Bishop Rehabilitation And Nursing Center
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Syracuse, New York.
- Location
- 918 James Street, Syracuse, New York 13203
- CMS Provider Number
- 335338
- Inspections on file
- 44
- Latest survey
- April 1, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 1
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Bishop Rehabilitation And Nursing Center during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident with rectal CA, muscle wasting, and intellectual disability sustained an unwitnessed fall and was diagnosed in the ED with a left proximal humerus fracture requiring a sling, non‑weight‑bearing status, and specific orthopedic instructions. On return, facility staff did not complete a readmission assessment, did not notify a provider of the new fracture, and did not implement or obtain orders for the sling or related care. The care plan was revised only for general mobility issues and did not mention the fracture or sling, and direct care staff and therapy were unaware of the fracture despite observing bruising, pain, and limited ROM. Although the resident had a PRN acetaminophen order, documentation showed no administration for several days, including after the resident complained of pain, indicating that services were not provided in accordance with professional standards of quality.
A resident with severe cognitive and physical impairments, fully dependent on staff for activities of daily living, was repeatedly observed with long, untrimmed fingernails containing debris. Despite facility policy and care plans requiring regular nail and hygiene care, staff did not consistently provide this care or notice the issue, resulting in a deficiency related to personal hygiene and infection control.
An LPN administered medications, including insulin and psychotropics, intended for one resident to another with dementia and heart failure, after failing to properly identify the patient. The error resulted in the resident experiencing hypoglycemia and hypotension, requiring close monitoring and medical intervention.
The facility failed to promptly resolve grievances for residents, including one with dementia and aphasia. Eleven residents reported untimely grievance responses, and a resident's family member experienced delays in resolution communication for three grievances. Despite timely investigations, the facility did not adhere to its policy of providing resolution within 7 business days, as acknowledged by the Director of Social Work and the Administrator.
A facility failed to maintain the confidentiality of 14 residents' medical records when an LPN left a Narcotics Logbook unsecured in a resident's room. The logbook, containing sensitive information, was left on a dresser for several hours. Staff interviews confirmed that the logbook should be locked in the medication cart or room to ensure confidentiality.
Two residents requiring dialysis did not receive consistent pre- and post-dialysis assessments, and there was a lack of communication with the dialysis center. The facility failed to document vital signs and treatment responses, and communication logs were often incomplete or missing. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness and adherence to the facility's dialysis management policy.
The facility failed to maintain food service standards, with two walk-in coolers out of service and unclean surfaces in the main kitchen. The issues were not documented or reported to maintenance, despite staff training to do so. This deficiency highlights a failure in maintaining a clean and functional kitchen environment.
The facility was operating an unapproved dialysis den with seven stations set up in a space not aligned with approved plans. The Administrator was unaware of the construction requirements and the approved plans until informed by the Department of Health. A resident was observed receiving dialysis treatment in this unapproved space, and the Administrator stated that the dialysis vendor was responsible for the operations and construction.
A resident with dementia and other conditions was observed to be unshaven, with visible chin and lip hair, despite expressing a desire to be shaved. The facility's policy required grooming according to resident preferences, but the resident was not shaved due to poor lighting during their shower. Staff interviews confirmed that not shaving a resident who wished to be shaved could impact their dignity and emotional well-being.
A resident's room was found to have black and gray buildup on the floor near the base of the wall, indicating a failure to maintain a clean and homelike environment. Despite daily cleaning protocols, the buildup was not addressed, and the resident expressed dissatisfaction with the cleanliness. The facility's Acting Director of Environmental Services acknowledged the oversight, noting that the buildup should have been cleaned during regular cleaning routines.
A resident with dementia and dysphagia did not have their Scopolamine patch monitored for placement as ordered, leading to increased secretions and coughing. The patch, crucial for managing oral secretions, was inconsistently checked, and there was no evidence of provider notification when it was not in place. Interviews revealed a lack of routine checks and communication among staff regarding the patch's status.
The facility failed to post daily nurse staffing information in a location that was prominent and accessible to residents and visitors. The information was placed in an enclosed glass bulletin board across from the elevators in the 918 building, approximately five feet from the ground, making it difficult for residents and visitors to access. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness regarding the proper posting requirements.
The facility failed to provide adequate pain management for three residents, leading to unresolved pain and diminished quality of life. One resident did not receive their prescribed diclofenac gel consistently, despite it being documented as administered. Another resident missed doses of Lyrica for neuropathy over three days due to a lack of communication and follow-up with the pharmacy. A third resident was not informed of their as-needed pain medication orders and was not offered these medications when in pain. These failures resulted in unmanaged pain and compromised well-being.
The facility failed to provide adequate social services for residents with mental health issues, as evidenced by deficiencies in care plans and interventions. A resident with schizoaffective disorder did not have person-centered interventions, and recommendations from a psychologist were not implemented. Another resident with a traumatic brain injury lacked follow-up on a recommended program, and a resident with dementia exhibited aggressive behavior without appropriate interventions. These failures placed residents at risk for harm, constituting Immediate Jeopardy and Substandard Quality of Care.
The facility failed to promptly notify physicians of critical lab results for three residents, leading to serious health risks. One resident was hospitalized with pneumonia and dehydration after abnormal lab results were not reviewed timely. Another resident with diabetes had a critically low blood glucose level, but no provider was notified or assessment conducted. A third resident on anticoagulant therapy had a high INR, but there was no documentation of physician orders to hold medication, and results were not reviewed until the next day.
The facility failed to ensure residents' ability to self-administer medications was clinically appropriate, affecting five residents. Medications were left in rooms without proper assessment or physician orders, placing all residents at risk. A resident with a history of substance abuse was not monitored for Suboxone administration, leading to potential misuse. Another resident had pills left at their bedside, and a visually impaired resident had eye drops left without an order for self-administration. These actions resulted in Immediate Jeopardy to resident health and safety.
The facility failed to notify physicians and resident representatives of significant changes in four residents' conditions, including medication refusals and critical health changes, leading to uncontrolled pain and hospitalization. Staff interviews revealed lapses in communication and adherence to facility policies.
The facility failed to meet professional standards in medication administration, pressure ulcer prevention, and physician notification for changes in condition. Residents were found with medications without proper assessments or orders, and some did not receive prescribed medications due to unavailability, risking serious harm. Additionally, residents with pressure ulcers were not assessed or treated timely, and assistance with daily activities was inadequate. Pain management and respiratory care were also deficient, with unresolved pain and improperly maintained equipment. Laboratory results were not reviewed or communicated promptly, leading to serious health issues.
The facility failed to provide adequate care for residents with pressure ulcers, resulting in harm. A resident with severe cognitive impairment was not properly assessed or treated for pressure injuries, leading to hospitalization with chronic sacral osteomyelitis. Another resident developed a deep tissue injury due to the facility's failure to follow orders for pressure relief boots. A third resident did not receive daily pressure ulcer care as ordered, leading to further deterioration. The report highlights systemic issues in wound care management, including inadequate documentation and poor communication among staff.
The Medical Director failed to coordinate medical care and implement resident care policies, leading to deficiencies in medication self-administration, pain management, lab services, and social services. Residents were at risk due to unresolved pain, lack of medication assessments, and delayed lab result notifications. The Medical Director had limited input in policy development, which was controlled by corporate policies.
The facility failed to provide food and drink at palatable and safe temperatures, with residents reporting dissatisfaction with the taste and temperature of meals. Observations showed significant temperature discrepancies, with hot foods not hot enough and cold foods too warm. The Food Service Director acknowledged the issues, noting that cold food was placed on trays with hot food, leading to temperature problems.
A survey found that several nurses in the facility lacked necessary competencies in medication administration, wound care, and documentation. The Facility Educator's responsibilities were not fully executed, leading to gaps in staff education and competency verification. Interviews revealed inconsistencies in training, with some nurses not receiving necessary education or observation in critical areas.
A resident with diabetes and end-stage renal disease consistently refused heparin and insulin, but these refusals were not addressed in the monthly drug regimen reviews by the pharmacists. The pharmacists conducted reviews remotely and did not check medication administration records for refusals unless it involved as-needed medications. The nursing staff did not notify medical providers of the refusals, leading to a deficiency in care.
The facility failed to maintain food storage and preparation standards, with food items in the walk-in coolers not kept at safe temperatures, leading to the disposal of perishable items. The turkey salad was improperly stored, and the main kitchen cooler was not functioning correctly, with temperatures exceeding safe limits. Additionally, uncleanable surfaces and equipment in disrepair were noted, including a rough kitchen floor and a cooler door that did not close properly.
The facility failed to manage resources effectively, impacting resident care. Residents were not assessed for self-medication, unresolved pain issues were not addressed, and mental health services were inadequate. Critical lab results were not promptly communicated to physicians, and staff training was insufficient. The administration and medical staff were not involved in policy development, leading to these deficiencies.
The facility failed to maintain an effective training program for staff, with 33 out of 36 staff files lacking documented training in key areas such as communication with non-verbal residents, resident rights, and infection control. Interviews revealed inconsistencies in training, with some staff relying on previous experience to fill gaps. The administration acknowledged the need for improved record-keeping and training beyond dementia care.
The facility failed to maintain a safe and homelike environment, with issues such as damaged and unclean surfaces, water leaks, and rodent droppings observed across multiple units. Despite having a maintenance policy, the facility could not provide work orders for these issues, indicating a breakdown in the reporting and maintenance process. Staff interviews revealed a lack of communication and follow-through in addressing these deficiencies.
The facility failed to conduct required Level II PASARR evaluations for residents with significant mental health changes. A resident with schizoaffective disorder exhibited severe behavioral symptoms without a new Screen Level I or Level II referral. Another resident with aggressive behavior and psychiatric hospitalization lacked a new Screen Level I and Level II referral. A third resident with schizophrenia had no evidence of a completed Level II evaluation despite a care plan indicating one was needed. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness and implementation of the PASARR process.
The facility failed to properly label and store medications, with issues found in two medication carts and three medication rooms. Insulin pens were not labeled with open dates, and refrigerators were outside acceptable temperature ranges, potentially compromising medication efficacy. Staff acknowledged the importance of proper labeling and temperature maintenance.
