CRITICAL
(J)
Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation
Notification of Changes
(Tag F0580)
Someone could have died · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews and staff, Medical Director (MD) and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews the facility failed to inform th...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews and staff, Medical Director (MD) and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews the facility failed to inform the Physician of a supratherapeutic (above therapeutic level) Prothrombin Time/International Normalized Ratio (PT/INR) levels for a resident prescribed Coumadin (anticoagulant) when they notified him a severely cognitively impaired resident had an unwitnessed fall (Resident #45). The INR measures how long it takes blood to clot. Supratherapeutic levels above 4.9 are considered critical values and increase the risk of bleeding. The facility further failed to notify the Physician of dark purple bruising to the Resident's right hip at the time it was observed for the same resident. Resident #45 was evaluated in the emergency room on [DATE] and was admitted to the hospital for diagnosis of Coumadin toxicity of 8.3 These failures affected 1 of 1 resident reviewed for notification of changes.
Immediate jeopardy began on [DATE] when the facility failed to notify the Physician that Resident #45 had a supratherapeutic INR result when reporting Resident #45's fall. The immediate jeopardy was removed on [DATE] when the facility provided and implemented an acceptable credible allegation of Immediate Jeopardy removal. The facility remains out of compliance at a lower scope and severity of D (isolated with no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not Immediate Jeopardy) to complete education and ensure monitoring systems put into place are effective.
The findings included:
Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of presence of mechanical heart-valve, long-term use of anticoagulants, and thrombocytopenia (Low blood platelet count. Platelets help the blood to clot which stops bleeding.)
Review of Resident #45's most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed she was severely cognitively impaired and revealed Resident #45 was administered an anticoagulant 7 days out of 7 days.
Review of physician orders dated [DATE] indicated Resident #45 was prescribed Coumadin 7 mg (milligrams) daily.
Review of the medical record showed lab results on [DATE] of PT/INR 64.7 / 5.4. The facility NP was notified and gave an order to give Coumadin 3.5 mg on [DATE] and give Coumadin 7 mg on [DATE] and recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
An incident report completed by Nurse #4 and dated [DATE] at 5:30 PM revealed Resident #45 was last seen sitting in a wheelchair and was then noted to be in the floor beside the wheelchair. The report indicated the MD was notified on [DATE].
An interview with Nurse #4 on [DATE] 11:22 AM revealed she was working on [DATE] and was alerted by Nurse Aide (NA) #1 that Resident #45 had been found in the floor. Nurse #4 stated she was not aware at the time that the resident had a high INR but knew her Coumadin was on hold. When Nurse #4 notified the MD of the fall, she did not include Resident #45's INR of 5.4 on [DATE] nor that the resident was on a Coumadin.
The medical record dated [DATE] showed lab results of PT 73.6 / INR 6.1. The facility NP gave orders to hold Coumadin [DATE] and begin Coumadin 3.5 mg on [DATE]. Recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
An incident report completed by Nurse #5 dated [DATE] at 11:10 PM revealed a large purple discoloration noted to the resident's right side. The report noted the MD was notified of the bruising on [DATE].
An interview with Nurse #5 on [DATE] at 11:54 AM revealed she worked on [DATE] and was notified by NA #2 of dark purple bruising to Resident #45's right hip. Nurse #5 assessed the bruised area and stated Resident #45 denied any pain. The bruising to the right side was noted on the MD's rounding sheet for MD review the following morning. Nurse #5 stated she did not call the on-call provider to report the bruise because the MD was scheduled to be in the facility within a few hours.
An interview with the Medical Director (MD) on [DATE] at 4:22 PM revealed he expected reports of resident falls to include any injury, fall location, bruising, pain with movement, change in level of consciousness, change in mentation and if they were on a Coumadin. The MD stated the nurse should have notified the on-call physician when the bruising was found at 11:10 PM on [DATE] but he was in the facility between 6:00 to 7:00 AM the next morning, so it was ok to have it on the rounding sheet since Resident #45 did not have active bleeding anywhere. The MD indicated he assessed the bruise on [DATE] and the bruise did not appear acute. The MD further stated he would have held the Coumadin when the INR was 5.4 on [DATE] and for any value greater than 5.4.
An interview with Nurse #9 on [DATE] at 8:39 AM revealed she did not work on [DATE] when the MD was doing rounds and the bruise was noted on the rounding sheet. Nurse #9 further stated she checked Resident #45's PT/INR on [DATE] and reported INR of 8 to the facility NP via phone. Orders were given for Vitamin K injection (helps blood to clot). Nurse #9 stated she assessed Resident #45 at that time and noted dark red bleeding from the mouth and the bruising to the right flank, abdomen, and bilateral arms. Nurse #9 was not aware of any report of unusual bruising or bleeding until her return to work on the morning of [DATE] prior to Resident #45's transport to the hospital.
Review of hospital records dated [DATE] revealed Resident #45 presented to hospital with supratherapeutic INR of 8.3, in atrial fibrillation (an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm), pulmonary edema (swelling) or infection, and a right femur fracture. Resident #45 was evaluated by the hospital orthopedic service who recommended surgical intervention too complex for their facility. A transfer was completed to another hospital. Documentation from the second hospital with an admission date of [DATE] revealed the right leg was shortened and externally rotated. Mentioned in the documentation was Resident #45 did not grimace with palpation of the groin or lateral hip and had no noted pain with internal or external rotation. Resident #45's hospital course included right hip surgical pinning on [DATE], progressive worsening mental status, and placement of a gastrostomy tube. Following surgery, Resident #45 developed acute blood loss anemia and experienced a myocardial infarction (MI / heart attack) leading to asystole (the cessation of electrical and mechanical activity of the heart) requiring CPR on [DATE]. Resident #45 was diagnosed with a hypoxic brain injury (brain injuries that form due to a restriction on the oxygen being supplied to the brain) on [DATE].
An interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on [DATE] at 1:37 PM revealed she expected nurses to specifically notify the provider if a resident who fell was on Coumadin.
The Administrator was notified of Immediate Jeopardy on [DATE] at 11:11 AM.
The facility provided the following IJ removal plan:
-Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the non-compliance.
Resident #45 has diagnosis of mechanical heart valve which was placed 2007. She was admitted with Coumadin as a part of her medication regimen. She sustained a fall on [DATE] the Physician was called and informed about the fall but the Coumadin medication and PT and supratherapeutic INR levels were not reviewed with him since they had been communicated to the Nurse Practitioner on [DATE]. On [DATE] at 11:10 pm the Nurse was notified by the nurse Aide of bruising to right side, assessed the Resident who denied any pain. The information about the bruise was communicated to the Physician by placing it on the Physician Round Sheet which he seen the next morning when he arrived at the facility between 6:00 am and 7:00 am to complete his routine rounds and assessed the Resident.
One additional resident was identified on Coumadin. Resident record was reviewed for compliance. Resident range for PT/INR has been between 15.2-17.2/1.3-1.4. Resident has had no falls, is a low fall risk and has had subtherapeutic levels.
-Specify the action the entity will take to alter the process or system failure to prevent a serious adverse outcome from occurring or recurring, and when the action will be complete.
o
A triage protocol was developed by the Nurse Consultant, Director of Nursing, Assistant Director of Nursing to help guide the nursing staff on promptly/completely reporting resident conditions, acute changes, lab, diagnostic tests to the Physician.
The triage includes notifying the Physician of any new bruising for residents who have a supratherapeutic PT/INR level. The Medical Director approved the triage protocol on [DATE]. Licensed nursing staff including agency licensed nursing staff were educated on the new triage protocol beginning [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
The facility anti-coagulant protocol was reviewed, and the following revisions were made. Medical Director or the back-up Physician will now be notified of all INR levels and will provide orders effective [DATE]. Medical Director suggested this process change. Medical Director is usually available by his cell phone 24 hours/7 days a week, but in instances where he is not available (I. E. on sick leave, vacation etc.) he will designate a backup Physician for coverage. Medical Director will communicate to the facility his unavailability by a voice mail message on his cell phone number that will include: a) Start and end date of unavailability, b) Name of back up Physician and his/her contact number. Education was provided to the facility licensed nursing staff including agency nursing staff on this process change [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator or her designee. The Medical Director educated the two Nurse Practitioners and the back-up Physician about this process change on [DATE].
o
INR results will be obtained by the Charge Nurse(s) using point of care testing during post fall assessment for residents prescribed Coumadin. Charge Nurses will utilize the revised SBAR (Situation Background Assessment Recommendation) form for a comprehensive evaluation of incident and reporting the INR result and the fall to the Medical Director at the time the fall occurs, and results of the INR obtained. Charge Nurses were educated on this process change [DATE] by the Staff
Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
SBAR form reviewed and revised on [DATE] by the Director of Nursing, Assistant Director of Nursing and Nursing Supervisor to include:
o
Resident Background information
o
Recent relevant lab work and medications
o
Information regarding reason for contacting/communicating with Physician.
o
Assessment - Vital signs, skin, musculoskeletal, range of motion, angti-coagulant therapy, recent PT/INR
o
Focused assessment - I. E. Respiratory status, Gastrointestinal status, cardiac stastus, Abnormal blood glucose levels, most recent level, medications and compliance with medications/diet.
o
Physician response - New orders
o
The Licensed Nursing Staff including agency Licensed nursing staff were educated on the revisions to the SBAR form by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee [DATE].
