red needle containers were specifically for needles. On 1/27/23 at 10:06 AM, in the presence of the survey team and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON stated she had spoken with the LPN for Resident #245. She was informed that the LPN was aware that the Eliquis 5 mg tablet should have been disposed in the drug disposal solution located in the medication storage room but did not want to leave the medication cart unattended. At that time, the DON stated that a drug disposal solution was usually in the medication cart and the LPN recognized her error in disposing of the medication in the red needle container. A review of the facility provided policy, Storage of Medications with an effective date of 6/8/15, included: Purpose: To properly store medication and accept properly labeled medication from the pharmacy to assure compliance with state and federal regulations. Policy: The facility shall store all drugs and biologicals in a safe, secure and orderly manner. Procedure:2. The nursing staff shall be responsible for maintaining medication storage AND [and] preparation areas in a clean, safe . 8. Drugs shall be stored in an orderly manner in cabinets, drawers, carts, or automatic dispensing systems A review of the facility provided policy, Destruction/Disposal of Medications with an effective date 9/29/20, included: Purpose: To ensure medications no longer in use are disposed of Policy: Medications are disposed of or returned to the Pharmacy Procedure: 2. Non- scheduled medications are packed in the medication room for return to the pharmacy. The return form is completed and place in the envelope with the medications. 3. Scheduled medications are placed in the [name redacted; drug disposal solution] by 2 [two] nurses . NJAC 8:39- 29.2(d), 29.4 (f) (g)
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0760 (Tag F0760)

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 documentation, it was determined that the facili...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interview, record review and review of pertinent facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure medication administration without significant error when the surveyor observed two nurses administer 25 doses to six residents. The deficient practice was identified for one of six residents, Resident #245 as evidenced by the following: On 1/25/23 at 9:25 AM, the surveyor observed the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) preparing medications for Resident #245 in the following order: Docusate 100 milligram (mg), 1 tablet Eliquis 5 mg, 1 tablet (a blood thinner, used to lower the risk of strokes and blood clots in people with an irregular heartbeat known as Atrial Fibrillation) Furosemide 20mg, 1 tablet Sertraline 100 mg, 1 tablet Vitamin C 1000mg, 1 tablet Bupropion 100mg, 1 tablet Eliquis 5 mg, 1 tablet mg On 1/25/23 at 9:33 AM, the LPN confirmed she had seven medications in the unit dose cups and stated she was ready to administer the medication to Resident #245. The LPN walked toward Resident #245 for administration. At that time, the surveyor stopped and requested for the LPN to return to the medication cart. The surveyor and the LPN reviewed the electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) together against the bingo cards (blister packet which contained the medications). The eMAR revealed one order of Eliquis 5mg, 1 tablet two times a day starting 1/18/23 with an administration schedule of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. During review of the bingo cards, the LPN stated she had 2 different bingo cards of Eliquis 5 mg for Resident #245. One of the Eliquis bingo cards had 29 tablets remaining and the other Eliquis bingo card had 17 tablets remaining. The LPN stated she should have dispensed only 1 tablet of the Eliquis 5 mg tablet from one of the two bingo cards. The LPN acknowledged it was her error. A review of the Face Sheet reflected Resident #245 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Unspecified Dementia, Hypertension, and Chronic Atrial Fibrillation. A review of the Physician's Orders Sheet revealed an order dated 1/18/23 for Eliquis 5 mg tablet (1 tablet) oral two times a day for Chronic Atrial Fibrillation, unspecified scheduled at 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM A review of the Medication Administration Record revealed there were 13 doses of Eliquis 5 mg administered from 1/18/23 to 9:00 AM of 1/25/23 and the administration commenced on 1/19/23. On 1/27/23 at 9:53AM, in the presence of the survey team and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), the DON stated she had spoken with the LPN regarding the medication administration for Resident #245. The LPN explained to her that she would have went over the medications individually with the resident and would have noticed the duplicate Eliquis 5mg in the dosing cup. A review of the facility provided policy, Medication Administration Overview effective 9/29/22, included: Policy: Medications will be administered to residents as prescribed . Administration: 2. Medications are administered in accordance with written orders of the attending physician or physician extender. NJAC 8:39-11.2(b), 29.2(d)
CONCERN (D)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, record review and policy review, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) failed to sanitize and air dry steam table pans in a manner to prevent microbial gro...

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Based on observation, interview, record review and policy review, it was determined that the facility failed to a.) failed to sanitize and air dry steam table pans in a manner to prevent microbial growth and b.) failed to maintain the kitchen environment and equipment in a sanitary manner to prevent contamination from foreign substances and potential for the development a food borne illness. This deficient practice was evidenced by the following: On 1/23/23 at 10:30 AM, in the presence of the Registered Dietitian, General Manager (GM) and the [NAME] President of Culinary Services, the surveyor observed the following: 1. In the food preparation area, on metal dishware drying shelving unit, the surveyor observed five half sized steam table pans and eight quarter sized pans which were stacked with water between them. 2. On a shelf in the dairy walk in fridge the surveyor observed a half empty bag of salami with an open date of 1/10/23 and the GM stated that this item should be discarded after 5 days. 3. In the dry storage area, the surveyor observed a random sampling of dented cans which were in rotation for use. The surveyor observed the following: - A #10 sized can of peaches with a 2-inch sized dent on the body of the can, - A #10 sized can of peaches with a 4-inch sized dent on the upper lip of the can, - A #10 sized can of baked beans with a 1-inch sized dent on the upper lip of the can, -A #10 sized can of apple slices with a 2-inch sized dent on the upper lip of the can, - A #10 sized can of mandarin oranges with a 6-inch sized dent on the entire side of the can, On 1/23/23 at 12:31 PM, the surveyor discussed the kitchen concerns with the facility Administrator and Director of Nursing. The surveyor reviewed the Sanitizing of Equipment policy and procedure, which revealed that kitchen equipment will be air dried. NJAC 8:39-17.2(g)
CONCERN (D)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to follow appropriate measures to prevent and control the spread of infection for failure to properly wea...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to follow appropriate measures to prevent and control the spread of infection for failure to properly wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while entering a resident's room who was on droplet precautions. The deficient practices were evidenced by the following: On 1/24/23 at 12:20 PM, the surveyor observed a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at the door of a resident who was on transmission-based droplet precautions. The CNA donned (put on) a disposable gown and had a KN95 mask on her face and no eye protection or gloves. The CNA took the resident's lunch tray, opened the door and entered the resident's room. The CNA then closed the door and approximately one minute later she opened the resident's door, removed her gown and washed her hands. At 12:25 PM, the surveyor interviewed the CNA, who stated that she should have worn an N95 mask and eye protection in addition to the gown. She stated that she put gloves after entering the residents room. The CNA stated that she did not wear eye protection or the N95 as she was just going into the room to drop off the resident's tray. On 1/24/23 at 1:45 PM, the surveyor discussed the above concerns with Administrator and Director of Nursing. NJAC 8:39-19.4 (a)
Feb 2021 4 deficiencies 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G)

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Pressure Ulcer Prevention (Tag F0686)

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 f...