Two residents in an LTC facility did not receive necessary assistance with activities of daily living. One resident, with a history of stroke and dysphagia, did not receive ordered oral care, as evidenced by unbrushed teeth and an empty suction canister. Another resident, with Alzheimer's and weight loss, was left unattended during meals despite needing substantial assistance. Staff interviews confirmed these deficiencies, citing workload and staffing challenges.
Two residents at a facility were not adequately supervised or provided with effective assistive devices to prevent elopement. One resident, with a history of exit-seeking behavior, was mistakenly allowed to leave by a security guard who thought they were a visitor. Another resident, identified as high risk for elopement, had inconsistent documentation regarding their wander alert device. Staff interviews revealed insufficient training and communication about managing residents at risk for elopement.
A resident experienced severe weight loss due to the facility's failure to notify the medical provider in a timely manner and discuss potential interventions like an appetite stimulant. Despite policies requiring regular weight monitoring and prompt action, the resident's weight dropped significantly over several months without adequate intervention. Observations showed inconsistent meal intake, and communication breakdowns among staff delayed necessary actions to address the resident's nutritional needs.
A resident with chronic respiratory conditions did not consistently receive prescribed BiPAP treatment due to staff's lack of training and understanding of the equipment. The resident's care plan required BiPAP use at bedtime, but observations showed inconsistent application and improper mask use, compromising the treatment's effectiveness.
A resident with multiple diagnoses was transferred to a hospital without the required documentation and communication from the LTC facility. The facility failed to provide necessary medical records and information, including practitioner contact details and care instructions, during the transfer process. Despite the LPN Supervisor's efforts to gather paperwork, the hospital did not receive the transfer packet.
A resident with chronic pain did not have a comprehensive care plan for pain management, despite receiving various pain medications. The facility's care plan lacked documentation of pain management interventions, including non-pharmacological methods. Staff interviews confirmed the oversight, and the resident expressed concerns about not receiving pain medication due to Suboxone treatment.
A resident with hand contractures did not receive the ordered bilateral hand splints to prevent worsening of their condition. Despite care plans and physician orders specifying the application of splints on alternating nights, observations and interviews revealed that the splints were not consistently applied. Staff acknowledged the importance of splints in preventing contractures but failed to adhere to the care plan, resulting in a documentation error and improper management of the resident's condition.
Failure to Implement Hospital Discharge Instructions and Update Care for Arm Fracture
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure that services provided met professional standards of quality for a resident who sustained an unwitnessed fall and a left proximal humerus fracture. The resident had diagnoses including rectal cancer, muscle wasting and atrophy, and unspecified intellectual disabilities, and required substantial to maximum assistance with several activities of daily living. On admission, the resident had no history of falls in the prior six months and had normal range of motion in both upper extremities. The comprehensive care plan identified fall risk related to deconditioning and included general fall-prevention interventions such as call bell within reach, non-skid socks, anticipating needs, therapy evaluation as needed, maintaining a clutter-free environment, and toileting assistance. Following an unwitnessed fall, the resident was transferred to the hospital emergency department with a left forehead hematoma and left shoulder pain. Hospital evaluation, including imaging, identified an intraparenchymal hemorrhage to the left forehead and a left proximal humerus fracture. Orthopedic recommendations included keeping the left arm sling clean, dry, and intact; removing the sling intermittently for pendulum swing exercises and passive ROM of the shoulder; elevating the extremity; maintaining non‑weight‑bearing status to the left upper extremity; and following up with orthopedics. The resident was discharged back to the facility with a sling for conservative management of the fracture. Upon the resident’s return, there was no documented evidence that a readmission assessment was completed by an RN, that a medical provider was notified of the resident’s return and new fracture, or that hospital discharge orders were implemented. The revised care plan addressed limited physical mobility and general fall and skin‑prevention measures but did not document the left humerus fracture or the need for a sling. Nursing documentation noted the resident’s complaint of pain later that day, but there was no evidence of pain medication administration despite an existing PRN acetaminophen order and no record of its use from admission through several days after the fall. Direct care staff, including CNAs, therapy staff, and some nurses, reported they were unaware of the fracture diagnosis, did not receive instructions on sling care or transfer precautions, and did not see related orders in the treatment records, even though they observed the sling, significant bruising, limited ROM, and the resident’s pain. The NP and physician also reported they were not informed of the fracture and emphasized that they would have expected notification and review of hospital documentation upon the resident’s return.
Failure to Provide Adequate Nail and Hygiene Care for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
Resident #145, who had diagnoses including cerebral palsy, major depressive disorder, and dementia, was observed on multiple occasions with long, untrimmed fingernails containing brown and black debris underneath. The resident was assessed as having severe cognitive impairment and was dependent on staff for most activities of daily living, including personal hygiene. Facility documentation, including the care plan and Kardex, indicated that the resident required maximum assistance with all hygiene needs and did not refuse care. Despite these documented needs, staff interviews revealed that nail care was expected to be provided on shower days and as needed, but was not consistently performed. Certified nurse aides responsible for the resident's care did not notice or address the unclean and long fingernails, even though they acknowledged the importance of nail care for hygiene and infection control. The facility's policy required nail care to be provided as needed, but this was not followed for the resident, resulting in the observed deficiency.
Significant Medication Error Due to Resident Misidentification
Penalty
Summary
A significant medication error occurred when a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) administered medications intended for one resident to another. The LPN, who was new to the unit and working as agency staff, parked the medication cart between two residents' rooms, prepared medications for a resident with diabetes and other chronic conditions, but mistakenly entered the room of a different resident. The LPN informed the resident that medications and insulin were to be administered, and the resident consented. Upon returning to the medication cart, the LPN realized the error and immediately reported it to the Nurse Manager. The resident who received the incorrect medications had diagnoses including schizophrenia, dementia, congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and was not prescribed insulin. The medications administered included both long- and short-acting insulin, psychotropic, and antihypertensive drugs, none of which were prescribed for this resident. Following the administration, the resident exhibited asymptomatic hypoglycemia and hypotension, with vital signs showing low blood pressure and heart rate, as well as fluctuating blood glucose levels. The resident was lethargic and dizzy, with intermittent confusion, which was noted as baseline due to advanced dementia. The facility's policy required staff to verify the right medication, dosage, time, and method of administration, and to ensure medications ordered for one resident are not given to another. The LPN failed to correctly identify the resident before administering the medications, leading to the error. The incident was discovered and reported promptly, and the resident was closely monitored and treated for the effects of the medication error.
Delayed Grievance Resolution for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure prompt resolution of grievances for residents, as evidenced by the experiences of 11 anonymous residents and one additional resident, Resident #127. During a resident group meeting, all 11 residents reported that their grievances were not addressed in a timely manner, and they were not provided with explanations for the delays. Additionally, Resident #127's family member filed three grievances, none of which received prompt resolutions. Resident #127, who had diagnoses including unspecified dementia and aphasia related to a stroke, had a health care proxy in place. The proxy filed grievances on three occasions: on August 7, 2024, regarding tube feed administration and other concerns; on September 23, 2024, regarding medical treatment complaints; and on November 13, 2024, regarding incontinence care. The investigations for these grievances were completed within a week, but the resolutions were communicated to the resident's representative months later, far exceeding the facility's policy of providing resolution within 7 business days. Interviews with facility staff, including the Director of Social Work and the Administrator, revealed that while grievances were investigated promptly, the communication of resolutions was significantly delayed. The Director of Social Work acknowledged the importance of timely follow-up to address concerns and prevent potential medical issues. The Administrator admitted there was a breakdown in the process and was working on improving the timeliness of grievance resolution follow-up.
Breach of Resident Confidentiality Due to Unsecured Narcotics Logbook
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of residents' personal and medical records for 14 out of 29 residents on the 2 North Unit. During a recertification survey, it was observed that a Narcotics Logbook containing sensitive information, including resident names, room numbers, prescribed narcotic medications, and corresponding diagnoses, was left unsecured in a resident's room. This occurred when a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) left the logbook on a dresser in a resident's room, where it remained for several hours. The resident was present in the room, and the LPN admitted to being distracted by an incident on the unit, which led to the oversight. Interviews with facility staff, including the LPN, a Registered Nurse Unit Manager, and the Assistant Director of Nursing, confirmed that the Narcotics Logbook should be kept locked in the medication cart or medication room to maintain confidentiality. The LPN acknowledged the mistake and stated that the logbook should not have been left in the resident's room, as it violated resident confidentiality. The facility's policy on Resident Rights, revised earlier in the year, clearly documented the residents' right to privacy and confidentiality, which was not upheld in this instance.
Inadequate Dialysis Care and Communication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide consistent and appropriate dialysis care for two residents, both of whom required dialysis due to end-stage renal disease. The facility did not consistently assess the medical condition of these residents or monitor for complications before and after dialysis treatments. There was also a lack of consistent communication and collaboration with the dialysis facility regarding the care and services for these residents. Resident #14, who had diagnoses including end-stage renal disease and hypertension, required dialysis five times a week. The facility's records showed multiple instances where pre-dialysis and post-dialysis assessments were not documented. Additionally, there were missing dialysis communication logs on several dates. The facility's policy required open communication with the dialysis center and completion of a dialysis communication form, which was not consistently followed. Resident #29, with diagnoses including end-stage renal disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus, also required dialysis. Similar to Resident #14, there were numerous instances where pre-dialysis and post-dialysis assessments were not documented. The facility failed to maintain proper communication logs with the dialysis center, and there was no documented follow-up from the facility on the dialysis communication logs. Interviews with facility staff revealed a lack of awareness regarding the missing assessments and communication logs, highlighting a breakdown in the facility's processes for managing dialysis care.
Deficiency in Food Service Standards
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food was prepared, distributed, and served in accordance with professional standards in the main kitchen. During the recertification survey, it was observed that two of the four walk-in coolers were out of service for an extended period, and the working coolers had unclean and uncleanable surfaces. Specifically, the front walk-in cooler had food spills and debris under the shelving, and the produce walk-in cooler had several broken floor tiles, which were not smooth or easily cleanable. The facility's policies required that food service equipment be maintained in good repair and that staff report any equipment failures, but these procedures were not followed. The facility's work orders from September to December 2024 did not document the issues with the walk-in coolers or the broken tiles. The Food Service Director acknowledged that the cook's walk-in cooler had been out of service for a few weeks, and the Pull walk-in cooler had been down since September 2024. They also admitted that the broken tiles in the produce cooler had not been noticed or reported. Although staff were trained to report broken equipment, there was a lack of documentation and communication with the maintenance department. This deficiency highlights a failure in maintaining a clean and functional kitchen environment, which is essential for preparing meals for residents.