o
The SBAR Form will continue to be placed in a Nursing Supervisor file by the Licensed Nurse completing it and the Nursing Supervisor then places the form on the resident's to be seen by Physicians list. The Physician then has the pertinent information relevant to the need for further examination/assessment as well as the medical record. The Nursing Supervisors and Licensed Nurses including agency Licensed Nurses were re-educated on the process on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
Beginning [DATE] the Director of Nursing will provide oversight to ensure PT/INRs are obtained post fall for resident's prescribed Coumadin and results reported to the Medical Director or Back Up Physician using the following procedure. Charge Nurses were educated on this process change [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
Procedure:
o
Charge nurse obtains PT/INR post fall.
o
Charge nurse will call the DON to communicate Physician notification of the fall, PT/INR obtained and results, Coumadin dosage order/changes.
o
Pharmacy Consultant will continue to review resident's on Coumadin monthly for irregularities including but not limited to INR results and changes to Coumadin therapy as well as any antibiotic/antifungal orders.
o
Licensed nursing staff including agency Licensed Nurses were educated on Coumadin therapy that included: risks, toxicity, lab results, drug interactions and potential for complications following fall, PT/INR therapeutic levels-Appropriate levels including normal, sub and supratherapeutic, Monitoring INR while taking antibiotics/antifungals; Antibiotics and Antifungals can increase INR values on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
Licensed Nurses and Nurse aides including agency Licensed Nurses and Nurse Aides were in-serviced on Coumadin risks, potential complications following a fall, observe for bleeding, bruising and other skin changes, level of consciousness changes, complain of pain, signs of toxicity including signs of bleeding (nosebleed, bruising, dark stools). The nurse aides were educated on reporting any of these changes immediately to the Licensed Nurse. Education provided on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
The Staff Development Coordinator and her designee were informed of their responsibility on 10-28-21 to provide the education and re-education described above. The Staff Development Coordinator and or her designee will track which staff has been educated by comparing educational roster to the nursing schedule. Nursing staff who did not receive the education will not be allowed to work until education is provided. New educational material was also added to the New Hire Orientation packet for Nursing and Nurse Aide staff as well as the Clinical version provided to Agency Nurse staff.
Alleged IJ removal date: [DATE].
A credible allegation validation for notification of changes was conducted in the facility on [DATE]. Record review included the triage protocol approved by the Medical Director, the Anticoagulant policy and procedure effective [DATE] and revised on [DATE] (noted revision included all PT/INR results are to be reported to the Medical Director or their covering physician for review including dosage changes), the updated SBAR tool (noted revision included background information, relevant lab work, reason for contacting physician, assessment including vital signs, skin, musculoskeletal, range of motion, anticoagulant therapy, recent PT/INR, focused assessment, and physician response), the in-service training signature sheet titled Obtaining PT/INR with CoaguChek XS System, cleaning and disinfecting the meter dated [DATE], the in-service training signature sheet and education titled Triage dated [DATE], the in-service training signature sheet and training titled Coumadin Therapy and Documentation, Plan of Care for Coumadin, SBAR including the updated facility falls precautions protocol dated [DATE] and [DATE], the in-service signature sheet and training titled Coumadin, blood thinners, diet, s/s bleeding, labs, toxicity and treatment, s/s reporting dated [DATE], the record of Coumadin monitoring and reporting for residents currently receiving Coumadin, and SBAR documentation. Interviews with staff were conducted to validate training was conducted.
The facility's IJ removal date of [DATE] was validated.
CRITICAL
(J)
Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation
Quality of Care
(Tag F0684)
Someone could have died · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff, Medical Director (MD) and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews the facility failed to complete a...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff, Medical Director (MD) and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews the facility failed to complete and document on-going thorough assessments of a resident's condition who was prescribed Coumadin (anticoagulant) after supratherapeutic (above therapeutic level) International Normalized Ratio (INR) levels were reported beginning on [DATE] and an unwitnessed fall on [DATE]. The INR measures how long it takes blood to clot. A dark purple bruise was observed on Resident #45's right side on [DATE]. Resident #45's INR was 8 on [DATE] and she was observed with dark red bleeding from the mouth and bruising to the abdomen, right flank, and bilateral arms and was sent to the emergency room for an evaluation. Resident #45 was transferred and admitted to another hospital for diagnoses of Coumadin toxicity of 8.3 and impacted femoral neck fracture.
Immediate Jeopardy began on [DATE] when the facility failed to complete and document on-going thorough assessments of Resident #45 who had supratherapeutic Coumadin levels. The immediate jeopardy was removed on [DATE] when the facility provided and implemented an acceptable credible allegation of Immediate Jeopardy removal. The facility remains out of compliance at a lower scope and severity of D (isolated with no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not Immediate Jeopardy) to complete education and ensure monitoring systems put into place are effective.
The findings included:
Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of presence of prosthetic heart-valve, long-term use of anticoagulants, thrombocytopenia (Low blood platelet count. Platelets help the blood to clot which stops bleeding.).
Review of Resident #45's most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed she was severely cognitively impaired. Resident #45 was totally dependent on 2 persons for transfers and required extensive assistance of one person for locomotion in a wheelchair on the unit. The MDS further revealed Resident #45 was administered an anticoagulant 7 days out of 7 days.
Review of the medical record showed lab results on [DATE] of Prothrombin Time (PT) 64.7 / International Normalized Ratio (INR) 5.4. The NP gave an order to give Coumadin 3.5 mg on [DATE], give Coumadin 7 mg on [DATE], and recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
An interview with Nurse #4 on [DATE] at 11:22 AM revealed she was working on [DATE] and was alerted by Nurse Aide (NA) #1 that Resident #45 had been found in the floor. Nurse #4 revealed she assessed Resident #45 in place on the floor and found no compromised range of motion, and no bleeding or bruising. The Nurse stated Resident #45 denied pain when asked. The resident was transferred to the bed and was assessed in bed for injuries. No bruising, signs of bleeding, or altered range of motion were noted on the second assessment.
Interview with NA #1 on [DATE] at 12:02 PM revealed she worked on [DATE] and was completing a walking round prior to supper when she saw Resident #45 in the floor on her right side with her head leaning against the bed. NA #1 stated it looked like Resident #45 had slid from her wheelchair seat. The NA reported to Nurse #4 who entered the room and assessed the resident in the floor. NA #1 did not recall any grimacing, bruising, bleeding, or awkward range of motion. The NA recalled using the mechanical lift to transfer the resident back to bed. The NA stated Nurse #4 then re-assessed the resident when in bed (including a skin check). NA #1 did not recall any signs of bruising or bleeding with Resident #45 during the post-fall assessments.
A progress note dated [DATE] showed lab results of PT 73.6 / INR 6.1. The facility NP gave orders to hold Coumadin [DATE] and begin Coumadin 3.5 mg on [DATE]. Recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
Review of nursing progress notes dated [DATE] for the 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM shift revealed documentation by Nurse #7 that Resident #45 was anxious that morning. There was no documentation of a post-fall assessment. There was no documentation of assessment for bruising, signs or symptoms of bleeding or altered range of motion.
Review of nursing progress notes dated [DATE] for the 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM shift revealed documentation by Nurse #11 that Resident #45 was out of bed in her wheelchair with no complaints of pain. There was no documentation of a post-fall assessment. There was no documentation of assessment for bruising, signs or symptoms of bleeding or altered range of motion.
Review of nursing progress notes dated [DATE] revealed documentation by Nurse #7 that Resident #45 was sleepy, not eating well, and running a temperature of 100.5. Nurse #7 documented a urinalysis with culture and sensitivity was completed due to elevated temperature and blood sugars. Nurse #7 further documented Resident #45 was started on an intramuscular injection of Rocephin (an antibiotic) on [DATE]. There was no documentation of a post-fall assessment. There was no documentation of assessment for bruising, signs or symptoms of bleeding or altered range of motion.
An interview with Nurse #7 on [DATE] at 12:03 PM revealed she was assigned to Resident #45 on [DATE], [DATE], [DATE], and [DATE] for the 7 AM to 7 PM shift. She was aware of Resident #45's fall. Nurse #7 stated she did not complete a post fall assessment of the resident during her shifts because the resident was sitting up in her wheelchair and stated the resident did not demonstrate any pain behaviors such as grimacing or moaning during her shifts of work.
Review of nursing progress notes dated [DATE] (night shift) revealed documentation by Nurse # 8 that Resident #45 was resting in bed with eyes closed and that she accepted medication crushed without difficulty. Resident #45 did not display any behaviors that shift. The note further revealed a urinalysis with culture and sensitivity was pending. Resident #45 had no complaints of pain and her call light was in reach. There was no documentation of assessment for bruising, bleeding, or range of motion.
Interview with Nurse #8 on [DATE] at 5:43 PM revealed she worked on [DATE] on the 7 PM to 7 AM shift. She stated she was not aware of any bruising related to a fall. She stated she did not recall Resident #45 groaning, moaning, frowning, or grimacing with pain during her evening shift on [DATE]. She stated she did not recall any reports of pain by the NAs. Nurse #8 stated she did not complete an assessment of the resident.
An interview with NA #2 on [DATE] at 4:33 PM revealed she was assigned to Resident #45 on [DATE] and [DATE]. NA #2 did not recall any bruising, bleeding, change in range of motion or pain with Resident #45 following her fall. NA #2 recalled Resident #45 displayed her usual level of agitation.
On [DATE], Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 81.3 / INR 6.1. Results were reviewed with the MD via telephone. The MD ordered to hold Coumadin [DATE] and recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
An incident report completed by Nurse #5 dated [DATE] at 11:10 PM revealed a large purple discoloration noted to the resident's right side. The report noted the Medical Director (MD) was notified of the bruising on [DATE].