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**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.) prevent an avoidable facility-acquired Stage III (full thickness tissue loss) pressure ulcer to the sacrum for a resident assessed to be at mild risk for developing a pressure ulcer, b.) re-assess the resident for pressure ulcer risk upon development of the wound, c.) appropriately assess including a suspected stage of the pressure ulcer in a timely manner to prevent worsening, d.) ensure the accountability for off-loading the sacral pressure ulcer in accordance with the Wound Consultant recommendations, e.) ensure all staff that provide direct care to the resident had knowledge of the presence of the pressure ulcer to prevent the wound from worsening, f.) a comprehensive care plan was updated upon the development of the wound, g.) perform wound care to the pressure ulcer in accordance with professional standards of nursing practice, and h.) ensure the accountability and use of pressure-relieving suspension heel booties in accordance with a physician's order to prevent skin breakdown. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 3 residents reviewed with skin breakdown, Resident #12. The evidence was as follows: 1. On 2/17/21 at 11:17 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #12 in a private room sitting upright in a high-back wheelchair with a mechanical lift pad under his/her body. There was a soft gel cushion to the seat of the resident's wheelchair. The resident was wearing bilateral geri-sleeves (an arm sock used to prevent skin tears) to the arms, and a pair of white socks and black velcro shoes. The surveyor further observed a pair of pressure-relieving suspension heel booties sitting on top of the resident's low air loss mattress on the bed. The surveyor attempted to interview the resident but the resident did not verbally respond to the surveyor. At 1:30 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #12 in his/her private room in the high back wheelchair in the same upright position sitting on top of a mechanical lift pad and gel seat cushion. The resident was still wearing the black velcro shoes and the pressure-relieving suspension heel booties were positioned on top of the resident's air mattress on the bed. On 2/22/21 at 10:03 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #12 sitting upright in the high back wheelchair on the gel cushion. The resident was sitting on top of a mechanical lift pad. The surveyor observed that the resident was wearing the same black velcro shoes and the heel booties were sitting on a cabinet in his/her room. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #12. A review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 7/22/20 reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease and arthritis. The MDS assessment further revealed that the resident was rarely or never understood and a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score could not be obtained, so staff assessed the resident's cognitive status which indicated that the resident had a short- and long- term memory problem and a severely impaired decision-making capacity. The resident was assessed to have no behaviors that impact care, and that he/she was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living (ADL's) and was an extensive two person physical assist for bed mobility and transfers. The MDS further included that the resident was always incontinent (loss of control) of bowel and bladder, and was at risk for developing a pressure ulcer but had no pressure ulcers on admission to the facility. A review of the resident's individualized comprehensive Care Plan Report with a print date of 2/23/21 at 9:12 AM reflected that the resident was at risk for skin impairment due to limited mobility. The care plan reflected that the resident had a history of a bluish discoloration to the right lateral foot on 9/24/20, but no current open wounds. A review of the goals reflected that the resident will remain free from skin breakdown through the next review period but there was no date of when the next review period was. Undated interventions included to provide a protein supplement Prostat 30 milliliters twice a day as ordered, utilize pillows, pads or wedges to avoid pressure points, assist with routine repositioning, cleanse skin well after incontinence episodes and apply skin protectant if appropriate and provide heel pressure relief as appropriate. The care plan further reflected the use of a prima-shearless mattress [a mattress that reduces friction rub] but it did not address a low air loss mattress. The care plan also indicated that the resident was always incontinent and to turn and reposition the resident to prevent skin breakdown. The goal reflected that the resident's Skin will remain intact during the next 90 days but there was no date for the goal period. The surveyor attempted to review the resident's Braden Scale Risk Assessment, an assessment tool used to determine risk of developing a pressure ulcer, completed upon admission to the facility, but it was not available in the resident's electronic medical record or the hybrid medical chart. The surveyor attempted to review any subsequent Braden Scale Risk Assessments, but there were none accessible in both the resident's electronic medical record or the hybrid medical chart. A review of a laboratory report dated prior to admission collected on 6/16/20, reflected that Resident #12 had a slightly low albumin (a protein produced by the liver and used as a factor to assess nutritional status) level of 3.4 grams/deciliter (g/dL) (normal albumin is 3.5-5.2 g/dL), and a slightly low total protein level of 6.2 g/dL (normal protein is 6.4-8.3g/dL). A review of the February 2021 Physician's Order Sheet (POS) reflected a physician's order (PO) dated 7/16/20 to perform a skin check twice a week during the evening 3-11 PM shift, and a PO dated 7/17/20 to apply Z-guard paste (moisture barrier cream) to buttocks every shift. In addition there was a PO dated 9/11/2020 to administer a protein supplement, Prostat Sugar-Free AWC [Advanced Wound Care] 30 milliliters (mL) by mouth twice a day at 9 AM and 5 PM daily. A review of the electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) for December 2020 and January 2021 reflected the corresponding PO for the Prostat dated 9/11/20. The order reflected that the protein supplement was ordered due to Other Skin Changes and was signed to reflect that the resident was receiving the Prostat 30 mL twice a day without refusals. A review of the most recent quarterly MDS assessment dated [DATE] reflected that the resident had no current skin breakdown or pressure ulcers. A review of the Clinical Notes Report dated 1/28/21 at 11:37 PM and written by a Registered Nurse (RN) reflected that the resident was received in bed awake, alert and confused and unable to verbalize needs .During PM [evening] care CNA called the writer to check on resident's buttocks, immediately went to check . Upon assessment noted an open area/wound to left buttock measuring 1.5 centimeters (cm) x 3 cm, no active bleeding noted, no signs of pain or distress . The note reflected that the Attending Physician/Medical Doctor (MD) was made aware and ordered Medihoney gel (a debriding agent) to the left buttock wound after cleansing with with normal saline and covering it with an optifoam dressing daily and as needed. The note also indicated that the MD ordered a wound consult and the family was notified. The note further included that the ordered treatment was rendered and resident was turned and repositioned to offload pressure. The assessment did not reflect evidence of a measured/estimated measured wound depth or why a measurement for a wound depth could not be obtained. The note further did not document an assessment for a suspected stage of the pressure ulcer in accordance with professional standards of nursing practice. A review of the February 2021 POS reflected the PO dated 1/28/21 at 11:03 PM to Cleanse the left buttock open area/wound with normal saline, pat dry, apply Medihoney and cover with optifoam dressing daily and PRN [as needed] until healed. The PO reflected that the treatment was to be done during the day shift, 7AM -3 PM. A review of the January 2021 eTAR reflected that a nurse signed that Resident #12 had a twice weekly skin check performed on the evening shift on 1/27/21, the day before the wound was identified. There was no documented evidence for the findings of the complete skin assessment signed as conducted on 1/27/21 in the eTAR or in the Clinical Notes Report. There was no Clinical Notes Report Nursing Notes dated 1/27/21. In addition, the January 2021 eTAR reflected that the nurses signed each shift (day, evening and night shift) that the Z-guard moisture barrier paste was getting applied to the buttocks, including each day prior to the identification of the wound on 1/28/21. There was no Clinical Notes Report/Nursing Notes documentation from 1/26/21 at 8:51 PM until 1/28/21 at 11:37 PM when the wound was identified. Subsequently there was no clinical nursing notes dated 1/29/21 written the day shift nurse after the wound was identified, but during the evening 3-11 PM shift at 9:19 PM, the resident was placed on a low air loss mattress. There was no further documented nursing notes written on 1/30/21 by the day shift or evening shift to indicate a wound assessment including measurements, interventions in place, if the resident tolerated the scheduled wound treatment, or if the resident got out of bed to the wheelchair and if so, how long the resident remained out of bed. A review of a Nutrition Progress Note dated 1/29/21 at 2:50 PM, the day after the left buttock wound was identified, reflected that the Registered Dietician (RD) acknowledged that the resident presented with a left buttock wound and was currently already receiving a protein supplement twice a day to preserve skin integrity. The note indicated that the Prostat supplement should continue and that the resident will follow up with a Wound Consultant. The Clinical Notes for nursing dated 1/29/21 the resident was now on a low-air loss mattress. The surveyor reviewed the Clinical Notes Report for January 2021 prior to the development of the left buttock wound. The clinical nursing notes reflected that Resident #12 had a good appetite specifically on the following dates and times: 1/1/21 at 10:31 PM, 1/5/21 at 9:23 PM, 1/9/21 at 12:02 PM consumed 90% of meal, 1/10/21 at 2:41 PM consumed 90% of meal, 1/10/21 at 10:30 PM, 1/11/21 at 8:46 PM, 1/15/21 at 9:33 PM, 