Unapproved Dialysis Den Operation
Penalty
Summary
The facility was found to be operating an unapproved dialysis den during a recertification survey. Observations revealed that the dialysis area had seven stations set up in a space that was not approved according to the facility's plans. The construction of the dialysis den did not align with the approved plans, as the wall was added at the wrong end of the corridor, and the double doors accessing the room were not changed. The Administrator was unaware of the construction requirements and the approved plans until informed by the Department of Health. Despite receiving the approved plans, the necessary construction was not completed. During the survey, it was observed that a resident was receiving dialysis treatment in the unapproved dialysis den. The Administrator stated that the dialysis vendor was responsible for the dialysis operations, including construction to meet the approved plans. However, the Administrator was unsure why the construction had not been completed or if the vendor intended to amend the plans to match the existing facility. The facility's failure to comply with Federal, State, and local laws and professional standards resulted in the deficiency.
Failure to Maintain Resident Dignity Through Proper Grooming
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the dignity and quality of life for Resident #110, who was observed to be unshaven with visible chin and lip hair. The resident, who had diagnoses including anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and dementia, required assistance with activities of daily living due to severely impaired cognition. Despite the facility's policy that residents should be groomed according to their preferences and needs, Resident #110 was not shaved as desired, which was confirmed during interviews with the resident and their family member. The family member, who previously assisted with shaving, had moved away and expected the facility staff to take over this responsibility. Observations and interviews revealed that the certified nurse aides were responsible for shaving residents, typically on shower days or as needed. However, Resident #110 was not shaved during their shower due to poor lighting, and the resident expressed a desire to be shaved. Staff interviews indicated that not shaving a resident who wished to be shaved could affect their emotional well-being and sense of dignity. The facility's failure to provide this basic grooming service as per the resident's preference was identified as a deficiency in maintaining the resident's dignity and quality of life.
Failure to Maintain a Clean and Homelike Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment for a resident, as evidenced by the presence of black and gray buildup on the floor near the base of the wall in the resident's room. Observations over several days revealed a persistent dirt shadow and grime extending 1 to 3 inches from the baseboard, which was not addressed by the housekeeping staff. The resident expressed dissatisfaction with the cleanliness of their room, specifically noting the dirt shadow around the bottom molding of the wall. The facility's policy required daily cleaning of resident rooms, including dust mopping and damp mopping of floors, with particular attention to baseboards to prevent buildup. However, interviews with housekeeping staff and the Acting Director of Environmental Services revealed that the buildup was not addressed during regular cleaning, and the last deep cleaning of the resident's room occurred weeks prior. The Acting Director acknowledged the oversight and stated that the buildup should have been cleaned during daily cleaning routines, but they were unaware of the issue until it was brought to their attention during the survey.
Failure to Monitor Scopolamine Patch Placement
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident received treatment and care in accordance with professional standards of practice, the comprehensive person-centered care plan, and the resident's choices. Specifically, the deficiency involved Resident #127, who did not have their Scopolamine patch monitored for placement as ordered. The Scopolamine patch, used to treat nausea, vomiting, and decrease respiratory secretions, was not consistently checked for placement every shift as required by the physician's orders. Resident #127 had a history of dementia and dysphagia following a stroke, which necessitated tube feeding and increased the risk of aspiration. The resident's care plan included monitoring for signs of aspiration and managing oral secretions with the Scopolamine patch. However, observations revealed that the resident was often without the patch, leading to increased coughing and secretions. The Medication Administration Record and Treatment Administration Record showed inconsistencies in documenting the patch's placement, and there was no evidence that the provider was notified when the patch was not in place. Interviews with nursing staff indicated a lack of routine checks and communication regarding the patch's status. Licensed Practical Nurse #33 admitted to expecting Certified Nurse Aides to inform them if the patch fell off, but this did not always happen. The Nurse Practitioner confirmed that the patch was crucial for managing the resident's secretions and should have been monitored and reported if not in place. The failure to ensure the patch was consistently applied and monitored contributed to the resident's increased secretions and coughing, highlighting a lapse in following physician orders and facility policy.
Inaccessible Nurse Staffing Information Posting
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with the requirement to post daily nurse staffing information in a location that is prominent and readily accessible to residents and visitors. During the recertification survey conducted from December 16 to December 20, 2024, it was observed that the daily resident census and nurse staffing data were posted in an enclosed glass bulletin board across from the elevators in the 918 building, approximately five feet from the ground. This location was not easily accessible to all residents and visitors, as it was not in a prominent place such as the lobby where visitors typically enter. Interviews with facility staff revealed a lack of awareness and understanding of the proper posting requirements. The receptionist was not familiar with the census and staffing document, and the staffing coordinator acknowledged that the posting was not visible to all residents and visitors due to its height and location. The Director of Nursing was unaware that the staffing information was not posted in a more accessible location, such as the lobby, and agreed that it should be visible to all residents and visitors. This deficiency was noted for all five days reviewed during the survey.
Inadequate Pain Management for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate pain management for three residents, leading to unresolved pain and diminished quality of life. Resident #28 did not receive their prescribed diclofenac gel consistently, despite it being documented as administered. The resident frequently reported not receiving the gel, which they stated helped alleviate their knee and shoulder pain. Interviews with staff revealed a pattern of signing off on medications before they were administered, and a lack of proper follow-up when the resident was not available or refused the medication. Resident #37 experienced a lapse in receiving their prescribed Lyrica for neuropathy, missing doses over a three-day period. The medication was not available in the facility's automated dispensing system, and there was a failure in communication and follow-up with the pharmacy to ensure timely delivery. The resident reported significant pain and difficulty in daily activities due to the missed medication, which was only addressed after the resident was sent to the hospital. Resident #64 was not informed of their as-needed pain medication orders and was not offered these medications when experiencing pain. Despite having orders for diclofenac gel and acetaminophen, these were not administered throughout the month, even when the resident reported pain levels as high as 10. The facility's documentation and communication failures contributed to the residents' unmanaged pain and compromised their well-being.
Failure to Provide Adequate Social Services for Residents with Mental Health Issues
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide medically related social services to help residents achieve the highest possible quality of life, as evidenced by deficiencies in the care plans and interventions for five residents with mental health issues. Resident #41, with a history of schizoaffective disorder, anxiety, and depression, did not have person-centered mental health interventions in their care plan. Despite recommendations from a licensed psychologist, the care plan was not updated to include these interventions, and there were no documented social services follow-ups after the resident exhibited behaviors such as attempting to leave the facility and expressing suicidal and homicidal ideations. Resident #126, who had a significant mental health history, also lacked person-centered interventions for their behaviors and refusals of care and medications. Similarly, Resident #153, with a traumatic brain injury and major depressive disorder, did not have the psychologist's recommendations implemented into their care plan, and there was no evidence of follow-up on the recommendation for a traumatic brain injury program. The resident exhibited aggressive behavior and medication refusals, yet there were no documented social services progress notes addressing these issues. Resident #235, diagnosed with dementia and major depressive disorder, displayed aggressive behaviors, including threatening staff with scissors, which required police intervention. The care plan did not include person-centered interventions for the resident's history of delusions and aggressive behavior. Lastly, Resident #250, with paranoid schizophrenia, did not have person-centered interventions for their behavioral symptoms. The lack of appropriate interventions and follow-ups placed all residents with mental health disorders at risk for harm, constituting Immediate Jeopardy and Substandard Quality of Care.
Removal Plan
- 100% of social work department staff educated on medically related social services.
- Post-tests reviewed.
- Staff education sign in sheets reviewed and compared to the current social work staff list with no discrepancies identified.
- Staff education verified during an onsite visit, all social work department staff interviewed to determine retention of education provided and able to accurately report content of the education.
- All five identified residents' records reviewed, and documentation reflected each had a social work assessment completed.
- All five identified resident plans of care reviewed and had updated person-centered interventions for their mental health.
Failure to Notify Physicians of Critical Lab Results
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to promptly notify the ordering physician of abnormal laboratory results for three residents, leading to serious health consequences. Resident #529 had abnormal lab results indicating possible dehydration and infection, including a high white blood cell count and high sodium levels, which were not reviewed or communicated to the medical provider in a timely manner. This delay resulted in the resident being hospitalized with pneumonia and dehydration three days later. Resident #153, who had a history of Type 2 diabetes, experienced a critically low blood glucose level of 49 milligrams/deciliter. Despite the critical nature of this result, there was no documentation that a medical provider was notified or that the resident was assessed for signs of hypoglycemia. The lab had communicated the critical result to a nurse, but the necessary follow-up actions were not taken. Resident #260, who was on anticoagulant therapy, had a high INR result indicating a risk of bleeding. The critical lab results were communicated to the facility, but there was no documentation of physician orders to hold the anticoagulant medication, and the results were not reviewed by the medical provider until the following day. This lack of timely communication and action could have led to serious health risks for the resident.
Removal Plan
- 86% of all licensed nursing staff have been educated on laboratory services.
- The remaining staff will be educated prior to the start of their next shift.
- Post-tests were reviewed.
- Staff education sign in sheets were reviewed and compared to the current nursing staff list and no discrepancies were identified.
- 100% of licensed nursing staff currently working received education.
- Staff education was verified during an onsite visit, multiple licensed nursing staff on multiple units were interviewed to determine retention of education provided and were able to accurately report content of the education.
Failure to Ensure Safe Self-Administration of Medications
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents' ability to self-administer medications was clinically appropriate, affecting five residents. Specifically, medications were left in the rooms of four residents, some of which were unidentified, and there was no documented evidence that these residents were assessed for their ability to safely self-administer medications. Additionally, there were no physician orders for self-administration of medication for these residents. This oversight placed all 248 residents at risk for serious harm or adverse outcomes, resulting in Immediate Jeopardy to resident health and safety. Resident #239, who had a history of substance abuse and was cognitively intact, was not observed by nursing staff to ensure their controlled substance, Suboxone, was taken as prescribed. The resident admitted to flushing the medication down the toilet because they did not need it. Despite receiving Suboxone daily, there was no care plan or assessment for the resident's ability to self-administer medications. The nursing staff failed to monitor the resident for the required time after administration, allowing the resident to potentially hoard or misuse the medication. Resident #64, who was cognitively intact but dependent for activities of daily living, had unidentified pills left at their bedside by a nurse who assumed the resident could take them without supervision. The resident did not take the medications because they lacked something to drink, and some pills were found on the floor. Similarly, Resident #72, who had impaired vision, had eye drops left at their bedside without an order for self-administration. The resident was unaware of the medication's presence and could not self-administer the drops. These incidents highlight the facility's failure to adhere to its policies on medication administration and self-administration, leading to potential medication errors and safety risks.
