SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION

112 HEALTH CARE DR, CARTHAGE, TN 37030 (615) 735-0569
For profit - Corporation 128 Beds SIMCHA HYMAN & NAFTALI ZANZIPER Data: November 2025 2 Immediate Jeopardy citations
Trust Grade
56/100
#94 of 298 in TN
Last Inspection: September 2019

Over 2 years since last inspection. Current conditions may differ from available data.

Overview

Smith County Health and Rehabilitation in Carthage, Tennessee, has a Trust Grade of F, indicating significant concerns with care quality. Ranking #94 out of 298 facilities statewide places it in the top half of Tennessee, but it is the only option in Smith County, so families may feel limited in choices. The facility's trend is worsening, with the number of issues increasing from 1 in 2018 to 3 in 2019. Staffing is a weakness, rated at just 1 out of 5 stars, with a 52% turnover rate, which is around the state average. While there have been no fines reported, which is a positive sign, the facility has received critical citations, including incidents where a resident was placed at risk due to improper use of physical restraints and hazards created by furniture placement around their bed, raising serious safety concerns.

Trust Score
C
56/100
In Tennessee
#94/298
Top 31%
Safety Record
High Risk
Review needed
Inspections
Getting Worse
1 → 3 violations
Staff Stability
⚠ Watch
52% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Tennessee facilities.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 20 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for Tennessee. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
○ Average
7 deficiencies on record. Average for a facility this size. Mostly minor or procedural issues.
★★★★☆
4.0
Overall Rating
★☆☆☆☆
1.0
Staff Levels
★★★★☆
4.0
Care Quality
★★★★★
5.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2018: 1 issues
2019: 3 issues

The Good

  • 4-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record

Facility shows strength in quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 52%

Near Tennessee avg (46%)

Higher turnover may affect care consistency

Chain: SIMCHA HYMAN & NAFTALI ZANZIPER

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 7 deficiencies on record

2 life-threatening
Sept 2019 3 deficiencies 2 IJ
CRITICAL (J)

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Deficiency F0604 (Tag F0604)