A progress note dated [DATE] at 2:57 AM and documented by Nurse #5 revealed staff observation of a large purple discoloration to Resident #45's right side. Nurse #5 documented Resident #45 had no complaint of pain or discomfort. The note further revealed Resident #45 was seen by the facility MD and new orders were received to continue to hold the Coumadin and recheck INR on [DATE].
An interview with Nurse #5 on [DATE] at 11:54 AM revealed she worked on [DATE] and was notified by NA #2 of dark purple bruising to Resident #45's right hip. Nurse #5 assessed the bruised area and stated Resident #45 denied any pain. She further stated she did not assess range of motion of Resident #45's right leg. Nurse #5 recalled the resident was up in her wheelchair during the 7 to 11 PM medication pass. Nurse #5 did not recall any change in Resident #45's condition. Nurse #5 stated she did not recall frequent bruising to Resident #45 except for insulin injection locations on the abdomen. The bruising to the right side was noted on the MD's rounding sheet for review the following morning.
Review of Coumadin logs dated [DATE] for Resident #45 revealed lab results of PT 90.5 / INR 7.5. The facility MD ordered the Coumadin to be held and recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
Review of the MD's progress note for [DATE] revealed Resident #45 was seen for an acute visit due to a urinary tract infection following initiation of orders for antibiotics. The MD documented a review of Resident #45's medication list. The MD's plan included continue current medications and supportive care. The physical exam documentation did not include an assessment of range of motion or documentation regarding the bruising. The review of systems did not include documentation of assessment of range of motion or documentation regarding the bruising. The progress note indicated no further new orders.
During an interview on [DATE] at 4:22 PM, the Medical Director stated he was in the facility between 6 and 7 AM on [DATE] so it was OK to have the bruising on the round sheet since Resident #45 did not have any active bleeding anywhere. He saw the bruise on Resident #45's right hip on [DATE] and it did not look acute to him. He indicated he did assess her range of motion and she had no pain with movement.
A nursing progress note dated [DATE] and entered by Nurse #9 revealed Resident #45 was noted to have a fever of 101 degrees, dark red bleeding from the mouth and bruising to the abdomen, right flank, and bilateral arms. There was no nursing documentation of range of motion for Resident #45.
An interview with Nurse #9 on [DATE] at 1:40 PM revealed she was the unit manager she did not receive any reports of bleeding, bruising or altered ROM between [DATE] and [DATE]. Nurse #9 also stated if she received new orders following PT / INRs from a provider that was not the MD, she often called the MD to ensure he agreed with the other provider. Nurse #9 did not recall if she discussed Resident #45's orders to continue the Coumadin on [DATE] with the MD. She did not work on [DATE] when the MD was doing rounds and the bruise was noted on the rounding sheet. She checked the PT/INR on [DATE] and reported elevated INR to facility NP via phone. Orders were given for Vitamin K injection (helps blood to clot) and send to hospital. Nurse #9 states she assessed Resident #45 at that time and noted the bruising to the right flank, abdomen, and bilateral arms.
Review of a NP progress note dated [DATE] included same day lab values of PT 96 / INR 8. NP orders to administer an immediate one-time injection of Vitamin K (helps blood to clot) 10 mg (milligrams) intramuscularly and send Resident #45 to the emergency department for evaluation and treatment.
Review of hospital records dated [DATE] revealed Resident #45 presented to hospital with supratherapeutic INR of 8.3, in atrial fibrillation (an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm), pulmonary edema (swelling) or infection, and a right femur fracture. Resident #45 was evaluated by the hospital orthopedic service who recommended surgical intervention too complex for their facility. A transfer was completed to another hospital. Documentation from the second hospital with an admission date of [DATE] revealed the right leg was shortened and externally rotated. Mentioned in the documentation was Resident #45 did not grimace with palpation of the groin or lateral hip and had no noted pain with internal or external rotation. Resident #45's hospital course included right hip surgical pinning on [DATE], progressive worsening mental status, and placement of a gastrostomy tube. Following surgery, Resident #45 developed acute blood loss anemia and experienced a myocardial infarction (MI / heart attack) leading to asystole (the cessation of electrical and mechanical activity of the heart) requiring CPR on [DATE]. Resident #45 was diagnosed with a hypoxic brain injury (brain injuries that form due to a restriction on the oxygen being supplied to the brain) on [DATE].
An interview with the facility Medical Director on [DATE] at 8:19 AM revealed he expected residents on Coumadin who had falls to be reported to the on-call immediately, the resident's INR should be checked, and the resident should be monitored for signs and symptoms of bleeding. The MD stated he was aware of Resident #45's fall on [DATE] but did not recall when he was informed. He inquired whether an x-ray was completed. When told there was no record of an x-ray being ordered, he stated he thought he had ordered an x-ray. He stated he would not necessarily have sent the resident out to the ED if there were no complaints of pain, a witnessed head injury, or obvious signs of bleeding. He stated staff should have been on a higher alert for signs and symptoms of bleeding for Resident #45. The MD further stated the diagnosis of the right femur fracture corresponded to the fall, but the MI and anoxic brain injury was likely a post-operative complication.
Interview with the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) (acting Director of Nursing at the time of the fall) on [DATE] at 12:24 PM revealed she was informed of Resident #45's fall but did not remember when. The ADON stated she expected staff to monitor for pain or signs of bleeding after a fall.
Interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on [DATE] at 1:37 PM revealed she expected nurses to report falls to MD/Provider and include in the report any assessment findings, signs of bleeding, bruising and medications. The DON further stated she expected nurses to specifically notify the provider if a resident who fell was on a Coumadin. She also expected post fall assessments and documentation daily for 3 days to include bruising, bleeding (including bleeding in the mouth) and to check labs as ordered. The DON expected nurses to review medications after a resident fell.
The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on [DATE] at 11:11 AM.
The facility provided the following IJ removal plan.
-Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the non-compliance.
Ongoing assessments of Resident #45's condition was not documented after an unwitnessed fall on [DATE]. The MD was notified of the fall on [DATE] 5:30 pm but was not examined at that time by the MD because the nurse assessment completed by Nurse #4 revealed no compromised range of motion, no bleeding or bruising and no complaint of pain. Nurse #4 assessed Resident #45 again for injuries after she was transferred back to the bed on [DATE]. There was no bruising, no signs of bleeding or altered range of motion noted. Resident #45 was sent to the emergency room on [DATE] and admitted to the hospital for diagnoses of Warfarin toxicity of 8.3 and impacted femoral neck fracture.
One additional resident was identified on Coumadin. Resident record was reviewed for compliance. Resident range for PT/INR has been between 15.2-17.2/1.3-1.4. Resident has had no falls, is a low fall risk and has had subtherapeutic levels.
-Specify the action the entity will take to alter the process or system failure to prevent a serious adverse outcome from occurring or recurring, and when the action will be completed.
o
The facility's Standard Fall Precautions protocol was reviewed by the Director of Nursing, Assistant Director of Nursing and Administrator [DATE] and the following revision implemented: Licensed Nursing staff will now complete and document a thorough post fall assessment that includes range of motion, change in skin condition, level of consciousness, pain, and bleeding each shift for 72 hours post fall. Implemented [DATE]. Licensed Nursing Staff including agency Licensed Nurses were educated on this process change [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
A triage protocol was developed by the Nurse Consultant, Director of Nursing, Assistant Director of Nursing to help guide the nursing staff on promptly/completely reporting resident conditions, acute changes, lab, diagnostic tests to the Physician. The triage includes notifying the Physician of any new bruising for residents who have a supratherapeutic PT/INR level. The Medical Director approved the triage protocol on [DATE]. Licensed nursing staff including agency Licensed Nurses were educated on the new triage protocol beginning [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
INR results will be obtained by the Charge Nurse(s) using point of care testing during post fall assessment for residents prescribed Coumadin. Charge Nurses will utilize the revised SBAR (Situation Background Assessment Recommendation) form for a comprehensive evaluation of incident, and reporting the INR result and the fall to the medical director at the time the fall occurs and results of the INR obtained. Charge
Nurses were educated on this process change [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
Beginning [DATE] the Director of Nursing will provide oversight to ensure PT/INRs are obtained post fall for resident's prescribed Coumadin and results reported to the Medical Director or Back Up Physician using the following procedure. Charge Nurses were educated on this process change [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
Procedure:
o
Charge nurse obtains PT/INR post fall.
o
Charge nurse will call the DON to communicate Physician notification of the fall, PT/INR obtained and results, Coumadin dosage order/changes.
o
Licensed nurses including agency Licensed Nurses were educated on Coumadin therapy that included: risks, toxicity, lab results, drug interactions and potential for complications following falls on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
Licensed Nurses including agency Licensed Nurses educated on completing Post fall assessments for patients prescribed Coumadin, using SBAR form to be communicated with Medical Director. Continued assessment to occur each shift for 72 hours following the fall. Education provided on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
Nurse aides including agency Nurse Aides were in-serviced on Coumadin risks, potential complications following a fall, observe for bleeding, bruising and other skin changes, level of consciousness changes, complain of pain. The aides were also educated on reporting any of these changes immediately to the Licensed Nurse. Education provided on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
The Staff Development Coordinator and her designee were informed of their responsibility on 10-28-21 to provide the education and re-education described above. The Staff Development Coordinator and or her designee will track which staff has been educated by comparing educational roster to the nursing schedule. Nursing staff who did not receive the education will not be allowed to work until education is provided. New educational material was also added to the New Hire Orientation packet for Nursing and Nurse Aide staff as well as the clinical version provided to Agency Nurse staff.
