Christian Care Nursing Center
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Muskegon, Michigan.
- Location
- 2053 South Sheridan Drive, Muskegon, Michigan 49442
- CMS Provider Number
- 235656
- Inspections on file
- 21
- Latest survey
- November 21, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 5
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Christian Care Nursing Center during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
The facility did not promptly report suspected abuse, neglect, or theft, nor did it communicate the results of its investigation to the proper authorities as required.
Two residents experienced undignified care due to repeated delays in call light responses and staff using personal cell phones during care. One resident waited extended periods for assistance with incontinence care, while another felt ignored as staff texted on personal phones despite facility policy prohibiting such use. These actions failed to uphold resident dignity and timely care.
A resident with Parkinson's disease and cognitive intactness submitted two grievances regarding staff behavior during mealtimes and delayed delivery of condiments, but did not receive any follow-up or written response. Despite the grievances being assigned to the DON with a resolution deadline, facility leadership was unaware of the concerns, and the required grievance process was not followed.
Surveyors found that multidose vials of tuberculin solution in one medication room were not properly dated upon opening, contrary to facility policy and manufacturer instructions. In another unit, an LPN left a medication cart unlocked and unattended, failing to maintain secure storage of medications as required.
Surveyors found that the facility did not consistently follow food safety standards, including improper cooling of cooked foods, excessive sanitizer concentrations, inadequate cleaning of kitchen equipment, and improper storage of food items. These deficiencies were observed during a kitchen inspection and interviews with the Certified Dietary Manager.
Surveyors identified multiple infection control failures, including lack of tracking for staff illnesses, outdated infection control policies, and improper hand hygiene during wound and peri care for several residents. Staff did not follow protocols for glove changes or cleaning of supplies, and a urine sample was improperly stored with medications. The facility also lacked an active water management plan, with no annual review or interdisciplinary team meetings as required.
A resident with multiple chronic conditions experienced significant delays in staff response to her requests for assistance due to an ineffective call light system. The system lacked a visible hallway indicator, and staff had to remove their alert devices during care, leading to further delays. The resident reported pain and frustration from waiting for help, especially when needing to use the bathroom, and resorted to using a metal call bell to get attention when her calls were not answered promptly.
Two residents with pressure ulcers did not receive care consistent with professional standards, including failures in timely and accurate skin assessments, lack of repositioning and moisture management, and improper wound care techniques by staff such as not changing gloves or cleaning surfaces. Documentation of wound care and care planning was incomplete or missing, and staff interviews revealed inconsistent knowledge of required protocols.
The facility did not post daily nurse staffing data in a location accessible to residents and visitors, instead placing it in staff-only areas. Additionally, the facility failed to accurately record the daily resident census and actual hours worked by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs on the staffing data sheets, with inconsistencies in categorization and incomplete documentation.
A resident who was cognitively intact and responsible for their own care was administered an antipsychotic medication without being informed of the reason for its use or the associated risks and benefits. The facility's records did not contain documentation that this information was provided prior to administration, and no evidence of such a discussion was available during the survey.
Two residents experienced delays in the facility's response to their grievances, including unresolved complaints about meal quality and wheelchair comfort. One resident, who was the council president, reported that concerns raised in meetings were not addressed, and there was no evidence of formal grievance forms or prompt written decisions. Additionally, staff failed to communicate and document care instructions for a resident's wheelchair cushion, resulting in ongoing discomfort.
A resident with multiple chronic conditions requested transfer to the ED, and the facility arranged transport without documenting the reason for transfer in the medical record. No assessment or transfer form was completed, and staff stated it was their practice to send residents to the ED upon request without further documentation.
A resident with multiple chronic conditions was transferred to the hospital after requesting evaluation, but there was no documentation that the required written bed-hold policy notice was provided to the resident or their representative. Interviews with the NHA and DON confirmed the absence of documentation, and the facility's policy requiring such notice was not followed.
A resident with dementia and limited mobility exhibited signs of dental pain, but the facility did not adequately assess, monitor, or follow up on her dental care needs. Despite a dental consultation recommending oral surgery, there was no documented follow-up, no care plan focus for dental concerns, and pain assessments did not reflect the resident's reported behaviors. Staff were unclear about monitoring for pain and infection, and the physician was not consistently updated about the resident's dental issues.