Someone could have died · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, facility documentation review, medical record review and interview the facility failed to ensur...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, facility documentation review, medical record review and interview the facility failed to ensure 1 (Resident #43) of 13 residents reviewed on the secured unit was free from physical restraints when a staff member placed chairs around Resident #43's bed which resulted in Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) (a situation in which the provider's noncompliance with one or more requirements of participation has caused, or is likely to cause serious injury, harm, impairment, or death to a resident). The Administrator was informed of the Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) on 9/24/19 at 3:05 PM in his office. F604 was cited at a scope and severity of J. The facility was cited F604-J which is Substandard Quality of Care. An extended survey was conducted from 9/24/19 to 9/25/19. The Immediate Jeopardy was effective from 9/18/19 through 9/24/19. An acceptable Allegation of Compliance (AOC), which removed the immediacy of the jeopardy was received on 9/25/19 at 2:10 PM and corrective actions were validated onsite by the surveyors on 9/25/19. The findings include: Facility policy review, Abuse, revised 11/28/17, revealed .Verbal, sexual, physical and mental abuse, corporal punishment, involuntary seclusion, and neglect of the resident as well as mistreatment, injuries of unknown source, exploitation, and misappropriation of resident property are strictly prohibited .This includes, but is not limited to, corporal punishment, involuntary seclusion and any physical or chemical restraint not required to treat the resident's medical symptoms . Facility policy review, Use of Restraints, revised 2007, revealed .Restraints shall only be used for the safety and well-being of the resident(s) and only after other alternatives have been tried unsuccessfully .Restraints shall only be used to treat the resident's medical symptom(s) and never for discipline or staff convenience or for the prevention of falls . Medical record review revealed Resident #43 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia with Behavioral Disturbance, Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder and Difficulty in Walking. Review of Resident #43's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed the resident had severe cognitive impairment. Continued review revealed the resident exhibited physical, verbal, and other behavioral symptoms. Further review revealed the resident rejected care. Continued review revealed the resident required extensive assist of 1 person with walking in room and corridor. Further review revealed the resident required no restraints. Continued review revealed the resident received Occupational Therapy Services and Physical Therapy Services. Review of the facility investigation dated 9/18/19 revealed an allegation of Resident #43 being restrained by 4 chairs surrounding her bed on 9/18/19. Continue review revealed the facility substantiated the allegation. Review of Resident #43's nursing Progress Notes dated 7/25/19 revealed .ambulates very short distances with walker . Review of Resident #43's Nurse Practitioner Progress Note dated 9/17/19 revealed .She walked some with family and staff assistance to the restroom . Review of Resident #43's Progress Note dated 9/18/19 at 8:30 AM by the Social Worker revealed .Resident was found with 2 chairs up against each side of her bed this morning by tech [Certified Nursing Assistant] . Review of Resident #43's Progress Note dated 9/18/19 at 9:45 AM by the Director of Nursing (DON) revealed .A CNA [Certified Nursing Assistant] notified the ADON [Assistant Director of Nursing] that upon entering the residents room she saw three regular chairs and a wheelchair setting around the residents bed enabling resident to get out of bed . Interview with the DON on 9/26/19 at 12:45 PM in the conference room when asked to clarify the progress note for Resident #43 dated 9/18/19 revealed, I documented enabling the resident to get out of bed but I meant to document preventing the resident from getting out of bed. Interview with CNA #2 on 9/23/19 at 2:42 PM in the Harmony Unit dining room when asked concerning the allegation of restraints for Resident #43 revealed, When I went into [named Resident #43] room she had chairs all around her bed; 2 chairs on each side of the bed, one being her wheelchair. She was trying to sit up in the bed. I immediately removed the chairs and got her out of bed into her wheelchair and reported the chairs being around her bed to the nurse. Interview with the Social Worker on 9/23/19 at 2:56 PM in the Harmony Unit dining room confirmed the incident involving a restraint for Resident #43 was reported to the ADON and the Administrator. Telephone interview with CNA #1 on 9/23/19 at 4:04 PM when asked about the incident with Resident #43 revealed, After [named Resident #43] was in bed she was trying to get up so I offered to get her up and she said no and if I tried to get her out of bed she would knock my head off; we had another resident running a high fever and I gave that resident a shower and after I got finished, [named Resident #43] was still trying to get out of bed so I put the chairs around her bed. Continued interview confirmed, I know it was barricading her, but I was afraid she would fall and get hurt; I knew it was a restraint but I was trying to keep her safe. Continued interview revealed, I had forgotten about the chairs; I was notified later that day the day shift staff found the chairs around her bed. Telephone Interview with Resident #43's daughter on 9/25/19 at 3:22 PM revealed when the resident was at home she would get out of bed and walk to the bathroom, living room and the kitchen. Interview with the DON and the Administrator on 9/23/19 at 3:10 PM in the DON's office confirmed the incident in which Resident #43 was restrained in her bed was substantiated. The facility's failure to ensure Resident #43 was free of physical restraints resulted in Immediate Jeopardy. The surveyors verified the AOC by: 1. The chairs were removed from around Resident #43's bed on 9/18/19. The surveyors interviewed staff and confirmed the chairs were removed. 2. CNA #1 was suspended immediately. Skin assessments were completed on 100% of the residents residing in the secure unit. The surveyors reviewed the skin assessments provided on the residents residing in the secure unit. The surveyors observed residents in the secure unit with no restraints noted. On 9/25/19 the facility's Staff Development Coordinator, Assistant Director of Nursing and the Minimum Data Set Coordinator interviewed staff regarding the use of non-standard (not approved) fall interventions on or near a resident. The surveyors reviewed staff interviews. 3. All facility personnel were in-serviced on Abuse and Resident Rights by the facility Staff Development Coordinator beginning on 9/18/19 and completed on 9/20/19. The Surveyors reviewed in-service sign in sheets and interviewed staff on each shift. The surveyors also reviewed CNA #1's personnel file which revealed CNA #1 received training on abuse/neglect and resident rights on 2/13/19. Continued review revealed a complete and thorough investigation was finished on 9/18/19 resulting in termination of Certified Nursing Assistant #1. The noncompliance of F604 continues at a scope of D level for the monitoring of the effectiveness of the corrective actions. The facility is required to submit a Plan of Correction.
CRITICAL (J)