Alleged IJ removal date: [DATE]
A credible allegation validation for quality of care was conducted in the facility on [DATE]. Record review included the facility Standard Fall Protocol dated [DATE] and revised [DATE]. Notable revisions were as follows: If a resident is on anticoagulant therapy: a) nursing staff will monitor for signs and symptoms of active/abnormal bleeding to any area of the body or discoloration to the skin. Nursing staff will notify the MD immediately of any signs of abnormal bleeding. B) if the resident is receiving Coumadin/Warfarin therapy the nurse will obtain a PT/INR via point of care testing and notify the MD of the fall with the PT/INR result immediately post fall. Residents who fall will be assessed for the following: a) level of consciousness b) pain c) range of motion d) change in skin condition (discoloration, wound etc.) e) vital signs. Fall documentation will consist of a) initial incident report with a nursing note containing the above assessment b) Residents will be assessed and documented on every shift for 72 hours post fall. c) fall risk assessment completed after each fall. The training records including the in-service training signature sheet titled Obtaining PT/INR with CoaguChek XS System, cleaning and disinfecting the meter dated [DATE], the in-service training signature sheet and education titled Triage dated [DATE], the in-service training signature sheet and training titled Coumadin Therapy and Documentation, Plan of Care for Coumadin, SBAR including the updated facility falls precautions protocol dated [DATE] and [DATE], the in-service signature sheet and training titled Coumadin, blood thinners, diet, s/s bleeding, labs, toxicity and treatment, s/s reporting dated [DATE] and the record of Coumadin monitoring and reporting for residents currently receiving Coumadin, and SBAR documentation were reviewed. The triage protocol was reviewed. Interviews with staff were conducted to validate training.
The facility's IJ removal date of [DATE] was validated.
CRITICAL
(J)
Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation
Deficiency F0714
(Tag F0714)
Someone could have died · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, Physician and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews the NP failed to communicate and collaborate with the P...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, Physician and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews the NP failed to communicate and collaborate with the Physician for a resident with supratherapeutic (amounts of a drug that are greater than the therapeutic concentration) Coumadin (an anticoagulant - a medication which prevents blood from clotting) values. This failure affected 1 of 1 resident on Coumadin therapy resulting in hospitalization for Coumadin toxicity (Resident #45).
Immediate jeopardy began on 5/26/2021 when the Nurse Practitioner failed to communicate and collaborate with the Physician on supratherapeutic Coumadin values for Resident #45. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 10/31/21 when the facility provided and implemented an acceptable credible allegation of Immediate Jeopardy removal. The facility remains out of compliance at a lower scope and severity of D (isolated with no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not Immediate Jeopardy) to complete education and ensure monitoring systems put into place are effective.
The findings included:
Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of presence of mechanical heart-valve, long-term use of anticoagulants and thrombocytopenia (a low blood platelet count. Platelets help the blood to clot which stops bleeding.)
According to the Food and Drug Administration, Coumadin must be monitored to establish if it is working effectively. Results are measured with a blood test known as a prothrombin time / international normalized ratio (PT/ INR). The INR measures how long it takes blood to clot. INRs that are too low indicate a risk for blood clots. INRs that are too high indicate risk for bleeding. The therapeutic INR range for a resident with a mechanical heart valve is 2.5 to 3.5. INR levels above 4.9 are considered critical values.
Physician orders were as follows:
On 5/24/2021, Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 40.7 / INR 3.4. Resident #45 was ordered Coumadin 7 milligrams (mg.) daily. Recheck PT/ INR on 5/26/2021.
On 5/26/2021, Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 64.7 / INR 5.4. The NP was notified of the results and ordered Coumadin 3.5 mg on 5/26/2021 and give Coumadin 7 mg on 5/27/2021. Recheck PT / INR on 5/28/2021.
On 5/28/2021, Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 73.6 / INR 6.1. The NP was notified of the results and gave an order to hold Coumadin 5/28/2021 and begin Coumadin 3.5 mg on 5/29/2021. Recheck PT / INR on 5/31/2021.
On 5/31/2021, Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 81.3 / INR 6.1. Results were reviewed with the MD via telephone. The MD ordered to hold Coumadin 5/31/2021 and recheck PT / INR on 6/1/2021.
On 6/1/2021, Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 90.5 / INR 7.5. The MD gave an order to hold the Coumadin on 6/1/2021. Recheck PT / INR on 6/2/2021.
On 6/2/2021, Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 96.0 / INR 8. The NP gave an order for Vitamin K (helps to clot blood) and send Resident #45 to the hospital for evaluation and treatment.
Review of hospital records dated 6/2/2021 revealed Resident #45 presented to hospital with supratherapeutic INR of 8.3, in atrial fibrillation (an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm), pulmonary edema (swelling) or infection, and a right femur fracture. Resident #45 was evaluated by the hospital orthopedic service who recommended surgical intervention too complex for their facility. A transfer was completed to another hospital. Documentation from the second hospital with an admission date of 6/3/2021 revealed the right leg was shortened and externally rotated. Mentioned in the documentation was Resident #45 did not grimace with palpation of the groin or lateral hip and had no noted pain with internal or external rotation. Resident #45's hospital course included right hip surgical pinning on 6/5/2021, progressive worsening mental status, and placement of a gastrostomy tube. Following surgery, Resident #45 developed acute blood loss anemia and experienced a myocardial infarction (MI / heart attack) leading to asystole (the cessation of electrical and mechanical activity of the heart) requiring CPR on 6/12/2021. Resident #45 was diagnosed with a hypoxic brain injury (brain injuries that form due to a restriction on the oxygen being supplied to the brain) on 6/29/2021.
An interview with the facility NP on 10/20/2021 at 12:00 PM revealed the therapeutic range for Resident #45's INR was 2.5 to 3.5. The INR results from 5/26/2021 through 5/31/2021 were reviewed with the NP and she said the levels were not therapeutic. She stated she would typically hold a Coumadin for levels that high, but with this resident, holding her Coumadin would cause her INR to be too low.
During a follow up interview on 10/27/2021 at 4:22 PM, the NP indicated she coordinated resident INRs with the Medical Director. The NP stated she did not think she discussed Resident #45's elevated INRs with the Medical Director on 5/26/2021 or 5/28/2021. The interview further revealed the NP took some days off from being on-site at the facility between 5/28/2021 and 6/1/2021. On 6/2/2021, Nurse # 9 called the NP before she got to the facility and told her Resident #45 was bleeding from her mouth. The NP stated she gave an order for Vitamin K and to send the Resident to the hospital.
An interview with the facility Medical Director on 10/21/2021 at 8:19 AM revealed Resident #45's INR levels were checked regularly. He stated a therapeutic INR level for Resident #45 was 2.5 to 3.5. INR levels from 5/26/2021 to 6/2/2021 were reviewed with the MD. He stated the provider should have held the Coumadin on 5/26/2021 when the INR was 5.4. He further stated any INR levels greater than 5.4 should have necessitated the Coumadin being held. The MD did not indicate the length of time the Coumadin should have been held. The MD stated his process for coordinating with the NP was that he and the NP alternate resident rounds each month. He stated on his rounding days, he reviewed the NP rounding sheets for the days the NP saw residents. The MD indicated he kept all the rounding sheets as a tool to discuss residents with the NP. The MD stated the NP knew to call him if she needed his direction.
During a follow up interview on 10/27/2021 at 4:22 PM, the Medical Director stated he had reviewed the chart, and this was a case of unfortunate events. He indicated he would have held Resident #45's Coumadin when the INR was 5.4 on 5/26/21. He further stated he would need to do some reeducation with the NP.
The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on 10/28/2021 at 11:11 AM.
The facility provided the following Acceptable Allegation of Immediate Jeopardy removal.
-Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the non-compliance.
Resident #45 has diagnosis of mechanical heart valve which was placed 2007. She was admitted with Coumadin as a part of her medication regimen with frequent PT/INR checks. On 5/26/21 Resident 45's INR was reported as 5.4 and the NP gave orders to give 3.5 mg (milligrams) of Coumadin on 5/26/21 and resume Coumadin 7 mg on 5/27/21. On 5/28/21 Resident #45's INR was 6.1 and the NP gave orders to hold Coumadin on 5/28/21 and administer Coumadin 3.5mg on 5/29/21 and 5/30/21. The NP did not hold the Coumadin for the high INR because she felt it would drop Resident 45's INR too low. There was no documentation of discussion of the INR results with the Physician. The Physician held the Coumadin starting on 5/31/21 when notified of a 6.1 INR. On 6/2/21 Resident #45's INR was 8 and she was observed with dark red bleeding from the mouth, bruising to the abdomen, right flank, and bilateral arms. The NP ordered Vitamin K and to send resident to the emergency room for evaluation. She was admitted to the hospital and treated for Coumadin toxicity.
One additional resident was identified on Coumadin. Resident record was reviewed for compliance. No concerns regarding supratherapeutic levels.
-Specify the action the entity will take to alter the process or system failure to prevent a serious adverse outcome from occurring or recurring, and when the action will be complete.
