Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

300 North Main Street, Rich Square, NC 27869 (252) 539-4161
For profit - Limited Liability company 69 Beds MAXIMUS HEALTHCARE GROUP Data: November 2025 7 Immediate Jeopardy citations
Trust Grade
0/100
#380 of 417 in NC
Last Inspection: July 2025

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

Overview

Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has received a Trust Grade of F, indicating significant concerns and a poor overall quality of care. Ranking #380 out of 417 facilities in North Carolina places it in the bottom half, and #2 out of 2 in Northampton County suggests there is only one local option rated higher. The facility's performance is worsening, with issues increasing from 6 in 2024 to 10 in 2025, and it has accumulated a concerning $190,684 in fines, higher than 98% of facilities in the state. Staffing is average with a 3/5 rating, but a turnover rate of 57% is about average for North Carolina. However, there are serious deficiencies that families should be aware of. For example, a resident with a history of seizures was not given necessary medication, leading to multiple seizures and an emergency room visit. Additionally, there were incidents involving unsafe transportation practices, where residents fell due to improper use of wheelchairs and seatbelts during transport. These findings highlight critical safety concerns, despite some average staffing metrics. Families should weigh these strengths and weaknesses carefully when considering this facility for their loved ones.

Trust Score
F
0/100
In North Carolina
#380/417
Bottom 9%
Safety Record
High Risk
Review needed
Inspections
Getting Worse
6 → 10 violations
Staff Stability
⚠ Watch
57% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
Penalties
○ Average
$190,684 in fines. Higher than 57% of North Carolina facilities. Some compliance issues.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 29 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for North Carolina. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
⚠ Watch
27 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
★☆☆☆☆
1.0
Overall Rating
★★★☆☆
3.0
Staff Levels
★★☆☆☆
2.0
Care Quality
★☆☆☆☆
1.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2024: 6 issues
2025: 10 issues

The Good

  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record

Facility shows strength in fire safety.

The Bad

1-Star Overall Rating

Below North Carolina average (2.8)

Significant quality concerns identified by CMS

Staff Turnover: 57%

11pts above North Carolina avg (46%)

Frequent staff changes - ask about care continuity

Federal Fines: $190,684

Well above median ($33,413)

Significant penalties indicating serious issues

Chain: MAXIMUS HEALTHCARE GROUP

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

Staff turnover is elevated (57%)

9 points above North Carolina average of 48%

The Ugly 27 deficiencies on record

7 life-threatening
Jul 2025 10 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0578 (Tag F0578)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews, and staff and Nurse Practitioner interviews, the facility failed to provide written information to the ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews, and staff and Nurse Practitioner interviews, the facility failed to provide written information to the resident and/or resident representative pertaining to their right to accept or refuse medical/surgical treatment and the opportunity to formulate an Advance Directive for 1 of 7 sampled residents (Resident #1). The findings included: Resident #1 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included high blood pressure and a history of a stroke. A quarterly Minimum Data Set assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #1 was cognitively intact. Review of Resident #1's electronic medical record revealed a full code Physician order dated 4/22/2025. There was no documentation in the record for education regarding formulation of an advance directive and/or an opportunity to formulate an advance directive was offered to the resident or resident representative. An interview was completed on 7/1/2025 at 10:35 am with Resident #1. The Resident was unable to recall if she received education regarding the right to formulate an advance directive. An interview was completed on 7/2/2025 at 11:42 am with the Administrator. The Administrator revealed approximately 2 months ago the facility's Nurse Practitioner (NP) provided education regarding advance directives and treatment via phone call to Resident #1's Representative. The Administrator stated the NP revealed she had forgotten to document the conversation in Resident #1's medical record. The Administrator stated it was her expectation facility residents or resident representatives were educated on advance directives and those conversations documented in their medical record. An interview was completed on 7/2/2025 at 11:48 am with the facility's NP. The NP stated in May 2025 she had a telephone conversation with Resident #1's Representative and provided education on advance directives and treatment due to Resident #1's gradual decline in health. The NP stated she had forgotten to document the conversation in Resident #1's medical record. Attempts to contact Resident #1's Representative were unsuccessful.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0582 (Tag F0582)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews and staff interviews, the facility failed to provide a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record reviews and staff interviews, the facility failed to provide a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Skilled Nursing Facility Advanced Beneficiary Notice (SNF ABN) (form 10055) prior to discharge from Medicare Part A skilled services for 2 of 3 residents reviewed for beneficiary notification (Resident #19 and Resident #108). The findings included: 1. Resident #108 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Medicare Part A services began on 11/7/24. Review of a Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage (NOMNC) revealed the notice was discussed with Resident #108 on 1/28/25, which indicated Resident #108's Medicare Part A coverage for skilled services would end on 1/25/25. Resident #108 remained in the facility. Review of Resident #108's medical record revealed no evidence a SNF ABN was reviewed with or provided to Resident #108. An interview was conducted with the Business Office Manager 7/01/25 at 1:32 PM. He revealed that when Resident #108 was admitted from the hospital on [DATE], she was billed for the month of October 2024 and the first week of November 2024. However, the previous facility billing was not finalized yet, so they billed Resident #108 based on her recollection of admission history. The last day of coverage for Medicare Part A was 8/30/24, which needed a 60-day reset. Based on that history, she had cleared 60 days of reset for all 100 days to be available when she was admitted to the nursing facility. At the time, that was what the Business Office Manager thought was accurate. All services were provided and billed accordingly, and the last covered day was initially 1/25/25. When the claims for January and February were paid in March 2025, the Business Office Manager found out on 3/19/25 that she already had passed the 100 days 5 days earlier than they thought. The services from 9/1/24 through 9/6/24 were not included. Therefore, the last covered day had changed. The Business Office Manager stated that he then billed Medicare Part B instead of Medicare Part A. During a follow-up interview with the Business Office Manager on 7/01/25 at 11:00 AM, he stated the Social Worker (SW) was responsible for issuing the SNF ABN, and this was something the previous SW used to take care of it. The SW was interviewed on 7/01/25 at 11:02 AM. She stated that she was only responsible for the NOMNC document, and the Business Office Manager was responsible for issuing the SNF ABN. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 7/01/25 at 11:06 AM. She stated that she began at the facility in March 2025, but it was her understanding that the SW was responsible for issuing all the Beneficiary Notices. During a follow-up interview with the Administrator on 7/02/25 at 10:04 AM, she revealed that she forgot to instruct the current SW to also provide the SNF ABN with the NOMNC when a resident remained in the facility. The previous SW must have included the SNF ABN in her workload, but that was not communicated to the current SW. 2. Resident #19 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Medicare Part A services began on 1/27/25. Review of a Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage (NOMNC) revealed the notice was discussed with Resident #19 on 3/3/25, which indicated Resident #19's Medicare Part A coverage for skilled services would end on 3/5/25. Resident #19 remained in the facility. Review of Resident #19's medical record revealed no evidence a SNF ABN was reviewed with or provided to Resident #19. An interview was conducted with the Business Office Manager on 7/01/25 at 11:00 AM, He stated the Social Worker (SW) was responsible for issuing the SNF ABN, and this was something the previous SW used to take care of it. The SW was interviewed on 7/01/25 at 11:02 AM. She stated that she was only responsible for the NOMNC document, and the Business Office Manager was responsible for issuing the SNF ABN. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 7/01/25 at 11:06 AM. She stated that she began at the facility in March 2025, but it was her understanding that the SW was responsible for issuing all the Beneficiary Notices. During a follow-up interview with the Administrator on 7/02/25 at 10:04 AM, she revealed that she forgot to instruct the current SW to also provide the SNF ABN with the NOMNC when a resident remained in the facility. The previous SW must have included the SNF ABN in her workload, but that was not communicated to the current SW.
CONCERN (D)

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

Assessment Accuracy (Tag F0641)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and resident and staff interviews, the facility failed to accurately code the Minimum Data...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and resident and staff interviews, the facility failed to accurately code the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment in the areas of use of anticonvulsant medication (Resident #45), resident prescribed diet (Resident #6), and use of a hearing aid (Resident #25) for 3 of 21 residents whose MDS assessments were reviewed. The findings included: 1. Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease and cerebrovascular disease. Resident #45 had a physician order dated 2/01/24 for gabapentin (an anticonvulsant medication also used to treat pain) capsule 300 milligrams (mg) give one capsule by mouth at bedtime for pain. Resident #45 had an active physician order dated 2/29/24 for divalproex sodium tablet delayed release (an anticonvulsant medication) 250 mg; give 2 tablets once time a day for mood disorder related to dementia. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) quarterly assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #45 had severe cognitive impairment and was not coded for the use of anticonvulsant medication. Review of the April 2025 Medication Administration Record (MAR) revealed Resident #45 was administered the gabapentin and divalproex sodium medications as ordered. An interview was conducted on 7/02/25 at 10:44 am with the MDS Nurse who confirmed Resident #45 was administered the anticonvulsant medication during the look back period of the MDS assessment. The MDS Nurse stated she must have just missed the anticonvulsant medication when she completed Resident #45 medication section of the MDS assessment. During an interview on 7/02/25 at 11:55 am with the Administrator she revealed the MDS Nurse was responsible to ensure Resident #45's medications were coded accurately. 2. Resident #6 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Resident #6 had an active physician order dated 4/28/25 for a regular diet, regular texture, thin (regular) liquid consistency. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) quarterly assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #6 was cognitively intact, had no swallowing issues, and was coded for a mechanically altered diet. During an observation of the lunch meal on 7/01/25 Resident #6 was observed to have a regular texture diet with thin liquids which was confirmed by the meal ticket. An interview was conducted with the MDS Nurse on 7/02/25 at 10:44 am who revealed the Dietary Manager completed the section regarding diet for Resident #6. The MDS Nurse stated she was not responsible for coding Resident #6's diet and she was not responsible for reviewing the section since it was completed by the Dietary Manager. During an interview on 7/02/25 at 11:22 am the Dietary Manager confirmed Resident #6 did not have a mechanically altered diet but was ordered a regular diet. The Dietary Manager stated she coded Resident #6's diet in error when she completed the MDS assessment. The Administrator was interviewed on 7/02/25 at 11:55 am and revealed the Dietary Manager was responsible to ensure Resident #6's diet was coded accurately on the MDS assessment. 3. Resident #25 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included cognitive communication deficit. Review of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) annual assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #25 was cognitively intact and was not coded for use of a hearing aid. An observation and interview with Resident #25 was conducted on 6/30/25 at 10:48 am. Resident #25 was observed sitting in a wheelchair near the television with a hearing aid in the left ear and a hearing aid noted outside the right ear and attached to a clip. Resident #25 stated he normally took out the hearing aids when sleeping or he didn't want to hear all the noise, but he did use them throughout the day. An observation was conducted on 7/01/25 at 1:58 pm of Resident #25. Resident #25 was noted to be sleeping with his hearing aids in the charging station on the bedside table. An interview was conducted with the MDS Nurse on 7/02/25 at 10:35 am who revealed she did not recall Resident #25 with hearing aids when she completed the hearing section of the MDS assessment. The MDS Nurse stated she was not aware Resident #25 used hearing aids. An interview was conducted on 7/02/25 at 11:05 am with Nurse Aide (NA) #1 who revealed he was assigned to Resident #25 on the days he worked and knew the resident well. NA #1 stated Resident #25 had hearing aids that he used and was able to put them in and take them out as he liked. NA #1 stated Resident #25 was hard of hearing, and he had the hearing aids for as long as he could remember. During an interview on 7/02/25 at 11:55 am with the Administrator she revealed the MDS Nurse was responsible to ensure Resident #25's assessment was coded accurately.
CONCERN (D)