Removal Plan
- Staff will be educated prior to the start of their next shift.
- Post-tests were reviewed.
- Staff education sign in sheets were reviewed and compared to the current nursing staff list and no discrepancies were identified.
- Licensed nursing staff received education.
- Staff education was verified during an onsite visit, multiple licensed nursing staff on multiple units were interviewed to determine retention of education provided and were able to accurately report content of the education.
Failure to Notify Physicians and Representatives of Significant Changes
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure timely notification of physicians and resident representatives when there were significant changes in residents' conditions, affecting four residents. One resident did not receive their prescribed medication, Lyrica, for several days due to the facility not having the medication in stock, and the provider was not notified. This resulted in the resident experiencing uncontrolled pain. Another resident refused critical medications, including heparin and insulin, for six months without the medical provider being informed, and no assessment was conducted to determine the outcome of these refusals. A third resident experienced a critically low blood glucose level, which was reported by the laboratory, but the provider was not notified. Additionally, a fourth resident exhibited symptoms such as lethargy, loose stools, medication refusal, and poor intake, yet was not assessed by a qualified professional, and neither the medical provider nor the resident's representative was notified. This resident was subsequently hospitalized with severe dehydration. The facility's policies required staff to monitor residents for changes in condition and notify the physician and responsible party of significant changes. However, these policies were not followed, as evidenced by the lack of documentation of assessments, provider notifications, and communication with resident representatives. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of clarity and adherence to the chain of command, resulting in significant lapses in care and communication.
Deficiencies in Medication Administration and Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that services provided met professional standards of quality in several critical areas, including medication administration, pressure ulcer prevention, and physician notification for changes in condition. Observations revealed that residents were in possession of medications without documented assessments for their ability to self-administer, and there were no physician orders for self-administration. This oversight placed all residents at risk for serious harm. Additionally, there were instances where residents did not receive their prescribed medications due to lack of availability, and the medical provider was not notified, resulting in immediate jeopardy to resident health and safety. The facility also failed to provide adequate care for residents with pressure ulcers and those requiring assistance with activities of daily living. Residents with pressure injuries were not assessed or treated in a timely manner, leading to further hospitalizations. Furthermore, residents did not receive necessary oral hygiene or assistance with eating as outlined in their care plans. These deficiencies resulted in harm and substandard quality of care for the affected residents. In addition, the facility did not maintain acceptable standards for pain management, respiratory care, and laboratory testing notifications. Residents experienced unresolved pain due to missed or improperly administered medications, and respiratory equipment was not maintained appropriately. Laboratory results were not reviewed or communicated to medical providers in a timely manner, leading to serious health consequences for residents. The lack of timely notification and intervention for significant changes in residents' conditions further contributed to the immediate jeopardy and substandard quality of care.
Failure to Provide Adequate Pressure Ulcer Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary treatment and services for residents with pressure ulcers, leading to harm for several residents. Resident #826, who had severe cognitive impairment and was at risk for pressure ulcers, was not properly assessed or treated for pressure injuries. The resident developed an unstageable pressure injury to the sacral region and a deep tissue injury to the right heel, which were not documented or treated in a timely manner. This lack of care resulted in the resident being hospitalized with chronic sacral osteomyelitis and cellulitis, requiring surgical intervention. Resident #271, who had a history of stroke and diabetes, developed a deep tissue injury on the right heel due to the facility's failure to follow orders for pressure relief boots and other wound care recommendations. The resident's care plan included interventions to minimize moisture exposure and offload pressure, but these were not consistently implemented. Observations revealed that the resident often did not have protective boots on, and their wheelchair cushion was inadequate, contributing to skin breakdown. Resident #222, admitted with osteomyelitis and an unstageable pressure ulcer, did not receive daily pressure ulcer care as ordered. The facility's failure to monitor and treat the resident's wounds as per the care plan resulted in further deterioration of their condition. The report highlights systemic issues in the facility's wound care management, including inadequate documentation, lack of timely interventions, and poor communication among staff, leading to substandard quality of care for residents with pressure ulcers.
Medical Director's Failure in Policy Implementation and Coordination
Penalty
Summary
The facility's Medical Director failed to ensure the coordination of medical care with interdisciplinary teams and the implementation and evaluation of resident care policies, which did not reflect current professional standards. This deficiency was identified during an extended recertification survey. The Medical Director did not develop and implement policies and procedures to monitor the delivery of care and services to residents in critical areas such as self-administration of medication, pain management, laboratory services, and medically related social services. This failure resulted in actual harm with the potential for serious harm, classified as Immediate Jeopardy. Several residents were affected by these deficiencies. Residents were not assessed for their ability to safely self-administer medications, nor did they have physician orders for self-administration, placing all residents at risk for serious harm. Additionally, some residents experienced unresolved pain that impacted their daily functional abilities and quality of life, indicating a failure in pain management. Furthermore, residents with mental health disorders were not provided with necessary medically related social services, risking their physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. The facility also failed to promptly notify physicians of critical laboratory results for certain residents, increasing the likelihood of serious injury or harm. Interviews with facility staff revealed that the Medical Director had limited involvement in policy development and oversight, as corporate policies dictated the facility's operations. The Medical Director expressed concerns about not being heard and having no input into facility assessments or policy changes, which were managed at the corporate level.
Deficiency in Food Temperature and Palatability
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food and drink provided to residents were palatable, flavorful, and served at appetizing temperatures during the extended recertification and abbreviated surveys. Specifically, during lunch meals on two consecutive days, food was observed to be served at incorrect temperatures, with hot foods not being hot enough and cold foods being too warm. Residents consistently reported dissatisfaction with the taste and temperature of the food, with nine residents at a Resident Council meeting expressing that the food was not appetizing. Interviews with residents further confirmed these issues, with complaints about food being too tough, cold, and generally unappetizing. Observations during meal service revealed significant temperature discrepancies. For instance, on one occasion, corn was served at 115 degrees Fahrenheit, and cold items like yogurt and coleslaw were served at temperatures well above the acceptable range. Similar issues were noted on subsequent days, with cold items such as yogurt, pudding, and chocolate milk being served at temperatures between 54 and 71 degrees Fahrenheit. The Food Service Director acknowledged that the expected temperatures for hot and cold foods were not met, and the practice of placing cold food on trays with hot food contributed to the problem. The facility's policies on meal service and food temperatures were not adhered to, leading to these deficiencies.
Deficiency in Nursing Competency and Education
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that licensed nurses possessed the necessary competencies and skills to provide safe and effective care to residents. This deficiency was identified during an extended recertification survey, which revealed that 12 out of 16 licensed nurses lacked appropriate competencies in areas such as medication administration, wound care, and documentation. Specific issues included incomplete or inaccurately completed re-education for some nurses, missing skills competencies, and untimely completion of annual written competencies. The facility's job description for the Facility Educator outlined responsibilities for planning and implementing educational programs to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. However, interviews with staff indicated gaps in the execution of these responsibilities. For instance, the Assistant Director of Nursing/Nurse Educator admitted to not remembering providing education beyond orientation and acknowledged the need for better organization of employee files. Additionally, some nurses reported not receiving necessary education or observation in critical areas like medication administration and wound care. The report highlighted several instances where nurses did not have documented evidence of required competencies. For example, one LPN had documented needs for re-education that were not addressed, and another LPN was observed leaving medications at the bedside. Furthermore, interviews with various nursing staff revealed inconsistencies in the education and competency verification process, with some nurses expressing a desire for more education and others noting that they had not been observed performing essential tasks. The lack of proper documentation and follow-through on competency assessments contributed to the facility's failure to ensure that nursing staff were adequately prepared to meet residents' needs.
Failure to Address Medication Refusals in Drug Regimen Review
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a licensed pharmacist conducted a thorough monthly drug regimen review for Resident #147, as required by their policies and procedures. The resident, who had diagnoses including diabetes mellitus type 1 and end-stage renal disease, had physician orders for heparin and insulin. However, these medications were consistently documented as refused on the Medication Administration Record, and there was no evidence that these refusals were reviewed or addressed during the monthly medication regimen reviews conducted by the pharmacists. The pharmacists, identified as #92 and #93, conducted drug regimen reviews remotely using the electronic health record. They focused on checking resident allergies, medication dosing, and ensuring no duplication of therapy, among other things. However, they did not review the medication administration records for refusals unless it involved as-needed medications. The pharmacists stated that it was the responsibility of the nursing staff to notify medical providers of medication refusals, and they did not include refusals in their recommendations unless specifically asked. Interviews with the Director of Nursing and the Medical Director revealed that the medication regimen reviews should have included a review of all medications and any irregularities, such as consistent medication refusals. The medical provider was not made aware of Resident #147's consistent refusals, which could have led to significant health risks. The facility's failure to document and address these refusals in the drug regimen reviews contributed to the deficiency.
Food Storage and Safety Deficiencies in Facility Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food was stored, prepared, distributed, and served in accordance with professional standards, leading to several deficiencies in the main kitchen. During the survey, it was observed that food items in the cook's prep box walk-in cooler were not maintained at safe temperatures, with a large pan of turkey salad measuring between 47-49 degrees Fahrenheit, exceeding the safe limit of 41 degrees Fahrenheit. The Food Service Director acknowledged that the turkey salad, which contained ground deli turkey and mayonnaise, should have been kept below 41 degrees Fahrenheit and admitted that potentially hazardous food should not be out of temperature for more than 30 minutes during preparation. However, the turkey salad had been in the cooler for 15 hours, and there was no documented evidence of the recorded temperature at the time of preparation. Further observations revealed that the main kitchen front walk-in cooler was not maintaining safe temperatures, with a hanging thermometer reading 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Various food items, including dairy products and drinks, were measured at unsafe temperatures ranging from 46 to 49 degrees Fahrenheit. The Assistant Food Service Director noted that the back of the condenser in the cooler was encased in ice, potentially affecting its functionality. Despite the temperature log indicating that the cooler was checked and recorded as 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the actual temperatures of the food items were significantly higher, leading to the voluntary disposal of numerous crates and cases of milk, juices, and other perishable items. Additionally, the facility had uncleanable surfaces and equipment in disrepair, contributing to the deficiencies. The kitchen floor by the tray line and the cook's prep box walk-in cooler was rough concrete, making it difficult to clean. The pull box walk-in cooler door did not close properly, remaining ajar by about an inch. The kitchen pantry wall was in disrepair, with a fallen mop board and stained, sagging ceiling tiles. The Food Service Director admitted to being unaware of the wall and ceiling issues and acknowledged that the floor had been problematic for a long time. No work orders had been submitted for these issues until they were identified during the survey.