1/18/21 at 8:51 PM, 1/23/21 at 8:53 PM. A review of the Nurse Practitioner's (NP) Progress Notes dated 1/11/21 and 1/20/21 reflected that the resident's appetite is good and the laboratory report on 6/16/20 were Unremarkable. A review of the Initial Wound Consult report dated 2/4/21, seven days after the wound was identified on 1/28/21, reflected that the resident presented with a Stage III (full thickness tissue loss) pressure ulcer to the sacrum that measured 5 cm x 6 cm x 0.2 cm (this was an increase in size from measurements of 1.5 cm x 3 cm when the wound was identified on 1/28/21). The consult report further reflected that the wound was covered in 40% moist yellow slough (dead tissue) with 60% granulating (healthy) tissue. The Wound Consultant (WC) reflected that the subcutaneous and dermis tissue layers of the skin required debridement (removing the dead tissue from the wound to promote wound healing) and the MD performed a debridement procedure which had a minimal amount of bleeding .controlled with pressure. After debridement of the wound, it measured an expected increase in depth from 0.2 cm to 0.4 cm. The resident tolerated the procedure well. The Consult Report further included that the resident was on a low air loss mattress and had a foam seat cushion. Recommendations included to apply Medihoney gel to the wound and cover it with a (silicone) foam adhesive dressing daily. Offloading recommendations included, Recommend a Roho wheelchair cushion, with seat lifts or position shifting in chair every 15 minutes . Recommend limiting continuous time spent sitting to less than 2-3 hours per session. The WC indicated that the Plan of Care was discussed with facility staff. A review of the February 2021 POS did not reflect evidence for the WC recommendation to do a seat lift or position shifting every 15 minutes while in chair, nor did it address to limit the time spent sitting to less than 2-3 hours per session. A review of the eTAR or eMAR for January 2021 or February 2021 did not reflect documented evidence for the PO or accountability for the offloading recommendations in accordance with the WC report. A review of the resident's individualized comprehensive Plan of Care, did not address the resident's new stage III pressure ulcer to the sacrum, the need to limit out of bed sitting to 2-3 hours per session, or shifting positions while in the chair every 15 minutes in accordance with the WC recommendations. Further, there was no documentation in the Clinical Notes Report for February 2021 that addressed a rationale as to why the WC recommendations for offloading were not being followed. A review of the subsequent Wound Consult Report dated 2/11/21 included that the resident continues to present with a Stage III pressure ulcer to the sacrum that has not yet healed. The report indicated that the wound had decreased in size to 4 cm x 4 cm x 0.2 cm with a moderate amount of serous (clear) drainage noted without odor and indicated that the wound is improving .decreased in size with 20% slough and 80% granulation tissue. The resident's wound was debrided using a blade which resulted in a minimal amount of bleeding controlled with pressure. The post-debridement measurements were 4 cm x 4 cm x 0.4 cm. The Plan for treatment and off-loading were written and remained the same from the Initial Wound Consult Report dated 2/4/21. In addition to the sacral ulcer, the surveyor reviewed the following physician's orders related to pressure relief for the resident's bilateral feet and heels: A review of the electronic February 2021 Physician's Order Sheet (POS) reflected a physician's order (PO) dated 9/3/20 for No Shoes daily with accountability documentation every shift (day, evening, and night shift). In addition there was a PO dated 10/23/2020 to Check heel booties to be worn at a frequency of: Continuous. A review of the December 2020, January 2021, and February 2021 electronic Treatment Administration Records (eTAR) reflected that the nurses were signing every shift (day, evening and night shift) that the resident was not wearing shoes. The eTAR's did not reflect the PO dated 10/23/20 for the use of the continuous heel booties, no evidence of accountability for the heel booties. The eTAR for February 2021 reflected that the nurse signed that the resident was not wearing shoes on 2/17/21 and 2/22/21 during the day shift, but this did not correspond with what the surveyor observed on those dates. A review of the December 2020, January 2021, and February 2021 electronic Medication Administration Records (eMAR) did not reflect evidence for the physician's order dated 10/23/20 for the heel booties to be worn continuously, and therefore there was no accountability for the implementation of the order. A review of the resident's Clinical Notes Report from 11/1/20 to 2/22/21 did not reflect documented evidence for the use of the pressure relieving heel booties, nor documentation as to why the resident was observed to be wearing shoes and not the heel booties on 2/17/21 and 2/22/21, in direct contradiction to the physician's order. On 2/22/21 and 2/23/21, surveyor continued to make observations and interview staff regarding the resident's facility-acquired stage III pressure ulcer, and the orders for the heel booties and no shoes. On 2/22/21 at 10:14 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) assigned to care for Resident #12. The CNA stated that the resident was non-verbal and was total care. The CNA clarified that total care meant that he/she was dependent on staff for all activities of daily living including but not limited to: feeding, toileting, mobility, and transfers. The surveyor asked the CNA if Resident #12 was able to follow commands such as requesting to turn or assisting in the turning process, and the CNA stated that the resident cannot follow commands. The CNA stated that today she was assigned six residents on her assignment but other days she could have up to 12 residents on her shift. The surveyor asked the CNA about the resident's toileting needs and the CNA stated that he/she was always incontinent of bowel and bladder and she put a moisture barrier cream on the resident's perineal area with each incontinent episode to protect the skin from breakdown. She stated that she will try to check on the resident's continent status three times a day throughout the course of her shift. She stated that each time she would check on the resident he/she was usually wet. She stated that the resident only required a one person physical assist with hygiene care, but stated that some CNA's may be more comfortable having two staff to assist with cleaning the resident. The surveyor asked the CNA about the condition of the resident's skin, and the CNA stated his/her Skin is good. The surveyor asked what she meant by good and the CNA clarified that the resident's skin was clean and intact She stated that the resident used to have a wound on the left buttock a long time ago but it had since healed. The CNA confirmed that there was no dressings on the resident's sacrum or buttocks when she performed morning care on the resident at approximately 8:30 AM this morning. The CNA continued to state the resident usually gets out of bed to the wheelchair by 9 AM every day, and that she puts Resident #12 back to bed by 2 PM at the end of her shift. The surveyor asked if there was any maximum length of time that the resident was allowed to be out of bed into the chair for, and the CNA stated that there was no maximum limit to how long the resident was allowed to remain out of bed. The CNA could not speak to repositioning the resident in the wheelchair every 15 minutes, but stated that the resident had a gel seat cushion on the wheelchair. She continued that the resident had fragile skin so he/she wore geri sleeves to the arms and legs to prevent skin tears. She stated that there was nothing else she had to do to protect the residents skin except applying the moisture barrier cream with incontinent episodes, applying the geri-sleeves, and making sure the resident was sitting on the gel cushion in the chair. The surveyor asked if she received a verbal or written report from the nurse this morning, and the CNA stated that she regularly cared for Resident #12 and that the two nurses that were working today were on their second day of orientation so she did not get any report because the nurses were just learning about all the residents. At 10:23 AM, the surveyor approached two nurses who were working alongside the Director of Nursing (DON). The DON stated that she was orienting both nurses to the floor and it was approximately their second day on the job. She stated that the nurses wouldn't be able to speak much on the past history of the residents, but that she would be able to. The DON confirmed that there was also currently no Unit Manager (UM) as the UM had left approximately two weeks ago and they had not yet replaced the position. The surveyor interviewed the DON at that time who stated that the facility had no residents in-house with facility-acquired pressure ulcers. The surveyor asked if Resident #12 had a pressure ulcer, and the DON stated that the resident was admitted with it. The DON elaborated that all of the residents that currently had wounds were admitted to the facility with those wounds. The DON stated that she couldn't speak further to the pressure ulcer but that if the surveyor had any other questions she would look into it. On the same day 2/22/21 at approximately 12:05 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #12 out of bed sitting upright in the high back wheelchair sitting on a gel seat cushion. The resident was wearing black velcro shoes. (This reflects a period of three hours of continuous sitting in which the resident was in his/her wheelchair according to the interview with CNA and surveyor observation). On the next day on 2/23/21 at 09:10 AM, the surveyor observed resident sitting upright in a high back wheelchair sitting on a gel foam cushion. The resident was wearing the same black velcro shoes and not wearing heal booties. The resident's legs were slightly reclined in the chair. At 9:26 AM, the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) stated to the surveyor that the DON was currently out on leave and was not available for an interview. The surveyor asked if Resident #12 had a facility acquired pressure ulcer, and the LNHA was unable to speak to it. She stated that she would have to get back to the surveyor on that. On 2/23/21 at 10:00 AM, the surveyor interviewed the resident's same assigned CNA. The CNA confirmed to the surveyor