The Medical Director has provided the following feedback to the Nurse Practitioner about this case and developed a system for discussion of resident's INR results:
o
The Medical Director reviewed this case with the nurse practitioner and provided feedback to the nurse practitioner involved on October 21st, 25th and 27th, 2021.
o
The Medical Director provided additional education and resources for INR management to the Nurse Practitioner involved on October 21st, 25th and 27th, 2021. October 28, 2021 this education was provided to all providers that take call for this facility and all other providers practice-wide.
o
The facility anti-coagulant protocol was reviewed, and the following revisions were made. Medical Director or the back-up Physician will now be notified of all INR levels and will provide orders effective 10/29/21. Medical Director suggested this process change. Medical Director is usually available by his cell phone 24 hours/7 days a week, but in instances where he is not available (I. E. on sick leave, vacation etc.) he will designate a backup Physician for coverage. The Medical Directors cell phone number is posted on each nurse's station on bright yellow paper. Medical director will communicate to the facility his unavailability by a voice mail message on his cell phone number that will include: a) Start and end date of unavailability, b) Name of back up Physician and his/her contact number. Education was provided to the facility licensed nursing staff including agency nursing staff on this process change 10/29/21 by the Staff Development Coordinator or her designee. The Medical Director educated the two Nurse Practitioners and the back-up Physician about this process change on 10/30/21.
o
On 10/28/21 The Medical Director reviewed the communication process between him and his non Physician practitioner's. This has been an established system that will be on-going. The Physician reviewed the process with the other Nurse Practitioners and Physician's in his practice to assure effective communication across the providers on 10/30/21.
o
Medical Director has an established process for reviewing Nurse practitioners progress notes as follows and has not changed:
o
The Medical Director and Nurse Practitioners rotate routine resident rounds on a monthly basis.
o
A provider rounding sheet is used to record when the Nurse Practitioner completed the round and which residents were seen.
o
When the Medical Director visits the facility to complete his weekly round, he then reviews the documentation on the resident's seen that week by the Nurse Practitioner that were listed on the Provider Rounding Sheet.
o
Medical Director communicates to the nurse practitioner when questions or concerns arise from any documentation.
o
It is the Nurse Practitioner's responsibility to contact the supervising physician when they need advice or guidance to any patient relevant concerns, issues, or questions as written in the Collaborative Practice Agreement. The Nurse Practitioner involved was retrained on this by the Medical Director during the review of the case on October 21st, 25th and 27th, 2021. The other Nurse Practitioner was retrained on October 30, 2021.
Alleged IJ removal date: 10/31/21
A credible allegation validation for physician delegation of tasks to nurse practitioner was conducted in the facility on 11/09/2021. Record review included the anticoagulant policy and procedure effective 10/27/2021 and revised on 10/29/2021. Noted revision included all PT/INR results are to be reported to the Medical Director or their covering physician for review including dosage changes. An observation was conducted of the posting on bright yellow paper at the nurses station which read PT/INR results: For all PT/INR results obtained call only Dr. [NAME] (336) [PHONE NUMBER] Reasons to obtain a PT/INR: After a fall, new discoloration noted and when ordered by Dr. [NAME]. Notify DON of ALL PT/INR results and new orders from MD prior to administering next dose of Coumadin (Warfarin). The signed Collaborative Practice Agreement dated 12/28/2020 was reviewed. The attestation statements from nurse practitioner staff and the back-up physician indicating they received education from the medical director on coumadin resources and management and the communication process were reviewed. A telephone interview with the medical director confirmed he conducted this education on 10/30/2021. Interviews with staff were conducted to validate training.
The facility's IJ removal date of 10/31/2021 was validated.
CRITICAL
(J)
Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation
Deficiency F0757
(Tag F0757)
Someone could have died · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews and Medical Director (MD), Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Pharmacist interviews the facility continued to a...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews and Medical Director (MD), Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Pharmacist interviews the facility continued to administer Coumadin (anticoagulant) in the presence of supratherapeutic (above therapeutic level) Prothrombin Time/International Normalized Ratio (PT/INR) levels. The INR measures how long it takes blood to clot. Supratherapeutic INR levels above 4.9 are considered critical values and increase the risk of bleeding. On [DATE] Resident #45's INR was 8 and she was observed with dark red bleeding from the mouth and bruising to the abdomen, right flank, and bilateral arms and was sent to the emergency room for an evaluation and admitted and treated for Coumadin toxicity. This failure affected 1 of 6 residents reviewed for unnecessary medications (Resident #45).
Immediate jeopardy began on [DATE] when the facility continued to administer Coumadin in the presence of supratherapeutic INR levels. The immediate jeopardy was removed on [DATE] when the facility provided and implemented an acceptable credible allegation of Immediate Jeopardy removal. The facility remains out of compliance at a lower scope and severity of D (isolated with no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not Immediate Jeopardy) to complete education and ensure monitoring systems put into place are effective.
Findings included:
Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of presence of prosthetic heart-valve, long-term use of anticoagulants and thrombocytopenia (Low blood platelet count. Platelets help the blood to clot which stops bleeding).
Review of Resident #45's most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed Resident #45 was administered an anticoagulant 7 days out of 7 days.
Review of Resident #45's care plan dated [DATE] and last reviewed on [DATE], revealed an identified problem of at risk for bleeding due to anticoagulant therapy. Goals included promote therapeutic PT / INR and minimize risk of injury related to medication usage through nursing assessment, intervention, and evaluation. Interventions included monitor for bruising.
Nursing progress notes revealed the following documentation:
On [DATE], Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 40.7 / INR 3.4. Resident #45 was ordered Coumadin 7 milligrams (mg.) daily. Recheck PT/ INR on [DATE].
On [DATE], Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 64.7 / INR 5.4. The NP was notified of the results and ordered Coumadin 3.5 mg on [DATE] and give Coumadin 7 mg on [DATE]. Recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
On [DATE], Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 73.6 / INR 6.1. The NP was notified of the results and gave an order to hold Coumadin [DATE] and begin Coumadin 3.5 mg on [DATE]. Recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
On [DATE], Nurse #7 documented Resident #45 was sleepy, not eating well, and running a temperature of 100.5. Nurse #7 documented a urinalysis with culture and sensitivity was completed due to elevated temperature and blood sugars. Nurse #7 further documented Resident #45 was started on Rocephin (an antibiotic) intramuscularly on [DATE] and [DATE]. Rocephin and Coumadin interactions included Rocephin interacts with Coumadin to increase a patient's INR value more than other commonly administered antibiotics for UTI (urinary tract infection) treatment.
A nursing progress note dated [DATE] documented Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 81.3 / INR 6.1. Results were reviewed with the MD via telephone. The MD ordered to hold Coumadin [DATE] and recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
An incident report completed by Nurse #5 dated [DATE] at 11:10 PM revealed a large purple discoloration noted to the resident's right side. The report revealed the MD was notified on [DATE].
A progress note dated [DATE] at 2:57 AM and documented by Nurse #5 revealed staff observation of a large purple discoloration to Resident #45's right side. The [DATE] note further revealed Resident #45 was seen by the facility MD and new orders were received to continue to hold the Coumadin and recheck INR on [DATE].
An interview with Nurse #5 on [DATE] at 11:54 AM revealed Nurse #5 worked on [DATE] from 7 AM to 7 PM and was notified by NA #2 of dark purple bruising to Resident #45's right hip. Nurse #5 assessed the bruised area and stated Resident #45 denied any pain.
Review of Coumadin logs dated [DATE] revealed lab values of PT 90.5 / INR 7.5. MD orders to hold Coumadin and recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
A nursing progress note dated [DATE] documented Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 90.5 / INR 7.5. The MD gave an order to hold the Coumadin on [DATE]. Recheck PT / INR on [DATE].
An interview with Nurse #6 on [DATE] at 5:43 PM revealed Nurse #6 worked as the nurse in charge on [DATE]. Nurse #6 revealed she reviewed the rounding sheet with the MD prior to rounds. She stated the bruising was noted on the rounding sheet. Nurse #6 stated the MD attributed the bruising to Resident #45's fall on [DATE]. Nurse #6 did not accompany the MD on his rounds.
Review of the MD's progress note for [DATE] revealed Resident #45 was seen for an acute visit due to a due to a urinary tract infection following initiation of orders for antibiotics. The progress note indicated no further new orders. The review of systems did not include assessment of range of motion or documentation regarding the bruising. The MD documented a review of Resident #45's medication list. The MD's plan included continue current medications and supportive care.
A nursing progress note dated [DATE] documented Resident #45's point of care testing resulted as PT 96.0 / INR 8. The NP gave an order for Vitamin K (helps blood to clot) and send Resident #45 to the hospital for evaluation and treatment.
A nursing progress note dated [DATE] and entered by Nurse #9 revealed Resident #45 was noted to have a fever of 101 degrees, dark red bleeding from the mouth and bruising to the abdomen, right flank, and bilateral arms.
An interview with Nurse #9 on [DATE] at 12:25 PM revealed she was the unit manager and performed all PT/INR tests and managed the Coumadin logs when she was in the facility. She stated Resident #45's Coumadin levels were very hard to manage and required frequent adjustments to the medications. Nurse #9 stated PT / INR labs and medication changes for Resident #45 occurred as often as 3 to 4 times weekly. Nurse #9 also stated if she received new orders following PT/INRs from a provider that was not the MD, she often called the MD to ensure he agreed with the other provider. Nurse #9 did not recall if she discussed Resident #45's orders to continue the Coumadin on [DATE] with the MD. Nurse #9 was not aware of any report of unusual bruising or bleeding until her return to work on the morning of [DATE] prior to Resident #45's transport to the hospital. Nurse #9 stated she assessed Resident #45 on [DATE] and noted the bruising to the right flank, abdomen, and bilateral arms.
Review of a NP progress note dated [DATE] included same day lab values of PT 96 / INR 8. NP orders to administer an immediate one-time injection of Vitamin K (helps blood to clot) 10 mg (milligrams) intramuscularly and send Resident #45 to the emergency department for evaluation and treatment.