Deficiencies in Resource Management and Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility was found to be deficient in administering its resources effectively and efficiently, failing to ensure the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident. The administration did not properly identify, communicate, and implement policies and procedures, and was unaware of the extent of the deficient practices cited. Additionally, the facility lacked an effective training program for all staff, as necessary based on the facility assessment, and did not maintain documented records of staff completing required trainings. Several residents were affected by these deficiencies. Residents were not assessed for their ability to safely self-administer medications, nor did they have physician orders for self-administration, placing all residents at risk for serious harm. Additionally, residents with unresolved pain had their daily functional abilities, psychosocial well-being, and quality of life diminished, posing an immediate jeopardy and substandard quality of care. Furthermore, residents with mental health disorders were not provided medically related social services to attain or maintain their highest practicable well-being, again placing them at risk for harm. The facility also failed to promptly notify ordering physicians of critical laboratory results, which could lead to serious injury or death. The training program was inadequate, with no recorded completion of required trainings in areas such as communication, resident rights, abuse and neglect, and infection control. The facility's administration and medical staff expressed concerns about the lack of involvement in policy development and the corporate-driven nature of policies, which contributed to the deficiencies observed.
Deficient Staff Training Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure an effective training program for all new and existing staff, as evidenced by the lack of documented training in 33 out of 36 staff files reviewed during the extended recertification survey. The facility's assessment outlined mandatory training topics such as abuse/neglect/mistreatment reporting, fire safety, resident rights, and infection control, among others. However, the survey revealed that many staff members did not receive documented education in key areas, including communication with non-verbal or English as a second language residents, resident rights, abuse prevention, quality assurance, infection control, compliance and ethics, and mental/behavioral health. Interviews with various staff members, including LPNs, CNAs, and other personnel, highlighted inconsistencies in the training provided. Some staff recalled receiving general orientation and specific job training, while others did not remember receiving any training on essential topics such as communication with non-verbal residents or quality improvement goals. Several staff members indicated that they had to rely on previous experience or education from other facilities to fill in the gaps left by the facility's training program. Additionally, there was a lack of clarity on how to bring quality improvement suggestions to the committee, and some staff were unaware of the current quality improvement goals. The facility's administration acknowledged the focus on the plan of correction and the need for improved record-keeping for staff education. Despite efforts to provide mandatory training through town hall meetings and orientation processes, the facility's training program did not adequately address the needs identified in the facility assessment. The Director of Nursing and the Administrator admitted that while dementia care education was provided, other mental health management training was lacking, and there was no definitive system for tracking staff education.
Environmental Deficiencies in Facility Maintenance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment across multiple units and areas, as observed during a recertification survey. The survey identified numerous environmental deficiencies, including damaged and unclean walls, windows, ceilings, floors, furniture, and sinks across all eight resident floors, the main kitchen, and one of the basement floors. Specific issues included torn chairs, broken light covers, water leaks, stained and soiled surfaces, and rodent droppings. Additionally, there were reports of strong odors of urine and stool in certain areas, indicating inadequate cleaning and maintenance. The facility's maintenance policy required work orders to be submitted for any non-compliance issues, either through yellow binders at nursing stations or electronically via kiosks. However, the facility was unable to provide work orders for the identified environmental issues, suggesting a breakdown in the reporting and maintenance process. Interviews with staff revealed that while there were systems in place for reporting maintenance issues, there was a lack of awareness and follow-through, as many staff members were not informed of the environmental problems, and work orders were not consistently submitted or acted upon. Interviews with various staff members, including CNAs, LPNs, and the Director of Maintenance, highlighted a lack of communication and coordination in addressing maintenance issues. Staff members reported that they were either unaware of the issues or believed that work orders had been submitted, but the Director of Maintenance confirmed that no work orders were found for the identified problems. This lack of effective communication and follow-up contributed to the persistence of the environmental deficiencies, compromising the residents' right to a safe and homelike environment.
Failure to Conduct Required PASARR Evaluations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents with newly evident or possible serious mental disorders, intellectual disabilities, or related conditions were referred for a Level II Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASARR) as required by federal regulations. This deficiency was identified during an extended recertification survey, where it was found that three residents were not properly assessed and referred for a Level II PASARR despite significant changes in their mental health conditions. Resident #41, who had a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, exhibited severe behavioral symptoms, including refusing medication, attempting to leave the facility unsafely, and expressing suicidal and homicidal ideations. Despite these significant changes, there was no documentation of a new Screen Level I or a Level II referral. Similarly, Resident #235, who had a history of aggressive behavior and was hospitalized for psychiatric evaluation, did not have a new Screen Level I completed or a Level II referral initiated after significant behavioral changes and medication interventions. Resident #250, diagnosed with schizophrenia, was documented to have a care plan for a Level II PASARR evaluation, but there was no evidence of a completed Level II evaluation. The resident had a history of assaultive behavior and paranoid delusions, yet the necessary assessments and referrals were not conducted. Interviews with facility staff revealed a lack of awareness and implementation of the PASARR process, contributing to the oversight in addressing the residents' mental health needs appropriately.
Medication Storage and Labeling Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that drugs and biologicals were labeled and stored according to professional principles, as observed during an extended recertification survey. Specifically, two medication carts and three medication rooms were found to have deficiencies. On the A unit, a Lantus insulin pen was not labeled with the date it was opened, and the medication room refrigerator was at an unacceptable temperature of 28 degrees Fahrenheit with a white fuzzy substance on the back wall. Licensed Practical Nurse #28 confirmed the insulin pen was opened without a date, and the refrigerator's condition was unknown to them. On the 3rd floor, the medication room refrigerator was found to be at 62 degrees Fahrenheit, which is above the acceptable range. Licensed Practical Nurse #29 acknowledged the issue, stating that the refrigerator should not exceed 42 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain medication integrity. It was later discovered that the refrigerator was unplugged, leading to the high temperature, and the insulin stored there was discarded due to potential efficacy loss. On the 4th floor, a Novolog insulin pen was found with an expired open date, and the medication room refrigerator was at 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Licensed Practical Nurse #4 and the Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed the importance of labeling insulin with the open date and maintaining proper refrigerator temperatures. The maintenance staff was responsible for checking and adjusting refrigerator temperatures, but the unit staff was responsible for cleaning the refrigerators.
Deficiencies in Oral Hygiene and Nutritional Support
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary assistance with activities of daily living for two residents, leading to deficiencies in oral hygiene and nutritional support. Resident #154, who had a history of cerebral vascular accident, hemiplegia, and dysphagia, was dependent on staff for most activities of daily living and required specific oral care involving toothbrush, toothpaste, and suctioning twice daily. Despite these orders, observations revealed that the resident's teeth were not brushed as required, evidenced by a white substance around the teeth and gums, and a clean, empty suction canister. Interviews with staff confirmed that oral care was not consistently provided as ordered, and documentation was inaccurately completed, indicating care was given when it was not. Resident #226, diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and adult failure to thrive, required substantial to maximal assistance with eating due to severe cognitive impairment and significant weight loss. The care plan specified that the resident needed encouragement and cueing during meals, yet observations showed the resident was left unattended during meals without the necessary assistance. This lack of support was corroborated by staff interviews, which acknowledged the resident's need for help and the potential impact on their nutritional intake and weight status. Staff also noted challenges in providing adequate assistance due to workload and staffing levels. The deficiencies in care for both residents highlight a failure to adhere to care plans and provide essential support for activities of daily living. The lack of oral hygiene for Resident #154 and inadequate feeding assistance for Resident #226 were directly observed and confirmed through staff interviews, indicating systemic issues in the facility's ability to meet the needs of its residents as per their care plans.
Inadequate Supervision and Assistive Device Use for Residents at Risk of Elopement
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure adequate supervision and the use of assistive devices to prevent accidents for two residents. Resident #41, who had a history of exit-seeking behavior and cognitive impairments, was able to leave the facility through the main entrance. The security guard mistook the resident for a visitor and allowed them to exit, despite the resident's history of removing their wander alert device. The facility's policies on wandering residents and wander alarms were not effectively implemented, as there was no documented evidence of training provided to the security guard on identifying residents at risk for elopement. Resident #250, diagnosed with schizophrenia and moderately impaired cognition, was identified as a high risk for elopement upon admission. However, there was inconsistent documentation regarding the implementation and monitoring of a wander alert device for this resident. The resident was found in the lobby intending to leave the facility, and it was unclear whether the wander alert device was in place as ordered. The facility lacked a log of when wander guards were placed, and there was no clear documentation of the resident's initial high elopement risk score. Interviews with staff revealed gaps in communication and training regarding the identification and management of residents at risk for elopement. Security personnel and nursing staff were not adequately informed or trained on the specific needs and risks associated with these residents. The facility's failure to ensure proper supervision and the use of assistive devices contributed to the deficiencies identified during the survey.
Failure to Address Severe Weight Loss in Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident maintained acceptable nutritional status, as evidenced by the lack of timely notification to the medical provider regarding the resident's severe weight loss and the absence of discussions about potential interventions such as an appetite stimulant. The resident, who had diagnoses including major depressive disorder, diabetes, and adult failure to thrive, experienced significant weight loss over several months. Despite the facility's policy requiring regular weight monitoring and prompt action in response to significant weight changes, the medical provider was not informed of the resident's condition in a timely manner. The resident's weight dropped from 97 pounds in February 2024 to 80.2 pounds by June 2024, indicating a severe weight loss. The facility's policies outlined specific thresholds for significant weight changes and required reweighs and notifications to the dietitian and medical provider. However, there was no documented evidence that the medical provider was notified of the resident's severe weight loss or the recommendation for an appetite stimulant until much later. Interviews with facility staff revealed that there was a breakdown in communication, as the registered dietitian and diet technician expected the nursing staff to relay the information to the medical provider, which did not occur promptly. Observations during the survey period showed that the resident's meal intake was inconsistent, with many meals consumed at 0-25%. Despite the resident's high nutritional risk and the facility's awareness of the weight loss, the necessary steps to address the issue, such as notifying the medical provider and discussing potential interventions, were delayed. This lack of timely communication and intervention contributed to the resident's continued weight loss and failure to maintain acceptable nutritional parameters.