that the resident was previously seen by the Wound Consultant every Thursday but now that the wound to the buttock had healed, there were no other wounds. The surveyor sought clarification with the CNA who stated there were no wound dressings anywhere on the resident's body. She stated that she just puts a Zinc-based moisture barrier cream to the resident's sacrum and that she had applied it this morning, and that's how she knew there was no dressing or skin openings to the buttocks or sacrum. The CNA stated that she does not need to apply the heel booties as they were only intended for when the resident was in bed at night. She stated that the heel booties were for bedtime because the resident used to have something on the right foot but that it was gone now. She stated that she always applied the black velcro shoes to the resident when the resident gets out of bed. The CNA stated that she was not aware of any physician orders to not apply shoes and for the resident to only wear suspension heel booties. The CNA stated that the resident got out of bed to the chair at around 8:30 AM this morning, and that she planned to put the resident back to bed around 1 PM after her lunch break. The CNA confirmed that the resident had no behaviors of refusing care. At 10:19 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Registered Dietician (RD) who stated that she worked part time at the facility approximately three days a week. The RD stated that the resident was on a pureed diet and was dependent on staff for feeding assistance. She stated that the resident was on a protein supplement twice a day since admission to the facility in July 2020 and that as far as she knew, the resident never refused the protein supplements. She stated that she added a health shake with meals when the resident had a slight decrease in weight that was not significant. The surveyor asked about the resident's nutritional status and she stated that the resident had a good appetite and usually ate 75%-100% of all his/her meals. She stated that she didn't know about any recent nutritional labs taken, but confimed she didn't recommend any from previous quarterly visits with the resident, because nutritionally she seemed good. She stated that when the resident developed the stage III pressure ulcer, she saw the resident on 2/6/21 again and made recommendations for Vitamin C, Zinc, and a multivitamin with minerals to aid in wound healing. The RD and the surveyor reviewed the resident's eMAR's together with the Prostat supplement, and the RD confirmed there was no resident refusals. She stated that she could not speak to how the resident developed a stage III pressure ulcer from a nutritional standpoint because there were no significant deficits or changes. At 10:39 AM, the surveyor requested to perform a skin check with the CNA and the resident's assigned Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). At 10:49 AM, after Resident #12 was transferred back to bed using a mechanical lift, the CNA removed the resident's black velcro shoes and socks and the surveyor observed the that the resident's bilateral heels and feet were clean with no skin breakdown. The CNA removed the incontinent brief and stated that the resident had a urinary incontinence episode so she would change the resident's brief. As that CNA removed the resident's incontinent brief there was a large foam dressing secured to the resident's sacral area. The dressing was not dated. The CNA stated that she had no idea how the dressing got there and that Resident #12 was on her assignment both yesterday and over this past weekend and the resident never had a foam dressing on the sacrum. The CNA stated that the wound might have reopened. As the CNA removed the undated foam dressing to the resident's sacrum, the LPN entered the room. The surveyor observed under the dressing was a very thick film of white paste covering the entire sacral and upper buttock area under where the dressing was located, but the cream was not anywhere else on the resident's perineal area. The surveyor looked at the resident's left buttock area and did not see any evidence of a gold colored residue or Medihoney on or around the wound. The surveyor was able to visualize the left buttock wound but the base of the wound was covered in the white moisture barrier cream. The CNA stated that she would clean the moisture barrier cream off the resident and she proceeded to cleanse the area with soapy water. The surveyor and the LPN looked at the resident's wound and the old dressing together. The LPN stated that she had applied the dressing at approximately 7:45 AM this morning and did not date the dressing because she did not have a pen on her at the time. The surveyor asked what treatment she put on the wound and she stated that she applied Medihoney and that it was gold in color. The surveyor asked if she saw any remnants of any gold colored Medihoney on the resident's wound which was covered in the white paste, and she stated that she did not. The surveyor and the LPN looked at the old dressing. The old dressing had a scant amount of pink tinged drainage on it and there was no visual evidence of Medihoney on the dressing. The surveyor asked how she applied the Medihoney this morning and she stated that she applied a small dab to the dressing itself and that she thought the pink tinged drainage reflected where she had applied the Medihoney. The surveyor took a picture of the old dressing in the presence of the CNA and the LPN. The LPN stated that she applied the Medihoney but couldn't speak to why the base of the wound had a white barrier cream instead of a gold colored gel. The LPN and the surveyor reviewed the eTAR for February 2021 together. The LPN confirmed she had not yet signed for the application of the dressing for the Medihoney treatment that she had performed at 7:45 AM. She stated that she was supposed to sign for the treatment in the eTAR after it was done. At that time, the CNA confirmed that the resident had a wound to left buttock, but continued to state that she was surprised that it was there. She stated that if she had seen the wound she would let the LPN know right away, and the LPN would call the doctor for a treatment. She stated in the presence of the LPN a second time that she had the resident assigned to her over the past weekend and during incontinent episodes the resident never had a dressing on his/her buttocks or sacrum. She could not speak to how the presence of wounds gets communicated to her other than through verbal report. She stated that she had electronic access to the resident's care plan, but couldn't speak to what it said about the resident's current skin status. At approximately 11:00 AM, the surveyor observed the LPN perform a wound treatment to the resident's left buttock stage III pressure ulcer. The LPN stated that the wound was a stage II pressure ulcer (partial thickness tissue loss) and that it was acquired within the facility and not on admission. She stated that it had been there for a few weeks and the WC comes weekly to evaluate it. She stated that she would assess the wound to be healing, pink and granulating. The surveyor observed the resident's wound after it was cleaned from the white paste, and observed that the stage III pressure ulcer was about the size of a dime and was pink with 100% granulation tissue. There was no evidence of slough on the wound bed. The LPN performed the wound dressing change in accordance with physician's order in the presence of the surveyor, by cleansing the wound with Normal Saline Solution (NSS) and applying a nickel-sized amount of gold-colored Medihoney gel onto a tongue blade and used the tongue blade to apply the treatment to the resident's wound. The LPN then applied a small foam dressing to the wound and dated the dressing using pen from her pocket. The CNA applied Z-guard barrier cream around the resident's buttocks and applied a new incontinent brief. At 11:15 AM, the surveyor continued to interview the LPN. The LPN stated that the resident gets out of bed to the wheelchair and was allowed to be out of bed for a maximum of four hours to prevent more pressure to the wound. She stated that the CNA's turn and reposition the resident every two hours and they were supposed to sign for it. (This did not correspond with the WC recommendations for 15 minute repositioning while in the chair or a maximum continuous sitting of 2-3 hours). She stated that it was important for the resident to off-load the area and that he/she had an air mattress and a gel cushion to sit on when in the chair that provided pressure relief. The LPN acknowledged that there was a physician's order for no shoes in the resident's physician's order. She had not yet signed in the accountability log. She stated that she doesn't apply shoes and if she were to see them, she would take them off the resident. She stated that the order was there because the resident had once had a skin condition to the right foot. The LPN acknowledged the order that indicated for continuous heel booties. She could not speak to if it was done or if it was still needed. She stated that the resident's feet and heels had intact skin. On 2/23/21 at 11:24 AM and 12:30 PM, the surveyor interviewed the LPN and an Registered Nurse to see if there was a Braden Scale Risk Assessment for the resident. The LPN and RN were unable to find one within the electronic medical record or the hybrid medical chart for Resident #12 when looking together through both. The RN showed the surveyor another chart that had a Braden Scale but confirmed that was for another resident. Neither the LPN nor the RN could speak to the resident's risk for developing a pressure ulcer. They both stated that usually the UM did the assessments, stating that they thought that it was the UM because they didn't have to do them. They both stated that the UM and the MDS Coordinator left two weeks ago and was no longer employed by the facility and they did not replace them yet. They also both stated that they are not involved in the care plans for the resident, only the UM and MDS Coordinator did that because the administration wanted the care plans to be written a certain way. They stated that they were never told they had to do the care plans since they had left. They could not speak to who else may be overseeing the care plans. On 2/23/21 at 12:10 PM, the surveyor observed the CNA providing one-to-one assistance with feeding Resident #12 in his/her private room while in bed. The surveyor observed the re[TRUNCATED]
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0582 (Tag F0582)