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

Someone could have died · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, facility documentation review, medical record review, observation and interview the facility fa...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, facility documentation review, medical record review, observation and interview the facility failed to ensure 1 (Resident #43) of 13 residents reviewed on the secured unit was free from accident hazards related to chairs being placed around the resident's bed and placed the resident in Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) (a situation in which the provider's noncompliance with one or more requirements of participation has caused, or is likely to cause serious injury, harm, impairment, or death to a resident). The Administrator was informed of the Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) on 9/24/19 at 3:05 PM in his office. F689 was cited at a scope and severity of J. The facility was cited F689-J which is Substandard Quality of Care. An extended survey was conducted from 9/24/19 to 9/25/19. The Immediate Jeopardy was effective from 9/18/19 through 9/24/19. An acceptable Allegation of Compliance (AOC), which removed the immediacy of the jeopardy was received on 9/25/19 at 2:10 PM and corrective actions were validated onsite by the surveyors on 9/25/19. The findings include: Facility policy review, Hazardous Areas, Devices and Equipment, revised July 2017, revealed .All hazardous areas, devices and equipment in the facility will be identified and addressed appropriately to ensure resident safety and mitigate accident hazards to the extent possible . Medical record review revealed Resident #43 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia with Behavioral Disturbance, Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder and Difficulty in Walking. Review of Resident #43's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed the resident had severe cognitive impairment. Continued review revealed the resident exhibited physical, verbal, and other behavioral symptoms. Further review revealed the resident rejected care. Continued review revealed the resident required extensive assist of 1 person with walking in room and corridor. Further review revealed the resident required no restraints. Continued review revealed the resident received Occupational Therapy Services and Physical Therapy Services. Review of Resident #43's Comprehensive Care Plan dated 7/25/19 revealed .at risk for falls r/t [related to] gait/balance problems . Review of the facility investigation dated 9/18/19 revealed a facility substantiated allegation of Resident #43 being restrained when Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #1 placed 4 chairs around her bed on 9/18/19. Review of Resident #43's nursing Progress Notes dated 7/25/19 revealed .ambulates very short distances with walker . Review of Resident #43's nursing Progress Notes dated 8/6/19 revealed .Uses reclining chair when up out of bed due to safety/fall risk . Review of Resident #43's nursing Progress Notes dated 8/15/19 revealed .Resident was agitated and anxious pulling picc [peripherally inserted central catheter] line, trying to slide out of bed and between rails . Medical record review of Resident #43 Physical Therapy Discharge summary dated [DATE] revealed .Progress varies day to day depending on cognitive level .When patient is alert can ambulate with rollator walker up to 50 [feet] with CGA [contact guard assist] [Therapist has one or two hands on the residents body to help with balance but provides no other assistance to perform the functional task] . Review of Resident #43's nursing Progress Notes dated 8/20/19 revealed .Several attempts to stand up out of geri chair [reclining chair]. Unable to redirect resident due to her confusion . Review of Resident #43's nursing Progress Notes dated 8/27/19 revealed .several attempts to lay down in bed have been detained due to the resident trying to climb over chair/bed . Review of Resident #43's Nurse Practitioner Progress Note dated 9/17/19 revealed .She walked some with family and staff assistance to the restroom . Review of Resident #43's Progress Note dated 9/18/19 at 8:30 AM by the Social Worker revealed .Resident was found with 2 chairs up against each side of her bed this morning by tech [Certified Nursing Assistant] . Observation of Resident #43 on 9/23/19 at 9:06 AM and 10:46 AM revealed the resident lying in bed with 2 half side rails in the up position and 4 regular chairs and a wheelchair were in the room but not near the bed; 1 regular chair at the resident's left bedside, 2 regular chairs at the end of the bed by the closet, and 1 regular chair at Resident #43's roommate's right bedside and