Inadequate Respiratory Care for Resident with BiPAP Needs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate respiratory care for Resident #64, who required a Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machine for breathing assistance due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic respiratory failure, and obstructive sleep apnea. The resident's care plan included the use of a BiPAP machine at bedtime, but the facility did not have a policy on its use. The resident's physician order specified detailed settings for the BiPAP machine and required monitoring of the mask placement and skin integrity every shift. Observations and interviews revealed that the resident did not consistently receive the BiPAP treatment as prescribed. On multiple occasions, the resident reported that staff did not apply the BiPAP machine at night, and when it was applied, it was not always tolerated for the full duration. Additionally, the mask used had unblocked ports, which compromised the machine's effectiveness. The resident was observed using supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula instead of the BiPAP machine. Interviews with staff, including LPNs and a respiratory therapist, indicated a lack of training and understanding regarding the proper use of the BiPAP machine and mask. The respiratory therapist noted that the resident did not refuse the treatment and emphasized the importance of the BiPAP machine for the resident's respiratory condition. However, the staff responsible for applying the mask and operating the machine were unsure of the correct procedures, leading to inconsistent and inadequate respiratory care for the resident.
Deficient Transfer Documentation for Hospitalized Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure an effective transfer or discharge planning process for a resident who was transferred to a local acute care hospital. The deficiency involved the lack of required documentation and communication with the receiving health care institution. Specifically, the resident was discharged without necessary documentation, including contact information of the responsible practitioner, resident representative information, advance directive information, special instructions for ongoing care, comprehensive care plan goals, and other essential medical information such as recent vital signs, diagnoses, allergies, medications, and recent lab results. The resident, who had diagnoses including cervical disc disorder, radiculopathy, and a displaced fracture of the right femur, was transferred to the hospital after experiencing an emergency involving vomiting and uncontrollable shaking. Despite the facility's policy requiring a transfer packet, there was no evidence that such records were provided to the hospital. The LPN Supervisor involved in the transfer stated that they completed a transfer form and gathered necessary paperwork, but the documents were not found in the hospital's records. The facility's Director of Nursing confirmed that a transfer packet was not sent with the resident.
Failure to Implement Comprehensive Pain Management Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive, person-centered care plan for a resident with chronic pain, leading to a deficiency. The resident, who had diagnoses including right shoulder and left knee pain, was receiving scheduled and as-needed pain medications, including opioids, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and lidocaine cream. Despite this, the resident's comprehensive care plan did not document pain management interventions, and there was no evidence of non-pharmacological interventions being attempted. Nursing progress notes indicated that pain medications were administered and effective, but they lacked documentation of any non-pharmacological interventions for pain relief. Interviews with facility staff revealed that the care plan should have included pain management interventions, but it was overlooked. The resident expressed concerns about not receiving pain medication due to their Suboxone treatment for opioid dependence and mentioned being advised to see a pain management specialist, although no appointment had been made. Staff interviews confirmed that the care plan was not updated to reflect the resident's pain management needs, which could impact the resident's safety and well-being.
Failure to Apply Hand Splints as Ordered
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident with limited range of motion received appropriate treatment and services to prevent further decrease in range of motion. Specifically, Resident #64, who had diagnoses including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic pain syndrome, and hand contractures, did not have bilateral hand splints in place as ordered and care planned. The resident was cognitively intact and dependent for activities of daily living, with no functional limitation in range of motion documented in the Minimum Data Set assessment. The care plan and physician orders specified that the resident should have a left grip splint applied at night on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and a right grip splint on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. However, observations and interviews revealed that the resident's hand splints were not consistently applied as ordered. The resident's family and staff members, including CNAs and LPNs, reported that they had not seen the resident with hand splints, and the splints were found stored improperly in the resident's room. Interviews with staff, including the Director of Rehabilitation and nursing staff, confirmed that hand splints were necessary to prevent worsening of contractures. The failure to apply the splints as ordered was acknowledged as a documentation error by one LPN, who incorrectly signed for the application of a right hand splint that was not ordered. The lack of adherence to the care plan and physician orders resulted in the resident's contractures not being managed as intended, potentially leading to worsening of the condition.
Latest citations in New York
A resident with dementia, severely impaired cognition, and known risk for dehydration had documented 0% meal intake over multiple consecutive meals, with CNAs recording refusals but not documenting fluids and not reporting the poor intake to an LPN or RN as required by facility policy. Nursing staff, including LPNs and RN supervisors, reported they were unaware the resident was not eating and did not assess or notify the MD despite ongoing 0% intake and the absence of a care plan addressing meal refusal or poor appetite. The resident was only assessed by an RN after a marked change in mental status and rapid decline were observed, at which point the MD was finally notified and medical interventions were initiated, resulting in a deficiency for failure to provide care in accordance with professional standards and the facility’s nutrition and hydration policies.
A resident with dementia and type 2 DM, assessed and care planned to require two staff for transfers, was transferred using a mechanical lift by only one CNA, in violation of facility policy requiring two caregivers for such transfers. The CNA, who had been trained on mechanical lift use, reported proceeding alone because they believed no one was available to help and the resident was asking to go to bed near the end of the CNA’s shift. The resident was later found on the floor near the lift with a significant leg laceration, and subsequent review confirmed the lift and sling were functioning properly while other staff reported that two aides had been working on each hallway during that shift.
A resident with Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, chronic kidney disease, severe cognitive impairment, and functional limitations had a legal representative submit a written authorization requesting copies of the complete medical record. The facility lacked a specific policy directing staff to furnish records upon resident or representative request. The Administrator responded by quoting a copy fee and requiring payment before release, and the records were not mailed until several weeks later, well beyond the required 2 working days. The Finance Officer reported that the former Administrator independently managed this request, did not send the records timely, and that staff were unaware of the 2‑day requirement, believing they had a 30‑day timeframe.
The facility failed to maintain adequate nurse and CNA staffing to meet resident needs as defined in its own facility assessment, with multiple shifts where minimum nurse coverage was not met and frequent reliance on minimal CNA staffing across units. On several overnight and day shifts, too few nurses were present to cover all units, and one nurse sometimes had to function as both supervisor and direct care nurse. CNA staffing was at or below minimal levels on most days reviewed, leading to delays in getting residents out of bed, late meal service, and missed or postponed showers. Residents reported not having enough staff available at night and difficulty getting up in the morning, while CNAs and LPNs described high acuity, incomplete or delayed cares, and inconsistent documentation due to short staffing. Facility leadership acknowledged ongoing staffing challenges, open positions, and that existing minimum staffing numbers were not adequate or safe to ensure timely completion of resident care tasks.
The facility failed to maintain safe, clean, and homelike conditions in multiple rooms on three units. One room had stained floors, a water puddle near a radiator, peeling molding, missing closet doors, bathroom stains, missing tiles, and debris in a light fixture, with no related entries in the maintenance log. Another room had a hospital bed plugged into an electrical outlet with no cover plate and exposed wires near the bed. Additional rooms had unpacked boxes, missing closet doors, broken or missing curtains and privacy drapes, and broken dresser drawers, while a resident reported long-standing broken drapes and unassembled storage they had purchased. Maintenance staff reported they relied on work orders, did not routinely enter individual rooms during rounds, and lacked needed closet doors, contributing to these unresolved environmental issues.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to ensure necessary ADL and personal hygiene care for several dependent residents. One resident with severe cognitive impairment and incontinence had no documented showers for an entire month and multiple days without recorded dressing, hygiene, toileting, or transfer assistance despite care plan requirements. Another resident with multiple sclerosis and neurogenic bladder, fully dependent for showers, had numerous missed or undocumented scheduled baths over two months and reported that showers rarely occurred and that their hair was dirty. A third resident with cognitive and psychiatric conditions, care-planned for daily support with personal hygiene, was repeatedly observed with facial stubble despite requesting shaving, and had extensive omissions in bathing and personal hygiene documentation. Staff across roles acknowledged frequent failures in CNA documentation of ADLs, citing short staffing, high acuity, and login issues, resulting in an inability to confirm whether required hygiene care was consistently provided.
Two residents did not receive adequate supervision and assistance to prevent accidents. One resident with severe cognitive and physical impairments, care planned for two-person assist with bed mobility, was provided incontinence care by a single CNA who did not review or follow the care guide, leading to a fall from bed onto a floor mat despite another nurse being available nearby. Another cognitively impaired, fall‑risk resident experienced an unwitnessed fall with a scalp laceration and back abrasion; the Accident/Incident Report was left incomplete, lacking documentation of injuries, safety measures, new interventions, notifications, and nurse signature, and staff statements omitted last‑seen times. Although a neuro check policy required extended, scheduled monitoring after unwitnessed falls or potential head injury, neuro checks and vital signs for this resident were only documented for a few hours, with no further monitoring notes for several days.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to ensure meals were palatable and maintained at safe, appetizing temperatures, and did not consistently provide appropriate condiments. Policy required hot foods to be held at or above 140°F and cold foods at or below 46°F, yet a lunch tray on one unit was served with entrée items between 95.5°F and 107.6°F and milk at 63°F. The Food Service Director and RD acknowledged that food left the kitchen hot but cooled during delayed delivery due to only one working elevator, a non-functioning plate warmer, and lack of heating pellets. A resident reported that food was usually cold and disliked. On another unit, hotdogs and french fries were served without ketchup or mustard; staff stated the facility had run out after discovering a box of ketchup packets was moldy and mustard was out of stock, and residents were instead offered mayonnaise or barbeque sauce. A resident described the food as sometimes bad, and a family member observed a sandwich with a bun that was stale and hard.