Review of hospital records dated [DATE] revealed Resident #45 presented to hospital with supratherapeutic INR of 8.3, in atrial fibrillation (an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm), pulmonary edema (swelling) or infection, and a right femur fracture. Resident #45 was evaluated by the hospital orthopedic service who recommended surgical intervention too complex for their facility. A transfer was completed to another hospital. Documentation from the second hospital with an admission date of [DATE] revealed the right leg was shortened and externally rotated. Mentioned in the documentation was Resident #45 did not grimace with palpation of the groin or lateral hip and had no noted pain with internal or external rotation. Resident #45's hospital course included right hip surgical pinning on [DATE], progressive worsening mental status, and placement of a gastrostomy tube. Following surgery, Resident #45 developed acute blood loss anemia and experienced a myocardial infarction (MI / heart attack) leading to asystole (the cessation of electrical and mechanical activity of the heart) requiring CPR on [DATE]. Resident #45 was diagnosed with a hypoxic brain injury (brain injuries that form due to a restriction on the oxygen being supplied to the brain) on [DATE].
An interview with the facility NP on [DATE] at 12:00 PM revealed the therapeutic range for Resident #45's INR was 2.5 to 3.5. The INR results were reviewed with the NP and she stated the levels were not therapeutic. She revealed she would typically hold a Coumadin for levels that high, but with this resident, holding her Coumadin would cause her INR to be too low.
An interview with the facility MD on [DATE] at 8:19 AM revealed Resident #45's INR levels were checked regularly. He stated a therapeutic INR level for Resident #45 was 2.5 to 3.5. INR levels from [DATE] to [DATE] were reviewed with the MD. He stated the provider should have held the Coumadin on [DATE] when the INR was 5.4. He further stated any INR levels greater than 5.4 should have necessitated the Coumadin being held. The MD did not indicate the length of time the Coumadin should have been held.
An interview with the Pharmacist on [DATE] at 1:28 PM revealed she had a good working relationship with Nurse #9 and spoke with her frequently about residents' medications. The Pharmacist stated Nurse #9 kept a very tight control on the Coumadin logs and discussed lab results with the providers frequently. The Pharmacist did not recall being consulted regarding Resident #45's Coumadin levels and stated she always reviewed the labs when she was in the building, but typically, if there was a concern, the nurses would notify the provider. She indicated Resident #45 was on an antibiotic prior to going to the hospital and this would have affected the Coumadin levels. The Pharmacist stated the facility could contact her at any time for a consult. The Pharmacist did not have any concerns about the facility not monitoring medications or following recommendations as they should. The interview further revealed the Administrator and DON had her cell phone number and called her frequently about medication questions and concerns.
During a follow up interview on [DATE] at 5:26 PM , the Pharmacist stated therapeutic INR levels for residents with mechanical valves was 2.5.to 3.5, but every patient was different. They all respond in different ways to Coumadin and Vitamin K and you just had to treat each patient individually.
The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on [DATE] at 11:11 AM.
The facility provided the following Acceptable Allegation of Immediate Jeopardy removal.
-Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the non-compliance.
Resident #45 has diagnosis of mechanical heart valve which was placed 2007. She was admitted with Coumadin as a part of her medication regimen with frequent PT/INR checks. On [DATE] Resident 45's INR was reported as 5.4 and the NP gave orders to give 3.5 mg (milligrams) of Coumadin on [DATE] and resume Coumadin 7 mg on [DATE]. On [DATE] Resident #45's INR was 6.1 and the NP gave orders to hold Coumadin on [DATE] and administer Coumadin 3.5mg on [DATE] and [DATE]. The NP did not hold the Coumadin for the high INR because she felt it would drop Resident 45's INR too low. There was no documentation of discussion of the INR results with the MD. The MD held the Coumadin starting on [DATE] when notified of a 6.1 INR. On [DATE] Resident #45's INR was 8 and she was observed with dark red bleeding from the mouth, bruising to the abdomen, right flank, and bilateral arms. The NP ordered Vitamin K and to send resident to the emergency room for evaluation. She was admitted to the hospital and treated for Coumadin toxicity.
One additional resident was identified on Coumadin. Resident record was reviewed for compliance. No concerns regarding supratherapeutic PT/INR levels.
-Specify the action the entity will take to alter the process or system failure to prevent a serious adverse outcome from occurring or recurring, and when the action will be complete.
o
The Medical Director reviewed this case with the nurse practitioner and provided feedback to the Nurse Practitioner on [DATE], and 27th, 2021.
o
The facility anti-coagulant protocol was reviewed and the following revisions were made.
o
Medical Director or the back-up MD will now be notified of all INR levels and will provide orders effective [DATE]. Medical Director suggested this process change. Medical Director is usually available by his cell phone 24 hours/7 days a week,
but in instances where he is not available (I. E. on sick leave, vacation etc.) he will designate a backup MD for coverage. Medical Director will communicate to the facility his unavailability by a voice mail message on his cell phone number that will include: a) Start and end date of unavailability, b) Name of back up MD and his/her contact number.
o
Added INR levels that require holding of Coumadin medication and MD consult and supratherapeutic levels that may require Vitamin K administration.
o
Education was provided to the facility licensed nursing staff including agency nursing staff on this process change and revised Anti-coagulant Protocol [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator or her designee. The Medical Director educated the two Nurse Practitioners and the back-up MD about this process change on [DATE].
o
A triage protocol was developed by the Nurse Consultant, Director of Nursing, Assistant Director of Nursing to help guide the nursing staff on promptly/completely reporting resident conditions, acute changes, lab, diagnostic tests to the MD. The triage includes notifying the MD of any new bruising for residents who have a supratherapeutic PT/INR level. The Medical Director approved the triage protocol on [DATE]. Licensed nursing staff including agency licensed nursing staff were educated on the new triage protocol beginning [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
Licensed nursing staff including agency licensed nurses were educated on Coumadin therapy that included: risks, toxicity, lab results, drug interactions and potential for complications following fall, PT/INR therapeutic levels-Appropriate levels including normal, sub and supratherapeutic, Monitoring INR while taking antibiotics/antifungals; Antibiotics and Antifungals can increase INR values on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
o
Licensed Nurses including agency licensed nurses and Nurse aides including agency nurse aides were in-serviced on Coumadin risks, potential complications following a fall, observe for bleeding, bruising and other skin changes, level of consciousness changes, complain of pain, signs of toxicity including signs of bleeding (nosebleed, bruising, dark stools). The nurse aides including agency nurse aides were educated on reporting any of these changes immediately to the Licensed Nurse. Education provided on [DATE] by the Staff Development Coordinator and/or her designee.
The Staff Development Coordinator and her designee were informed of their responsibility on 10-28-21 to provide the education and re-education described above. The Staff Development Coordinator and or her designee will track which staff has been educated by comparing educational roster to the nursing schedule. Nursing staff who did not receive the education will not be allowed to work until education is provided. New educational material was also added to the New Hire Orientation packet for Nursing and Nurse Aide staff as well as the Clinical version provided to Agency Nurse staff.
Alleged IJ removal date:[DATE]
A credible allegation validation for drug regime is free from unnecessary drugs was conducted in the facility on [DATE]. Record review included the anticoagulant policy and procedure effective [DATE] and revised on [DATE]. Noted revision included all PT/INR results are to be reported to the Medical Director or their covering physician for review including dosage changes and the lab values requiring potential intervention. The triage protocol was reviewed. The training records including the in-service training signature sheet titled Obtaining PT/INR with CoaguChek XS System, cleaning and disinfecting the meter dated [DATE], the in-service training signature sheet and education titled Triage dated [DATE], the in-service training signature sheet and training titled Coumadin Therapy and Documentation, Plan of Care for Coumadin, SBAR including the updated facility falls precautions protocol dated [DATE] and [DATE], the in-service signature sheet and training titled Coumadin, blood thinners, diet, s/s bleeding, labs, toxicity and treatment, s/s reporting dated [DATE] and the record of Coumadin monitoring and reporting for residents currently receiving Coumadin, and SBAR documentation were reviewed. The triage protocol was reviewed. Interviews with staff were conducted to validate training.
The facility's IJ removal date of [DATE] was validated.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Resident Rights
(Tag F0550)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and Resident and staff interviews the facility failed to treat a Resident in a dignified manner when a st...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and Resident and staff interviews the facility failed to treat a Resident in a dignified manner when a staff member made comments about the Resident's weight for 1 of 1 residents reviewed for dignity (Resident #68). This caused Resident #68 feelings of hurt and anger.
The findings included:
Resident #68 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including muscle weakness and dependence on wheelchair (WC).
Review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment for Resident #68 dated 10/05/2021 revealed her cognition was intact. She required the total assistance of two persons for transfers, the extensive assistance of two persons for toileting. She was frequently incontinent of bladder. Resident #68 used a WC for mobility.
Review of the current care plan for Resident #68 initiated 03/18/2020 and last updated 10/14/2021 revealed a focus area of impaired mobility. The goal was to promote maintenance of current activities of daily living. An intervention was for Resident #68 to use her WC for out of bed mobility. An additional focus area of requires assistance for toileting to improve continence revealed a goal of promote improvement of continence. An intervention was to offer the use of a bed pan as tolerated per Resident #68's preference.
Review of a facility reported incident dated 10/22/2021 revealed Resident #68 reported Nurse Aide (NA) #6 told her, Your (sic) getting too fat.
In an interview on 11/09/2021 at 1:50 PM Resident #68 stated she experienced an incident in the facility that made her feel hurt and angry because she had struggled with her weight her whole life. She stated she could not recall the exact date or the name of the NA. She went on to say it had been time for her to go to an activity. She stated she used her call bell for assistance to use the bed pan. She further indicated she was in her WC and needed to get in bed to use the bedpan. Resident #68 stated when the NA was moving her WC, the NA commented that she must be gaining weight and getting fatter because her WC was difficult to move. Resident #68 went on to say this NA then told her if she got in bed to use the bedpan she would have to stay in bed because she was too heavy to be moving back and forth. Resident #68 stated the same NA called her fat seven times before but this was the first time she reported it to the facility. She went on to say although she felt hurt and angry at the time, the feelings did not last. She further indicated the NA had not provided her care again since she reported the incident. She stated she felt the incident was resolved.