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 provide written notification to the beneficiary of the potential liability ch...

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Based on observation, interview, and review of pertinent facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to provide written notification to the beneficiary of the potential liability charges for services not covered, when the resident was discharged from Medicare Part A services with benefit days remaining. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 4 residents reviewed for beneficiary notice reviews (Resident #4), and was evidenced by the following: On 2/23/21 at 1:57 PM, the surveyor observed Resident #4 sitting in a chair in his/her room. The surveyor interviewed the resident who stated that he/she recently received a bill from the facility for [dollar amount redacted] and that he/she did not know what the bill was for, as it was not itemized. The resident showed the surveyor the bill which was dated for Balance Forward services through 12/31/20. The resident further stated that he/she was admitted to the attached Assisted Living section and then had a fall which resulted in a hospitalization and the resident was subsequently admitted to the facility for Skilled Nursing and therapy. The resident stated that he/she was covered under Medicare Part A services initially and was never informed in writing of the liability costs when the coverage changed. The resident stated that he/she had spoken to the Social Worker (SW) about the costs and the bill, but did not receive any information about what he/she would be liable for, and then received this bill. The resident stated that he/she may have signed a document in the past when the changes in coverage were going to occur, but that he/she never received a copy of the document, and what the liability cost would be thereafter. The resident stated that the bill was upsetting. On 2/23/21 at 2:43 PM, the surveyor interviewed the SW who stated that she was working with Resident #4 and had recently found out about the liability bill on Friday 2/19/21. The SW stated that the resident had a change of primary coverage in the end of September 2020. The SW stated that she had provided the resident an Explanation of Benefits (EOB; the financial statement of what medical treatment or services were paid for on their behalf). The SW stated that while the resident had Medicare Part A service-days remaining, he/she no longer qualified for services. The SW continued that she was going to try to get the secondary insurance to pay the resident's copay as she believed that the bill was from the secondary insurance co-pay. The SW stated that she did not provide the resident with any co-payment information and could not recall if she provided the resident with any liability costs when coverage was changing. The SW stated that she believed the secondary insurance was going to be able to pay the cost of the bill, but confirmed at this point she did not have proof of that and was retroactively working on it. The SW provided the surveyor a copy of the resident's Skilled Nursing Facility Advance Beneficiary Notice of Non-Coverage (SNFABN) form. A review of SNFABN form dated 9/26/2020 indicated that beginning on 9/26/2020, you may have to pay out of pocket for this care if you do not have any other insurance that may cover these costs. Under the section for Care included that the resident may have to pay out of pocket for non-skilled unit charges and the reason was because the resident no longer qualified for skilled nursing services. Under the section for Estimated Cost: reflected See Admissions Contract. Resident #4 signed to agree that he/she would take Option 2, indicating that he/she wanted the care, but to not bill Medicare, and that he/she acknowledged that they may be billed because he/she was responsible for the payment of the care. At the bottom of the form, indicated that You'll get a copy for your records. The surveyor asked the SW if she had a copy of the resident's Admission's Contract with the costs and the resident's potential liability as referenced on the SNFABN under estimated costs. The SW stated that she would have to get back to the surveyor as she did not provide a document to the resident with the costs on it but that the resident had signed a contract in the past. The surveyor asked the SW if the resident was provided a copy of the SNFABN form, and the SW stated that she thought so, but that she could do that right now. The surveyor observed the SW make a copy of the SNFABN form at the copy machine to provide the resident. The next day on 2/24/21 at 9:25 AM, the surveyor returned to interview Resident #4 in his/her room. The resident stated that the SW never brought a copy of the cost documents or the SNFABN. By 2:00 PM, the SW did not provide the surveyor with any evidence of liability costs provided to the resident or documented evidence that he/she was provided a copy of the SNFABN or possible coverage liabilities. The surveyor interviewed the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and the Executive Director/LNHA who stated that the resident's secondary insurance did not have a co-pay, so there should be no costs for the resident but that she would have to follow up. A review of the resident's most recent Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 12/25/20 reflected that the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15 out of 15, indicating a fully intact cognition. On 2/25/21 at approximately 10:00 AM, the ED/LNHA and LNHA informed the survey team that Resident #4 had only signed an admission's contract with the Assisted Living (AL) and therefore the costs for the AL would not be applicable to the skilled nursing side. They confirmed that the Estimated Costs referenced in the SNFABN which indicated see admission's contract was not costs that were not necessarily relevant to the resident's stay in the skilled nursing facility. The LNHA stated that there was no costs noted on the SNFABN form for Resident #4 and the Social Worker (SW) met with the resident this past week and she was currently working with the insurance company to clarify the bill and the resident should not be incurring any costs. The ED/LNHA explained that the reason for the see admissions contract noted on the current SNFABN form 10055 was because in their community there are different levels of care for independent, assisted living and skilled nursing and each admission contract has different costs. On 2/25/21 at 10:37 AM in the presence of the survey team, the surveyor interviewed the LNHA who stated that moving forward the costs would be noted on the SNFABN form 10055. No facility policy was provided for beneficiary notice reviews. NJAC 8:39-5.4 (b)(c)
CONCERN (D)