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

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and resident and staff interviews, the facility failed to develop a person-centered care p...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and resident and staff interviews, the facility failed to develop a person-centered care plan in the areas of use of side rails for positioning (Resident #45), and hearing loss with use of a hearing aid (Resident #25) for 2 of 21 residents whose care plans were reviewed. The findings included: 1. Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease. The Side Rail Use assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #45 requested side rails related to weakness to assist with turning, repositioning, and transfers. Resident #45 was noted to have 1/4 side rails to the upper bed bilaterally (both sides) while in bed. Review of Resident #45's care plan reviewed and updated on 5/08/25 revealed no care plan for the use of side rails for positioning. Observations were conducted on 6/30/25 at 10:50 am, 7/01/25 at 12:35 pm, and 7/02/25 at 9:03 am and Resident #45 was observed to be in bed with side rails to the upper portion of the bed bilaterally. An interview was conducted with the MDS Nurse on 7/02/25 at 10:44 am who revealed she was responsible for the development of resident care plans. The MDS Nurse stated she was new to the facility and did not recall if she was notified of Resident #45's use of side rails. The MDS Nurse stated Resident #45's use of side rails should have had a care plan in place but she did not recall if there was a care plan in place in the past. During an interview on 7/02/25 at 11:13 am with the Director of Nursing (DON) who revealed the MDS Nurse was responsible for resident care plans. The DON stated resident care plans were reviewed during care plan meetings and Resident 45 should have had a care plan in place for the use of side rails. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 7/02/25 at 11:55 am. The Administrator revealed the MDS Nurse was responsible to review and develop resident comprehensive care plans. The Administrator stated the MDS Nurse was responsible to develop Resident #45's care plan for the use of side rails. 2. Resident #25 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included dementia with other behavioral disturbances. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) annual assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #25 was cognitively intact, was coded for adequate hearing without the use of a hearing aid. Resident #25's care plan last reviewed on 6/22/25 revealed no care plan for hearing loss or use of hearing aids. An observation and interview with Resident #25 was conducted on 6/30/25 at 10:48 am. Resident #25 was observed sitting in a wheelchair near the television with a hearing aid in the left ear and a hearing aid noted outside the right ear and attached to a clip. Resident #25 stated he normally took out the hearing aids when sleeping or he didn't want to hear all the noise, but he did use them throughout the day. An observation was conducted on 7/01/25 at 1:58 pm of Resident #25. Resident #25 was noted to be sleeping with his hearing aids in the charging station on the bedside table. An observation was conducted on 7/02/25 at 11:30 am of Resident #25 who was observed sitting in his room with both hearing aids in place watching television. An interview was conducted with the MDS Nurse on 7/02/25 at 10:35 am who revealed she did not recall Resident #25 with hearing aids when she completed the hearing section of the MDS assessment. The MDS Nurse stated she was not aware Resident #25 used hearing aids and she did not develop a care plan for the use of hearing aids or hearing impairment. An interview was conducted with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 7/02/25 at 11:13 am with the Director of Nursing (DON) who revealed the MDS Nurse was responsible to ensure Resident #25's care plan was developed for hearing loss and use of hearing aids. During an interview on 7/02/25 at 11:55 am with the Administrator she revealed the MDS Nurse was responsible to ensure Resident #25 had a care plan in place for the use of hearing aids.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0657 (Tag F0657)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and staff interviews, the facility failed to revise the care plan in the areas of pain man...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and staff interviews, the facility failed to revise the care plan in the areas of pain management, hypertension management, and anticoagulant (blood thinner) medication use (Resident # 18) and the use of a wander/elopement alarm (Resident #45) for 2 of 21 residents whose care plans were reviewed. The findings include: 1. Resident #18 was readmitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included end stage renal disease (ESRD) with dependence on hemodialysis (HD), hypertension (HTN), and diabetes. Resident #18's physician orders revealed the following: - 9/10/24 Roxicodone oral tablet 5 milligrams (mg), give 1 tablet by mouth every 4 hours as needed for pain - 1/10/25 Amlodipine Besylate tablet 10 mg, give 1 tablet by mouth at bedtime for HTN - 6/6/25 Eliquis oral tablet 2.5 mg, give 1 tablet by mouth two times a day for Pulmonary Embolism (blockage of a lung artery) Review of Resident #18's care plan reviewed and updated on 5/8/25 revealed no care plan for the use of pain, hypertensive, and anticoagulant medications. An interview was conducted with the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Nurse on 7/01/25 at 1:40 PM. She revealed that she began working at the facility in April 2025. She explained she was responsible for updating the nursing sections of resident care plans and gave examples of problems that would be added to the revised care plan: wounds, new pain, falls, HTN medication, anticoagulant medication, etc. The MDS Nurse stated that she received information for care plan updates from the daily clinical meetings. She confirmed that Resident #18's care plan was missing the topics for pain, HTN, and anticoagulant medications. These medications for Resident #18 should have been discussed in the daily clinical meeting. The pain and HTN medications were ordered prior to her start date in April of this year, so she was not involved when those medications were initiated. However, the anticoagulant medication was added on 6/6/25, but she could not recall if the new medication was discussed in the daily clinical meeting. During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 7/02/25 at 9:44 AM, she revealed that the MDS Nurse was responsible for updating the nursing section of the care plan, and updates were discussed in the daily morning meeting. She stated that the anticoagulant medication should have been entered into the care plan when it was ordered on 6/6/25. However, the HTN and pain medications should have been added when Resident #18 was readmitted . The Administrator was interviewed on 7/02/25 at 10:00 AM. She revealed that the care plan for Resident #18 should have included the pain, HTN, and anticoagulant medications ordered by the physician. She indicated that all new initiated medications were discussed in the daily clinical meeting. The Administrator stated that she could not speak to why the pain and HTN medications were an issue because she started with the company on 3/27/25. However, the MDS Nurse told her that she missed the anticoagulant medication ordered for Resident #18 on 6/6/25 by mistake. The Administrator stated that the staff turnover in the nursing department could have also influenced communication. 2. Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's disease. Resident #45 had a physician order dated 3/05/24 for wander guard, check daily and ensure functioning properly every day, every shift for wandering. The wander guard order was discontinued on 4/16/25. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) quarterly assessment dated [DATE] completed by the MDS Nurse revealed Resident #45 had severe cognitive impairment and was not coded for the use of a wander/elopement alarm. The care plan last reviewed on 5/08/25 revealed Resident #45 was an elopement risk/wanderer related to exit seeking behavior with an intervention which included a wander guard to the left ankle. An observation of Resident #45 was conducted on 6/30/25 at 2:28 pm and no wander guard alarm was observed on Resident #45's ankles or wrists. An interview was conducted on 7/02/25 at 10:44 am with the MDS Nurse who revealed she completed the MDS assessment section related to the wander/elopement alarm and that Resident #45 did not have a wander guard in place when she completed the MDS assessment. The MDS Nurse stated she did review and revise Resident #45's care plan quarterly but she must have missed the care plan for the wander guard when the review was completed. The MDS Nurse stated she should have revised Resident #45's care plan to reflect the wander guard was no longer in use. During an interview on 7/02/25 at 11:13 am with the Director of Nursing (DON) she revealed Resident #45 no longer required a wander guard and the MDS Nurse was responsible to review and revise Resident #45's care plan to accurately reflect his care needs. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 7/02/25 at 11:55 am who revealed the MDS Nurse should have revised Resident #45's care plan when last reviewed and the wander guard was no longer ordered.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and staff, Pharmacy Consultant and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews, the facility failed...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and staff, Pharmacy Consultant and Nurse Practitioner (NP) interviews, the facility failed to clarify the physician orders for lidocaine 4% external pain patches that resulted in the pain patches remaining on the resident's skin over the manufacturer's recommended duration of 12 hours. This deficient practice was for 1 of 3 residents observed for medication administration (Resident #15). The findings included: Resident #15 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included pain unspecified and diabetes with neuropathy (nerve pain). Review of physician orders revealed an active physician order dated 2/18/24 for lidocaine 4% external pain patch. Apply to the left side topically one time a day for pain at 9:00 am; apply in the am and remove at bedtime and per schedule. The order noted the removal time as 8:59 am. In addition, there was an active physician order dated 4/30/25 for lidocaine external patch 4%. Apply to the right side topically one time a day for right side pain. The order did not specify a removal time. The manufacturer's instructions written on the Lidocaine 4% external pain patch package stated to use one patch for up to 12 hours and discard patch after single use. During a continuous medication administration observation on 7/01/25 at 8:14 am through 8:37 am, Nurse #1 was observed to prepare and date a lidocaine 4% external pain patch to apply to Resident #15's left side. Nurse #1 was then noted to remove a lidocaine external pain patch from Resident #15's left side dated 6/30/25 and throw the used patch in the trash can. Nurse #1 applied the new lidocaine 4% external pain patch to the same area of Resident #15's left side. Next, Nurse #1 was observed to prepare and date another lidocaine 4% external pain patch to apply to Resident #15's right side. Nurse #1 was then noted to remove a lidocaine external pain patch from Resident #15's right side dated 6/30/25 and throw the used patch in the trash can. Nurse #1 applied the new lidocaine 4% external pain patch to the same area of Resident #15's right side. Resident #15's skin was observed to be intact without redness or irritation. An immediate interview was conducted with Nurse #1 on 7/01/25 at 8:37 am who revealed she normally removed Resident #15's lidocaine 4% external pain patches from the previous day just before she applied the new one. She stated the time of removal for the left pain patch was listed for 8:59 am and the new patch was ordered to be administered at 9:00 am. Nurse #1 stated the right lidocaine external patch was not ordered to be removed at any certain time, so she removed it before she applied the new one. Nurse #1 stated she thought the lidocaine external patch was only supposed to be used for 12 hours but she did not clarify the orders with a physician to see if a removal time was needed. A telephone interview was conducted with the Pharmacy Consultant on 7/02/25 at 2:52 pm who revealed Resident #15's lidocaine 4% external pain patch was to be removed after 12 hours, and the next patch should not be placed for another 12 hours: 12 hours on 12 hours off. The Pharmacy Consultant stated that when a lidocaine 4% external pain patch remained in place continuously without the 12-hour time frame to remove the patch, the resident was at risk for skin rash or irritation at the site where the patch was applied. An interview was conducted with the Nurse Practitioner (NP) on 7/02/25 at 9:27 am who revealed Resident #15's lidocaine 4% external pain patch order should have included a removal time of 12 hours after application. The NP stated she did not realize the order did not have a removal time so that Resident #15 would have 12 hours with the lidocaine 4% external pain patch off the skin. During an interview on 7/01/25 at 3:15 pm with the Director of Nursing (DON) she revealed the orders for Resident #15's lidocaine 4% external pain patches to the left and right side were not accurate and should have included to remove the patches after 12 hours. She stated the order should have specified to apply the patch at 9:00 am and remove at 9:00 pm. The DON stated physician orders were reviewed during the clinical meetings but she did not recall seeing that Resident #15's orders for the lidocaine 4% external pain patches did not include to remove after 12 hours of use.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0692 (Tag F0692)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, observations, and staff, Nurse Practitioner and Registered Dietitian (RD) interviews, the facility faile...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, observations, and staff, Nurse Practitioner and Registered Dietitian (RD) interviews, the facility failed to provide nutritional supplements to prevent further weight loss as recommended by the RD and prescribed by physician (Resident #45) for 1 of 3 residents reviewed for nutrition. The findings included: Resident #45 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. An active physician order dated 6/22/24 to add ice cream to lunch tray every day to aid with prevention of further significant weight loss per RD recommendation. An active physician order dated 11/03/24 to add nutritional shake supplement to lunch tray daily to aid in the prevention of further weight loss per RD recommendation. An active physician order dated 4/28/25 for a consistent carbohydrate (CCD), no added salt (NAS) diet. Regular texture, thin (regular) liquid consistency. Review of Resident #45's electronic health record revealed the following weights were recorded: 6/20/25 185.6 pounds 5/10/25 186.4 pounds 4/13/25 185 pounds 3/20/25 188.8 pounds 2/13/25 190.2 pounds 1/17/25 189 pounds 12/16/24 192.6 pounds 11/11/24 207.4 pounds 10/12/24 212 pounds The RD visit note dated 3/25/25 revealed Resident #45's current base weight was 188.8 pounds and Resident #45 had a 10.9% weight loss for the last 159 days. Resident #45 was noted to have a CCD, NAS regular texture diet with ice cream and nutritional shake once daily. The RD visit note further recorded that Resident #45's diet order with additional supplements met requirements and the RD would continue to monitor Resident #45 per protocol. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) quarterly assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #45 had severe cognitive impairment. Resident #45 was coded for a therapeutic diet, was not coded for any signs and symptoms of a swallowing disorder, was independent for eating. Resident #45 was coded for weight loss of 5% or more in the last month or loss of 10% or more in the last 6 months, not on physician-prescribed weight-loss regimen. The care plan was last reviewed and updated on 5/08/25. Resident #45 had a nutritional problem related to diet restrictions with a goal to maintain adequate nutritional status. The interventions included explaining and reinforcing the importance of maintaining the diet ordered and encouraging compliance. An observation was conducted on 6/30/25 at 12:49 pm of Resident #45 during the lunch meal. The meal ticket on the lunch tray revealed Resident #45 was to receive ice cream and nutritional shake. No ice cream or nutritional shake were noted on the lunch tray. An attempt to conduct a telephone interview on 7/02/25 at 9:59 am with Dietary Aide #1 who worked on 6/30/25 during the lunch meal tray line was unsuccessful. An observation of Resident #45's lunch meal was conducted on 7/01/25 at 12:33 pm. No ice cream or nutritional shake were noted on the lunch tray. An interview was conducted on 7/02/25 at 11:07 am with Dietary Aide #2 who worked on 7/01/25 during the lunch meal tray line revealed the ice cream was normally added to Resident #45's lunch tray just before the meal tray cart goes to the unit and the nutritional shake would be put on the tray during the meal tray line. Dietary Aide #2 stated she must have forgotten to put the ice cream and nutritional shake on Resident #45's lunch tray. An interview was conducted on 7/01/25 at 2:51 pm with the Dietary Supervisor who revealed when a resident had supplements ordered on the diet ticket the dietary department was responsible to supply the supplements. The Dietary Supervisor stated when the meal tray line was in progress the Dietary Aides were responsible to review the meal tickets and ensure all supplements listed on the meal ticket were added to the meal tray. An interview was conducted on 7/01/25 at 12:38 pm with the Dietary Manager who revealed the Dietary Aides were responsible to place the ice cream and nutritional shake on Resident #45's lunch tray as ordered and noted on the meal ticket. A telephone interview with the facility's Registered Dietitian (RD) was conducted on 7/01/25 at 3:32 pm. The RD revealed she recommended the ice cream and nutritional shakes to be added to Resident #45's meal tray due to a recent significant weight loss. The RD stated Resident #45 was at risk for additional weight loss by not receiving the nutritional supplements as recommended and ordered. An interview was conducted on 7/02/25 at 9:05 am with the Nurse Practitioner (NP) who revealed Resident #45 was ordered the nutritional supplements due to weight loss and the supplements should have been provided as ordered. During an interview with the Administrator on 7/02/25 at 11:57 am she revealed the Dietary Department was responsible for ensuring that Resident #45 received the dietary supplements as ordered by the physician.
CONCERN (D)

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

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on observations, record review, and staff interviews, the facility failed to implement their infection prevention program policies and procedures when Nurse #2 failed to perform hand hygiene bet...

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Based on observations, record review, and staff interviews, the facility failed to implement their infection prevention program policies and procedures when Nurse #2 failed to perform hand hygiene between glove changes during the observation of medication administration for 1 of 4 staff observed for infection control practices (Nurse #2). The findings included: The facility's Infection Prevention and Control Program (IPCP) policy implemented 10/04/23 and reviewed annually indicated in part that the facility established and maintained an (IPCP) to prevent the development and transmission of communicable diseases and infections. The policy further noted that hand hygiene shall be performed in accordance with the facility's established hand hygiene procedures. Review of the facility's Hand Hygiene Policy, no date, indicated that all staff would perform proper hand hygiene procedures to prevent the spread of infection to other personnel, residents, and visitors. The policy further noted that the use of gloves did not replace hand hygiene and that staff were to perform hand hygiene prior to donning gloves, and immediately after removing gloves. A continuous observation was conducted on 7/01/25 from 8:54 am through 8:58 am of medication administration for Resident #260. At 8:54 am Nurse #2 donned clean gloves without performing hand hygiene and was observed to use her gloved hands to spread open Resident #260's eye lids to administer eye drops to both eyes. Nurse #2 then removed the gloves, donned clean gloves without performing hand hygiene, removed Resident #260's oxygen tubing from the nose and administered nasal spray to both nostrils. Nurse #2 removed the gloves and did not perform hand hygiene. Nurse #2 then adjusted Resident #260's oxygen tubing with her ungloved hands and handed the resident a medicine cup with pills. Nurse #2 donned clean gloves without performing hand hygiene and placed a pain patch on Resident #260's right shoulder. Nurse #2 removed the gloves and performed hand hygiene when she exited Resident #260's room. An immediate interview was conducted with Nurse #2 on 7/01/25 at 8:58 am who revealed she should have used hand sanitizer between the glove changes during the medication administration but she just forgot. During an interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 7/01/25 at 3:13 pm she revealed she was also the facility's Infection Preventionist and was responsible for the IPCP. The DON stated Nurse #2 should have performed hand hygiene before she put on clean gloves and immediately after she took the gloves off.
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0838 (Tag F0838)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on staff interview and review of the Facility Assessment the facility failed to ensure the required parties were involved in the development the Facility Assessment, failed to: have an accurate ...

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Based on staff interview and review of the Facility Assessment the facility failed to ensure the required parties were involved in the development the Facility Assessment, failed to: have an accurate facility assessment that recorded the current administrative staff and Medical Director, ensure the staffing plan considered specific staffing needs for each unit and shift as required, provide information regarding the skills and competencies that were required for licensed nursing staff and Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), and have an accurate staff type and position list. This deficient practice had the potential to affect 54 of 54 residents. The findings included: The Facility Assessment was reviewed and was noted to have been updated and reviewed with the facility's Quality Assurance Performance and Improvement (QAPI) committee on 1/28/25. The persons involved in completing the assessment were listed as the Administrator, the Director of Nursing (DON), the Medical Director, Social Service Director, Dietary Manager, Therapy Director, and a Governing Board Member. There was no indication that direct care staff were involved in completing the assessment or that the facility solicited and considered input from residents, resident representatives and family members. The Facility Assessment was noted to have the former Administrator, the former Medical Director, and the former Social Worker listed under the administrative personnel. Further review of the Facility Assessment revealed that the staffing plan listed the number of Nurses (Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse), and CNAs noted as the desired number FTE (full-time equivalent, the total number of full-time employees working in an organization) of staff and the professional requirement for those staff members. However, the staffing plan did not address staffing needs for each shift and weekends, or address staffing needs in these areas based on changes to the resident population as required. The staff type and position list recorded the facility had provided 1 FTE for a Staff Development Coordinator (SDC). The Facility Assessment did not provide information regarding the skills and competencies that were required for licensed nursing staff and CNAs. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 7/02/25 at 11:59 am who revealed she was not employed by the facility when the current Facility Assessment was reviewed and updated. The Administrator confirmed the facility did not have an SDC and that the staff position list was inaccurate. The Administrator stated she had not yet reviewed or updated any information in the Facility Assessment since she started at the facility in March 2025. The Administrator was unable to provide any further documentation at the time of survey exit regarding the Facility Assessment.
MINOR (B)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Deficiency F0628 (Tag F0628)

Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to notify the Ombudsman in writing of a resident transfer to th...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to notify the Ombudsman in writing of a resident transfer to the hospital for 2 of 2 residents reviewed for hospitalization (Resident #25 and Resident #57). The findings included: 1.a. Resident #25 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. The nursing progress note dated 8/19/24 revealed Resident #25 was transferred to the hospital for further evaluation of chest pain and difficulty breathing. The medical record indicated Resident #25 was discharged from the facility on 8/19/24 and returned to the facility on 9/06/24. The facility was unable to provide documentation regarding notification to the Ombudsman of Resident #25's transfer to the hospital. b. The nursing progress note dated 9/13/24 revealed Resident #25 was transferred to the hospital for further evaluation of altered mental status and low blood pressure. The medical record indicated Resident #25 was discharged from the facility on 9/13/24 and returned to the facility on 9/18/24. The facility was unable to provide documentation regarding notification to the Ombudsman of Resident #25's transfer to the hospital. c. The nursing progress note dated 11/22/24 revealed Resident #25 was transferred to the hospital for further evaluation of shortness of breath. The medical record indicated Resident #25 was discharged from the facility on 11/22/24 and returned to the facility on [DATE]. The facility was unable to provide documentation regarding notification to the Ombudsman of Resident #25's transfer to the hospital. Attempts to conduct a telephone interview with the previous Social Worker on 7/01/25 at 12:25 pm and 7/02/25 at 11:34 am were unsuccessful. An attempt to conduct a telephone interview with the Ombudsman on 7/01/25 at 1:10 pm was unsuccessful. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 7/01/25 at 11:40 am who revealed she was unable to locate the previous Social Worker's documentation regarding notification to the Ombudsman for Resident #25's hospitalizations because she believed the previous Social Worker took items when she left the facility. 2. Resident #57 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. The nursing progress note dated 5/21/25 revealed Resident #57 was transferred to the hospital for further evaluation of abnormal laboratory results. The medical record indicated Resident #57 was discharged from the facility on 5/21/25 and returned to the facility on 6/02/25. An interview was conducted with the Social Worker on 7/01/25 at 1:00 pm who revealed she was unable to locate the Ombudsman notification for Resident #57's transfer to the hospital on 5/21/25. The Social Worker stated she normally emailed the list to the Ombudsman but she was unable to find any record that information was sent to the Ombudsman for the May 2025 discharges and transfers. The Social Worker stated she must have just let it slip by without sending it to the Ombudsman. An attempt to conduct a telephone interview with the Ombudsman on 7/01/25 at 1:10 pm was unsuccessful. During an interview with the Administrator on 7/01/25 at 11:40 am she stated the facility was unable to locate any documentation that the Social Worker notified the Ombudsman of Resident #57's transfer to the hospital. The Administrator stated the Social Worker was responsible to submit the information to the Ombudsman as required.
Jun 2024 6 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0637 (Tag F0637)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interviews and record review the facility failed to perform a Significant Change in Status Minimum Data Set (MDS)...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interviews and record review the facility failed to perform a Significant Change in Status Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment for 1 of 1 resident reviewed for hospice care (Resident #38). Findings included: Resident #38 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included hypertension and dementia. Review of Resident #38's medical records revealed she was receiving hospice services prior to admission to the facility and continued to receive services upon admission. Review of a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage (NOMNC, form 10123) dated 12/21/23 revealed Resident #38's hospice services were ending on 12/23/23. Review of Resident #38's quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] revealed she received hospice services during the lookback period. Resident #38's quarterly MDS assessment dated [DATE] revealed she did not receive hospice services during the lookback period. Review of Resident 38's MDS assessments revealed a significant change assessment had not been completed when Resident #38 had been discharged from hospice services. During an interview conducted with the MDS Coordinator on 6/5/24 at 2:40 PM she stated during December she had just begun working in the facility and was not aware Resident #38's significant change assessment was not done during the transition. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 6/6/24 at 11:10 AM who stated MDS assessments should be done within the required time frames. He further stated the MDS Coordinator was transitioning to the facility during December, and the failure to complete a significant change assessment when Resident #38 stopped receiving hospice services was an oversight.
CONCERN (D)