the resident's wheelchair and rollator walker at the end of Resident #43's bed. Interview with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #2 on 9/23/19 at 2:42 PM in the Harmony Unit dining room when asked concerning the allegation of restraints for Resident #43 revealed, When I went into [named Resident #43] room she had chairs all around her bed; 2 chairs on each side of the bed, one being her wheelchair; She was trying to sit up in the bed. Continued interview revealed, I immediately removed the chairs and got her up out of bed into her wheelchair. Interview with Registered Nurse (RN) #1 on 9/23/19 at 2:51 PM in the Harmony Unit dining room when asked concerning the incident on 9/18/19 with Resident #43 revealed, [named CNA #2 and #3] reported [named Resident #43] had 4 chairs around her bed, her wheelchair and 3 other chairs. Interview with the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) on 9/23/19 at 3:04 PM in the Harmony Unit dining room when asked about the incident involving Resident #43 revealed, I came over to check on the nurse during morning rounds; It was reported to me by [CNA #2] [named Resident #43] was in the bed with chairs around her bed, keeping her in the bed. Telephone interview with CNA #1 on 9/24/19 at 5:49 PM revealed, That night when I walked into [named Resident #43] room she was laying cross ways of the bed, her head on one side of the bed and her feet hanging off the other side of the bed. She was climbing out of bed. Continued interview revealed, I assisted her back to bed at that time (10:30 PM - 11:00 PM); She kept trying to get out of the bed, approximately 10 times, before I placed the chairs around her bed (around 2:00 AM). Interview with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #1 on 9/24/19 at 6:26 PM in the Harmony unit shower room revealed, [named Resident #43] has a history of climbing out of bed. Continued interview revealed, She was moved to a room closer to the nurses station related to past attempts of climbing out of bed. Continued interview revealed, We normally put a chair outside of her door and chart so we can keep an eye on her because she hangs her legs over the side of the bed. Continued interview revealed She even hangs her legs on the rails likes she's climbing. Continued interview revealed, She [named Resident #43] pulls the rails to position her body so she can dangle her legs over the side of the bed. Continued interview LPN #1 demonstrated to the surveyors Resident #43's frantic flailing and climbing motions. Interview with the Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) on 9/25/19 at 11:19 AM in the therapy room revealed, She has the ability to move her legs when she wants to; Her therapy depends on her cognition. Telephone Interview with Resident #43's daughter on 9/25/19 at 3:22 PM revealed the resident was able to get out of the bed and ambulate independently from room to room at home. Interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) and the Administrator on 9/23/19 at 3:10 PM in the DON's office confirmed the incident in which Resident # 43 was restrained in her bed was substantiated. The facility's failure to ensure Resident #43 was free from accident hazards placed the resident in Immediate Jeopardy. The surveyors verified the AOC by: 1. The chairs were removed from around Resident #43's bed on 9/18/19. The surveyors interviewed staff and confirmed the chairs were removed. 2. CNA #1 was suspended immediately. Skin assessments were completed on 100% of the residents residing in the secure unit. The surveyors reviewed the skin assessments provided on the residents residing in the secure unit. The surveyors observed residents in the secure unit with no restraints noted. On 9/25/19 the facility's Staff Development Coordinator, Assistant Director of Nursing and the Minimum Data Set Coordinator interviewed staff regarding the use of non-standard (not approved) fall interventions on or near a resident. The surveyors reviewed staff interviews. 3. All facility personnel were in-serviced on Abuse and Resident Rights by the facility Staff Development Coordinator beginning on 9/18/19 and completed on 9/20/19. The Surveyors reviewed in-service sign in sheets and interviewed staff on each shift. The surveyors also reviewed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #1's personnel file which revealed CNA #1 received training on abuse/neglect and resident rights on 2/13/19. Continued review revealed a complete and thorough investigation was finished on 9/18/19 resulting in termination of Certified Nursing Assistant #1. The noncompliance of F689 continues at a scope of D level for the monitoring of the effectiveness of the corrective actions. The facility is required to submit a Plan of Correction.
CONCERN (D)