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

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure a resident was transferred using a two-person assist when operating a mechanical lift in accord...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure a resident was transferred using a two-person assist when operating a mechanical lift in accordance with the facility policy to prevent accidents and injuries. This deficient practice was identified for 1 of 2 residents reviewed for accidents (Resident #12). The evidence was as follows: On 2/17/21 at 11:17 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #12 in a private room sitting upright in a high-back wheelchair with a mechanical lift pad under his/her body. There was a soft gel cushion to the seat of the resident's wheelchair. The resident was wearing bilateral geri-sleeves (an arm sock used to prevent skin tears) to the arms. The surveyor attempted to interview the resident but the resident did not verbally respond to the surveyor. On 2/22/21 at 10:14 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) routinely assigned to Resident #12. The CNA informed the surveyor that the resident was alert but was unable to follow commands or verbally respond in a coherent manner. The CNA elaborated that the resident was totally dependent on staff for all activities of daily living and all care had to be anticipated because the resident could not make his/her needs known. She stated that the resident had very fragile skin and required the geri-sleeves to both his/her arms and legs to protect the skin. She further stated that the resident was transferred from surface to surface using a mechanical lift and that two people had to operate the lift in accordance with the facility policy. She stated that she and another staff transferred the resident out of bed to the wheelchair using the mechanical lift at approximately 9:00 AM this morning. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #12. A review of the most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 1/12/21 reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease and arthritis. The MDS assessment further revealed that the resident was rarely or never understood and a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score could not be obtained, so staff assessed the resident's cognitive status which indicated that the resident had a short- and long- term memory problem and a severely impaired decision-making capacity. The resident was assessed to be dependent on staff with all activities of daily living (ADL's) and was totally dependent on a two person physical assist for bed mobility and transfers. The MDS further reflected that the resident was not steady during a surface-to-surface transfer and was only able to stabilize with human assistance. A review of the resident's individualized comprehensive Care Plan Report with a print date of 2/23/21 at 9:12 AM reflected that the resident was at risk for skin impairment due to limited mobility. Written within the undated care plan goal included, re-education and demonstration training for all staff on safe mechanical lift transfers. The care plan further reflected that the resident was at risk for falls related to dementia and limited mobility. An undated interventions included, Use gait belt as appropriate for all transfers and assisted ambulation. This was not what the MDS assessment reflected as to how the resident transferred, and did not correspond with what the CNA informed the surveyor that the resident was a two-person mechanical lift transfer. Further, the care plan did not address a focus area or interventions related to the resident's need for a mechanical lift for all transfers or how many staff were required to assist when transferring the resident from one surface to another. A review of the active Physician's Order Sheet for February 2021 did not address the use of a mechanical lift for transfers. A review of the Clinical Progress Notes for the Attending Physician (MD) dated 11/15/20 reflected that the resident was wheelchair bound and required a mechanical lift for transfers due to a physically inactive status. Further a progress note by the Nurse Practitioner dated 1/20/21 and 2/11/21 reflected that the resident transferred from surface to surface using a mechanical lift. On 2/23/21 at 10:36 AM, the surveyor observed the same CNA that was assigned to the resident on 2/22/21, propel Resident #12 to his/her private room. The surveyor observed that the resident was lying on a mechanical lift pad. The CNA stated that she was going to transfer the resident back to bed. The surveyor observed the CNA bring the mechanical lift from the hallway into the resident's room and she began to connect the lift to the mechanical lift pad already positioned underneath Resident #12. After connecting the resident to the mechanical lift, she began to independently operate the mechanical lift suspending the resident over his/her wheelchair. The surveyor stopped the CNA and asked about how she transfers the resident, and the CNA stated that she was currently transferring the resident using the mechanical lift. The CNA informed the surveyor that she was supposed to have two people to use the mechanical lift but that the surveyor watching her counted as a second person. The surveyor clarified with the CNA that she was supposed to perform all duties as she normally would if the surveyor was not present, and the CNA stated OK and she proceeded to independently suspend the resident higher using the mechanical lift. The surveyor stopped the CNA a second time. The CNA confirmed that she was independently operating the mechanical lift and that she had not yet asked any staff member for assistance. She stated that she was trained on operating the mechanical lift with two people but she was comfortable operating it with the surveyor watching her. The surveyor asked the CNA regarding the interview the day before in which the CNA told the surveyor that the resident required a two person assistance when transferring using a mechanical lift per the facility's policy, and the CNA acknowledged that she had said that, and she proceeded to leave the resident suspended approximately 10 inches from the seat of the wheelchair to go ask another CNA (CNA #2) to assist her in transferring the resident. At 10:46 AM, the two CNA's transferred Resident #12 from the wheelchair to the bed using the mechanical lift. CNA #2 operated the lift while the resident's assigned CNA guided the resident's position while suspended. CNA #2 stated to the surveyor that two staff were required to operate the mechanical lift during transfers in order to prevent accidents and injuries to the resident. Both CNA's denied that the resident had an accident, fall, or injury during a mechanical lift transfer. At 11:16 AM, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) confirmed that Resident #12 transferred using a mechanical lift and it required two staff to operate for safety. At 12:31 PM, the surveyor interviewed a Registered Nurse (RN) and the LPN who confirmed that the Unit Manager was responsible for updating care plans but there was currently no UM position. They stated they were not responsible for updating the care plans. The LPN could not speak to the appropriateness of the resident's care plan and if it was individualized to the resident's current needs. On the same day on 2/23/21 at 12:50 PM, the surveyor attempted to interview the DON, but the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) informed the survey team that the DON was not available to be interviewed due to a personal leave of absence. The LNHA informed the surveyor that there was no UM in the role current as the position has been vacant for approximately two weeks. She stated that the DON had been assisting with updating the care plans but he/she had been intermittently out on leave. The LNHA was unable to speak to who was responsible for updating the care plan when there was no UM and the DON was currently out. The LNHA stated that she would get back to the surveyor as the shifting in management roles has been actively ongoing and unexpected. On 2/24/21 at 2:00 PM, the Executive Director/LNHA and the LNHA acknowledged that the CNA should not have been independently operating the mechanical lift without another staff member in accordance with their facility training and manufacturer instructions. The LNHA stated that there had been no known accidents or injuries using the mechanical lift. A review of the CNA's education profile reflected she had attended a training on Safe Transfers and had met expectations. The review was dated 7/23/20. There was no competency skill assessment attached to the training. A review of the facility's policy for Mechanical Lifts effective 11/27/19 included, It is the policy of [the facility] to ensure that all residents can be mobilized safely and that care providers avoid performing high-risk manual resident handling tasks .At least two (2) staff members are needed to safely move a resident with a mechanical lift, unless otherwise specified in the manufacturer's instructions. NJAC 8:39-27.1 (a)
CONCERN (E)

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

Abuse Prevention Policies (Tag F0607)

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...