A resident with contractures and spastic hemiplegia did not receive consistent application of a prescribed hand splint, as required by their care plan. Staff did not document or ensure the splint was applied, and the resident reported not being asked about wearing it. Therapy staff were unsure if the splint was being used as scheduled, resulting in a deficiency in providing appropriate care to prevent further loss of range of motion.
A resident with dementia and impaired mobility experienced an unwitnessed fall attributed to a malfunctioning anti-rollback wheelchair device. Staff were unaware of the incident and the device issue, and there was no documentation of care or supervision prior to the fall. The facility did not provide a complete investigation, including staff statements or repair records, leading to a deficiency in accident prevention and supervision.
A facility failed to maintain proper accountability and documentation for fentanyl transdermal patches administered to a resident. Review of records showed missing documentation of quantities received, incomplete nurse signatures for patch destruction, and inconsistent entries regarding patch placement and verification. The Director of Nursing was unable to explain the discrepancies, resulting in a lack of clear accountability for the controlled substance.
Surveyors found that a medication room refrigerator contained an opened multidose tuberculin vial that was not dated when opened, and a urine sample for a newly admitted resident was also stored in the same refrigerator. An LPN confirmed the refrigerator should only contain medications and that the vial should have been dated, both actions not in line with facility policy.
A resident was transferred from a wheelchair to bed by two CNAs using a full body electronic lift without any communication or explanation provided to the resident. The resident had a visible wet spot on her buttock, and her wheelchair and cushions had a strong urine odor that persisted even after the cushion cover was removed.
Two residents with cognitive and physical impairments experienced ongoing issues with low-quality incontinence briefs that leaked, requiring double layering and resulting in soiled clothing and wheelchair cushions. Despite repeated complaints from residents, responsible parties, and staff, management was aware of the concerns but did not take effective action to address them.
A resident with significant medical conditions received meals high in sodium from canned and processed foods, despite her responsible party's repeated concerns and requests for a low sodium diet. Facility staff, including the DM and DON, did not assess or monitor the resident's sodium intake, and there was a lack of effective communication and follow-up on the dietary grievances.
Surveyors found that the facility did not maintain enough safe emergency food to meet the needs of its emergency menu. During inspection, the emergency food shelf contained mostly canned vegetables and lacked required entrée items such as Beef Stew, Chili with Beans, Chicken and Dumplings, and Corn Beef Hash, which were listed on the emergency menu but not present onsite. The Certified Dietary Manager stated that some emergency food had been used for regular meals and that the facility was transitioning between menus.
The facility did not have battery-powered emergency lighting installed at the emergency generator transfer switches in the electrical room, as required. This was confirmed during an observation and interview with the Maintenance Director.
Surveyors observed that ceiling tiles were missing from the ceiling grid in the data room, which was confirmed by the Maintenance Director. This failure to maintain the ceiling structure compromised compliance with NFPA 25 standards for automatic sprinkler system maintenance and testing.
Surveyors identified that the facility did not provide the required annual generator preventative maintenance report, with the last documented maintenance occurring over a year ago. This was confirmed by the Maintenance Director during record review, indicating non-compliance with NFPA standards for emergency power system maintenance.
Surveyors observed that the oxygen storage closet contained both full and non-full cylinders mixed together, and combustibles were stored within five feet of oxygen cylinders, in violation of NFPA 99 requirements. These deficiencies were confirmed by the Maintenance Director and could potentially affect multiple occupants if the cylinders were needed during an emergency.
The facility did not ensure proper treatment and care for a resident with a complex medical history, including sepsis, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary hypertension, and recurrent deep vein thrombosis. Despite clear hospital discharge instructions for daily INR monitoring, medication adjustments, daily weights, and strict intake/output monitoring, these protocols were not consistently followed. This led to missed opportunities to address the resident's changing condition, evidenced by a significant weight gain of 24.4 pounds in 13 days.
The facility failed to properly date mark and discard food products, store food correctly, ensure cleanliness of food contact surfaces, air-dry pots and pans, and minimize bare hand contact with ready-to-eat food. These violations were observed during an inspection and affected the safety of food consumed by 49 residents.