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

Resident Rights (Tag F0550)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, facility documentation review, medical record review, observation and interview the facility fa...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, facility documentation review, medical record review, observation and interview the facility failed to maintain resident rights for 1 (Resident #43) of 13 residents reviewed on the secured unit related to a physical restraint when a staff member placed chairs around Resident #43's bed which resulted in Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) (a situation in which the provider's noncompliance with one or more requirements of participation has caused, or is likely to cause serious injury, harm, impairment, or death to a resident). The Administrator was informed of the Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) on 9/24/19 at 3:05 PM in his office. F550 was cited at a scope and severity of J. The facility was cited F550-J which is Substandard Quality of Care. An extended survey was conducted from 9/24/19 to 9/25/19. The Immediate Jeopardy was effective from 9/18/19 through 9/24/19. An acceptable Allegation of Compliance (AOC), which removed the immediacy of the jeopardy was received on 9/25/19 at 2:10 PM and corrective actions were validated onsite by the surveyors on 9/25/19. The findings include: Facility policy review, Your Rights and Protections as a Nursing Home Resident, undated, revealed .Be Free from Restraints .Nursing homes can't use physical restraints or chemical restraints to discipline you for the staff's own convenience . Facility policy review, Use of Restraints, revised 2007, revealed .Restraints shall only be used for the safety and well-being of the resident(s) and only after other alternatives have been tried unsuccessfully .Restraints shall only be used to treat the resident's medical symptom(s) and never for discipline or staff convenience or for the prevention of falls . Medical record review revealed Resident #43 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses which included Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia with Behavioral Disturbance, Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder and Difficulty in Walking. Medical record review of Resident #43's admission Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed the resident had severe cognitive impairment. Continued review revealed the resident required extensive assist of 1 person for walking in room and in corridor. Further review revealed the resident did not require restraints. Review of the facility investigation dated 9/18/19 revealed an allegation of Resident #43 being restrained by 4 chairs surrounding her bed on 9/18/19. Review of Resident #43's Progress Note dated 9/18/19 at 8:30 AM by the Social Worker revealed .Resident was found with 2 chairs up against each side of her bed this morning by tech[certified Nursing Assistant] . Observation of Resident #43 on 9/23/19 at 9:06 AM and 10:46 AM revealed the resident lying in bed with 2 half side rails in the up position and 4 regular chairs and a wheelchair in the room but not near the bed; 1 regular chair at the resident's left bedside, 2 regular chairs at the end of the bed by the closet, and 1 regular chair at Resident #43's roommate's right bedside and the resident's wheelchair and rollator walker [a walker with a seat and wheels designed to help people with disabilities move safely] at the end of Resident #43's bed. Interview with Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) #2 on 9/23/19 at 2:42 PM in the Harmony Unit dining room when asked concerning the allegation of restraints for Resident #43 revealed, When I went into [named Resident #43] room she had chairs all around her bed; 2 chairs on each side of the bed, one being her wheelchair. She was trying to sit up in the bed. Interview with the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) on 9/23/19 at 3:04 PM in the Harmony Unit dining room when asked about the incident involving Resident #43 revealed, I came over to check on the nurse during morning rounds; It was reported to me by the CNA [named CNA #2] [named Resident #43] was in the bed with chairs around her bed, keeping her in the bed. Telephone interview with CNA #1 on 9/23/19 at 4:04 PM when asked about the incident with Resident #43 revealed, After [named Resident #43] was in bed she was trying to get up so I offered to get her up and she said no and if I tried to get her out of bed she would knock my head off; we had another resident running a high fever and I gave that resident a shower and after I got finished, [named Resident #43] was still trying to get out of the bed, so I put the chairs around her bed. Continued interview confirmed, I know it was barricading her, but I was afraid she would fall and get hurt; I knew it was a restraint but I was trying to keep her safe. Continued interview revealed, I had forgotten about the chairs; I was notified later that day the day shift staff found the chairs around her bed. Interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) and the Administrator on 9/23/19 at 3:10 PM in the DON's office confirmed the incident involving a restraint for Resident #43 was substantiated. The facility's failure to maintain Resident #43's rights resulted in IJ. The surveyors verified the AOC by: 1. The chairs were removed from around Resident #43's bed on 9/18/19. The surveyors interviewed staff and confirmed the chairs were removed. 2. CNA #1 was suspended immediately. Skin assessments were completed on 100% of the residents residing in the secure unit. The surveyors reviewed the skin assessments provided on the residents residing in the secure unit. The surveyors observed residents in the secure unit with no restraints noted. On 9/25/19 the facility's Staff Development Coordinator, Assistant Director of Nursing and the Minimum Data Set Coordinator interviewed staff regarding the use of non-standard(not approved) fall interventions on or near a resident. The surveyors reviewed staff interviews. 3. All facility personnel were in-serviced on Abuse and Resident Rights by the facility Staff Development Coordinator beginning on 9/18/19 and completed on 9/20/19. The Surveyors reviewed in-service sign in sheets and interviewed staff on each shift. The surveyors also reviewed the personnel file of CNA #1 which revealed she received training on abuse/neglect and resident rights on 2/13/19. Continued review revealed a complete and thorough investigation was finished on 9/18/19 resulting termination of Certified Nursing Assistant #1. The noncompliance of F550 continues at a scope of D level for the monitoring of the effectiveness of the corrective actions. The facility is required to submit a Plan of Correction.
Sept 2018 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D)