Review of a nurse practitioner progress note for Resident #68 dated 10/25/2021 revealed she was seen in the facility for a follow-up visit. It further revealed Resident #68 denied having any issues. Resident #68's mood and behavior were stable.
Review of a psychologist progress note dated 10/29/2021 revealed Resident #68 was provided supportive psychotherapy. It further revealed Resident #68 discussed an issue that developed where she was putting up with verbal comments where her weight was part of the conversation. She denied that she had been having crying episodes.
On 11/09/2021 at 3:56 PM a telephone interview with Nurse #13 indicated he was familiar with Resident #68 and assigned to her care on 10/22/2021 from 7AM-7 PM. He stated Resident #68 was alert and oriented and a reliable historian. He further indicated Resident #68 usually went to activities. He stated on 10/22/2021 at about 4:00 PM he noticed Resident #68 was still in bed although there was an activity. Nurse #13 further indicated when he spoke with Resident #68 about why she was not up to go to the activity she told him she had needed to get in bed to use the bedpan. He stated Resident #68 went on to describe the NA who assisted her as having dark hair, wearing glasses, and speaking with an accent. He stated he recognized this as being NA #6. Nurse #13 went on to say Resident #68 had tears in her eyes when she told him NA #6 told her she was getting fat when she had trouble moving her WC and was too heavy to be moving back and forth so if she got in bed to use the bedpan she would have to stay in bed. He went on to say he immediately reported this to Nurse #7 who was the charge nurse. Nurse #13 stated he offered to get Resident #68 up for the activity that evening as there was still time but Resident #68 refused.
On 11/09/2021 at 3:31 PM a telephone interview with NA #6 indicated on 10/22/2021 Resident #68 rang her call bell for assistance. NA #6 stated when she responded, Resident #68 asked to be assisted to bed to use the bedpan. NA #6 went on to say she commented to Resident #68 that she must be getting heavier because her WC was getting harder to move. NA #6 denied calling Resident #68 fat. She stated she did not tell Resident #68 that she would not get her back up after using the bedpan. She further indicated she asked Resident #68 if she would get back up after using the bedpan and Resident #68 said she would not. NA #6 went on to say she had been immediately reprimanded after the incident and her employment with the facility had been terminated.
On 11/09/2021 at 2:11 PM in an interview the Director of Nursing (DON) indicated she received a message on 10/22/2021 from Nurse #7 regarding the incident between NA #6 and Resident #68. She stated she immediately went to the facility to investigate. She went on to say this investigation included interviewing staff who were working at the time of the incident, interviewing other alert and oriented residents who received care from NA #6 and conducting skin assessments for cognitively impaired residents who received care from NA #6. The DON stated NA #6 was suspended pending this investigation. She stated some in servicing was done with staff on treating residents with dignity and respect after the incident. The DON stated Resident #68 reported the same account of the event she reported to other staff. She stated Resident #68 was alert and oriented, a reliable historian, and she had no reason to doubt Resident #68's report of the event. She further indicated NA #6's comments about Resident #68 getting heavier, being too fat, and having to stay in bed because she was too heavy to be moving back and forth were unacceptable. The DON went on to say NA #6's employment with the facility had been terminated.
On 11/09/2021 at 2:47 PM an interview with Resident #68's Social Worker (SW) indicated she visited with Resident #68 at least every other week for in depth conversations. She stated she felt she had a good rapport with Resident #68. She went on to say Resident #68 was alert and oriented and a reliable historian. The SW further indicated Resident #68 did not have any history of making allegations against staff and had never shared with her any concerns related to staff making comments about her weight before. She stated when she spoke with Resident #68 on 10/25/2021, Resident #68 told her an NA was trying to move her in her WC and the NA told her she must be getting fatter and gaining weight because her WC was hard to move. The SW went on to say Resident #68 shared with her these comments were hurtful to her because she had always struggled with her weight.
On 11/09/2021 at 4:15 PM an interview with the Administrator indicated NA #6's comments about Resident #68's weight were unacceptable. He stated he expected all staff to always treat residents with dignity and respect.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Free from Abuse/Neglect
(Tag F0600)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff and Resident interviews the facility failed to protect a Resident's right to be free from physical...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff and Resident interviews the facility failed to protect a Resident's right to be free from physical abuse for 1 of 1 Resident reviewed for abuse (Resident #36).
The finding included:
Resident #36 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included heart failure.
The quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #36 was cognitively intact and had no physical behaviors. The MDS also indicated the Resident required extensive assistance with bed mobility and was incontinent of bladder.
During an interview with Resident #36 on [DATE] at 12:07 PM the Resident reported that a while back there was a girl that hit me on my hip and talked ugly to me. Resident #36 refused to elaborate on the incident and stated she did not want to discuss the matter anymore because the facility had fired the girl and she was satisfied that the girl could not harm anyone else.
The initial 24 hour report submitted to the Health Care Personnel Registry (HCPR) by the facility on [DATE] indicated the allegation type was resident abuse between Resident #36 and Nurse Aide (NA) #3 which occurred on [DATE] at an unknown time. The report indicated that Resident #36 reported that after NA #3 gave her incontinent care the NA talked hateful to her and hit her on her left side. No physical harm (occurred) but the Resident stated she was afraid of the nurse aide.
The 5 day investigative report submitted to the HCPR by the facility on [DATE] indicated that Resident #36 informed two nurse aides NA #4 and #5 on Sunday [DATE] that NA #3 hit her on her left side the previous night. The report noted the incident did not result in physical injury or mental anguish lasting more that 5 days. Resident #36's allegation of abuse was substantiated by the facility and NA #3 was terminated.
During an interview with Nurse Aide #4 on [DATE] at 5:40 PM the NA explained that while she was assisting NA #5 with Resident #36 around 10:00 PM on [DATE] the Resident asked them who would be coming in to care for her that night and the NAs informed the Resident that they thought it would be NA #3. The NA continued to explain that the Resident told them that the previous night ([DATE]) NA #3 hit her twice on her hip and it was not just a love tap.
An interview was conducted with NA #5 on [DATE] at 5:47 PM. The NA explained that on the night of [DATE] she was assisting Resident #36 of her nighttime routine when the Resident asked her who would be taking care of her that night (third shift). The NA stated when she told the Resident that it was probably NA #3 the Resident stated that she did not want NA #3 in her room because the night before ([DATE]) NA #3 hit her twice on her left hip and it hurt but it did not make her cry.
An interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) was conducted on [DATE] at 5:11 PM. The DON explained that on [DATE] at 4:30 PM two nurse aides NA #4 and #5 reported that the night before on [DATE] when they were preparing Resident #36 for bed the Resident told them that NA #3 had hit her twice on her left side during the night of [DATE]. The DON explained that NA #3 knew what the allegation was about before the DON informed the NA of the allegation and the NA admitted she gave Resident #36 a love pat and stated if anyone stresses me out, it is her. The DON continued to explain that she interviewed Resident #36 who explained that while NA #3 was checking her that night the NA began to fuss at her because she felt that the Resident could do more for herself and while the Resident was turned on her right side the NA hit her twice on her left hip. The Resident also reported that NA #3 would hold her head so that she would have to look at the NA which was a little rough. The DON stated she assessed Resident #36's left side and hip and there were no marks on her.
A review of an undated written statement by NA #3 revealed, on the night of [DATE] during the second round the NA answered Resident #36's call light who requested the bed pan. The NA explained that she had to pull the Resident's pants down which was a struggle and roll her over to get on the bed pan and the Resident accused her of being too rough. The NA continued to explain that when Resident #36 finished she got her situated in the bed and gave her three love pats on her left hip.
An interview was conducted with the Administrator on [DATE] on 9:37 AM who explained that he was notified of the allegation of employee to Resident abuse of Resident #36 by NA #3 by the DON on [DATE] at 4:30 PM. He continued to explain that he directed the DON to notify NA #3 of the allegation of abuse made against her and that she would be suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. The Administrator stated that after the abuse investigation was completed the allegation of abuse of Resident #36 was substantiated which resulted in the termination of NA #3.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Abuse Prevention Policies
(Tag F0607)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff and Resident interviews, the facility failed to implement their abuse policy in the area of immedi...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff and Resident interviews, the facility failed to implement their abuse policy in the area of immediately reporting an employee-to-Resident abuse allegation to the facility administration and to the Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) within the required timeframe. The facility also failed to include in their abuse policy to notify the DHSR within a two-hour timeframe of being notified of abuse for 1 of 2 residents (Resident #36) reviewed for abuse.
The findings included:
The facility's policy titled Abuse Prevention Program updated [DATE], read in part, ABUSE INVESTIGATIONS, REPORTING AND CORRECTIVE ACTIONS, reports of abuse, neglect and misappropriation of resident property shall be reported immediately to the DON and Administrator and then promptly and thoroughly investigated by the facility administration. The facility's policy did not include reporting abuse within a two-hour timeframe to the state agency.
Resident #36 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included heart failure.
The recent quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #36 was cognitively intact. The MDS also revealed the Resident required extensive assistance with bed mobility and was incontinent of bladder.
On [DATE] at 12:07 PM an interview was conducted with Resident #36 who reported a while back there was a girl that hit me on my hip and talked ugly to me. The Resident stated she did not want to discuss the incident anymore because the facility fired the girl and she could not harm anyone else.