The facility failed to implement an effective Infection Control Program, with deficiencies in infection surveillance, staff education on Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP), and adherence to infection control policies. A resident on EBP did not receive proper care as staff failed to use required PPE, and the resident was unaware of the precautions.
The facility failed to ensure that pharmacy monthly medication reviews and recommendations were reviewed and acted upon by the attending physician for five residents. The lack of follow-up was confirmed through interviews with the DON and ADON, who admitted that the recommendations were not available and had not been reviewed by the physicians. This resulted in the potential for unnecessary medication to be administered.
The facility failed to ensure that CNAs completed the required 12 hours of in-service training annually. A review revealed that 27 out of 30 CNAs had not completed any assigned training modules, including essential topics like infection control and abuse prevention. Interviews with the HR Director, a CNA, the DON, and the NHA confirmed the staff were behind on their training, and efforts were being made to address this issue.
The facility failed to document and communicate the Advanced Directives for a resident with vascular dementia, resulting in the potential failure to carry out the resident's medical treatment decisions. The resident's wish to be a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) was not reflected in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) or on the resident's profile, and the Director of Nursing confirmed that the resident had been missed during a recent audit of code statuses.
The facility failed to notify two residents of the planned discontinuation of Medicare Part A services, resulting in the loss of their right to appeal and potential financial hardship. The required forms were not completed due to the recent departure of the MDS nurse and lack of reassignment of the task.
The facility failed to revise the care plan for a resident with a history of stroke, hemiplegia, and dementia, who displayed loud and teasing behavior during meal times. Despite staff acknowledging the behavior and using humor to manage it, no formal guidance was documented in the care plan or medical record.
A resident with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure had a Lidocaine patch placed on the wrong body part by an LPN, who did not consult the physician for an updated order. This action was against the facility's policy and professional standards of quality.
A resident with a history of having only half a colon experienced severe diarrhea followed by constipation due to the facility's failure to implement appropriate bowel monitoring and protocols. The resident was given a daily laxative, leading to diarrhea, and then too much Imodium, causing constipation. The facility's records showed inconsistent documentation and implementation of bowel monitoring.
The facility failed to attempt gradual dose reductions (GDR) of psychotropic medications and ensure PRN psychotropic medications were limited to 14 days for two residents. Monthly pharmacist recommendations were not followed up due to a lack of a system or process in place, resulting in the administration of unnecessary medications.
The facility failed to implement antibiotic use protocols and monitor antibiotic use for a resident diagnosed with a UTI. Despite the resident showing no symptoms, the facility administered Cephalexin without completing a UTI protocol form or obtaining timely lab results. The creatinine clearance was calculated only on the fifth day, and the pharmacy faced difficulties in obtaining necessary data. The facility's antibiotic stewardship policy was not followed, leading to inappropriate antibiotic administration.
The facility failed to complete neurological assessments for a resident who experienced two unwitnessed falls within a short period. Despite the resident's history of stroke and use of anticoagulant medications, no incident report or neurological exams were conducted after the second fall, contrary to facility policy.
Failure to Timely Report Suspected Abuse, Neglect, or Theft
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to timely report suspected abuse, neglect, or theft and did not report the results of the investigation to the proper authorities. This deficiency was identified based on the facility's lack of prompt action in notifying the appropriate agencies when an incident of suspected abuse, neglect, or theft occurred. The report indicates that the required notifications and investigation results were not communicated as mandated.
Failure to Provide Dignified Care and Timely Response to Resident Needs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide care in a dignified manner for two residents who were cognitively intact and had specific care needs. One resident, with a history of congestive heart failure and muscle weakness, was observed to have repeated delays in response to call lights, with documented wait times ranging from 29 to 57 minutes on multiple occasions. The resident reported frequent long waits for assistance, particularly when needing to be changed due to a wet brief, leading to discomfort and embarrassment. Staff interviews revealed that call light notifications were only accessible via electronic tablets or a monitor at the nursing station, and not all staff consistently carried the required tablets, further contributing to delayed responses. Another resident, diagnosed with muscle weakness and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, reported that staff often used their personal cell phones to text while providing care in the resident's room. The resident expressed feeling ignored and that staff attention was diverted away from her needs during care interactions. The facility had a policy prohibiting the use of personal cell phones in resident care areas, but the resident's account and staff behavior indicated this policy was not consistently followed. These deficiencies were identified through direct observation, resident interviews, staff interviews, and review of facility records and policies. The events described demonstrate a lack of respect for resident dignity and failure to maintain an environment that promotes quality of life, as required by federal regulations. The issues included both delayed response to resident needs and inappropriate staff conduct during care provision.