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**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.) thoroughly investigate the development of a facility-acquired full-thickness tissue loss pressure ulcer, and b.) initiate an investigation for a large bruise that developed on a resident's arm in accordance with their abuse and neglect policy. This deficient practice was identified for 2 of 3 residents reviewed for skin conditions (Resident #10 and #12), and was evidenced by the following: 1. According to the facility's Abuse Policy revised 4/1/19 included the following: The investigation is the process used to try to determine what happened. The designated facility personnel will begin the investigation immediately. The information gathered is given to administration .The investigation will include: Who was involved; Residents' statements; For non-verbal residents, cognitively impaired residents or residents who refused to be interviewed, attempt to interview the resident first. If unable, observe resident, complete an evaluation of resident behavior, affect and response to interaction, and document findings; .Involved staff and witness statements of events, injuries present including a resident assessment; .environmental considerations; Investigations of injuries of Unknown Origin or Suspicious injuries: must be immediately investigated to rule out abuse; Injuries include, but are not limited to, bruising .bruises of an unusual size . The investigation will consist of at least the following: A review of the completed complaint report, an interview with the person or persons reporting the incident, interviews with any witnesses to the incident, a review of the resident's medical record if indicated .An interview with staff members having contact with the resident during the relevant periods or shifts of the alleged incident .a root-cause analysis of all circumstances surrounding the incident .The results of the investigation will be recorded and attached to the report. On 2/23/21 at 10:49 AM, the surveyor observed the skin for Resident #12 in the presence of the resident's assigned Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) and the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) while the resident was in bed on a low air loss mattress. The surveyor observed that Resident #12 had a Stage III pressure ulcer (full thickness tissue loss) to the sacrum affecting the skin of the resident's left buttock. The wound was open and about the size of a dime with pink granulation (healing) tissue. At that time, the CNA and the LPN confirmed that the resident had an opened pressure ulcer. The LPN stated that the wound was a facility-acquired pressure ulcer that occurred a few weeks ago and was currently healing well. The surveyor attempted to interview Resident #12, but the resident did not respond to the surveyor. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #12. A review of the admission Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 7/22/20 reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease and arthritis. The MDS assessment further revealed that the resident was rarely or never understood and a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score could not be obtained, so staff assessed the resident's cognitive status which indicated that the resident had a short- and long- term memory problem and a severely impaired decision-making capacity. The resident was assessed to be dependent on staff with all activities of daily living (ADL's), always incontinent (loss of control) of bowel and bladder, was at risk for developing a pressure ulcer but had no pressure ulcers on admission to the facility. A review of an undated electronic admission Braden Scale Risk Assessment, an assessment tool used to determine pressure ulcer risk, reflected that the resident had a score of 16 indicating that the resident was determined to be at Mild Risk for developing a pressure ulcer. A Braden Scale Score of 15-18 indicates Mild Risk. A review of the Clinical Notes Report dated 1/28/21 at 11:37 PM, reflected that a Registered Nurse (RN) wrote a nursing progress note that included a CNA called her over to assess the resident's buttocks and noted an open area/wound to the left buttock [measuring] 1.5 cm [centimeters] x 3 cm, no active bleeding noted, no signs or pain or distress noted . The note reflected that the physician was notified with new orders to apply a dressing to the wound daily and as needed (PRN) and request a wound consult. The family was notified and treatment to the wound was rendered, and the resident was turned and repositioned to offload pressure. A review of the Physician's Orders Sheet (POS) for February 2021 reflected a physician's order (PO) dated 1/28/21 for Medihoney paste (a debriding agent) to the open wound .initial encounter. The PO specified to Cleanse the left buttock open area/wound with normal saline, pat dry, apply Medihoney and cover with optifoam dressing daily and PRN until healed. Further there was a PO dated 7/16/20 to perform a skin check two times a week. A review of the electronic Treatment Administration Record (eTAR) for January 2021 reflected that corresponding physician orders dated 1/28/21 for the wound dressing change to the left buttock and the PO dated 7/16/20 to perform a weekly skin check twice a week during the evening 3-11 PM shift. The eTAR reflected that the same RN that had identified the wound on 1/28/21 had also signed to reflect a skin check was performed the day before the wound was identified on 1/27/21. There was no corresponding nursing progress note to reflect the condition of the resident's skin on 1/27/21. A review of the Initial Wound Consult dated 2/4/21 reflected that the resident's left buttock wound was assessed by the Wound Consultant/Medical Doctor (WC/MD). The WC/MD assessed the resident's wound to be a Stage III pressure injury to the sacrum measuring 5 cm x 6 cm x 0.2 cm and had 40% slough (yellowing dead tissue) and 60% granulation tissue. The WC/MD indicated in the note that he debrided the wound using a surgical blade without complications. Following the debridement the resident's wound was measured to be 5 cm x 6 cm x 0.4 cm. A review of the Skin/Tissue Event incident report dated 1/28/21 for the facility-acquired sacral wound included that Resident #12 was non-ambulatory and had a cognitive impairment and had developed a wound. Contributing factors included current diagnosis/condition; fragile skin; immobility deficit/lack of mobility. Immediate Actions Taken included application of dressing; application of ointment/medication; area cleansed; inform staff; monitor site; turning and repositioning program. Attached to the incident report was the progress note written by the RN regarding her assessment of the wound and parties notified on 1/28/21. However there were no witness statements by staff (CNA's or nurses from the current and previous shifts to determine if neglect factored into the cause of the wound), determinations as to what interventions were in place at the time of the pressure ulcer development and if those interventions may have been effective or ineffective, and there was no summary or conclusion as to how a resident who was identified to be at Mild Risk of developing a pressure ulcer upon admission, developed a stage III full thickness pressure ulcer to the sacrum. In addition it did not address if the wound was avoidable or unavoidable by including the resident's nutritional status, incontinence changes, use of barrier creams and if the resident got out of bed to the wheelchair how many hours he/she remained out of bed. The incident report was signed off by the Director of Nursing (DON) almost a month later on 2/22/21, but the incident report was still incomplete. There was no documented evidence for a root-cause analysis for the development of the pressure ulcer in accordance with the facility's Abuse Policy. On 2/23/21 at approximately 12:50 PM, the surveyor attempted to interview the DON, but the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) informed the survey team that the DON was not available to be interviewed due to a personal leave of absence. The LNHA informed the surveyor that Unit Manager (UM) who started the incident report was no longer employed at the facility, so the UM was unable to be interviewed. The LNHA acknowledged that there was no summary or conclusion to what caused the resident's stage III pressure ulcer and no statements from staff. The LNHA stated that the DON had been off work for a few weeks and had just returned to work on 2/16/21 the day prior to the survey team's entrance. She stated that she had no other details to provide at this time regarding the facility-acquired pressure ulcer. She stated that the process was that staff who identify a new wound initiate an investigation, and it gets completed by the UM and given to the DON for a sign-off. She acknowledged the incident report was neither thorough or complete in accordance with their Abuse Policy. On 2/24/21 at 2:00 PM, the Executive Director/LNHA and the LNHA were unable to provide any more documents surrounding the investigation for the cause of the pressure ulcer. They acknowledged they should have obtained statements from all staff who had direct care with the resident at least 24-48 hours prior to the wound development to properly determine a possible cause for why the pressure ulcer developed. On 2/25/21 at approximately 10:00 AM, the LNHA provided the surveyors retroactive statements from facility staff of different shifts involved in the care of Resident #12 at the time the pressure ulcer was identified. The LNHA acknoweldged that the three statements were not obtained until after surveyor inquiry and were not dated when they were actually taken. The retroactive verbal statements provided to the surveyor on 2/25/21 did not offer key details or root-cause investigative questions to determine a possible cause for the development of the facility-acquired stage III pressure ulcer. Refer to F686 2. On 02/17/21 at 10:52 AM, the surveyor observed Resident #10 working with a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) for mobility exercises. The surveyor observed that the resident's right arm had a dressing on it. The resident stated that he/she thought the injury occurred while staff were providing care to him/her that was described as rough. The resident was unable to name, identify or provide a description of any staff member of an alleged incident. The surveyor reviewed the medical record for Resident #10. A review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS), an assessment tool used to facilitate the management of care, dated 1/12/21 reflected that the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Atrial Fibrillation (rapid,irregular heart beat), fractured left hip and fractured left wrist/hand, Anxiety Disorder and Personality Disorder. The MDS assessment further revealed that the resident had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 14 out of 15, indicating an intact cognition. The resident was assessed to be dependent on staff for bed mobility, dressing, personal hygiene and a two person assist for transfers. The surveyor reviewed the Clinical Notes Report dated 1/26/21 timed 3:38 PM, which reflected that a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) wrote a nursing progress note that included the resident was noted with large ecchymosis (bruise) to right arm. The note indicated that the family was notified and the physician was called with a treatment order that was carried out. The surveyor requested all incident/accident reports for Resident #10 from the LNHA. The only incident report provided by the LNHA was a review of a Skin/Tissue Event report dated 2/8/21 provided by the LNHA indicated that the UM observed a hematoma site on the right forearm during wound treatment rounds and a complete investigation was done. The incident report did not address the resident's right arm with the large ecchymosis that was identified on 1/26/21 nor did it include any witness statements surrounding the events of the identification of the bruise. On 02/24/21 at 8:40 AM, the surveyor interviewed Resident #10 a second time in the resident's room. The resident stated that he/she was not sure what happened to his/her right arm but was not concerned about it. The resident stated that that the staff were okay and his/her main concern with the staff was that he/she wanted the staff to stay in the room for a longer period of time to assist with various requests. The resident could not speak to when a bruise occurred, how it occurred, who was involved or if it was reported. On 02/24/21 at 11:13 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) who stated that she was familiar with Resident #10 and had cared for the resident since admission. The CNA stated that she tries to do whatever the resident requests but has to explain that she cannot stay with the resident in the room for the whole shift and the resident does not like that. The CNA also stated that she has to get another staff member to transfer the resident and that was usually when the resident will make a statement to not hurt him/her before the staff is near the resident, touching the resident or any transfer is happening. The CNA added that she always explains what she was going to do with the resident to make sure the resident was okay. The CNA stated that she was careful during care because the resident's skin was fragile and the resident refused to wear the geri sleeves (arm socks used to protect the skin). The CNA added that the resident will pull the sleeves off if she put them on. The CNA added that if any resident complains about a staff member or if she observed a change in the resident's skin or skin condition she would report it to the nurse immediately. The CNA stated that she was asked to write a statement for a skin injury that occurred on on 2/8/21 but she was unaware of any incident or the identification of a large bruise that was identified on 1/26/21. On 2/24/21 at 11:16 AM , the surveyor interviewed the private home health care aide (HHA) who stated she was familiar with the resident currently and prior to admission because she had cared for the resident in the independent living section prior to admission to skilled nursing. The HHA added that she was not the only HHA who cared for the resident and the usual private aide schedule included four hours in the morning and four hours in the evening because the resident does not like to be alone. The HHA also stated that the resident had fragile skin and will tell you what he/she wants or doesn't want. The HHA stated that the resident has not told her of any concerns with the staff. The HHA stated that she would have to tell the nurse in charge if the resident had made any complaints or if she saw any changes. The HHA could not speak to any bruising that was identified on 1/26/21. On 2/24/21 at 11:21 AM, the surveyor interviewed LPN #2 who stated that she was not the regular nurse but was familiar with the resident. LPN #2 added that she works on a per diem basis (as needed). LPN #2 stated that the resident has not made any statements to her of any issues with staff or care. LPN #2 added that if there was an incident she would notify her unit manager or a supervisor and would have to complete an incident report which would go to the DON. On 2/24/21 at 11:49 AM, the surveyor interviewed the Assistant Director of Activities who stated that she visits with Resident #10 every day and the resident has not mentioned any issues with any staff member or with care. She added that if the resident or any resident made a statement that there was an issue with a staff member or made a complaint then she would notify the nurse and would have to write a statement and inform her Director and a report would be done by the nurse and followed up by the Administrative staff. On 02/24/21 at 1:26 PM in the presence of the survey team, the surveyor attempted to interview the DON, but the LNHA informed the survey team that the DON was not available to be interviewed due to a personal leave of absence. The LNHA informed the surveyor that the Unit Manager (UM) who completed the incident report dated 2/8/21 was no longer employed at the facility, so the UM was unable to be interviewed. In addition, the LNHA stated that the LPN who wrote the 1/26/21 clinical progress note also was no longer employed at the facility, so the LPN was unable to be interviewed. The LNHA added that she thought the DON had started an investigation and was working on 1/26/21 but soon after was on a medical leave of absence until returning 2/16/21 and did not have an incident report dated 1/26/21. The LNHA added that she had started her employment at the facility after 1/26/21, and therefore did not complete an investigation on the identified bruise. The LNHA then stated that the process was the staff who identify a bruise of unknown origin would start an investigation, and an incident report gets completed by the UM and given to the DON for a sign-off. She acknowledged the incident report for 1/26/21 was not completed in accordance with their Abuse Policy. She acknowledged there were no statements from staff 48 hours prior to the bruise development that she could find. On 2/25/21 at 9:51 AM, the survey team met with the LNHA, the Infection Preventionist (IP) and the Executive Director/LNHA (ED/LNHA). The LNHA stated that moving forward if there were any grievances or allegations the nursing staff would obtain interviews and statements and the Social Worker (SW) would be involved with interviews with the resident and family but the SW would not necessarily be involved in the conclusion of the investigations. The LNHA added that she and the DON would be responsible for overseeing the investigation and any summary or conclusions, in addition to reporting the incidents to the New Jersey Department of Health and the Ombudsman's Office if necessary. On 2/25/21 at 11:24 AM, in the presence of the survey team, the surveyor and LNHA, interviewed the WC/MD who stated that he had observed the resident's right forearm on 1/28/21. The WC/MD added that based on his assessment of the resident who was on an anticoagulant, had fragile skin and previous wound care treatments, felt that the ecchymotic area on the right forearm could have been from common minimal trauma from any hard surface and if he felt the bruise was questionable would have reported that to the nurse and included in his clinical notes. The WC/MD also stated that he expected the ecchymotic area that he observed on 1/28/21 to form a hematoma which he observed on 2/4/21 and also expected the hematoma to open which he observed on 2/8/21. The WC/MD also stated that a nurse from the facility accompanied him on his rounds. On 2/25/21 at approximately 11:30 AM, the surveyor interviewed the LNHA, in the presence of another surveyor, who stated that the nurse that was on wound rounds with the WC/MD was the same UM who was no longer employed by the facility. The LNHA also confirmed that the statement from the WC/MD should have been part of the investigation for the 1/26/21 incident report for the bruise on the resident's arm. The LNHA acknowledged that the bruise on 1/26/21 was not immediately investigated until surveyor inquiry. NJAC 8:39-13.4(c) 2i through 2vi
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
  • • Grade B+ (85/100). Above average facility, better than most options in New Jersey.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most New Jersey facilities.
  • • 19% annual turnover. Excellent stability, 29 points below New Jersey's 48% average. Staff who stay learn residents' needs.
Concerns
  • • 13 deficiencies on record, including 1 serious (caused harm) violation. Ask about corrective actions taken.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL 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 Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill Staffed?