The initial 24-hour investigative report submitted by the facility to the Health Care Personnel Registry (HCPR) on [DATE] at 9:30 AM revealed the allegation type of resident abuse between Resident #36 and Nurse Aide #3 occurred on [DATE] at time unknown. The report indicated Resident #36 reported NA #3 talked hateful to her and after receiving her incontinence care, the NA hit the Resident on her left side. No physical harm (occurred). Resident stated she was afraid of the NA.
An interview was conducted with Nurse Aide (NA) #4 on [DATE] at 5:40 PM. The NA explained that while she was providing care for Resident #36 on [DATE] around 10:00 PM the Resident asked who was coming in (third shift) to care for her that night and the NA told her it was probably NA #3. The Resident reported that last night NA #3 hit her twice on her hip and it was not a love tap. The NA stated she immediately reported the conversation to the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) who was in the building at the time and the ADON wrote it on a piece of paper and told her that she would take care of it.
During an interview with Nurse Aide (NA) #5 on [DATE] at 5:47 PM she explained that on the night of [DATE] Resident #36 asked who would be taking care of her that night (third shift) and when the NA told her it was going to be NA #3 the Resident stated she did not want NA #3 in her room because the night before the NA hit her twice on her left hip and it hurt but it did not make her cry. NA #5 stated she reported it to the ADON who was in the building at the time the allegation was reported to her.
An interview conducted with the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) on [DATE] at 9:01 AM revealed, the ADON explained that on the night of [DATE] she was on her way out the door of the facility when NA #4 and NA #5 stopped her and reported that Resident #36 told them that NA #3 hit her the night before. The ADON continued to explain that she knew allegations of abuse had to be immediately reported to the Administrator but she was exhausted and told the nurse aides to write their statements and leave them for the Director of Nursing (DON) to get in the morning because she knew when the DON received the statements, the facility would still be in the 24-hour timeframe of reporting an abuse allegation. The ADON added, she knew NA #3 was not scheduled to work on third shift that night of [DATE].
A review of the facility's staffing schedule for [DATE] confirmed that NA #3 was not scheduled to work the night of [DATE].
An interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) was conducted on [DATE] at 5:11 PM. The DON explained that on [DATE] at 4:30 PM two Nurse Aides (NA) #4 and NA #5 reported to her that the night before on [DATE] Resident #36 told them that NA #3 hit her twice on her left side during the night of [DATE]. The NAs reported the allegation to the ADON who was in the building at the time of the allegation and the ADON told them to let me know about it the next morning ([DATE]). The DON continued to explain that she immediately reported the allegation to the Administrator who advised the DON to notify NA #3 and inform her that she needed to come to the facility and provide her statement and she would be placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation. The DON stated NA #3 admitted she gave Resident #36 a love pat and stated, if anyone stresses me out, it is her. The DON reported she interviewed Resident #36 who explained that while the NA was checking her that night the NA began to fuss at her because she felt that the Resident could do more for herself and while she was turned on to her right side the NA hit her twice on her left hip. The Resident also reported that NA #3 would hold her head so that she would have to look at the NA which was a little rough. The DON stated she assessed Resident #36's left side and hip and there were no marks on her. The DON explained that the NA met with the Administrator and herself on the morning of [DATE] and was notified that she was terminated. The DON stated NA #3 was not scheduled to work on the night of [DATE] for third shift.
A review of an undated written statement by NA #3 revealed, on the night of [DATE] during the second round the NA answered Resident #36's call light who requested the bed pan. The NA explained that she had to pull the Resident's pants down which was a struggle and roll her over to get on the bed pan and the Resident accused her of being too rough. The NA continued to explain that when Resident #36 finished she got her situated in the bed and gave her three love pats on her left hip.
During an interview with the Administrator on [DATE] at 9:37 AM he explained that he was notified of the allegation of abuse of Resident #36 by NA #3 on [DATE] at 4:30 PM by the Director of Nursing (DON). The Administrator stated he immediately made sure that NA #3 was not scheduled to work that night and directed the DON to notify the NA that there was an allegation of abuse made against her and that she would be suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. The Administrator explained that the allegation of abuse was investigated and substantiated which resulted in the termination of NA #3. The Administrator also explained that the Assistant Director Nursing was reprimanded for not immediately notifying the Administration of an allegation of abuse at the time the allegation was reported to her.
A follow up interview with the Administrator was conducted on [DATE] at 2:30 PM. The Administrator explained that his understanding was that the state required two notifications of abuse 1) the initial 24-hour report and 2) the 5-day summary investigation. Notified the Administrator of the 2-hour notification time frame to the state for abuse and he stated that he was sure the policy did not include a 2-hour timeframe of reporting abuse and stated he would develop a policy for it. The Administrator added, whatever the state regulation was is what they should be doing.
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Incontinence Care
(Tag F0690)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and facility staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure a Resident's catheter remaine...
Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and facility staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure a Resident's catheter remained off the floor for 1 of 2 residents reviewed for catheters (Resident #21).
The Finding Included:
Resident #21 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included neuromuscular dysfunction of bladder.
A review of Resident #21's most recent quarterly Minimum Data Set assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #21 to be cognitively impaired for daily decision making. Resident #21 was coded as having an indwelling catheter.
An observation of Resident #21 on 10/18/21 at 12:37 PM revealed her catheter bag was not attached to her bed frame and was resting flat on the floor.
An observation made of Resident #21 on 10/19/21 at 10:14 AM revealed her catheter bag to be attached to her bed frame but the bottom of the bag was resting on the floor causing a crease to develop one-forth from the bottom of the bag.
An observation made of Resident #21 on 10/20/21 at 9:30 AM revealed Resident #21's catheter was again attached to the bed frame, but the bottom of the bag was observed resting on the floor. There was a white hand towel on the ground providing a barrier between the catheter bag and the floor of the room.
An interview with Nurse #5 on 10/20/21 at 9:34 AM revealed she did not know why Resident #21's catheter bag was left in contact with the floor. She guessed it was due to the hall Nurse Aide (NA) not ensuring the catheter bag was off the floor but wasn't sure. Nurse #5 reported it looked like the hall NA tried to hang the catheter bag back on the bed frame after emptying it and hung in on a strap which sagged, allowing the catheter bag to come into contact with the floor. She reported it was the responsibility of the hall NAs to ensure catheter bags were elevated off the floor.
During an interview with the Director of Nursing on 10/20/21 at 3:40 PM, she reported it was the hall Nurse's responsibility to ensure that catheter bags remained off the floor. She stated a Resident's catheter bag should not be touching the floor and although it was ultimately the responsibility of the hall Nurse assigned to the Resident to ensure it was off the floor, she expected all staff to monitor catheter bags and elevate them if they saw them in contact with the floor.
CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Food Safety
(Tag F0812)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on observation and staff interviews, the facility failed to discard expired food, label frozen food items stored in 1 of 1 walk in freezer, discard expired food in 1 of 1 walk in refrigerator an...
Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation and staff interviews, the facility failed to discard expired food, label frozen food items stored in 1 of 1 walk in freezer, discard expired food in 1 of 1 walk in refrigerator and failed to remove opened and expired food and unlabeled food in 1 of 1 nourishment room.
Findings include:
An initial tour of the kitchen on 10/18/21 at 10:05 AM with the [NAME] revealed 6 boxes of white icing mix with an expiration date of 09/19/21, 2 cans of peaches with light syrup with an expiration date of 07/21/21, frosted flakes, opened and in a covered tub with a date of 05/07 and rice krispies, opened and in a covered tub with a date of 05/30. The tour of the walk in refrigerator revealed a bag of shredded lettuce, opened and in a zip lock bag, not dated and a used by date of 10/09/21 and a bag of shredded lettuce not opened with a used by date of 10/09/21. The tour of the walk in freezer revealed a bag of sausage patties in the original package, not sealed and opened with no date when opened and a bag of popcorn chicken in a zip lock bag with no date when opened.
A tour of the nourishment room refrigerator on 10/19/21 at 1:15 PM revealed an open chocolate pie dated 09/26/21 and an opened pumpkin pie with a used by date of 10/10/21 and the freezer revealed a white Styrofoam cup with contents frozen inside with no name or date and a white sealed bag with no name or date.
During an interview with the [NAME] on 10/18/21 at 10:04 AM revealed the dry storage room is checked at least once a week and if new staff were brought on, they were educated on safety of the dry storage, walk in refrigerator, and walk in freezer. The [NAME] further revealed the cereal in the tubs should have been thrown out as they only keep cereal in the tubs for 2 weeks and they were now using individual boxes of cereal. The [NAME] further revealed the lettuce should not have been in there and the sausage patties and popcorn chicken should have been dated. The [NAME] stated we need more education on putting dates on food going into the refrigerator and freezer.
An interview with the Dietary Supervisor on 10/19/21 at 2:15 PM indicated the peaches, cereal, lettuce, sausage patties and popcorn chicken should have been discarded and stated the [NAME] had already done it. The Dietary Supervisor further indicated the pies in the nourishment room refrigerator had been discarded as well as the Styrofoam cup and the white sealed bag in the nourishment room freezer. She stated she would be doing more education with the dietary staff regarding the dry storage room, walk in refrigerator and freezer and the nourishment room. The Dietary Supervisor stated they should be checking storage areas more often and follow-up to make sure food items are labeled and discarded after the expiration date.
During an interview on 10/21/21 at 11:45 AM the Administrator revealed he was aware of the issues found in the kitchen and nourishment room. He further revealed he expected food to be labeled and discarded after the expiration date and felt the residents and families needed more education on labeling food they placed in the nourishment room refrigerator. He stated the policy was on the refrigerator door but probably wasn't being looked at.