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

Respiratory Care (Tag F0695)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, observations and staff interviews, the facility failed to obtain a physician order for the use of supple...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, observations and staff interviews, the facility failed to obtain a physician order for the use of supplemental oxygen and apply signage indicating the use of oxygen outside the resident's room for 1 of 3 residents reviewed for oxygen use (Resident #152). The findings included: Resident #152 was re-admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses including congestive heart failure, and chronic respiratory failure. The care plan dated 3/27/24 indicated Resident #152 was using oxygen as indicated. Review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] indicated Resident #152 was severely cognitively impaired and the use of oxygen. Nursing documentation dated 5/30/24 recorded Resident #152 on return to the facility 10:25 pm was on oxygen at 2 liters per minute via nasal cannula. Further nursing documentation dated 5/31/24 at 11:00 pm revealed Resident #152 receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 liters per minute. There was no physician's order for the use of oxygen in Resident #152's medical record. On 6/4/24 at 3:13 pm, there was no signage outside Resident #152's room indicating the use of oxygen. Resident #152 was observed wearing oxygen via nasal cannula at 3 liters per minute. On 6/5/24 at 3:28 pm in an interview with Nurse #1, she explained she did not recognize there was no Oxygen in use, no smoking signage outside his door. She stated an Oxygen in use, no smoking signage should have been placed outside Resident #152's door when he was admitted or when nursing staff recognized signage was not outside the door. On 6/4/24 at 3:34 pm in an interview with Nurse Unit Manager, she explained she did not recognize there was not a Oxygen in use, no smoking signage out Resident #152's door. She stated an Oxygen in use, no smoking signage should have been placed outside Resident #152's door when he was admitted or when nursing staff recognized signage was not outside the door. After reviewing Resident#152's orders, Nurse Unit Manager stated there was no order for the use of 2 liters per minute of oxygen for Resident #152 in the physician's orders. She explained any nurse could enter a physician order for the use of oxygen and stated she did not know why there was not an order in Resident #262's electronic medical record (EMR) for the use of oxygen. On 6/5/24 at 8:35 a.m. in an interview with the Director of Nursing, she stated nursing should have called the physician for Resident #152 when he returned from the hospital for an order for the use of oxygen. The nursing staff should have entered an order for the use of oxygen into the EMR for Resident #152. She indicated the nursing staff could administer up to 2 liters per minute of oxygen when residents were in distress but usually called the physician for an order when oxygen was needed. She explained the nursing staff was responsible to ensure an Oxygen in use, no smoking sign was outside Resident #152's door due to oxygen in use.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0883 (Tag F0883)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to document providing education of the influenza vaccine (2023-...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to document providing education of the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and pneumococcal vaccine and the resident's or resident representative's refusal to receive the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and pneumococcal vaccine for 2 of 6 residents reviewed for immunizations (Resident #41 and Resident #152). Findings included: 1. a. Resident #41 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. The quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] indicated Resident #41 was severely impaired cognitively. There was no documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR) Resident #41 had received the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season). The EMR for Resident #41 reported no past history of Resident #41 receiving a pneumococcal vaccine. The facility was unable to provide written documentation Resident #41 or Resident #41's Representative had received education for the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and pneumococcal vaccine to consent for administration or refusal of administration of the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and the pneumococcal vaccine. b. Resident #152 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. A review of Resident #152's electronic medical record (EMR) reported on 5/20/2021refusal for the influenza and pneumococcal vaccines. The quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] indicated Resident #152 was severely impaired cognitively. There was no documentation in the EMR Resident #152 had received the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season). The EMR for Resident #152 reported no past history of Resident #152 receiving a pneumococcal vaccine. The facility was unable to provide written documentation Resident #152 or Resident #152's Representative had received education for the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and pneumococcal vaccine to consent for administration or refusal of administration of the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and pneumococcal vaccine. On 6/6/2024 at 1:01 p.m. in an interview with the Director of Nursing (who was also acting as the Infection Preventionist), she stated she started at the facility on 11/30/2023. She explained the annual influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) was offered and administered to all residents or resident representatives prior to her employment at the facility. She stated in May 2024 she offered the pneumococcal vaccine to the all residents or resident representatives. She stated the facility obtained a written consent for a vaccine when a vaccine was to be administered and if Resident #41 and Resident #152 or their Representatives refused the vaccines, she did not have documentation. She explained when the residents or resident representatives were asked if they wanted to receive the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and pneumococcal vaccine, the facility was not obtaining a written consent that stated education was provided on the vaccines, and the resident or resident representative refused the administration of the influenza vaccine (2023-2024 season) and pneumococcal vaccine.
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0887 (Tag F0887)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to document providing education of the COVID (2023-2024 season)...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and staff interviews, the facility failed to document providing education of the COVID (2023-2024 season) vaccine and the resident's or resident representative's refusal to receive the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine for 2 of 6 residents reviewed for immunizations (Resident #41 and Resident #152). Findings included: 1. a. Resident #41 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. The quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] indicated Resident #41 was severely impaired cognitively. There was no documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR) Resident #41 had received education for the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine. The facility was unable to provide written documentation Resident #41 or Resident #41's Representative had received education for the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine to consent for administration or refusal of administration of the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine. b. Resident #152 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. A review of Resident #152's electronic medical record (EMR) reported on 1/4/2023 refusal for the COVID vaccine. There was no documentation that Resident #152 or Resident #152's Representative was provided education to consent or refuse the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine. There was no documentation in the EMR Resident #152 had received the COVID vaccine (2023-2024 formula). The quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] indicated Resident #152 was severely impaired cognitively. The facility was unable to provide written documentation Resident #152 or Resident #152's Representative had received education for the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine to consent for administration or refusal of administration of the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine. On 6/6/2024 at 1:01 p.m. in an interview with the Director of Nursing (who was also acting as the Infection Preventionist), she stated she started at the facility on 11/30/2023. She explained the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine was offered and administered to all residents or resident representatives prior to her employment at the facility. She explained when the residents or resident representatives were asked if they wanted to receive the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine, the facility was not obtaining a written consent that stated education was provided on the vaccines, and the resident or resident representative refused the administration of the COVID (2023-2024 formula) vaccine.
MINOR (B)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Transfer Notice (Tag F0623)

Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, resident interview and staff interviews, the facility failed to provide written notice of transfer/disch...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, resident interview and staff interviews, the facility failed to provide written notice of transfer/discharge to the resident and to the ombudsman for the resident who was transferred from the facility to the hospital for 1 of 2 residents reviewed for hospitalization (Resident #29). Findings included: Resident #29 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Resident #29 was discharged from the facility and admitted to the hospital on [DATE]. Resident #29 returned to the facility on [DATE]. A review of Resident #29's electronic medical record (EMR) revealed no written notice of transfer/discharge for Resident #29 related to the hospitalization on 12/14/2023. The quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] indicated Resident #29 was cognitively intact. On 6/6/2024 at 7:12 a.m. in an interview with Resident #29, she stated she had not received a written letter notifying her of the reason she was discharged from the facility to the hospital on [DATE]. On 6/6/2024 at 9:43 a.m. in an interview with the Clinical Nurse Consultant, she stated she was unable to locate a written notice of transfer/discharge for Resident #29 in the EMR related to Resident #29's transfer from the facility to the hospital on [DATE]. She explained in February 2024 she identified the facility was not issuing a written notice of transfer/discharge to the resident or resident representatives when residents were transferred/discharged from the facility. On 6/6/2024 at 10:00 a.m. in an interview with the Social Worker, she explained she had not worked in long term care prior to July 2023 when she began employment with the facility. She stated in December 2023 she had not notified the ombudsman of residents' transfers and discharges from the facility, and the ombudsman was not notified of Resident #29's transfer/discharge on [DATE]. She explained she started sending monthly notifications, except for 30-day discharge notifications, to the ombudsman of all resident transfers and discharges in February 2024 upon learning of the required notification process. On 6/6/2024 at 10:23 a.m. in an interview with the Director of Nursing (who started at the facility on 11/29/2023), she stated in December 2023 the facility had not provided residents or resident representatives a written notice of transfer/discharge and was not able to explain why the facility had not provided the notification. She explained upon learning in February 2024 the facility needed to provide residents or resident representatives and the ombudsman with a written notice of transfer/discharge when residents transferred or discharged from the facility, the nursing staff were educated on the process. On 6/6/2024 at 10:10 a.m. in an interview with the Administrator, he said Resident #29 and the ombudsman did not receive written notification for the reason of Resident #29's transfer/discharge on [DATE] because an issue with residents or resident representatives and the ombudsman not receiving the written notice of transfer/discharge was not identified until February 2024.
MINOR (B)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Deficiency F0625 (Tag F0625)

Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, resident interview and staff interviews, the facility failed to provide the bed hold policy in writing a...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, resident interview and staff interviews, the facility failed to provide the bed hold policy in writing at the time of transfer to 1 of 2 residents reviewed for discharged to the hospital (Resident #29). This practice had the potential to impact other residents. Findings included: Resident #29 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Resident #29 was discharged from the facility and admitted to the hospital on [DATE]. Nursing documentation on 12/14/2023 at 4:28 a.m. recorded Resident #29 requested to go to the hospital due to feeling weak. The physician and Resident #29's Representative were notified, and Resident #29 was sent to the hospital for an evaluation. There was no documentation in Resident #29's electronic medical record (EMR) that the bed hold policy was provided to Resident #29 on 12/14/2023 when she was transferred and admitted to the hospital. Resident #29 returned to the facility on [DATE]. The quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] indicated Resident #29 was cognitively intact. On 6/6/2024 at 7:12 a.m. in an interview with Resident #29, she stated she did not recall receiving a bed hold policy from the facility on 12/14/2023 when she was transferred to the hospital. On 6/6/2024 at 9:43 a.m. in an interview with the Clinical Nurse Consultant, she stated she was unable to locate in Resident #29's EMR documentation Resident #29 was issued the bed hold policy on 12/14/2023 when transferred from the facility to the hospital. She explained in February 2024 it was identified the facility was not issuing the bed hold policy to residents or resident representatives when residents were transferred from the facility. On 6/6/2024 at 10:23 a.m. in an interview with the Director of Nursing (who started at the facility on 11/29/2023), she stated in December 2023 the facility was not issuing residents or resident representatives the bed hold policy when transferred from the facility. She stated she was not able to explain why the facility was not issuing the bed hold policy. She explained when the facility was informed in February 2024 of the need to provide residents or resident representatives with the bed hold policy when transferred from the facility, the nursing staff were educated on issuing the bed hold policy when transferring residents out of the facility. On 6/6/2024 at 10:10 a.m. in an interview with the Administrator, he said Resident #29 was not issued the bed hold policy when transferred from the facility on 12/14/2024. He explained the facility was not aware there was an issue with residents or resident representatives not receiving the bed hold policy when transferring from the facility until February 2024.
Dec 2023 8 deficiencies 7 IJ (6 affecting multiple)
CRITICAL (J) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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 review and interviews with staff and physician, the facility failed to notify the physician of a medical emergen...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews with staff and physician, the facility failed to notify the physician of a medical emergency when Resident # 3 had seizure activity. Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was contacted and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) where Vimpat (anti-seizure medication) was administered. The resident had no further seizure activity after receiving Vimpat and was discharged back to the facility the same day. This occurred for 1 of 3 residents (Resident #3) reviewed for notification of change. Immediate Jeopardy began on, 12/04/23, when the facility failed to notify the physician when Resident #3 had seizure activity. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 12/23/23 when the facility provided an acceptable credible allegation for immediate jeopardy removal. The facility will remain out of compliance at a lower scope and severity level of a D (no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not immediate jeopardy) to ensure completion of education and that monitoring systems put into place are effective. The findings included: Resident #3 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and readmitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included traumatic subdural hemorrhage, seizure disorder/epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, and gastrostomy status (a tube surgically placed into the stomach). A nurse's note written by Nurse #2 dated 12/04/23 at 2:30 pm revealed that Resident #3 was seen this morning having seizure activity by staff during this shift. Nurse #2 indicated when she arrived to his room the resident was not showing seizure activity but wasn't answering questions like he would normally do. The note stated Nurse #2 and staff stayed by his side until resident was completely alert and responding like normal. Resident #3 was in stable condition and hadn't shown anymore seizure activity as of yet. There was no documentation in Resident'#3's medical record that the physician was notified of his seizure activity on 12/4/23. An interview was conducted with agency Nurse #2 on 12/19/23 at 11:33 am who worked with Resident #3 on 12/04/23. She stated staff reported Resident #3 was having seizure activity and when she arrived to his room, she did not observe seizure activity. Nurse #2 stated she and the Director of Nursing (DON) stayed with Resident #3 and continued to monitor him, to make sure he was alert and at his baseline on 12/04/23. A nurse's note written by Nurse #1 on 12/05/23 at 10:14 am revealed resident resting in bed no signs or symptoms of pain, distress, or discomfort. Alert to person. Rehabilitation Aide bathed and shaved resident at approximately 8:18 am. Resident displayed seizure like activity approximately 2 minutes or less in duration. And again at 10:10 am while working with therapy. DON notified. Will notify provider and family contact. An interview was conducted on 12/19/23 at 12:02 pm with Nurse #1. Nurse #1 stated the physician was in the facility making his rounds on 12/5/23 and as she passed him in hall notified him of Resident #3's seizure activity. She indicated he told staff to administer the Vimpat or Ativan. She stated on 12/05/23 at 1:47 pm, she observed Resident #3's contracted arm became stiff, he got still, for a minute and then he said he was okay. Nurse #1 indicated she first notified the DON on 12/05/23 Resident #3 had seizure activity and his Vimpat was not available. Nurse #1 indicated the physician ordered Ativan be given to Resident #3. She stated they could not administer Ativan as no staff had access to the emergency medication storage. Nurse #1 stated she called EMS and the physician said to send the resident out to the ER. A nurse's note written by Nurse #1 dated 12/5/23 at 3:50 pm revealed resident sent out to hospital due to seizure activity. The note indicated Resident #3 had 3 episodes of seizure activity with the last event at 1:47 pm. The Medical Director was interviewed on 12/19/23 at 1:58 pm and 2:16 pm. He indicated he could not recall the exact date, but he was told by staff that Resident #3 had seizure activity. He stated that due to the seizure activity he wanted to give the resident IM Ativan. He stated the facility staff could not get ahold of the Ativan so he sent Resident #3 out to the ER for evaluation. He stated he could not comment on the availability of Resident #3's Vimpat. The EMS Report dated 12/05/23 indicated dispatch received the call at 2:50 pm and they arrived at the facility at 2:57 pm. The nurse informed EMS Resident #3 was being sent out to the hospital per physician request due to the facility not having the resident's medication (Vimpat). When asked about the resident having seizures the nurse indicated Resident #3 had 3 seizures on this date (12/5/23) at these times: 8:18 am, 10:10 am, and 1:47 pm. EMS departed the facility at 3:25 pm and arrived at the hospital at 3:56 pm. No seizure activity was noted during transport. While giving report to the hospital nurse Resident #3 was noted to start having a seizure. The hospital record dated 12/05/23 revealed Resident #3 presented on 12/05/23 for prior history of seizures, had three seizures on this date and had been out of Vimpat since Friday (11/24/23). He was noted as alert, verbally responsive but confused. The hospital report indicated he was treated with Vimpat 200 mg in sodium chloride 0.9 percent 50 mL via IV (intravenous), and no further seizure activity was noted. The record stated, Spoke with facility, reports medication has not been picked up from the pharmacy emphasized importance of [Resident #3] getting his medications as prescribed . Resident #3's diagnoses were listed as seizures, seizure disorder, and noncompliance with medication regimen. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 4:33 pm with the DON who indicated staff should always call the physician when any resident was observed with seizure activity and notify the physician. The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on 12/20/23 at 5:21 pm. The facility provided the following immediate jeopardy removal plan: 1. Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the noncompliance; Resident #3 was identified as being affected by the noncompliance. The facility failed to notify the physician when Resident #3 had seizure activity on 12/4/23 at approximately 2:30 PM and on 12/5/23 at approximately 8:18 AM. Resident #3 had 4 incidents of seizure activity on the following approximate dates and times -12/4/23 at 2:30 PM, 12/5/23 at 8:18 AM, 12/5/23 at 10:10 AM, and 12/5/23 at 1:47 PM. The physician indicated he was first notified of the seizure activity on 12/5/23. The DON notified the facility Medical Director of the incident on 12/5/23. The DON and Minimum Data Set (MDS) nurse evaluated all residents to identify any changes in condition. No additional residents were identified with a significant change in status on 12/21/23. The DON removed the licensed nurses who were aware of significant change, but did not report it to the physician, from returning to the facility. Nurse #1 was removed on 12/8/23 and Nurse #2 was removed on 12/20/23. 2. 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. All full-time, part-time, prn, and agency licensed nurses and medication aides were educated by the DON on change of condition and physician notification regulations per facility policy and procedure beginning 12/21/23. No licensed nurse or medication aide will work until education has been completed. Nurses are to contact physician via phone immediately when resident physical or mental condition is changed from baseline and additional interventions may be required. This includes abnormal behavior, vital signs, physical changes in movement or body function or consciousness such as lethargy or seizures. All full-time, part-time, prn, and agency nurse aides and medication aides were educated by the DON on reporting observed changes in residents' condition to licensed nurses beginning 12/22/23. No nurse aide will work until education has been received. All newly hired and agency staff (licensed nurses, nurse aides, and medication aides) will be educated on change of condition and physician notification regulations per facility policy and procedure, accordingly in orientation prior to working the floor. Human resources will ensure packet is complete. Alleged date of immediate jeopardy removal: 12/23/23 Onsite validation of the immediate jeopardy removal plan was conducted on 12/28/23. The physician was notified of the incident as indicated and the evaluations of all residents by the MDS Nurse and DON were verified and revealed no concerns. Nurse #1 and Nurse #2 were removed from the facility as indicated. In service records and interviews with licensed nurses and medication aides confirmed education was provided on changes of condition and physician notification regulations per facility policy and procedure. The procedure is for nurses to contact physician via phone immediately when resident physical or mental condition is changed from baseline and additional interventions may be required. Education was also confirmed for nurse aides and medication aides on reporting observed changes in residents' condition to licensed nurses. Education as noted was added to orientation and the Human Resources Director is responsible for ensuring the education is provided prior to working on the floor. The immediate jeopardy removal date of 12/23/23 was verified.
CRITICAL (K) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Quality of Care (Tag F0684)

Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews with staff, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, pharmacist, and physician, the fac...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews with staff, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, pharmacist, and physician, the facility failed to identify the seriousness of seizure activity on 12/4/23 and the need for medical intervention for a resident with a history of seizures who had not been provided with his anti-seizure medication (Vimpat) since 11/25/23. Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. Following the fourth seizure (12/5/23) the physician ordered Ativan (an antianxiety medication commonly used as a rescue medication for seizures) via intramuscular (IM) injection and the facility staff were unable to access the emergency Ativan medication supply to treat the resident in the facility. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was contacted, and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) and Resident #3 experienced a fifth seizure upon arrival in the emergency room (ER). Intravenous (IV) Vimpat was administered in the ER and the resident had no further seizure activity and was discharged back to the facility the same day. This occurred for 1 of 2 residents whose condition required Emergency Medical Services. Immediate Jeopardy began on 12/04/23 when the facility failed to identify the seriousness of seizure activity for a resident with a history of seizures. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 12/22/23 when the facility provided an acceptable credible allegation for immediate jeopardy removal. The facility will remain out of compliance at a lower scope and severity level of a E (no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not immediate jeopardy) to ensure completion of education and that monitoring systems put into place are effective. The findings included: Resident #3 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and readmitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included, traumatic subdural hemorrhage, seizure disorder/epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, gastrostomy status (a tube surgically placed into the stomach). Review of the significant change Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] identified the resident as having moderately impaired cognition. The MDS coded the resident as having seizure disorder/epilepsy and for gastrostomy (G-tube) status. A nurse's note written by agency Nurse #2 dated 12/04/23 at 2:30 pm revealed that Resident #3 was seen this morning having seizure activity by staff during this shift. Nurse #2 indicated when she arrived at his room the resident was not showing seizure activity but wasn't answering questions like he would normally do. The note stated Nurse #2 and staff stayed by his side until the resident was completely alert and responding like normal. Resident #3 was in stable condition and no further seizure activity was observed. An interview was conducted with agency Nurse #2 on 12/19/23 at 11:33 am who worked with Resident #3 on 12/04/23 from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. Nurse #2 stated she did not recall which nurse aide reported Resident #3 was having seizure activity and when she arrived in his room, she did not observe seizure activity. Nurse #2 stated she stayed with Resident #3 and continued to monitor him, to make sure he was alert and at his baseline on 12/04/23. An interview was conducted with Rehabilitation Aide #1 on 12/19/23 at 10:09 am. Rehabilitation Aide #1 revealed that while bathing Resident #3 on 12/05/23 his arms drew tight up against his body for 10 seconds then ended. She indicated she reported the incident to the nurse (Nurse #1) who was agency staff. A nurse's note written by Nurse #1 on 12/05/23 at 10:14 am revealed resident resting in bed no signs or symptoms of pain, distress, or discomfort. Alert to person. Rehabilitation Aide #1 bathed and shaved resident at approximately 8:18 am. Resident displayed seizure like activity approximately 2 minutes or less in duration. And again at 10:10 am while working with therapy. DON notified. Will notify provider and family contact. An interview was conducted on 12/19/23 at 12:02 pm with Nurse #1. Nurse #1 stated on Friday 11/27/23 she texted Resident #3's physician a prescription requesting the Vimpat, for the physician to sign and fax over to the pharmacy for refill. Nurse #1 stated when she returned to work on Tuesday 12/05/23, the Vimpat was not on the medication cart. She stated the physician was in the facility in the morning on 12/05/23 making his rounds and as she passed him in hall notified him of Resident #3's seizure activity. Nurse #3 indicated the physician then ordered Ativan be given to Resident #3. Nurse #1 indicated the DON began to search and found no Vimpat was in the facility. She indicated the emergency medication supply was stored in a secure medication dispensing machine and none of the staff, including the DON, had access to pull the Ativan. She stated on 12/05/23 at 1:47 pm, she observed Resident #3's contracted arm became stiff, he got still, for a minute and then he said he was okay. Nurse #1 stated as there was no Vimpat available, staff could not access the emergency medication supply for Ativan, she called EMS and the physician said to send the resident out to the ER. A progress noted entered by the Medical Director note dated 12/05/23 revealed Resident #3 had recurrent seizure activity on 12/05/23 with known history of seizure disorder. The resident was noted to recover in between the seizure episodes. He was at high risk for status epilepticus (a recurrent seizure activity without recovery between seizures) impending. He was currently on valproic acid (anticonvulsant used in the treatment of epilepsy) plus Vimpat. The Medical Director indicated due to clinical condition he made the decision to transfer Resident #3 to the local emergency department for further definitive work up secondary to recurrent seizures since this morning. Resident #3's Medical Director was interviewed on 12/19/23 at 1:58 pm and 2:16 pm. He indicated he could not recall the exact date, but he was told by staff that Resident #3 had seizure activity. He stated that due to the seizure activity he wanted to give the resident IM Ativan. He stated the facility staff could not get access to Ativan, so he sent Resident #3 out to the ER for evaluation. He stated he could not comment on the availability of Resident #3's Vimpat. The EMS Report dated 12/05/23 indicated dispatch received the call at 2:50 pm for a resident with seizures and the EMS crew arrived at the facility at 2:57 pm and advised of Resident #3's room number. Resident #3 was found sitting up in bed and there was no nurse or medical staff available to give a report. The EMS crew had to request nursing staff to give them a report. The nurse informed EMS Resident #3 was being sent out to the hospital per physician request due to the facility not having the resident's medication (Vimpat). When asked about the resident having seizures the nurse indicated Resident #3 had 3 seizures on this date (12/5/23) at these times: 8:18 am, 10:10 am, and 1:47 pm. EMS departed the facility at 3:25 pm and arrived at the hospital at 3:56 pm. No seizure activity was noted during transport. While giving a report to the hospital nurse, Resident #3 was noted to start having a seizure. A telephone interview was conducted on 12/19/23 at 12:48 pm with EMS Personnel #1. He indicated when he arrived in the resident's room there were no staff available to give report and he had to request nursing staff to give them a report. EMS #1 reported that Resident #3 was being sent out to the hospital per physician request due to the facility not having the resident's medication (Vimpat). EMS #1 stated he asked the nurse why Resident #3 went 4 to 5 days without his Vimpat, and she could not answer, just said they did not have his Vimpat. The hospital record dated 12/05/23 revealed Resident #3 presented on 12/05/23 for prior history of seizures, had three seizures on this date and had been out of Vimpat since Friday (11/24/23). He was noted as alert, verbally responsive but confused. The hospital report indicated he was treated with Vimpat 200 mg via IV (intravenous), and no further seizure activity was noted. The record stated, Spoke with facility, reports medication (Vimpat) has not been picked up from the pharmacy emphasized importance of [Resident #3] getting his medications as prescribed . Resident #3's diagnoses were listed as seizures, and seizure disorder. Review of the nurse's note dated 12/05/23 at 9:52 pm revealed Resident #3 returned from the hospital with no new orders. A phone interview was conducted on 12/28/23 at 1:20 pm with the facility Pharmacist #1. She indicated Resident #3's MAR documented the Vimpat ran out on 11/25/23 and on 12/05/23 he was sent to the ER for seizure activity. The Pharmacist stated that abruptly stopping the Vimpat for 10 days Resident #3 would have the potential for seizures. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 10:16 am with the facility's current DON who took the position on 11/27/23. The DON reported she was first made aware on 12/04/23 by Nurse #2 that Resident #3's Vimpat had not been available for administration and called the pharmacy that day. She stated it was after lunch when the physician ordered IM Ativan on 12/05/23, no staff in the facility had access to the emergency medication supply and could not access the Ativan. The DON stated the physician saw Resident #3 on 12/05/23 and told staff if the resident continued to have seizures to send him out. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 4:33 pm with the DON who indicated staff should always call the physician when any resident was observed with seizure activity and notify the physician when any residents medications were not available. The DON stated the nurses needed to make sure they have enough resident medication to last through the weekend. She indicated she was not aware if the nursing staff had called the physician to notify him the Vimpat was not available or if the physician had told the nurses to monitor Resident #3 and send out if any further seizure activity occurred. The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on 12/20/23 at 1:47 pm. The facility provided the following immediate jeopardy removal plan: 1. Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the noncompliance. The facility failed to identify the seriousness of seizure activity on 12/4/23 and the need for medical intervention for a resident with a history of seizures who had not been provided with his anti-seizure medication (Vimpat) since 11/25/23. The facility did not have Vimpat available in the facility and did not have access to their emergency medication supply to treat the resident in the facility. EMS was not contacted until Resident #3 had his fourth incident of seizure activity. Resident #3 was identified as affected by the deficient practice. All residents were at risk from the deficient practice. Upon evaluation by the floor nurses and DON no other residents were identified as needing medical interventions on 12/20/23. 2. 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 DON removed the licensed nurses who were aware of the resident's seizure but did not seek further treatment interventions, from returning to the facility. Nurse #1 was removed 12/8/2023 and Nurse #2 was removed 12/20/23. All licensed nurses including agency staff were educated by the DON on identifying what is a medical emergency and the need to provide the necessary care and services for residents who require emergency medical services. Beginning 12/21/23 the Administrator, DON, and Staffing Coordinator will ensure no nurse is permitted to work prior to completing education. Education includes identifying changes in resident condition that indicate a medical emergency such as difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, onset of seizures, injuries and other examples. Beginning 12/21/23 all newly hired licensed nurses, including agency staff, will be educated on what is a medical emergency and the need to provide the necessary care and services for residents who require emergency medical services as part of their orientation prior to working the floor. The Human Resources Director will ensure each nurse has completed and was informed of the task by the Administrator on 12/21/23. Alleged date of immediate jeopardy removal :12/22/23 Onsite validation of the immediate jeopardy removal plan was conducted on 12/28/23. The evaluations of all residents by the floor nurses and DON were verified and revealed no concerns. Nurse #1 and Nurse #2 were removed from the facility as indicated. In service records and interviews confirmed education was provided on: identifying what is a medical emergency and the need to provide the necessary care and services for residents who require emergency medical services. This education was added to orientation and the Human Resources Director is responsible for ensuring each nurse receives the education prior to working on the floor. The immediate jeopardy removal date of 12/22/23 was validated.
CRITICAL (K) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services sta...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, the facility failed to provide safe transportation in the facility's transportation van and to ensure wheelchairs were utilized during transportation in accordance with manufacturer's instructions for 2 of 4 residents reviewed for accidents (Resident #1 and Resident #2). On 11/1/23 Transportation Assistant #1 utilized a geriatric chair (a padded chair with a wheeled base) to transport Resident #1 and during transportation the resident slid out of the chair onto the floor of the van. Resident #1 was not injured. On 11/27/23 Transportation Assistant #1 did not buckle Resident #2's seatbelt and during transportation the resident fell out of the wheelchair and onto the floor of the van. Resident #2 reported pain in her right shoulder the following day. These incidents had the high likelihood of serious harm, injury or death. Immediate jeopardy began on 11/1/23 when Transportation Assistant #1 transported Resident #1 in a geriatric chair (geri chair #1) that was not in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the resident fell out of the chair. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 12/22/23 when the facility provided an acceptable credible allegation of immediate jeopardy removal. The facility remains out of compliance at a lower scope and severity of E (no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not immediate jeopardy) to ensure education and monitoring systems put into place are effective. The findings included: 1. Review of the 4-point securement system's use and care manual (undated) found on the facility's transportation van's manufacturer's website included the following information: the system should only be used on front-facing wheelchair. Resident #1 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with a diagnosis that included end stage renal disease. Resident #1's quarterly Minimum Data Set assessment dated [DATE] revealed he was cognitively intact. He was unable to walk and was assessed as dependent for transfers. Resident #1 utilized a wheelchair for mobility and received dialysis. A progress note dated 11/1/23 written by Nurse #14 revealed Transportation Assistant #1 called and reported a vehicle turned in front of the transport van and the transport aide had to press on the brakes. Resident #1 slid out of the geri chair. Emergency Medical Services were contacted. Resident #1 refused to be seen in the local emergency department. Attempts to interview Nurse #14 were not successful. Review of an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) report dated 11/1/23 revealed Resident #1 was found sitting on the floor of the facility's van. The resident had no complaints and requested assistance off the floor back into his chair. Resident #1 was being transported in a dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1) that was not secured properly. The resident was sitting on top of three pillows and a mechanical lift pad during transport. According to the driver (Transportation Assistant #1) the resident was being transported in a reclined position. When this chair was in a reclined position there was no locking device to maintain that position. When the driver applied the van brakes the chair rocked forward from the reclined position to an upright position which caused the resident to be ejected from his chair onto the floor. The resident refused to be transported to the hospital by EMS. The EMS crew lifted the resident back into the chair and supplied extra retention straps to secure the chair into a reclined position and ensured the resident was secured with a lap belt. During an interview with Transportation Assistant #1 on 12/19/23 at 12:30 PM she reported on 11/1/23 she was transporting Resident #1 to a doctor's appointment with no other residents in the facility's transportation van. Transportation Assistant #1 reported Resident #1 was in a chair (geri chair #1) provided by the dialysis center. (Geri chair #1 was a clinical care recliner and had the capability to go into the Trendelenburg position [a position in which the resident's shoulder and legs can be reclined so his legs are above his head]). She indicated that when she secured Resident #1 into the van the seat belt was tight and the seat back of geri chair #1 was reclined. She stated that during transportation (11/1/23) another driver pulled out in front of her and she had to come to an abrupt stop and Resident #1 slid under his seat belt and slipped out of geri chair #1 onto the floor of the van seated on his butt. Transportation Assistant #1 explained the seat back of geri chair #1 did not stay in place when she hit the brakes of the van. She indicated it reclined further back than when she buckled him in. She pulled over and contacted 911. Transportation Assistant #1 stated she was unable to get him back in his chair. She stated she was informed at the scene by EMS staff that the chair used was not appropriate to use in the transportation van because it could not be secured in the van. She further stated the resident refused to go to the hospital and requested to proceed to his doctor's appointment. Transportation Assistant #1 stated EMS staff assisted in getting him back in the van and provided some additional straps to better secure the chair. She indicated after the incident the facility no longer transported Resident #1 in geri chair #1 and began to use one of the facility chairs (geri-chair #2). Geri chair #2 did not have the capability to go into the Trendelenburg position. An interview was conducted with Resident #1 on 12/19/23 at 1:00 PM who stated he recalled the accident on 11/1/23. He stated when Transportation Assistant #1 hit the brakes on the facility's transportation van he suddenly flew out from under the seat belt to the floor of the van. Resident #1 stated he refused to be transported to the hospital emergency department because he was not injured. He reported he was in a reclined dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1) when the incident occurred. Resident #1 stated after the incident he no longer utilized the dialysis treatment chair for transportation, and was instead transported in a facility owned geriatric chair (geri chair #2). He stated he was transported to dialysis on 12/19/23 in a geriatric chair (geri chair #2). During a phone interview with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Staff #1 on 12/19/23 at 1:10 PM he stated he reported to the scene of the accident on 11/1/23 and Resident #1 was sitting on the floor of the van. He indicated Resident #1 was transported in a dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1). He stated the hooks of the van's restraint system were fastened on the side of the chair. EMS Staff #1 stated there was no restraint system in the van to prevent the chair from reclining. EMS Staff #1 stated Resident #1 was assessed and had no visible injuries. He stated Resident #1 was encouraged to go to the hospital, but the resident refused. EMS Staff #1 stated the Administrator came to the scene of the accident. He reported he informed Transport Aide #1 and the Administrator chairs other than wheelchairs were not compliant with the restraint system of the van. During an interview with the Administrator on 12/19/23 at 12:22 PM he reported on 11/1/23 Resident #1 slid out from under the seat belt when Transportation Assistant #1 hit the brakes on the van because the belt was not secure. He reported he responded to the scene of the accident and recalled being told by EMS Staff #1 that the geri chair #1 should not be used for transportation in the facility's van. He stated after the incident the facility began to utilize a facility geri chair (geri chair #2) rather than the dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1). A phone interview was conducted with a Dialysis Center Nurse from Resident #1's dialysis center on 12/19/23 at 1:30 PM. The Dialysis Center Nurse indicated staff at the dialysis center had sent a dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1) approximately one month prior to 11/1/23 with Resident #1 to minimize the number of transfers he needed while he was at dialysis. She reported to receive dialysis Resident #1 needed to be in a chair that would be able to be placed in the Trendelenburg position and a mechanical lift had to be used to transfer him from the facility's geri chair (geri chair #2) to the dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1) as the facility's geri chair did not have the capability to be placed in the Trendelenburg position. Dialysis Center Nuse stated the resident had an open wound on his sacrum and Resident #1 complained about the discomfort associated with use of the mechanical lift. She reported that after the van accident (11/1/23) the facility began to send Resident #1 to dialysis in geri chair #2. The Dialysis Center Nurse stated she was told by the Administrator the dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1) could not be utilized for transportation. An interview with Nurse Aide (NA) #1 was conducted on 12/19/23 at 11:55 AM who reported she received a phone call on 11/1/23 at approximately 1:30 PM from Transportation Assistant #1 who stated Resident #1 had fallen out of geri chair #1 in the van. She stated she was informed that Resident #1 slid out of his chair. NA #1 stated Resident #1 had been transported to dialysis for approximately one month prior to 11/1/23 in a dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1). She indicated she was unsure of the difference between a dialysis treatment chair (geri chair #1) and the facility's geri chair (geri chair #2). A demonstration was observed on 12/19/23 at 2:15 PM of NA #1 attempting to secure a facility geri chair (geri chair #2) in the facility's transportation van. NA #1 provided back-up transportation for the facility. The primary transporter, Transportation Assistant #2, was unavailable. The Maintenance Director was present. She (NA #1) placed the hooks of the restraint system on the side of geri chair #2. The observation revealed there was no restraint system in the van to prevent the chair from reclining or to prevent the resident from slipping out if reclined. During a follow up interview with the Administrator on 12/19/23 at 3:00 PM he indicated he was aware the manufacturer's instruction stated the van should not be used with chairs other than wheelchairs. He indicated he believed transitioning from geri chair #1 to geri chair #2 after the 11/1/23 incident was sufficient. 2. Resident #2 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] for aftercare following joint replacement surgery. Resident #2's admission Minimum Data Set assessment dated [DATE] revealed she was cognitively intact. She was coded for using a wheelchair. A facility concern/comment report dated 11/27/23 revealed a family member expressed concern about an incident in the facility van. The findings of the investigation revealed the employee (Transportation Assistant #1) did not follow the policy in reporting the incident. The investigation was conducted by nursing, social services and the Administrator. The actions taken indicated to properly report an incident according to facility policy. The Administrator signed the form as complete. Review of progress notes from 11/27/23 through 12/8/23 revealed no mention of an incident involving Resident #2. Resident #2 was discharged from the facility on 12/8/23. During a phone interview with Transportation Assistant #1 on 12/19/23 at 12:30 PM she reported she was transporting Resident #2 and Resident #4 on 11/27/23. She reported someone pulled out in front of her and she came to an abrupt stop. Transportation Assistant #1 stated she may have not buckled Resident #2's seat belt. She stated the resident slid forward out of her wheelchair onto the floor of the van onto her buttocks. Transportation Assistant #1 stated she assisted Resident #2 back into her wheelchair, buckled the seat belt and continued to her (the resident's) doctor's appointment. She reported she contacted Nurse Aide #1 who instructed her to not report it to administrative staff if the residents didn't mention it. Transportation Assistant #1 stated the resident indicated she was fine and did not have any pain. An interview was conducted with Nurse Aide #1 (NA #1) on 12/19/23 at 11:55 AM who reported she received the phone call on 11/27/23 from Transport Assistant #1 who stated Resident #2 had slid out of her wheelchair. She stated she did not tell Transportation Assistant #1 not to report the incident. She indicated she did went to the Administrator to report the incident but he was already aware. She explained the family met the resident at the doctor's office, the resident informed them, and then the family notified the Administrator. A progress note by the Director of Nursing dated 11/28/23 revealed Resident #2's family member reported some concerns about shoulder pain. An x-ray was done, and the results were negative for fracture, separation and dislocation. Review of Resident #2's medical record found no pain medication was administered for her shoulder. An interview was conducted with the Director of Nursing on 12/19/23 at 12:20 PM who stated she was made aware of Resident #2's pain by a family member on 11/28/23 and contacted the Medical Director. A phone interview was conducted with Resident #2 on 12/19/23 at 10:29 AM. She reported on 11/28/23 Transportation Assistant #1 slammed on the brakes of the van and she slid under another resident's wheelchair [Resident #4]. She reported the wheelchair was fastened in the van, but her seat belt securing her into the wheelchair was not buckled. Resident #2 stated Transportation Assistant #1 assisted her back into her chair, buckled her in and they went to her doctor's appointment. Resident #2 reported she advised her family of the incident when she got to the doctor's office. She stated the next day she complained of shoulder pain. She stated she did not recall falling on her shoulder but the pain was new and she thought it was from the fall in the van. Resident #2 indicated pain medication was not necessary. She stated the pain resolved a few days later. Resident #2 stated x-rays were done and they did not find anything. During an interview with Resident #4, who appeared alert to person, place, time and situation, on 12/19/23 at 12:58 PM she stated she did not recall any incidents where someone fell out of their wheelchair while being transported. She added she did not have concerns about van transportation. Review of the investigation with an initiated date of 11/27/23 and completion date of 12/3/23 revealed Transportation Assistant #1 failed to properly secure the resident and did not contact the facility according to policy. She was terminated from employment. The investigation was completed by the Administrator. An interview was conducted with the Administrator on 12/19/23 at 12:22 PM who stated he was made aware of Resident #2 fell from her wheelchair when the concern came in from Resident #2's family member on 11/27/23. He stated the incident was investigated and Transportation Assistant #1 was terminated from employment for not reporting the incident and failing to properly secure the resident. On 12/19/23 at 4:15 PM, the Administrator was informed of the immediate jeopardy. The facility provided the following immediate jeopardy removal plan with a removal date of 12/22/23. Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the noncompliance. When transporting Residents #1 and #2 to appointments outside the facility, Transportation Assistant (TA) #1 failed to safely secure their wheelchairs in the facility transportation vehicle. On 11/1/23, TA #1 applied the brakes on the transport van as a car came out in front of it, causing Resident #1 to slide out of his geri- chair which was not a standard wheelchair and onto the van's floor. On 11/27/2023, while being transported to a doctor's visit, Resident #2 fell out of her wheelchair onto the van's floor. Resident #2 seatbelt was not fastened by TA #1. Residents #1 and #2 were identified to be affected by the deficient practice. All residents who are transported in the facility van were identified to potentially be affected by the deficient practice. 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. On 11/27/23 TA #1 was suspended pending investigation for violating the safety policy. She was terminated on 12/4/23. The current transportation aide has reviewed the facility's policy on transportation and completed an in-service on 12/21/23 regarding the safety and securement of all residents being transported in the facility transportation van, with a return demonstration observed by the Maintenance Director. The facility will utilize wheelchairs in place of geri-chairs when transporting residents or use a medical transportation company when needed. The transportation aide will be responsible for ensuring residents are transferred to a proper chair prior to transporting in the facility van. The transportation aide was educated on ensuring residents are transferred to proper chairs for transportation and that geri-chairs are not proper chairs on 12/21/2023 by the Maintenance Director. Beginning 12/21/23 all transport aides will receive safety training upon hire and annually. Training will be conducted by the Maintenance Director and will include a return demonstration of competency. This training will involve a review of the transportation policy, an in-service regarding the safety and securement of residents being transported in the facility transportation van, and supervision as needed. Date of immediate jeopardy removal: 12/22/23 Onsite validation of the immediate jeopardy removal plan was completed on 12/28/23. Interviews verified on 11/27/23 Transportation Assistant #1 was suspended pending investigation, and she was terminated on 12/4/23. Inservice records and interview confirmed Transportation Assistant #2 reviewed the facility's policy on transportation and completed an in-service regarding the safety and securement of all residents being transported in the facility transportation van, with a return demonstration observed by the Maintenance Director. In addition, Nurse Aide #1 who was a backup driver if needed for Transportation Assistant #2, received the same education and performed a return demonstration for the Maintenance Director. An observation verified the current transportation assistant (Transportation Assistant #2) secured a wheelchair according to manufacturer's instructions. Transportation Assistant #2 reported she was educated on ensuring residents are transferred to proper chairs for transportation, that geri-chairs are not proper chairs, and that she is responsible for ensuring residents were transferred to proper chairs in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions prior to transporting a resident. The Maintenance Director stated he is responsible for safety training with verification of competency on hire and annually for any transportation aide. The immediate jeopardy removal date of 12/22/23 was validated.
CRITICAL (K) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Deficiency F0726 (Tag F0726)

Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, record reviews and interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, the facility failed to ensure Transportation Assistant #1, who w...

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Based on observation, record reviews and interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, the facility failed to ensure Transportation Assistant #1, who was also a facility Nurse Aide, was trained by staff who was aware of the facility's transportation van's manufacturer's instructions for safe securement when Nurse Aide #1 provided her with training. Nurse Aide #1 was not aware that transporting a resident in a geriatric chair (a padded chair with a wheeled based) was not in accordance with the transportation van's manufacturer's instructions. In addition, the facility failed to verify Transportation Assistant #1's competency to ensure resident safety during transportation for 1 of 1 staff who transported residents in the facility's transportation van. On 11/1/23 Transportation Assistant #1 utilized a geriatric wheelchair (geri chair) to transport Resident #1 and during transportation the resident slid out of the chair onto the floor of the van. Resident #1 was not injured. On 11/27/23 Transportation Assistant #1 did not buckle Resident #2's seatbelt and during transportation the resident fell out of the wheelchair and onto the floor of the van. Resident #2 reported pain in her right shoulder the following day. This deficient practice had a high likelihood of resulting in serious harm, injury, or death to residents who were transported in the facility's transportation van. Immediate jeopardy began on 11/1/23 when Transportation Assistant #1 failed to demonstrate competency when she transported Resident #1 in a geriatric chair that was not in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the resident fell out of the chair. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 12/22/23 when the facility provided an acceptable credible allegation of compliance. The facility remains out of compliance at a lower scope and severity of E (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 related to supervision to prevent accidents. The findings included: This tag is cross-referenced to: F689: Based on observation, record review, interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, the facility failed to provide safe transportation in the facility's transportation van and to ensure wheelchairs were utilized during transportation in accordance with manufacturer's instructions for 2 of 4 residents reviewed for accidents (Resident #1 and Resident #2). On 11/1/23 Transportation Assistant #1 utilized a geriatric chair (a padded chair with a wheeled base) to transport Resident #1 and during transportation the resident slid out of the chair onto the floor of the van. Resident #1 was not injured. On 11/27/23 Transportation Assistant #1 did not buckle Resident #2's seatbelt and during transportation the resident fell out of the wheelchair and onto the floor of the van. Resident #2 reported pain in her right shoulder the following day. These incidents had the high likelihood of serious harm, injury or death. Review of a form dated 9/8/23 entitled Transportation Aide Major Duties and Responsibilities Checklist revealed one of the major duties was operating the facility's transport van in a safe manner and securing residents prior to operating. This form further indicated Transportation Assistant #1 had completed training and demonstrated competence in all areas. The form was signed by NA #1. An interview was conducted with NA #1 on 12/19/23 at 11:55 AM who reported she trained Transportation Assistant #1 on how to operate the lift and restraint system on the facility's transportation van prior to Transportation Assistant #1 providing transportation to residents. She explained she had worked for the facility for 12 years and had driven the van in the past prior to becoming a medication aide. NA #1 further explained that the former transportation assistant quit suddenly. She indicated Transportation Assistant #1 was an NA at the facility and she was asked to move to the position of transportation driver. She stated that the Maintenance Director was on leave at the time of these changes. She reported that because she (NA #1) was most familiar with the van she trained Transportation Assistant #1. She stated she had Transportation Assistant #1 demonstrate how to operate the lift and restraint system prior to Transportation Assistant #1's first assigned transport. Review of an Emergency Medical Services report dated 11/1/23 revealed Transportation Aide #1 informed the Emergency Medical Services staff when they arrived that she was just a [nurse aide] and did not know how anything about how this transport van works, indicating that she has never received proper training for the job that she is performing. During an interview with Emergency Medical Services staff #1 (EMS #1) on 12/19/23 at 1:10 PM he stated he reported to the scene of the accident on 11/1/23 and observed that Resident #1 was being transported in a geri chair (geri chair #2). He stated Transportation Aide #1 informed him that she had not been trained or oriented to use the facility's transportation van. During an interview with NA #1 on 12/19/23 at 11:55 AM she revealed she had not known that transporting a resident in a geri chair was not in accordance with the facility's transportation van's manufacturer's instructions. An interview was conducted with Transportation Assistant #1 on 12/19/23 at 1:18 PM who indicated she was an NA and had worked in that role at the facility prior to providing transportation. She explained that the previous transportation assistant quit suddenly and she was asked to provide transportation. Transportation Assistant #1 stated Nurse Aide #1 showed her how to secure a wheelchair on the transportation van. She indicated that was the extent of her training. She reported she began providing transportation for the facility on 9/8/23. She stated she was unaware geri chair #1 was not allowed to be used for transporting residents in the facility's transportation van until she was told by Emergency Services staff #1 after Resident #1 fell from geri chair #1. She stated she thought it was acceptable to use geri chair #2. She reported her retraining on 11/3/23 consisted of reading the policy and initialing each page. The policy did not mention geri chairs. Transportation Assistant #1 stated she forgot to secure Resident #2's seat belt on 11/27/23 which resulted in her falling out of her wheelchair on 11/27/23. An interview was conducted with the Maintenance Director on 12/19/23 at 11:40 AM. He indicated he supervised the transportation staff. He stated when Transportation Assistant #1 began work in September 2023 he was out of the office and she was trained by NA #1. The Maintenance Director explained NA #1 was responsible for training in his absence because she provided transportation prior to becoming a medication aide in the facility. The Maintenance Director reported that he was on leave on 11/1/23 when Resident #1 fell out of his geri chair in the facility's transportation van. He wasn't involved with any investigation and was not involved with retraining Transportation Assistant #1. He stated the only strategy the facility used to train transportation assistants was verbal instruction with hands-on demonstration. A form entitled Resident Transportation Policy dated 11/3/23 revealed Transportation Assistant #1's initials on each page with her dated signature. The form provided no indication if Transportation Aide #1 was provided with re-training on the facility's transportation van's manufacturer's instructions for safe securement or if her competencies were verified. During an interview with the Administrator on 12/19/23 at 3:00 PM he stated Transportation Assistant #1 was trained by NA #1 prior to transporting residents. He further stated he retrained Transportation Assistant #1 on 11/3/23 after the van incident in which Resident #1 fell out of his wheelchair. The retraining included a review of the facility policy which Transportation Assistant signed. There was no demonstration of competencies by Transportation Assistant #1. The Administrator revealed that when he was informed by EMS staff that geri chair #1 was not supposed to be used for transportation that he had not realized this meant all geri chairs. He explained that he thought this instruction was specific to geri chair #1. He indicated that when he provided retraining to Transportation Assistant #1 he did not inform her that geri chairs were not to be used for transporting residents in the facility's transportation van. The Administrator stated that after the 2nd van incident occurred on 11/27/23, where Resident #2 fell out of her wheelchair because she was not secured, Transportation Assistant #1 was terminated. On 12/19/23 at 4:15 PM, the facility's Administrator was informed of the immediate jeopardy. The facility provided the following corrective action plan with a completion date of 12/22/23. Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the noncompliance. When transporting Residents #1 and #2 to appointments outside the facility, Transportation Assistant (TA) #1 failed to safely secure their wheelchairs in the facility transportation vehicle. On 11/1/23, TA #1 applied the brakes on the transport van as a car came out in front of it, causing Resident #1 to slide out of his geri- chair which was not a standard wheelchair and onto the van's floor. On 11/27/2023, while being transported to a doctor's visit, Resident #2 fell out of her wheelchair onto the van's floor. Resident #2 seatbelt was not fastened by TA #1. The facility failed to ensure TA #1 was properly train and competent in transportation safety prior to providing transportation to residents. Residents #1 and #2 were identified to be affected by the deficient practice. All residents who are transported in the facility van were identified to potentially be affected by the deficient practice. 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. On 11/27/23 TA #1 was suspended pending investigation for violating the safety policy. She was terminated on 12/4/23. The current transportation aide has reviewed the facility's policy on transportation and completed an in-service on 12/21/23 regarding the safety and securement of all residents being transported in the facility transportation van, with a return demonstration observed by the Maintenance Director. The facility will utilize wheelchairs in place of geri-chairs when transporting residents or use a medical transportation company when needed. The transportation aide will be responsible for ensuring residents are transferred to a proper chair prior to transporting in the facility van. The transportation aide was educated on ensuring residents are transferred to proper chairs for transportation and that geri-chairs are not proper chairs on 12/21/2023 by the Maintenance Director. Beginning 12/21/23 all transport aides will receive safety training upon hire and annually. The training will be conducted by the Maintenance Director and will include a return demonstration of competency. This training will involve a review of the transportation policy, an in-service regarding the safety and security of residents being transported in the facility transportation van, and supervision as needed. Date of immediate jeopardy removal: 12/22/23 Onsite validation of the immediate jeopardy removal plan was completed on 12/28/23. Interviews verified on 11/27/23 TA #1 was suspended pending investigation, and she was terminated on 12/4/23. The facility has 1 current transportation aide, TA #2. Inservice records and interview confirmed TA #2 reviewed the facility's policy on transportation and completed an in-service regarding the safety and securement of all residents being transported in the facility transportation van, with a return demonstration observed by the Maintenance Director. An observation verified the current transportation assistant secured a wheelchair according to manufacturer's instructions. TA #2 reported she was educated on ensuring residents are transferred to proper chairs for transportation, that geri-chairs are not proper chairs, and that she is responsible for ensuring residents were transferred to proper chairs in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions prior to transporting a resident. The Maintenance Director stated he is responsible for safety training with verification of competency on hire and annually for any transportation aide. The immediate jeopardy removal date of 12/22/23 was validated.
CRITICAL (K) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Pharmacy Services (Tag F0755)

Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews with staff, pharmacist, and physician, the facility failed to obtain an anti-seizure medic...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews with staff, pharmacist, and physician, the facility failed to obtain an anti-seizure medication for a resident with a history of seizures resulting in 22 missed doses of the medication and to have staff capable of accessing the emergency medication supply to treat a medical emergency. Resident #3 was ordered Vimpat two times a day for seizures and from 11/25/23 through 12/5/23 the resident did not receive the medication as it was not obtained from the pharmacy. Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. Following the fourth seizure (12/5/23) the physician ordered Ativan (an antianxiety medication commonly used as a rescue medication for seizures) via intramuscular (IM) injection and the facility staff were unable to access the emergency medication supply. EMS was contacted and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) where Vimpat was administered. The resident had no further seizure activity after receiving Vimpat and was discharged back to the facility the same day. Upon return from the ER the resident was not administered Vimpat until the evening dose on 12/6/23 as the medication had still not been obtained from the pharmacy. This deficient practice was for 1 of 3 residents reviewed for pharmaceutical services. Immediate Jeopardy began on 11/25/23 when the facility failed to have Vimpat available for administration for a resident with a history of seizures. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 12/22/23 when the facility provided an acceptable credible allegation for immediate jeopardy removal. The facility will remain out of compliance at a lower scope and severity level of a E (no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not immediate jeopardy) to ensure completion of education and that monitoring systems put into place are effective. The findings included: Resident #3 was initially admitted to the facility on [DATE] and readmitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included traumatic subdural hemorrhage, seizure disorder/epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, and gastrostomy status (a tube surgically placed into the stomach). A physician order for Resident #3 dated 9/25/23 indicated valproic acid (anticonvulsant) oral solution give 10 milliliters (ml) via G-tube three times a day related to epilepsy. A physician order for Resident #3 dated 10/15/23 indicated Vimpat oral solution 10/milligrams (mg)/ml give 25 ml via G-tube two times a day for seizures. Give 250 mg/25ml two times a day. Review of the significant change Minimum Data Set, dated [DATE] identified the resident as having moderately impaired cognition. The MDS coded the resident as having seizure disorder/epilepsy and for gastrostomy (G-tube) status. Resident #3's physician order summary for November 2023 indicated the orders for valproic acid and Vimpat remained as active orders. The Medication Administration Record (MAR) and progress notes revealed the following information for Resident #3: - 11/25/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #6 revealed Vimpat was on order. - 11/26/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #6 revealed Vimpat was on order. - 11/27/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #1 revealed Vimpat was out of stock and a prescription had been signed by the provider. - 11/28/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #2 stated, Waiting on pharmacy. - 11/29/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #2 stated, Coming from pharmacy. - 11/30/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #8 revealed the medication was not available. - 12/1/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #3 indicated the medication was not available. - 12/2/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #5 indicated the medication was not available. - 12/3/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #5 indicated the medication was not available. - 12/4/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #2 stated, On order. - 12/5/23: The MAR indicated the morning dose of Vimpat was not administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #1 stated, Out of stock. [Director of Nursing] and provider notified. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 10:12 am with staff Nurse #4 who stated she gave Resident #3 his last dose of Vimpat on 3rd shift 11/24/23. She stated she did not call the physician as the hard prescription had been faxed to the physician before the medication ran out. On 12/19/23 at 1:21 pm the DON stated she had copies of the Vimpat prescriptions that were sent to the pharmacy. As of the survey exit date on 12/28/23 the information had not been provided. A telephone interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 4:47 pm with agency Nurse #6. She stated that Resident #3 ran out of his prescription on 11/25/23, she called and faxed the physician to request a reorder on Resident #3's Vimpat. She revealed 11/26/23 was the last day she worked, and she was not aware Resident #3's Vimpat was not available. When asked what the process was for ordering refills of medication Nurse #6 reported for a controlled substance such as Vimpat, the nurse on the medication cart, would call or fax the physician before the medication ran out to sign a prescription reorder and he sent it to the pharmacy. An interview was conducted on 12/19/23 at 2:30 pm with agency Nurse #2 who had not administered the medication on 11/28/23, 11/29/23, and 12/4/23. Nurse #2 indicated Vimpat was a controlled substance, and they would need a signed prescription to reorder. She stated when the medication was not available, she called the pharmacy and was told the medication was coming on 11/29/23. She indicated when she called the pharmacy 11/29/23, she was told the medication was on its way. Agency Nurse #2 stated when the seizure medication had not arrived on 12/04/23 when she returned to work she notified the current DON and gave her a prescription to fax to the physician. When asked about the process for ordering refills of medication Nurse #2 revealed when in the building the doctor would sign the prescription and staff faxed it to the pharmacy. When the physician was not in the building the nurse needed a refill of a medication that was a controlled substance, the nurse would fax a refill prescription to the physician to sign and he faxed it to the pharmacy. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 2:42 pm with agency Nurse #3 who on 12/01/23 documented the Vimpat as not available. Nurse #3 stated if they needed a signed prescription their procedure was to call the physician for a prescription refill and he sent the order to the pharmacy. She indicated she could not remember if she had called the pharmacy to see where the Vimpat was. A telephone interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 2:35 pm with agency Nurse #5. Nurse #5 stated she called and left a message for the physician on 12/3/23 to order the seizure medication. She indicated she was not aware if the physician responded to her message. Nurse #5 indicated she did not remember if she contacted the pharmacy to find the Vimpat. Nurse #5 spoke about the process for obtaining medication refills and she indicated the nurse on the medication cart, would call or fax the physician for a signed prescription, and he would send it to the pharmacy. A nurse's note written by Nurse #2 dated 12/04/23 at 2:30 pm revealed that Resident #3 was seen this morning having seizure activity by staff during this shift. Nurse #2 indicated when she arrived at his room the resident was not showing seizure activity but wasn't answering questions like he would normally do. The note stated Nurse #2 and staff stayed by his side until resident was completely alert and responding like normal. Resident #3 was in stable condition and hadn't shown anymore seizure activity as of yet. An interview was conducted with Nurse #2 on 12/19/23 at 11:33 am who worked with Resident #3 on 12/04/23. She stated staff reported Resident #3 was having seizure activity and when she arrived to his room, she did not observe seizure activity. Nurse #2 stated she stayed with Resident #3 and continued to monitor him, to make sure he was alert and at his baseline on 12/04/23. A nurses' notes written by Nurse #1 dated 12/05/23 at 10:14 am revealed an aide bathed and shaved Resident #3 at approximately 8:18 am and the resident displayed seizure like activity for approximately 2 minutes or less in duration. The note indicated seizure activity was displayed again at 10:10 am while working with therapy. An interview was conducted with Rehabilitation Aide #1 on 12/19/23 at 10:09 am. Rehabilitation Aide #1 revealed that while bathing Resident #3 on 12/05/23 his arms drew tight up against his body for 10 seconds then ended. She indicated she reported the incident to the nurse (Nurse #1) who was agency staff. A nurse's note written by Nurse #1 dated 12/5/23 at 3:50 pm revealed resident sent out to hospital due to seizure activity. The note indicated Resident #3 had 3 episodes of seizure activity with the last event at 1:47 pm. An interview was conducted on 12/19/23 at 12:02 PM with Nurse #1. Nurse #1 stated on Friday 11/27/23 she texted Resident #3's physician a prescription requesting the Vimpat, for the physician to sign and fax over to the pharmacy for refill. Nurse #1 stated when she returned to work on Tuesday 12/05/23, the Vimpat was not on the medication cart. She reported the physician had been in earlier doing rounds and was aware Resident #3 had previous seizure activity that day and told staff to administer the Vimpat or Ativan. Nurse #1 indicated the DON began to search and found no Vimpat was in the facility. She indicated the emergency medication supply was stored in a secure medication dispensing machine and none of the staff, including the DON, had access to pull the Ativan. She stated on 12/05/23 at 1:47 PM, she observed Resident #3's contracted arm became stiff, he got still, for a minute and then he said he was okay. Nurse #1 stated as there was no Vimpat available, staff could not access the emergency medication supply for Ativan, she called EMS and the physician said to send the resident out to the ER. A physician note completed by the Medical Director dated 12/05/23 revealed Resident #3 had recurrent seizure activity on 12/05/23 with known history of seizure disorder. The resident was noted to recover in between the seizure episodes. He was at high risk for status epilepticus (a recurrent seizure activity without recovery between seizures) impending. He was currently on valproic acid plus Vimpat. The Medical Director indicated due to clinical condition he made the decision to transfer Resident #3 to the local emergency department for further definitive work up secondary to recurrent seizures since this morning. The Medical Director was interviewed on 12/19/23 at 1:58 PM and 2:16 PM. He indicated he could not recall the exact date, but he was told by staff that Resident #3 had seizure activity. He stated that due to the seizure activity he wanted to give the resident IM Ativan. He stated the facility staff could not get ahold of the Ativan so he sent Resident #3 out to the ER for evaluation. He stated he could not comment on the availability of Resident #3's Vimpat. The EMS Report dated 12/05/23 indicated dispatch received the call at 2:50 PM and they arrived at the facility at 2:57 PM. The nurse informed EMS Resident #3 was being sent out to the hospital per physician request due to the facility not having the resident's medication (Vimpat). When asked about the resident having seizures the nurse indicated Resident #3 had 3 seizures on this date (12/5/23) at these times: 8:18 AM, 10:10 AM and 1:47 PM. EMS departed the facility at 3:25 PM and arrived at the hospital at 3:56 PM. No seizure activity was noted during transport. While giving report to the hospital nurse Resident #3 was noted to start having a seizure. The hospital record dated 12/05/23 revealed Resident #3 presented on 12/05/23 for prior history of seizures, had three seizures on this date and had been out of Vimpat since Friday (11/24/23). He was noted as alert, verbally responsive but confused. The hospital report indicated he was treated with Vimpat 200 mg in sodium chloride 0.9 percent 50 mL via IV (intravenous), and no further seizure activity was noted. The record stated, Spoke with facility, reports medication has not been picked up from the pharmacy emphasized importance of [Resident #3] getting his medications as prescribed . Resident #3's diagnoses were listed as seizures, seizure disorder, and noncompliance with medication regimen. A nurse's note dated 12/05/23 at 9:52 pm revealed the resident returned from ER with no new orders. A nurse's note dated 12/6/23 at 7:48 am written by Nurse #1 indicated Vimpat was not administered for the morning dose due to it being out of stock. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 10:16 AM with the facility's current DON who took the position on 11/27/23. The DON reported she was first made aware on 12/04/23 by Nurse #2 that Resident #3's Vimpat had not been available for administration and called the pharmacy that day. She revealed the pharmacy told her the medication was in the facility. When the medication was not found in the facility, she called the pharmacy back on 12/05/23 and was told it was found bagged up at the pharmacy. She stated the medication was delivered by the pharmacy the following day and the resident received his first dose as ordered on 12/06/23 in the evening. The DON could not explain why staff had not gone to the pharmacy to pick up Resident #3's Vimpat. The DON stated Resident #3 would have had his medication on 12/01/23 if the delivery driver had not hit a deer, the second driver could not find the facility and returned the medication to the pharmacy and they were never notified the medication was returned to the pharmacy. She stated when the physician ordered IM Ativan on 12/05/23, no staff in the facility had access to the emergency medication supply and could not access the Ativan. The DON revealed the facility had changed their pharmacy in October, gotten an emergency medication supply system from the pharmacy and staff had not received training on its use or had access. The DON indicated Resident #3's medical record revealed prior to the evening dose of Vimpat administered at the facility on 12/06/23, he had last received the medication at the facility on 11/24/23. A phone interview was conducted on 12/28/23 at 1:20 pm with the facility Pharmacist #1. She indicated Resident #3's MAR documented the Vimpat ran out on 11/25/23 and on 12/05/23 he was sent to the ER for seizure activity. The Pharmacist stated that abruptly stopping the Vimpat for 10 days Resident #3 would have the potential for seizures. She stated the first attempted delivery the pharmacy driver hit a deer and could not deliver the Vimpat, the second attempt to deliver the driver could not find the facility and returned the Vimpat to the pharmacy. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 12:55 pm with the Administrator. He stated at the time of the issue with the availability of Resident #3's Vimpat they were in transition with a new pharmacy, the DON was new, and staff called the pharmacy, and were told the Vimpat was coming. The Administrator reported that nurses should notify the facility pharmacist when they were out of medication and notify the physician so he could sign the prescription in a timely manner. He stated he was not aware Resident #3 was out of his medication, most of the staff were from agencies and these agency staff failed to notify management the medication was not available. The Administrator indicated if medication did not arrive, staff should call the pharmacy to find out the status of the medication or call their back up pharmacy. The Administrator indicated he did not know why the medication would run out or why no one went to the pharmacy for the Vimpat. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 4:33 pm with the DON who indicated staff should always call the physician when any resident was observed with seizure activity and notify the physician when any residents medications were not available. The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on 12/20/23 at 1:40 PM. The facility provided the following immediate jeopardy removal plan: 1. Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the noncompliance. Resident #3 was identified as being affected by the noncompliance. Resident #3 had 4 incidents of seizure activity on the following approximate dates and times 12/4/23 at 2:30 PM, 12/5/23 at 8:18 AM, 12/5/23 at 10:10 AM, and 12/5/23 at 1:47 PM. The resident's Vimpat was not available within the facility and the nurses did not have access to remove medication from the emergency supply system. The physician indicated when he was first notified of the seizure activity on 12/5/23 he assessed the resident and wanted Ativan to be administered. He indicated there was no Ativan accessible for the resident, so he sent the resident to the ER. Resident #3's Vimpat was ordered on 12/4/23 and received from pharmacy 12/6/23. All other medication orders were reviewed, and medications were confirmed to be available on 12/4/23 by the DON. All other residents' medication orders were reviewed on 12/21/23 to ensure all medications were available. Any residents who had a medication with less than a week's supply available were reordered. This action was completed by the DON and MDS nurse. 2. 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. All licensed nurses, including agency staff, were educated by the DON on accessing medication from the emergency dispensing system per facility policy and procedure on 12/21/23 no nurse will be permitted to work the medication cart prior to completing education. The Administrator, DON and Staffing Coordinator will ensure compliance. Newly hired licensed nurses, including agency staff, will be educated on accessing medications from the emergency dispensing system per facility policy and procedure, accordingly in orientation by Human Resources Director beginning 12/21/23. The Human Resources Director was notified of the change by the Administrator. The nurse or medication aide administering medications will receive education beginning 12/21/23 from the DON and pharmacy consultant on reordering medications observed to have less than a week supply available via the EMAR system. The DON obtained charge nurse access from the pharmacy to the emergency medication system on 12/20/23. The charge nurse access allows the DON to grant access to nurses working at the facility. The DON is actively granting access to the nurses for the emergency medication system. The DON will be available as needed to obtain emergency medications until there is at least one nurse per shift with access to the emergency medication system. The Chief Operating Officer conducted a conference call on 12/21/23 to discuss medication refill and emergency medication availability and access with the pharmacy director. The pharmacy will ensure that the emergency medication supply system is available and stocked. Replacement medications are automatically ordered through the inventory control system when removed and will be received on the next service day after being removed from the cabinet. New and refill orders are sent within 24 hours of receiving order unless order is written for stat dispensing. Pharmacy will provide additional monthly in-service education beginning 12/21/23 for the nurses and medication aides regarding medication administration, ordering, accessing emergency supply and all other services available. Alleged date of immediate jeopardy removal: 12/22/23 Onsite validation of the immediate jeopardy removal plan was conducted on 12/28/23. The audit of medication orders was verified as completed and any medications with less than a week's supply were reordered. Inservice records and interviews confirmed educated was completed as indicated. The education included: accessing medication from the emergency dispensing system per facility policy and procedure and reordering medications observed to have less than a week supply available. The DON received access from the pharmacy to the emergency medication system, was in the process of granting access to facility nurses and the DON was available as needed to obtain emergency medications until there was at least one nurse per shift with access to the emergency medication system. The Chief Operating Officer conference call with the pharmacy was confirmed to be completed. The HR Director confirmed she is responsible for ensuring all new staff are educated in orientation on accessing medications from the emergency dispensing system per facility policy and procedure. It was verified that the pharmacy is to provide additional monthly in-service education for the nurses and medication aides regarding medication administration, ordering, accessing emergency supply and all other services available. The immediate jeopardy removal date of 12/22/23 was verified.
CRITICAL (K) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Deficiency F0760 (Tag F0760)

Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews with staff, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, pharmacist, and physician intervie...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interviews with staff, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, pharmacist, and physician interviews, the facility failed to administer an anticonvulsant medication to a resident for a period of 10 and half consecutive days and doses (11/25/23 through 12/5/23). Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. EMS was contacted on 12/5/23 and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) where Vimpat was administered. The resident had no further seizure activity after receiving Vimpat in the ER and was discharged back to the facility the same day. Upon return to the facility the resident was not administered one dose of the anticonvulsant on 12/6/23 for a total of 22 missed doses. This occurred for 1 of 3 residents (Resident #3) whose medications were reviewed. Immediate Jeopardy began on 11/25/23, when the facility failed to administer Resident #3's antiseizure medication. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 12/22/23 when the facility provided an acceptable credible allegation for immediate jeopardy removal. The facility will remain out of compliance at a lower scope and severity level of a E (a pattern of no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not immediate jeopardy) to ensure completion of education and that monitoring systems put into place are effective. The findings included: Resident #3 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and readmitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included traumatic subdural hemorrhage, seizure disorder/epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, gastrostomy status (a tube surgically placed into the stomach). Review of the significant change Minimum Data Set, dated [DATE] identified the resident as having moderately impaired cognition. The MDS coded the resident as having seizure disorder/epilepsy and for gastrostomy (G-tube) status. Resident #3's physician orders for November 2023 indicated an order initiated on 10/15/23 for Vimpat oral solution 10/milligrams (mg)/milliliters (ml) - give 25 ml via G-tube two times a day for seizures. Give 250 mg/25ml two times a day. A physician order dated 9/25/23 revealed an order for Valproic Acid oral solution give 10 ml via G-tube three times a day related to epilepsy. Resident #3's November 2023 electronic Medication Administration Record EMAR indicated the resident's last dose of Vimpat was administered on 11/24/23 at 8:00 pm. The EMAR also documented no doses of Vimpat were administered to Resident #3 from 11/25/23 through 11/30/23. Resident #3's December EMAR documented no doses of Vimpat were administered to Resident #3 from 12/01/23 through 12/06/23 with the first dose administered during 3rd shift on 12/06/23 at 8:00 pm. The Medication Administration Record (MAR) and progress notes revealed the following information for Resident #3: - 11/25/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #6 revealed Vimpat was on order. - 11/26/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #6 revealed Vimpat was on order. - 11/27/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #1 revealed Vimpat was out of stock and a prescription had been signed by the provider. - 11/28/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #2 stated, Waiting on pharmacy. - 11/29/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #2 stated, Coming from pharmacy. - 11/30/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #8 revealed the medication was not available. - 12/1/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #3 indicated the medication was not available. - 12/2/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #5 indicated the medication was not available. - 12/3/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #5 indicated the medication was not available. - 12/4/23: The MAR indicated no doses of Vimpat were administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #2 stated, On order. - 12/5/23: The MAR indicated the morning dose of Vimpat was not administered and a nurse's note written by Nurse #1 stated, Out of stock. [Director of Nursing] and provider notified. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 10:12 am with staff Nurse #4 who stated she gave Resident #3 his last dose of Vimpat on 3rd shift 11/24/23. She stated she did not call the physician as the hard prescription had been faxed to the physician before the medication ran out. A telephone interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 4:47 pm with agency Nurse #6. She stated that Resident #3 ran out of his prescription on 11/25/23, she called and faxed the physician to request a reorder on Resident #3's Vimpat. She revealed 11/26/23 was the last day she worked, and she was not aware Resident #3's Vimpat was not available. A nurse's note written by agency Nurse #2 dated 12/04/23 at 2:30 pm revealed that Resident #3 was seen this morning having seizure activity by staff during this shift. Nurse #2 indicated when she arrived at his room the resident was not showing seizure activity but wasn't answering questions like he would normally do. The note stated Nurse #2 and staff stayed by his side until resident was completely alert and responding like normal. Resident #3 was in stable condition and no further seizure activity was observed. An interview was conducted on 12/19/23 at 2:30 pm with agency Nurse #2 who had not administered the medication on 11/28/23, 11/29/23, and 12/4/23. Nurse #2 indicated Vimpat was a controlled substance, and they would need a signed prescription to reorder. She stated when the medication was not available, she called the pharmacy and was told the medication was coming on 11/29/23. She indicated when she called the pharmacy 11/29/23, she was told the medication was on its way. Agency Nurse #2 stated when the seizure medication had not arrived on 12/04/23 when she returned to work she notified the current Director of Nursing (DON) and gave her a prescription to fax to the physician. A nurse's note written by Nurse #1 on 12/05/23 at 10:14 am revealed resident resting in bed no signs or symptoms of pain, distress, or discomfort. Alert to person. Rehabilitation Aide #3 bathed and shaved resident at approximately 8:18 am. Resident displayed seizure like activity approximately 2 minutes or less in duration. And again at 10:10 am while working with therapy. DON notified. Will notify provider and family contact. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 10:16 AM with the facility's current DON who took the position on 11/27/23. The DON reported she was first made aware on 12/04/23 by Nurse #2 that Resident #3's Vimpat had not been available for administration and called the pharmacy that day. She revealed the pharmacy told her the medication was in the facility. When the medication was not found in the facility, she called the pharmacy back on 12/05/23 and was told it was found bagged up at the pharmacy. She stated the medication was delivered by the pharmacy the following day and the resident received his first dose as ordered on 12/06/23 in the evening. The DON could not explain why staff had not gone to the pharmacy to pick up Resident #3's Vimpat. The DON indicated Resident #3's medical record revealed prior to the evening dose of Vimpat administered at the facility on 12/06/23, he had last received the medication at the facility on 11/24/23. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 12:55 pm with the Administrator. He stated at the time of the issue with the availability of Resident #3's Vimpat they were in transition with a new pharmacy, the DON was new, and staff called the pharmacy, and were told the Vimpat was coming. The Administrator reported that nurses should notify the facility pharmacist when they were out of medication and notify the physician so he could sign the prescription in a timely manner. He stated he was not aware Resident #3 was out of his medication, most of the staff were from agencies and these agency staff failed to notify management the medication was not available. The Administrator indicated if medication did not arrive, staff should call the pharmacy to find out the status of the medication or call their back up pharmacy. The Administrator indicated he did not know why the medication would run out or why no one went to the pharmacy for the Vimpat. The Medical Director was interviewed on 12/19/23 at 1:58 PM and 2:16 PM. He indicated he could not recall the exact date, but he was told by staff that Resident #3 had seizure activity. He stated he could not comment on the availability of Resident #3's Vimpat. The EMS Report dated 12/05/23 indicated dispatch received the call at 2:50 pm for a resident with seizures and the EMS crew arrived at the facility at 2:57 pm and advised of Resident #3's room number. Resident #3 was found sitting up in bed and there was no nurse or medical staff available to give a report. The EMS crew had to request nursing staff to give them a report. The nurse informed EMS Resident #3 was being sent out to the hospital per physician request due to the facility not having the resident's medication (Vimpat). When asked about the resident having seizures the nurse indicated Resident #3 had 3 seizures on this date (12/5/23) at these times: 8:18 am, 10:10 am and 1:47 pm. EMS departed the facility at 3:25 pm and arrived at the hospital at 3:56 pm. No seizure activity was noted during transport. While giving a report to the hospital nurse, Resident #3 was noted to start having a seizure. A telephone interview was conducted on 12/19/23 at 12:48 pm with EMS #1. He indicated when he arrived to the resident's room there were no staff available to give report and he had to request nursing staff to give them a report. EMS #1 reported that Resident #3 was being sent out to the hospital per physician request due to the facility not having the resident's medication (Vimpat). EMS #1 stated he asked the nurse why Resident #3 went 4-5 days without his Vimpat and she could not answer, just said they did not have his Vimpat. The hospital record dated 12/05/23 revealed Resident #3 presented on 12/05/23 for prior history of seizures, had three seizures on this date and had been out of Vimpat since Friday (11/24/23). He was noted as alert, verbally responsive but confused. The hospital report indicated he was treated with Vimpat 200 mg via IV (intravenous), and no further seizure activity was noted. The record stated, Spoke with facility, reports medication has not been picked up from the pharmacy emphasized importance of [Resident #3] getting his medications as prescribed . Resident #3's diagnoses were listed as seizures, and seizure disorder. A phone interview was conducted on 12/28/23 at 1:20 pm with the facility Pharmacist #1. She indicated Resident #3's MAR documented the Vimpat ran out on 11/25/23 and on 12/05/23 he was sent to the ER for seizure activity. Pharmacist #1 stated that abruptly stopping the Vimpat for 10 days Resident #3 would have the potential for seizures. She stated the first attempted delivery the pharmacy driver hit a deer and could not deliver the Vimpat, the second attempt to deliver the driver could not find the facility and returned the Vimpat to the pharmacy. The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on 12/20/23 at 1:40 PM. The facility provided the following immediate jeopardy removal plan: 1. Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the noncompliance; Resident #3 was identified as being affected by the noncompliance. The facility failed to provide anti-seizure medication (Vimpat) ordered twice daily to Resident #3 from 11/25/23 through 12/5/23 resulting in 19 missed doses of the medication. Resident #3 experienced seizure activity on 12/4/23 and again on 12/5/23 the resident was transferred to the hospital and administered Vimpat in the ER on [DATE] and no further seizure activity was noted. Upon return to facility, he did not receive his morning dose and was not administered Vimpat again until 12/6/23 in the evening. Resident #3's Vimpat was reordered on 12/4/23 and received on 12/6/23. All other medication orders were reviewed, and medications were available on 12/04/23 by the DON. All other residents' medication orders were reviewed on 12/21/23 to ensure all medications were available and being administered as ordered. Any residents who had a medication with less than a week's supply available were reordered. This action was completed by the DON and MDS nurse. 2. 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. All full-time, part-time, prn, and agency licensed nurses and medication aides were educated by the DON on preventing medication errors included missed medications, the significant risks to residents and the consequences for not notifying the physician and DON of medications not administered so further instructions can be given to reduce the risk to residents' health per facility policy and procedure beginning 12/21/23. No licensed nurse or medication aide will work until education has been completed. Nurses are to contact the DON and physician via phone immediately when resident medication errors occur or are anticipated to occur for further instructions. All newly hired and agency staff (licensed nurses and medication aides) will be educated on preventing medication errors including missed medications, the significant risks to residents and the consequences for not notifying the physician of medications not administered so further instructions can be given to reduce the risk to residents' health per facility policy and procedure, accordingly in orientation prior to working the floor. The DON and Human resources will ensure education is complete prior to allowing staff to work the medication cart. The regional nurse will conduct weekly meetings with the DON and Administrator to provide general oversight and monitoring of corrective actions. Alleged date of immediate jeopardy removal: 12/22/23 Onsite validation of the immediate jeopardy removal plan was conducted on 12/28/23. The audit of medication orders and medication administration was verified as completed and any medications with less than a week's supply were reordered. Inservice records and interviews confirmed educated was completed as indicated and covered preventing medication errors included missed medications, the significant risks to residents and the consequences for not notifying the physician and DON of medications not administered so further instructions can be given to reduce the risk to residents' health per facility policy and procedure. The DON and the Human Resources Director verified this education is now included in orientation and they are responsible for ensuring the education is completed prior to working on the floor. The DON and Administrator are participating in weekly meetings with the regional nurse for general oversight and monitoring. The immediate jeopardy removal date of 12/22/23 was verified.
CRITICAL (K) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Administration (Tag F0835)

Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents

Based on observation, record review, interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, pharmacist and physician, the facility failed to provide effective l...

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Based on observation, record review, interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, pharmacist and physician, the facility failed to provide effective leadership and oversight to ensure systems and processes were in place as evidenced by numerous deficient practices in multiple regulatory groupings resulting in immediate jeopardy and substandard quality of care. These high severity deficiencies were in the areas of physician notification, management of change in condition, safe transportation of residents, competent nursing staff, routine and emergency medication availability, accessibility and administration. Residents #1 and #2 were not transported in the van safely using transport chairs and fastening seat belts. Resident #3 did not receive his seizure medication as ordered and experienced seizure activity. These incidents had the high likelihood of serious harm, injury, or death. These deficient practices affected three of 46 residents residing in the facility and had a high likelihood of affecting other facility residents. Immediate jeopardy began on 11/1/23 when a lack of leadership and oversight in the area of safe transportation of Resident #1 resulted in the resident falling out of the chair during transport. The immediate jeopardy was removed on 12/23/23 when the facility provided an acceptable credible allegation of immediate jeopardy removal. The facility remains out of compliance at a lower scope and severity of E (no actual harm with potential for more than minimal harm that is not immediate jeopardy) to ensure education and monitoring systems put into place are effective. The findings included: This tag is cross-referenced to: a) F580: Based on record review and interviews with staff and physician, the facility failed to notify the physician of a medical emergency when Resident # 3 had seizure activity. Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was contacted and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) where Vimpat (anti-seizure medication) was administered. The resident had no further seizure activity after receiving Vimpat and was discharged back to the facility the same day. This occurred for 1 of 3 residents (Resident #3) reviewed for notification of change. b) F684: Based on record review and interviews with staff, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, pharmacist, and physician, the facility failed to identify the seriousness of seizure activity on 12/4/23 and the need for medical intervention for a resident with a history of seizures who had not been provided with his anti-seizure medication (Vimpat) since 11/25/23. Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. Following the fourth seizure (12/5/23) the physician ordered Ativan (an antianxiety medication commonly used as a rescue medication for seizures) via intramuscular (IM) injection and the facility staff were unable to access the emergency Ativan medication supply to treat the resident in the facility. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was contacted, and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) and Resident #3 experienced a fifth seizure upon arrival in the emergency room (ER). Intravenous (IV) Vimpat was administered in the ER and the resident had no further seizure activity and was discharged back to the facility the same day. This occurred for 1 of 2 residents whose condition required Emergency Medical Services. c) F 689: Based on observation, record review, interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, the facility failed to provide safe transportation in the facility's transportation van and to ensure wheelchairs were utilized during transportation in accordance with manufacturer's instructions for 2 of 4 residents reviewed for accidents (Resident #1 and Resident #2). On 11/1/23 Transportation Assistant #1 utilized a geriatric wheelchair (a reclining chair with wheels) to transport Resident #1 and during transportation the resident slid out of the chair onto the floor of the van. Resident #1 was not injured. On 11/27/23 Transportation Assistant #1 did not buckle Resident #2's seatbelt and during transportation the resident fell out of the wheelchair and onto the floor of the van. Resident #2 reported pain in her right shoulder the following day. These incidents had the high likelihood of serious harm, injury or death. d) F 726: Based on observation, record reviews and interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, the facility failed to ensure Transportation Assistant #1, who was also a facility Nurse Aide, was trained by staff who was aware of the facility's transportation van's manufacturer's instructions for safe securement when Nurse Aide #1 provided her with training. Nurse Aide #1 was not aware that transporting a resident in a geriatric chair (a padded chair with a wheeled based) was not in accordance with the transportation van's manufacturer's instructions. In addition, the facility failed to verify Transportation Assistant #1's competency to ensure resident safety during transportation for 1 of 1 staff who transported residents in the facility's transportation van. On 11/1/23 Transportation Assistant #1 utilized a geriatric wheelchair (geri chair) to transport Resident #1 and during transportation the resident slid out of the chair onto the floor of the van. Resident #1 was not injured. On 11/27/23 Transportation Assistant #1 did not buckle Resident #2's seatbelt and during transportation the resident fell out of the wheelchair and onto the floor of the van. Resident #2 reported pain in her right shoulder the following day. This deficient practice had a high likelihood of resulting in serious harm, injury, or death to residents who were transported in the facility's transportation van. e) F755: Based on record review and interviews with staff, pharmacist, and physician, the facility failed to obtain an anti-seizure medication for a resident with a history of seizures resulting in 22 missed doses of the medication and to have staff capable of accessing the emergency medication supply to treat a medical emergency. Resident #3 was ordered Vimpat two times a day for seizures and from 11/25/23 through 12/5/23 the resident did not receive the medication as it was not obtained from the pharmacy. Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. Following the fourth seizure (12/5/23) the physician ordered Ativan (an antianxiety medication commonly used as a rescue medication for seizures) via intramuscular (IM) injection and the facility staff were unable to access the emergency medication supply. EMS was contacted and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) where Vimpat was administered. The resident had no further seizure activity after receiving Vimpat and was discharged back to the facility the same day. Upon return from the ER the resident was not administered Vimpat until the evening dose on 12/6/23 as the medication had still not been obtained from the pharmacy. This deficient practice was for 1 of 1 resident reviewed for pharmaceutical services. f) F760: Based on record review and interviews with staff, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, pharmacist, and physician interviews, the facility failed to administer an anticonvulsant medication to a resident for a period of 10 and half consecutive days and doses (11/25/23 through 12/5/23). Resident #3 had four incidents of seizure activity between 12/4/23 and 12/5/23. EMS was contacted on 12/5/23 and the resident was transported to the emergency room (ER) where Vimpat was administered. The resident had no further seizure activity after receiving Vimpat and was discharged back to the facility the same day. Upon return to the facility the resident missed one additional dose of the anticonvulsant on 12/6/23 for a total of 22 missed doses. This occurred for 1 of 1 resident (Resident #3) whose medications were reviewed. An interview was conducted on 12/20/23 at 12:55 pm with the Administrator. The Administrator reported that nurses should notify the facility pharmacist when they were out of medication and notify the physician so he could sign the prescription in a timely manner. The Administrator stated he was unaware that geri chairs were not to be used in facility transportation vans. He stated the Maintenance Director did not train Transportation Aide #1. He stated at the time of the issue with the availability of Resident #3's Vimpat they were in transition with a new pharmacy and the Director of Nursing (DON) was new. He stated most of the staff were from agencies and these agency staff failed to notify management the medication was not available. He indicated they had inconsistent communication with agency nurses. An interview was conducted with the Chief Operations Officer (COO) on 12/28/23 at 1:00 PM. She stated she was working with the Administrator and DON to ensure effective systems are put in place. The COO stated she was working with the pharmacy to correct the procedure to ensure medications were delivered on time. The Administrator was notified of immediate jeopardy on 12/20/23 at 1:40 PM. The facility provided the following immediate jeopardy removal plan with a removal date of 12/23/23. Identify those recipients who have suffered, or are likely to suffer, a serious adverse outcome as a result of the noncompliance. The facility failed to provide effective leadership and oversight to ensure effective systems and processes were in place to manage change in condition, physician notification, to ensure routine and emergency medications were available, accessible, and administered as ordered, and ensure safe transportation of residents. Residents #1 and #2 were not properly secured while being transported in the van causing them to slide from their chairs onto the floor. Resident #3 did not receive his seizure medication as ordered and facility failed to immediately notify the physician or seek emergency care for the resident when he had seizure activity. Residents #1, #2, and #3 were identified as affected by the deficient practice. All residents have the potential to be affected by the deficient practice. 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. On 12/21/23 The Chief Operations Officer reviewed policies and educated the Administrator on oversight of facility transportation including educating and monitoring drivers, safety procedures, and following manufacturers recommendation for transporting residents. On 12/21/23 The Chief Operations Officer reviewed policies and educated the Administrator and Director of Nursing (DON) on oversight of nursing staff administering medications, pharmacy processes for reordering and accessing emergency medications, identifying resident's emergency needs, reporting events through chain of command, and notifying physicians. On 12/21/23 The Chief Director of Operations reviewed policies and educated the Administrator on the requirements of F835. This education included the expectations of oversight and completion of all education and staff monitoring. This education also includes the Administrator's responsibility to maintain safe transportation and provide quality care based on the facility's quality of care policy and daily monitoring to ensure adherence to required supervision. On 12/21/23 The Chief Operations Officer reviewed policies and educated the Administrator and DON regarding reviewing the 24- hour report daily and discussing issues that need addressed through proper morning meeting communication. Ensuring all members of the facility administration team are following through with their job duties in reference to resident care and safety. The Chief Operations Officer will conduct daily calls as well as weekly on-site meetings with the facility Administrator and DON to ensure compliance with all practice standards discussed and that plan of correction is being followed. Alleged date of immediate jeopardy removal: 12/23/23 Onsite validation of the immediate jeopardy removal plan was conducted on 12/28/23. Inservice records and interviews confirmed education was completed as indicated and covered preventing medication errors including missed medications, the significant risks to residents and the consequences for not notifying the physician and DON of medications not administered so further instructions can be given to reduce the risk to residents' health per facility policy and procedure. An observation was conducted of Transportation Assistant #2 securing a resident in the facility's transportation van according to manufacturer's recommendations. The DON and Administrator were participating in weekly meetings and daily calls with the Chief Operations Office for general oversight and monitoring to ensure the plan of correction is being followed. The immediate jeopardy removal date of 12/23/23 was verified.
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