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

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, medical record review, observation and interview, the facility failed to serve food in a safe a...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, medical record review, observation and interview, the facility failed to serve food in a safe and sanitary manner for 2 of 16 residents (#28 and #60) observed during the breakfast meal. The findings include: Review of the facility policy Dining Standards revised 11/2017 revealed .staff uses utensils, deli tissues, dispensing equipment or single use gloves to avoid bare hand contact of ready to eat foods . Medical record review revealed Resident #28 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses included Muscle Weakness, Dysphagia, and Arthropathy. Medical record review of the Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #28 required supervision with assistance of 1 person for eating. Observation on 9/24/18 at 8:00 AM in Resident #28's room revealed Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) #1 was setting up breakfast for the resident. Further observation revealed CNA #1 picked up the resident's biscuit with her bare hand, cut the biscuit in half lengthwise using a butter knife, then picked up the sausage with her bare hand and placed it between the two biscuit halves and placed it back on the plate. Medical record review revealed Resident #60 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses included Dementia, Muscle Weakness, and Adult Failure to Thrive. Medical record review of the Annual MDS assessment dated [DATE] revealed Resident #60 required supervision with meal setup only. Observation on 9/24/18 at 7:55 AM in Resident #60's room revealed CNA #1 was setting up breakfast for the resident. Further observation revealed CNA #1 picked up the resident's biscuit with her bare hand, cut the biscuit in half lengthwise using a butter knife, then picked up the bacon with her bare hand and placed it between the biscuit halves and put it back on the plate. Interview with CNA #1 on 9/24/18 at 8:01 AM in Resident #28's room confirmed she needed to put gloves on before touching the resident's food. Interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 9/25/18 at 8:22 AM in front of her office confirmed the staff needed to wear gloves when touching the resident's food.
Aug 2017 3 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0224 (Tag F0224)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, medical record review, and interview, the facility failed to prevent misappropriation of medica...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on facility policy review, medical record review, and interview, the facility failed to prevent misappropriation of medications for 1 resident (#79) of 7 residents reviewed for abuse. The findings included: Review of facility policy, Abuse, released 10/20/16, revealed .Verbal, sexual, physical, and mental abuse, corporal punishment, involuntary seclusion, and neglect of the patient as well as mistreatment, injuries of unknown source, and misappropriation of patient property are strictly prohibited .Misappropriation is defined as the deliberate misplacement, exploitation, or wrongful, temporary, or permanent use of a resident's belongings or money without the resident's consent . Review of facility policy, Drug Diversion, released 6/1/16, revealed .Oncoming and offgoing nurses complete a shift to shift count on medication cards or containers containing controlled substance medication; controlled substance medication sheets; controlled substance medications in E-kits [Emergency medications] when the E-kit has been opened .Nurses report any discrepancy in controlled substance medication counts to the Director of Nursing Service [DNS] immediately .Facility management should investigate and make every reasonable effort to reconcile reported discrepancies. Investigation included interview, medical record reviews, observation of facility practices related to handling of controlled substances; evaluate if loss is associated with or attributed to specific individuals; identify any potential negative impact on patient's condition or safety .Notify the Executive Director, pharmacy manager, and consultant pharmacist immediately .Potential theft of controlled substance is reportable to the local law enforcement agency, appropriate professional licensing board; and state agency . Medical record review revealed Resident #79 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and readmitted on [DATE] with diagnoses including Acute Pulmonary Edema, End Stage Renal Disease, Diabetes Mellitus, Bilateral Lower Extremity Cellulitis, Atrial Fibrillation, Functional Quadriplegia, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Chronic Pain, Hypertension, Arteriosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, and Congestive Heart Disease. Medical record review of the Physician's Orders dated 10/30/16 revealed Resident #79 was ordered Oxycodone/Acetaminophen (Percocet) 7.5/325 mg (milligrams) 1 tablet QID (four times daily). Review of the Pharmacy Delivery Invoice revealed 30 tablets of Oxycodone/Acetaminophen 7.5/325 mg were delivered to the facility on [DATE] and signed for by the two nurses on duty. Review of the facility investigation revealed: 1/3/17 -card