A cognitively intact resident with cerebral ischemia, anxiety, and depression was moved to a different room after continuing to receive informal assistance with ADLs from a cognitively intact roommate with anemia, anxiety, and depression, despite prior counseling to stop this practice. The facility’s own policies require at least 30 days’ written notice, inclusion of the reason and new room assignment, and consultation with the resident and representative, as well as honoring the right to share a room with a chosen roommate when practicable. In this case, the resident was only verbally informed of the move, was not given written notice or an opportunity to refuse, and the representative was not notified in advance, while leadership staff later reported they were unaware of the move and that such changes are generally discussed and not carried out if a resident objects.
Two residents experienced significant changes in condition and treatment without required notifications. For one resident with multiple fractures and hypertension, a provider ordered 0.9% sodium chloride via clysis for hydration, which was initiated and then refused by the resident; documentation showed the provider was informed of the refusal, but there was no evidence that the resident’s family representative was notified of either the start of IV fluids or the refusal. For another resident with severe pain rated 10/10, the physician adjusted pain medications, but was not notified when the revised pain regimen was ineffective, contrary to facility policies requiring timely notification of representatives and practitioners for significant changes.
Failure to Assess and Respond to Prolonged Poor Oral Intake
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure that a resident received treatment and care in accordance with professional standards of practice and facility policy regarding nutrition and hydration monitoring and response. The resident had dementia with declining mental and functional status, pulmonary venous congestion, severely impaired cognition, and required partial/moderate assistance with eating. A dietary care plan identified the resident as at risk for dehydration due to dementia and varied oral intake, with interventions to observe for signs and symptoms of dehydration and explore reasons for decreased intake. Physician orders placed the resident on a no added salt mechanical soft diet with thin liquids, later downgraded to puree solids per speech therapy. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) documentation showed that the resident had no documented oral intake from the morning of 03/14/2026 through early afternoon on 03/16/2026, totaling eight missed meals. CNAs reported that the resident had a history of poor appetite, combative behavior during care, and variable intake ranging from 25% to 75% of meals. For the relevant period, CNAs stated they documented 0% food consumption because the resident refused to eat, and they acknowledged offering fluids or juice but did not document fluid intake. They also stated they did not report the resident’s refusal to eat to the LPN, despite facility policy requiring staff to report poor intake and meal consumption of less than 50% to the nurse immediately. Nursing staff, including LPNs and RN supervisors, reported that they did not receive information from CNAs that the resident was not eating or drinking during the days in question. LPNs stated they would have encouraged intake and notified supervisors if they had known the resident was not eating, and they reported that they did not observe the resident as weak or less responsive during their shifts. The RN supervisors stated they did not receive reports of poor appetite or meal refusal and indicated that CNAs were expected to notify the unit nurse when a resident refused or did not eat. There was no care plan addressing the resident’s refusal of meals or poor appetite, and there was no documentation that a nurse assessed the resident for poor intake or that the physician was notified until 03/16/2026 at 3:44 PM, when the RN Supervisor assessed the resident with a change in mental status, rapid decline, weakness, lethargy, and minimal responsiveness, and noted that the resident had not been eating and was spitting up brown secretions. Only at that time was the physician contacted and medical interventions initiated. The facility’s own policy on Meal Consumption required CNAs to document intake percentages for each meal, record refusals and behaviors, and promptly report poor intake, and required nurses to review intake documentation daily, assess residents with poor intake, document interventions and outcomes, and notify the medical provider as indicated. The policy also required physician notification when intake was consistently less than 50% or when significant decline in intake was observed. Despite this, the resident’s extended period of no documented oral intake and repeated 0% meal consumption entries were not acted upon by nursing staff, and the physician was not notified until after a significant change in condition was observed. This sequence of inaction and lack of assessment and notification in the face of documented poor intake led to the cited deficiency under 10 NYCRR 415.12.
Single-Staff Mechanical Lift Transfer Leads to Resident Fall and Laceration
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to maintain a safe environment and provide adequate supervision during a mechanical lift transfer, resulting in a resident fall and injury. Facility policy for "Resident Transfer Using a Total Mechanical Lift" required that two or more caregivers be present and assisting at all times, with at least two caregivers having hands-on contact with the resident and the lift. The resident involved had dementia and type 2 diabetes mellitus, was cognitively impaired, and was assessed on the Minimum Data Set as needing assistance of two staff members for transfers. The resident’s care plan also documented dependence on two staff for transfers using a gait belt. On the date of the incident, the resident was transferred via mechanical lift by a single CNA, contrary to policy and the resident’s assessed needs. The CNA reported they could not find another staff member to assist, knew they should not perform the transfer alone, but proceeded because the resident repeatedly requested to go to bed and it was the end of the CNA’s shift. The resident was later found on their left side near the mechanical lift with a six-inch laceration on the left leg and was sent to the emergency room. Subsequent examination of the sling and lift by nursing leadership found the equipment to be in good working order. Staff interviews confirmed that two staff members were expected for mechanical lift transfers and that other aides had been available on the unit at the time of the incident.
Failure to Provide Timely Access to Resident Medical Records Upon Request
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide a resident’s legal representative with copies of the resident’s medical records within 2 working days of a written request, as required. The resident, who had Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, chronic kidney disease, severe cognitive impairment, required supervision for eating, moderate assistance for bathing, walked 10 feet with supervision, and was frequently incontinent of bladder and bowel, was admitted on an unspecified date. On 3/10/25, the resident’s representative completed and signed an Authorization for Release of Health Information form requesting the resident’s records from 2/14/25 to the present. The facility did not have a written policy or procedure directing staff to furnish records upon request from residents or their representatives, although a general Resident Medical Record policy dated 5/2025 stated that records would be maintained in accordance with federal and state regulations. Following the request, the Administrator sent a letter dated 4/11/25 to the resident’s representative stating that the cost of the copies would be $315.00, that payment was required before release, and that the check should be payable to the facility. The records were not mailed until 4/22/25, after the facility received payment, resulting in a delay far beyond the required 2 working days. During an interview, the Finance Officer stated they were responsible for reviewing record requests and obtaining fees before releasing records, and that in this case the former Administrator handled the request, did not date the records, and did not send them timely. The Finance Officer also stated they were not aware of the 2-day deadline and believed there was a 30-day window for providing records.
Failure to Maintain Adequate Nurse and CNA Staffing to Meet Resident Needs
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide sufficient nursing and CNA staffing to meet residents’ needs as outlined in the facility assessment and care plans. The facility assessment dated 11/12/2025 set minimum staffing expectations for three units, specifying ranges of direct care nurses and CNAs for day, evening, and night shifts. Review of staffing records from 03/20/2026 through 04/20/2026 showed that on multiple dates (03/24, 04/01, 04/05, 04/07, and 04/13/2026) the facility did not meet its own minimum nurse staffing numbers for at least one shift, including overnight shifts where only two nurses covered three units and one of those also functioned as supervisor. On 04/13/2026, day shift staffing showed only two direct care nurses for three units, with one nurse covering two units. CNA staffing was also at or below the facility’s minimal numbers on at least one unit and one shift on 28 of the 30 days reviewed, including overnight shifts with as few as three CNAs for the entire facility. Residents and staff reported that this staffing pattern affected the timeliness and completeness of care. One resident stated there were not enough staff to get people up in the morning and that food arrived cold because tray delivery took too long. Another resident, observed in bed in a hospital gown in the early afternoon, reported that staffing was poor, that no one was around at night, and that there were days when they could not get out of bed. During a morning observation on Unit 200, at a time when breakfast was scheduled for 8:00 AM, the breakfast cart was still on the unit at 9:15 AM, most residents were eating in their rooms, and 28 of 39 residents remained in bed or in hospital gowns, despite four CNAs being scheduled. Multiple CNAs and nurses described difficulty completing required cares and documentation due to short staffing and high acuity. CNAs reported that working with only three CNAs on a unit was challenging and that when only two CNAs were present, showers might not be completed as scheduled and would have to be made up on better-staffed days. One CNA stated they did not always document all resident cares each shift because of lack of time and short staffing, and that some cares were performed late in the shift or left for the next shift. An LPN acknowledged awareness that CNA documentation was frequently incomplete and that short staffing delayed cares, particularly on a high-acuity unit. Another LPN reported that there were two CNAs overnight on one occasion and sometimes only one, describing those nights as very challenging. Facility leadership, including the HR/Staffing Manager, Administrator, and DON, confirmed that staffing was a challenge, that there were open nurse and CNA positions, that minimum staffing levels were sometimes not met, and that the DON did not believe the current minimum staffing numbers were adequate or safe to ensure completion of resident cares such as showers.
Failure to Maintain Safe, Clean, and Homelike Resident Rooms Across Three Units
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to maintain a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment across three units, as required by its Resident Rights policy and 10NYCRR 415.15(h)(1). On Unit 2, one room had multiple unresolved environmental issues, including floor stains on both sides of the bed, a puddle of water near the radiator, a large spackle stain above the bed, spackle residue above the sink, peeling molding under the window, and a missing closet door. In the bathroom of the same room, there were brown stains on the toilet, three missing wall tiles, brown stains on the ceiling, and insect or debris accumulation inside the light fixture. Review of the Unit 2 maintenance logbook showed no documentation of needed repairs for this room, despite these conditions being present. On Unit 1, another room had a hospital bed electrical power cord plugged into an electrical outlet that lacked a cover plate, leaving exposed wires in close proximity to the resident’s bed. The Maintenance Supervisor acknowledged that the outlet cover was missing and that someone had likely changed the outlet and failed to replace the cover plate, and also acknowledged awareness that having exposed wires so close to the bed was not good. These observations showed that the facility did not ensure that electrical fixtures in resident rooms were maintained in a safe condition. On Unit 3, several rooms had environmental deficiencies related to privacy and furniture condition. One room contained unpacked cardboard boxes piled along the wall by the closet, had no closet doors so that all items in the closet were exposed, and had drapes that were not fully affixed to the track; the resident in that room stated they had many boxes and belongings they wanted to put away, had purchased a shelf that had not yet been assembled, and that the drapes had been broken since their arrival. Additional rooms on Unit 3 were observed with no curtains or blinds, curtains falling with rods loose and hems coming out, a broken privacy curtain with missing clips, window curtains falling apart, and broken dresser drawers. Maintenance leadership reported that they rounded on units daily but did not routinely go into individual rooms, relied on work orders for specific repairs, and that closet doors for at least one room were not available and would need to be ordered, indicating that these room-specific issues had not been identified or addressed through the existing process.