CMS rates LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL's staffing level at 5 out of 5 stars, which is much above average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 19%, compared to the New Jersey average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill?

State health inspectors documented 13 deficiencies at LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL during 2021 to 2025. These included: 1 that caused actual resident harm and 12 with potential for harm. Deficiencies causing actual harm indicate documented cases where residents experienced negative health consequences.

Who Owns and Operates Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill?

LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL is owned by a non-profit organization. Non-profit facilities reinvest revenue into operations rather than distributing to shareholders. The facility operates independently rather than as part of a larger chain. With 56 certified beds and approximately 37 residents (about 66% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in WEST CALDWELL, New Jersey.

How Does Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill Compare to Other New Jersey Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in New Jersey, LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 3.3, staff turnover (19%) is significantly lower than the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill?

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 Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL 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 Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill Stick Around?

Staff at LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL tend to stick around. With a turnover rate of 19%, the facility is 27 percentage points below the New Jersey average of 46%. Low turnover is a positive sign. It means caregivers have time to learn each resident's needs, medications, and personal preferences. Consistent staff also notice subtle changes in a resident's condition more quickly. Registered Nurse turnover is also low at 17%, meaning experienced RNs are available to handle complex medical needs.

Was Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill Ever Fined?

LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL has no federal fines on record. CMS issues fines when nursing homes fail to meet care standards or don't correct problems found during inspections. The absence of fines suggests the facility has either maintained compliance or corrected any issues before penalties were assessed. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review recent inspection reports for the full picture.

Is Lutheran Social Ministries Cranes Mill on Any Federal Watch List?

LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES CRANES MILL 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.