of 7.5/325 mg Percocet and its narcotic sheet missing -all medication carts were checked -pharmacy was called to verify delivery 1/4/17 - complete MAR (Medication Administration Records) to cart audits were done on on all carts - pharmacy was requested to do a complete audit of delivery - part of the December narcotic shift-to-shift tracking log was also missing - interviews were completed with licensed nurses who had access to the carts - Executive Director and corporate office were notified 1/5/17 - inservices for licensed nurses on counts and drug diversion were held - police were notified - suspect nurse was terminated - suspect nurse did not show for her shift 1/4/17 at 6:00 PM - 6:30 AM nor any subsequent shifts - suspect was unable to be reached by telephone The DNS interviewed all nurses who had access to the medication cart during the period of the diversion including Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) #5, #6, #7, #8, #9 and Registered Nurse (RN #1). Questions asked included did they count; how many medication cards did they see; did they see the card count sheet; who received the drug delivery; and what was done with the drugs after delivery. Review of the Root Cause Analysis Summary revealed the delivery of the Percocet on 12/31/16. On 1/3/17 the supervisor was doing a verification of narcotics when she noted a card of Percocet and its narcotic sign sheet were missing. The narcotics were signed in on delivery by 2 licensed nurses and delivered to medication carts to be locked in the narcotic drawer. The carts were kept locked and only the nurse working that hall has the key to the cart. The cards were logged onto the card count sheet. When cards were taken out of the cart they were logged on the card count sheet and nurses signed for them. Reports from pharmacy were sent to the DNS to verify narcotic deliveries and the presence of narcotics. Narcotics were delivered; accepted; and stored correctly. The nurse signed on the narcotic sheet/card count sheet as 29 vs 30 as it should have been. The nurse was made aware of the missing drug and she began to question fellow nurses as to how it was found out. The suspected nurse became a no call no show for scheduled shifts. The suspected nurse was unable to be reached by telephone and did not return calls. The facility was unable to say definitively she was guilty but she had keys to the cart and access to the narcotics. Resident #79 had multiple cards of drugs in the cart and by changing the card count sheet with next day being a new month, the count would be correct. Interview with the DNS, on 8/2/17 at 9:25 AM in her office confirmed a card of 30 tablets of Percocet as well as the accompanying sign out sheet were missing and unable to be located. The DNS also confirmed the accused nurse refused to return telephone calls so was unable to be interviewed
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0283 (Tag F0283)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on medical record review and interview, the facility failed to provided a discharge summary for 1 resident (#98) of 22 dis...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on medical record review and interview, the facility failed to provided a discharge summary for 1 resident (#98) of 22 discharged residents reviewed. The findings included: Medical record review revealed Resident #98 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], readmitted on [DATE], and discharged from the facility on 6/7/17 with diagnoses including Chronic Heart Failure, Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 4, Coronary Artery Disease, Hypertension, Left Below Knee Amputation, Insomnia, Diabetes Mellitus Type II, Anemia, Weakness, Urinary Tract Infection, Peripheral Vascular Disease, Depression, Retention of Urine, and History of Falling. Medical record review of a Quarterly Minimum Data Set, dated [DATE] revealed the resident had no cognitive impairment. Medical record review revealed Resident #98 attended a care plan meeting on 5/10/17. Continued medical record review revealed there was no documentation of discharge planning from the facility noted during the meeting. Medical record review of a Nurse Practitioner's progress note dated 5/30/17 revealed the chief complaint was Discharge from facility. Medical record review of Physician's Orders dated 6/7/17 at 4:20 PM revealed, Transfer to [named facility]. Medical record review of Nursing Progress Notes dated 6/7/17 at 4:31 PM revealed, .here to transport resident to [named facility], all personal belongings sent with resident . Medical record review revealed no discharge summary could be found in the medical record or the electronic medical record for Resident #98. Interview with the Social Worker (SW) on 8/2/17 at 1:10 PM in the SW's office, when asked why there was no discharge summary in the resident's chart or explanation why the resident was discharged from the facility, the SW stated, It happened really quickly. I got a call from the daughter stating she wanted the resident sent back to [named facility]. The SW confirmed there was no documentation regarding the discharge in the resident's medical record. Interview with the Director of Nursing on 8/3/17 at 4:15 PM in the Administrator's office confirmed the facility failed to complete a Discharge Summary for Resident #98.
CONCERN (F)