Failure to Provide and Document Required ADL and Hygiene Care for Multiple Residents
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure that residents who were unable to carry out activities of daily living (ADLs) received necessary services to maintain personal hygiene, as required by facility policy. For one resident with severe cognitive impairment, diabetes mellitus, Wernicke’s encephalopathy, and bowel and bladder incontinence, certified nurse aide (CNA) documentation showed that the resident did not receive a shower during an entire month and had no recorded assistance with dressing, personal hygiene, toileting, CNA care, or skin checks for many days, as well as missing transfer documentation on multiple days. The resident’s care plans required monitoring of skin during toileting and diaper changes every two to four hours, but the CNA record did not reflect consistent provision or documentation of these cares. Another resident with multiple sclerosis, neurogenic bladder, and anxiety, who was cognitively intact and dependent on staff for showers, had multiple omissions in the CNA accountability records for scheduled bathing across two consecutive months. The resident reported that showers rarely occurred as scheduled and that they often received bed baths instead, while expressing a desire to receive showers as planned. On one observation, the resident arrived for a group activity stating they had not received their shower and complained of dirty hair, which appeared greasy. Staff interviews confirmed that showers were scheduled once or twice weekly and that documentation showed numerous unsigned bathing entries for this resident on scheduled shower days. A third resident with metabolic encephalopathy, unspecified psychosis, and respiratory failure had a care plan documenting self-care deficits in personal hygiene related to cognitive status and medical condition, requiring daily staff support and supervision for personal hygiene and bathing. This resident was observed on two separate occasions with visible scruffy stubble on the face and stated a desire to be shaved. The CNA accountability record for this resident showed omissions for bathing over most of the month and omissions for personal hygiene on numerous days. Staff reported that shaving was typically offered on assigned shower days and that shaving would be documented under personal hygiene, but the record reflected extensive lack of documentation for both bathing and personal hygiene tasks. Across these cases, multiple staff, including CNAs, LPNs, a registered nurse supervisor, and the director of nursing, acknowledged ongoing problems with CNA documentation of ADL care in the electronic medical record. CNAs reported not always documenting all resident care each shift due to lack of time, short staffing, high acuity, and login/password issues, and stated that some cares were performed late or left for the next shift. Nursing staff and leadership stated they were aware that CNA tasks were frequently not documented, that when tasks were not documented it could not be determined if they were completed, and that this issue had been a known problem within the facility. These observations and records demonstrated that residents dependent on staff for ADLs did not consistently receive or have documented showers, personal hygiene, toileting, and related care as required by facility policy and resident care plans. The facility’s written policies required that residents be maintained at the highest practicable level of well-being and receive hygienic care at routine intervals and as needed, and that CNAs document ADL performance each shift in the electronic medical record, including bathing/showers, personal hygiene, toileting, dressing, transfers, skin condition, and safety interventions. The policies also assigned oversight of CNA documentation to nursing leadership. Despite these policies, the survey findings showed repeated omissions in ADL care documentation for multiple residents, resident reports of missed showers and desired shaving not being provided as requested, and staff acknowledgment that short staffing and other barriers interfered with both the provision and documentation of required ADL and hygiene care.
Failure to Follow Care Plans and Post-Fall Protocols Resulting in Inadequate Supervision and Monitoring
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure adequate supervision and assistance to prevent accidents for two residents with significant cognitive and physical impairments. One resident with diabetes mellitus, cerebrovascular accident, adult failure to thrive, severe cognitive impairment, and physical limitations on one side required total assistance for bed mobility and was care planned for two-person assistance with bed mobility and transfers. The resident’s CNA care guide and care plans documented a need for two staff for bed mobility and total dependence for toileting hygiene. Despite these documented requirements, a CNA provided incontinence care alone, without obtaining a second staff member, and the resident slipped off the bed while on their side and fell onto a floor mat. The CNA did not check the care guide or follow the care plan, even though another nurse was immediately available outside the room who could have assisted. The second resident had diagnoses including diabetes mellitus, Wernicke’s encephalopathy, and cognitive communication deficit, with a quarterly MDS documenting severe cognitive impairment, fall risk, and a need for supervision/touch assistance for chair-to-bed transfers. This resident sustained an unwitnessed fall in their room and was found on the floor beside the bed, unable to describe the event due to poor cognition. The Accident/Incident Report for this fall was incomplete: it did not document the injuries sustained, did not record whether safety or preventive measures were in place, did not list new interventions to minimize recurrence, did not document notification of the resident representative or physician/NP, and lacked a nurse’s signature. Staff statements did not include the time the resident was last seen or when care was last provided, and there were no additional statements beyond those of three CNAs. Facility policies required thorough investigation and documentation of all accidents/incidents, including evaluation for injury, physician notification, and forwarding of the Accident/Incident Report to the Medical Director and Administrator for review and signatures. A separate neurological check policy required immediate and ongoing neuro checks after any unwitnessed fall or potential head injury, with a specific schedule and minimum monitoring duration. For the second resident, neuro checks and vital signs were documented only from late afternoon through mid-evening on the day of the fall, with no documentation after that time despite the policy’s extended monitoring requirements. The resident’s blood pressure was not recorded after the early part of the monitoring period, and there were no nursing notes or evidence of continued monitoring for several days following the fall, despite the resident having a scalp laceration, abrasion, and complaint of head pain at the time of the incident.
Failure to Maintain Food Palatability, Temperature, and Condiment Availability
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide residents with food and drink that were palatable and maintained at safe, appetizing temperatures, as required by facility policy. The facility’s dietary policy specified that hot foods should be held at or above 140°F and cold foods at or below 46°F. During a lunch observation on Unit 1, surveyors measured the temperature of the last tray served and found the chicken parmesan at 107.6°F, pasta at 95.5°F, green beans at 105°F, and milk at 63°F, all outside the facility’s stated standards. The Food Service Director acknowledged that food was hot in the kitchen but cooled during delayed delivery to the units due to having only one working elevator, a non-functioning plate warmer, and the absence of heating pellets under plates. A resident reported that most of the food served was always cold and that they did not like it but felt they had to eat it. The deficiency also includes failure to provide appropriate condiments for a meal, affecting the palatability of the food. During a lunch meal on Unit 3, residents were served hotdogs and french fries without ketchup or mustard, and multiple residents requested these condiments. Staff reported the facility was out of ketchup and mustard, offering mayonnaise or barbeque sauce instead. The Food Service Director stated that a box of ketchup packets had been opened before tray line and found to be moldy, with no additional ketchup available, and that mustard packets were out of stock when an order was placed. The Director also stated they had to follow a budget and did not maintain an extra supply of condiments. A resident stated the food was sometimes bad, and a family member reported seeing a sandwich by a resident’s bed with a bun that was stale and rock hard. The Registered Dietitian noted that while food quality was generally good, they knew the food was cold due to slow delivery, and the Administrator stated the facility had no problem obtaining needed food items.
Failure to Provide Required Notice and Consultation Before Resident Room Change
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to honor a resident’s right to receive written notice and be consulted before a room change, as required by facility policy and resident rights regulations. The facility’s Room Changes policy states that residents must receive at least 30 days’ notice before any planned room change, except in emergencies, and that the notice must include the reason for the change and the new room assignment. The policy also requires consultation with the resident and their representative, and affirms the resident’s right to refuse a room change made for staff convenience or that moves them outside a distinct part of the nursing home. The Resident Rights policy further states that residents have the right to share a room with a roommate of choice when practicable, if both live in the same facility and agree. Resident #43, who was cognitively intact per the MDS and had diagnoses including cerebral ischemia, anxiety, and depression, had been rooming with Resident #129, who was also cognitively intact and had diagnoses including anemia, anxiety, and depression. A social worker note documented that on 07/24/2025, Resident #43 was counseled about maintaining appropriate boundaries and reminded that their roommate should not provide or assist with any aspects of care, including physical assistance or hygiene tasks, and Resident #43 agreed to refrain from asking or accepting such help. Despite this, a subsequent social worker note on 08/07/2025 documented that a room change occurred that day due to safety concerns related to Resident #43’s non-compliance with seeking physical assistance from their roommate. Interviews and documentation showed that the room change was carried out without written notice to Resident #43 or their representative, and without offering the opportunity to disagree or decline the move. Resident #43 reported being verbally informed of the room change because the roommate was helping with activities such as putting on shoes and retrieving items from the closet, and was observed to be tearful about being separated. Resident #129 stated they were helping with tasks like getting items from the closet but were never asked about the move and that the residents were “just separated.” Resident Representative #1 stated they were never informed of the room change by facility staff and only learned of it when the resident called them in distress. RN #6 confirmed the residents were separated after both had been educated not to assist with care and stated that the social worker notified families, but could not specify when, while the Director of Social Work and DON both reported they were unaware of the move and indicated that, in general, moves are discussed in meetings and not done if a resident objects. No written notice or documented consultation consistent with policy was evident prior to the room change.
Failure to Notify Representative and Physician of Significant Changes in Condition and Treatment
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to follow its own policies requiring timely notification of residents’ representatives and practitioners when there is a significant change in condition or treatment. The facility’s “Notification of Families” policy directs nursing staff and supervisors to inform residents’ primary contacts or legal representatives of significant changes in physical status, significant alterations in treatment, and decisions related to transfers or other major events. The “Change of Condition” policy requires staff to monitor residents for changes, assess them, and notify the practitioner with details of the change, assessment findings, interventions attempted, and the resident’s response. Surveyors found that these notification requirements were not followed for two residents when significant changes in condition and treatment occurred. For one resident with fractures of the left fibula and tibia and essential primary hypertension, the provider ordered 0.9% sodium chloride solution at 50 mL/hour via clysis for hydration. Nursing documentation showed that the clysis was started and that the resident later refused the treatment, with the provider being notified of the refusal. However, there was no documented evidence that the resident’s family representative was notified either of the initiation of intravenous fluids/clysis or of the resident’s refusal of this treatment. For another resident who was assessed with pain at a level of 10/10, the physician ordered adjustments to the pain medication regimen, but the physician was not notified when the adjusted pain medication was ineffective. These omissions in notification to the resident’s representative and to the physician occurred despite the facility’s written policies requiring such communication when significant changes in condition or treatment occur.
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