QAPI Program (Tag F0867)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on record review and staff interview the facility's Quality Assessment and Assurance Committee failed to maintain implemented procedures and monitor interventions that the committee had previous...

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Based on record review and staff interview the facility's Quality Assessment and Assurance Committee failed to maintain implemented procedures and monitor interventions that the committee had previously put in place following the recertification and complaint investigation survey of 1/11/22. The deficiency is in the area of providing oversight and leadership to ensure and maintain effective systems and processes (F835). The continued failure during two federal surveys showed a pattern of the facility's inability to sustain an effective Quality Assurance Program. Findings included: This tag is cross referenced to: F835: Based on observation, record review, interviews with residents, staff, dialysis center nurse, and Emergency Medical Services staff, pharmacist and physician, the facility failed to provide effective leadership and oversight to ensure systems and processes were in place as evidenced by numerous deficient practices in multiple regulatory groupings resulting in immediate jeopardy and substandard quality of care. These high severity deficiencies were in the areas of physician notification, management of change in condition, safe transportation of residents, competent nursing staff, routine and emergency medication availability, accessibility and administration. Residents #1 and #2 were not transported in the van safely using transport chairs and fastening seat belts. Resident #3 did not receive his seizure medication as ordered and experienced seizure activity. These incidents had the high likelihood of serious harm, injury, or death. These deficient practices affected three of 46 residents residing in the facility and had a high likelihood of affecting other facility residents. During the recertification and complaint investigation survey of 1/11/22 the facility was cited at F835 for failing to provide oversight and leadership to ensure the facility was free from abuse and to prevent and protect residents from physical abuse from another resident. An interview with the Administrator was conducted on 12/28/23 at 1:37 PM. He reported the facility attempted to correct any on-going issues that were identified. The Administrator further stated the facility had some turnover in administrative staff which may have contributed to the repeat citation. He reported he came to the facility in May 2023. He further stated there had been turnover in the Director of Nursing position and the new Director of Nursing started 11/27/23. He added the facility was utilizing agency staff which may have also led to repeat citation. The Administrator reported that the facility's Quality Assessment and Assurance committee met monthly and they looked at trends to identify issues. He further stated employees were encouraged to discuss issues of concern.
Nov 2023 1 deficiency
CONCERN (E) 📢 Someone Reported This

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

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

Deficiency F0727 (Tag F0727)

Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents

Based on record review and staff interviews the facility failed to schedule a Registered Nurse (RN) for at least 8 consecutive hours per day, 7 days a week for 10 of 63 days reviewed for sufficient st...

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Based on record review and staff interviews the facility failed to schedule a Registered Nurse (RN) for at least 8 consecutive hours per day, 7 days a week for 10 of 63 days reviewed for sufficient staffing (4/30/23, 5/27/23, 6/03/23, 6/04/23, 6/10/23, 6/11/23, 6/17/23, 6/18/23, 6/24/23, and 6/25/23). The findings included: The Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data report for fiscal year 2023, Quarter 3 from April 2023 to June 2023 was reviewed. The report indicated the facility had 4 or more days within the quarter with no Registered Nurse (RN) hours. The dates provided by the report were 4/30/23, 5/27/23, 6/03/23, 6/04/23, 6/10/23, 6/11/23, 6/17/23, 6/18/23, 6/24/23, and 6/25/23. a. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 4/30/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 4/30/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 4/30/23. b. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 5/27/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 5/27/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 5/27/23. c. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/03/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/03/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/03/23. d. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/04/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/04/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/04/23. e. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/10/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/10/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/10/23. f. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/11/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/11/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/11/23. g. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/17/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/17/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/17/23. h. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/18/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/18/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/18/23. i. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/24/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/24/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/24/23. j. Review of the facility's nursing schedule for 6/25/23 revealed no RN was scheduled to work on that date. The time sheets for 6/25/23 were reviewed and revealed no RN had worked any shift on 6/25/23. An interview was conducted on 11/21/23 at 12:30 pm with the previous Scheduler who revealed she assisted the facility with scheduling during the dates listed. She stated the facility staffing was discussed during the morning meeting with the Director of Nursing (DON), but she did not recall an RN not being scheduled for the dates listed. A telephone interview was conducted on 11/21/23 at 1:11 pm with the previous Director of Nursing (DON) who revealed she was the DON at the facility from May 2023 through September 2023. The DON stated when she was notified the facility did not have an RN for a shift, she was able to contact an agency to fill the vacancy. The DON stated the staffing sheets were discussed with the Scheduler, but she did not recall being notified by the Scheduler that the facility did not have an RN scheduled on the dates listed. During an interview on 11/21/23 at 1:30 pm with the Corporate Director of Operations and Clinical Services who revealed the facility did not have an RN scheduled for the dates listed. She stated the facility utilized agency staff to fill the vacant shifts for RN on the weekends, but she was unable to state why the facility did not have 8 hours of RN coverage for the dates listed.
Feb 2023 2 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0688 (Tag F0688)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, Rehabilitation Director, and staff interviews, the facility failed to place hand splint to ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review, Rehabilitation Director, and staff interviews, the facility failed to place hand splint to left hand for contracture management for 1 of 2 residents observed for range of motion (Resident #10). Findings included: Resident #10 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included stroke and left-hand contracture. Review of the Occupational Therapy Discharge summary dated [DATE] revealed a restorative program was established for splint and brace program for Resident #10. The Restorative Nursing Transfer Form dated 9/12/22 revealed Resident #10's treatment plan included splinting with resting hand splint 5-6 times a week for 6 hours daily for contracture management. A nursing progress note dated 10/26/22 revealed Resident #10 was transferred to the hospital for cough and congestion. Resident #10 was admitted to the hospital and returned to the facility on [DATE]. A physician order dated 11/01/22 for splint left hand, every day shift for preventive, protective covering. Monitor for redness/irritation before applying to left hand and every evening shift monitor for redness/irritation left hand upon removal of splint. Resident #10's care plan last reviewed November 2022, revealed a restorative care plan for splint/brace related to contracture to left hand with interventions which included to apply resting splint to left hand after morning care, wear for up to 6 hours per day, remove by end of first shift, and to check hand and splint area for any redness or irritation before applying and after removing splint. The Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #10 had severe cognitive impairment and had upper and lower extremity impairment. Resident #10 was not coded for rejection of care. Resident #10's Point of Care Resident Detail report (no date) revealed a resting splint for left hand was to be applied after morning care and wear up to 6 hours per day. The Point of Care Resident Detail report was a guide to the Nursing Assistant's for the care required by the resident. There was no place on this report that required the NA to document application of the resting splint for Resident #10's left hand. A review of the Medication Administration Record from 11/01/22 through 2/20/23 revealed nursing staff documented the skin was monitored for redness/irritation before and after the splint was used. An observation on 2/20/23 at 2:14 pm revealed Resident #10 did not have a splint on her left hand. Two blue hand splints were observed on the bedside table. An observation on 2/21/23 at 9:23 am, 12:27 pm, and 3:17 pm revealed Resident #10 did not have a splint on her left hand. Two blue hand splints were observed on the bedside table. An observation on 2/22/23 at 12:36 pm revealed Resident #10 did not have a splint on her left hand. During an interview on 2/22/23 at 12:45 pm Nurse #1 revealed she was required to assess her hand for redness and/or irritation before and after the splint was used, but the Restorative Nurse Aide was responsible to apply the hand splint to Resident #10's left hand. An interview on 2/22/23 at 1:58 pm the Restorative Nurse Aide revealed she no longer placed the hand splint on Resident #10 because she did not know she was still on the restorative therapy splint list. She stated when a resident was placed on restorative therapy, she received paperwork with directions for what type of care was ordered and the time frame of the care that she would document the care provided. The Restorative Nurse Aide stated the splinting required documentation of its application and there was no such documentation required for Resident #10, so she did not put the splint on. During an interview on 2/22/23 at 2:27 pm the MDS Nurse revealed the physician order for splinting to Resident #10's left hand was in place when she returned from the hospital on [DATE], so she continued the restorative care plan for left hand splint. She stated the information for the hand splinting was on the Point of Care Resident Detail report and the plan of care for Resident #10 and the Restorative Nurse Aide was able to access the information. During an interview on 2/23/23 at 10:47 am the Director of Nursing (DON) revealed Resident #10's left hand splint order may have been renewed automatically when she returned from the hospital, but she was not sure if Resident #10 was still on restorative therapy for the left hand splint. The DON was unable to state why Resident #10 would not have continued with restorative therapy for contracture management of the left hand when she returned to the facility. An interview was conducted on 2/23/23 at 12:12 pm with the Rehabilitation Director who revealed Resident #10 was ordered restorative therapy for left hand splinting, but she was unable to state if she was still on the restorative program since her return from the hospital. The Rehabilitation Director was unable to state if therapy was required to reassess Resident #10 upon her return from the hospital to continue the splinting program or if it would just continue as part of the management of her contracture. During an interview on 2/23/23 at 12:29 pm the Administrator revealed nursing management was responsible to ensure the order for left hand splinting for Resident #10 was confirmed and implemented as ordered. The Administrator was unable to state why the splinting for Resident #10 was not completed as ordered.
MINOR (B)

Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact

Safe Environment (Tag F0584)

Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations and staff interviews, the facility failed to maintain a clean and sanitary homelike environment by failing...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations and staff interviews, the facility failed to maintain a clean and sanitary homelike environment by failing to clean tube feeding poles, and floor near tube feed poles for 2 of 2 residents reviewed for receiving tube feedings. (Resident #42, and #5). The findings included: On 2/22/23 at 9:30 AM an observation of room [ROOM NUMBER] Bed B revealed the tube feeding pole legs had 5-6 dime size drops of a dried tan substance. On 2/23/23 at 9:39 AM an observation of room [ROOM NUMBER] Bed B revealed the tube feeding pole legs had 5-6 dime size drops of a dried tan substance and the floor surrounding the pole had multiple drops of a dried tan substance. On 2/22/23 at 10:23 AM an observation of room [ROOM NUMBER] Bed A revealed the tube feeding pole legs had 2 fifty cent size drops of dried tan substance. The tube feeding pole had a dried tan substance down the pole and was sticky to touch. On 2/23/23 at 9:41 AM an observation of room [ROOM NUMBER] Bed A revealed the tube feeding pole legs had 2 fifty cent size drops of a dried tan substance. The tube feeding pole had a dried tan substance down the pole and was sticky to touch. An interview on 2/23/23 at 10:00 AM the Director of Nursing indicated the tube feeding poles and floor should be cleaned daily and she would have the areas cleaned right away. An interview on 2/23/23 at 10:05 AM housekeeping staff #1 revealed he cleaned resident rooms daily and frequently checked the tube feeding poles.
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

  • "What changes have you made since the serious inspection findings?"
  • "Why is there high staff turnover? How do you retain staff?"
  • "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
  • "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Licensed and certified facility. Meets minimum state requirements.
Concerns
  • • Multiple safety concerns identified: 7 life-threatening violation(s), $190,684 in fines. Review inspection reports carefully.
  • • 27 deficiencies on record, including 7 critical (life-threatening) violations. These warrant careful review before choosing this facility.
  • • $190,684 in fines. Extremely high, among the most fined facilities in North Carolina. Major compliance failures.
  • • Grade F (0/100). Below average facility with significant concerns.
Bottom line: This facility has 7 Immediate Jeopardy findings. Serious concerns require careful evaluation.

About This Facility

What is Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center an overall rating of 1 out of 5 stars, which is considered much below average nationally. Within North Carolina, this rating places the facility higher than 0% of the state's 100 nursing homes. A rating at this level reflects concerns identified through health inspections, staffing assessments, or quality measures that families should carefully consider.

How is Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Staffed?

CMS rates Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center's staffing level at 3 out of 5 stars, which is average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 57%, which is 11 percentage points above the North Carolina average of 46%. High turnover can affect care consistency as new staff learn residents' individual needs.

What Have Inspectors Found at Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center?

State health inspectors documented 27 deficiencies at Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center during 2023 to 2025. These included: 7 Immediate Jeopardy (the most serious level, indicating potential for serious harm or death), 16 with potential for harm, and 4 minor or isolated issues. Immediate Jeopardy findings are rare and represent the most serious regulatory concerns. They require immediate corrective action.

Who Owns and Operates Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center?

Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by MAXIMUS HEALTHCARE GROUP, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 69 certified beds and approximately 53 residents (about 77% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in Rich Square, North Carolina.

How Does Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Compare to Other North Carolina Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in North Carolina, Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center's overall rating (1 stars) is below the state average of 2.8, staff turnover (57%) is significantly higher than the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (1 stars) is much below the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "What changes have been made since the serious inspection findings, and how are you preventing similar issues?" "How do you ensure continuity of care given staff turnover, and what is your staff retention strategy?" "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" These questions are particularly relevant given the facility's Immediate Jeopardy citations and the facility's high staff turnover rate.

Is Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has documented safety concerns. Inspectors have issued 7 Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death). The facility has a 1-star overall rating and ranks #100 of 100 nursing homes in North Carolina. Families considering this facility should ask detailed questions about what corrective actions have been taken since these incidents.

Do Nurses at Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Stick Around?

Staff turnover at Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is high. At 57%, the facility is 11 percentage points above the North Carolina average of 46%. High turnover means new staff may not know residents' individual needs, medications, or preferences. It can also be disorienting for residents, especially those with dementia who rely on familiar faces. Families should ask: What is causing the turnover? What retention programs are in place? How do you ensure care continuity during staff transitions?

Was Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Ever Fined?

Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has been fined $190,684 across 1 penalty action. This is 5.5x the North Carolina average of $34,986. Fines at this level are uncommon and typically indicate a pattern of serious deficiencies, repeated violations, or failure to correct problems promptly. CMS reserves penalties of this magnitude for facilities that pose significant, documented risk to resident health or safety. Families should request specific documentation of what issues led to these fines and what systemic changes have been implemented.

Is Rich Square Nursing & Rehabilitation Center on Any Federal Watch List?

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