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

Deficiency F0371 (Tag F0371)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation and interview, the facility's dietary department failed to maintain food preparation equipment in a sanitary manner and failed to maintain storage equipment in a sanitary manner. ...

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Based on observation and interview, the facility's dietary department failed to maintain food preparation equipment in a sanitary manner and failed to maintain storage equipment in a sanitary manner. The findings included: Observation on 8/1/17 beginning at 1:53 PM, with the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) present, revealed the facility failed to maintain the following food preparation equipment in a sanitary manner: 1. The can opener base had sticky blackened debris covering the exterior side of the slot of the can opener with an accumulation of sticky blackened debris dripping down the exterior sides of the slot. The interior of the can opener slot had a heavy accumulation of blackened sticky debris present. The can opener blade had an accumulation of sticky brown debris present. 2. The interior perimeter of the two convection oven doors had an accumulation of brown and black debris present. 3. The air vent in the hood had blackened debris on the vent fins. There was hanging blackened debris on the air vent fins positioned over the 6 burner range top and food was in preparation in the 2 pots on the burners. 4. The mixer was covered with a plastic bag. The mixer had white powdery residue on the beater arm, white dried splattered debris on the underside of the beater arm, and an accumulation of dried sticky brown debris on the table top in contact with the mixer feet. Interview with the CDM on 8/1/17 beginning at 1:53 PM in the dietary department revealed the plastic covered equipment meant the equipment was clean and ready to use. Further interview confirmed the facility failed to maintain the food preparation equipment in a sanitary manner. Observation on 8/2/17 from 9:03 AM to 9:13 AM, with the CDM present, revealed the dish machine was in operation with dietary staff storing dome lids and insulated bases onto the storage/drying racks. Further observation revealed the dome lid and base storage/drying racks were rusted and sticky with brown debris. Further observation of the dry goods store room revealed the can rack had an accumulation of dried debris on the rungs and the 4 food storage racks were sticky with brown debris. Interview with the CDM on 8/2/17 beginning at 9:03 AM in the dietary department confirmed the facility failed to maintain the storage equipment in a sanitary manner.
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?"
  • "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
  • "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Tennessee facilities.
Concerns
  • • Multiple safety concerns identified: 2 life-threatening violation(s). Review inspection reports carefully.
  • • 7 deficiencies on record, including 2 critical (life-threatening) violations. These warrant careful review before choosing this facility.
  • • Grade C (56/100). Below average facility with significant concerns.
Bottom line: Mixed indicators with Trust Score of 56/100. Visit in person and ask pointed questions.

About This Facility

What is Smith County's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which is considered above average nationally. Within Tennessee, this rating places the facility higher than 99% of the state's 100 nursing homes. This rating reflects solid performance across the metrics CMS uses to evaluate nursing home quality.

How is Smith County Staffed?

CMS rates SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION's staffing level at 1 out of 5 stars, which is much below average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 52%, compared to the Tennessee average of 46%. RN turnover specifically is 56%, which is notably high. RNs provide skilled clinical oversight, so turnover in this role can affect medical care quality.

What Have Inspectors Found at Smith County?

State health inspectors documented 7 deficiencies at SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION during 2017 to 2019. These included: 2 Immediate Jeopardy (the most serious level, indicating potential for serious harm or death) and 5 with potential for harm. Immediate Jeopardy findings are rare and represent the most serious regulatory concerns. They require immediate corrective action.

Who Owns and Operates Smith County?

SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION 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 SIMCHA HYMAN & NAFTALI ZANZIPER, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 128 certified beds and approximately 87 residents (about 68% occupancy), it is a mid-sized facility located in CARTHAGE, Tennessee.

How Does Smith County Compare to Other Tennessee Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Tennessee, SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION's overall rating (4 stars) is above the state average of 2.8, staff turnover (52%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (5 stars) is much above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Smith County?

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?" "Can you walk me through typical staffing levels on day, evening, and night shifts?" "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 below-average staffing rating.

Is Smith County Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION has documented safety concerns. Inspectors have issued 2 Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death). The facility has a 4-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in Tennessee. Families considering this facility should ask detailed questions about what corrective actions have been taken since these incidents.

Do Nurses at Smith County Stick Around?

SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION has a staff turnover rate of 52%, which is 6 percentage points above the Tennessee average of 46%. Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Smith County Ever Fined?

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

Is Smith County on Any Federal Watch List?

SMITH COUNTY HEALTH AND REHABILITATION 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.