Plan Of Correction
F550 1. Residents #401 and #10 still currently reside in the facility. The cited residents did not sustain harm from the deficient practice and are at their psychosocial baseline. Their call lights have been evaluated and are working appropriately. 2. Current residents have the potential to be affected by this deficient practice; a sweep was completed on both units to assess the working order of every resident's call light on 6/6/2025. Residents were interviewed regarding observing staff on cell phones in resident rooms on 6/6/2025. Any resident with a concern had a resident concern form filled out on their behalf. 3. Policies on call lights and use of personal cell phones were reviewed and deemed appropriate. Clinical staff have been educated on these policies by 6/6/2025 by the DON/designee. Facility charge nurses were provided with call light receivers to ensure proper notification of call lights. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits to ensure call lights are answered timely and staff are not utilizing their personal cell phones in care areas. The Admin/designee will perform a 3x weekly audit on call light receivers to ensure receivers are functioning and audible. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Address and Resolve Resident Grievances per Facility Policy
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its own grievance policy in addressing two documented grievances submitted by a cognitively intact resident with diagnoses including weakness and Parkinson's disease. The grievances, both recorded on designated forms, described concerns about nursing staff behavior during mealtimes, including inattentiveness and rudeness, as well as issues with delayed or missing condiments resulting in cold food. Both grievances were assigned to the DON with a specified resolution date, but there was no evidence that the concerns were addressed or communicated to the resident. During an interview conducted more than three weeks after the grievances were filed, the resident reported that no one had discussed the concerns with her since she raised them. She expressed a lack of expectation that her issues would be resolved, indicating a breakdown in the facility's process for acknowledging and resolving grievances as outlined in their policy. The policy requires prompt efforts to resolve grievances, keeping the resident informed of progress, and issuing a written decision, none of which occurred in this case. Further interviews with facility leadership revealed confusion regarding responsibility for grievance management. The DON stated that the NHA handled grievances, while the NHA, identified as the Grievance Official, was unaware of the specific grievance forms and had not seen the paperwork. This lack of communication and adherence to policy resulted in the resident's grievances not being addressed in a timely or effective manner.
Plan Of Correction
F585 1. Resident #29 still currently resides in the facility. The cited resident did not sustain harm from the deficient practice and is at their psychosocial baseline. Resident #29's grievances were resolved. 2. All residents were interviewed during guardian angel rounds to ensure for potential resident concerns by 6/6/2025. Those residents with concerns were provided with a resident concern form and resolved according to the facility grievance policy. 3. The facility IDT was reeducated on the facility grievance policy including grievance documentation, follow-up, and resolution by 6/6/2025. Facility grievance monitoring was added to the morning meeting template for follow-up. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the NHA/designee to perform random weekly audits of the facility grievance log to ensure grievance is resolved according to the grievance policy. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Medication Labeling and Storage Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that in the Faith Unit medication room, a multidose vial of opened tuberculin solution did not have an opened date on the vial, box, or packaging. The Registered Nurse (RN) Unit Manager confirmed that staff were required to date multidose vials when opened to ensure timely disposal. In a subsequent observation in the same medication room, another opened tuberculin vial was found without an opened date on the vial, though the box was dated. The RN Unit Manager stated that both the vial and the box should be dated in case they become separated. Manufacturer instructions indicated that vials in use for 30 days should be discarded, highlighting the importance of proper dating. Additionally, in the Love Unit, an unlocked and unattended medication cart was observed. The cart was left unattended while the LPN responsible for it was distracted at the nurse's station and did not lock the cart before leaving. Facility policy requires that medications and biologicals be stored securely and only accessible to authorized personnel, with specific requirements for expiration dating and storage. These observations demonstrate failures in medication labeling and secure storage practices as required by federal regulations and facility policy.
Plan Of Correction
F761 1. No specific residents were identified in this citation, both undated TB vaccine vials were discarded immediately upon discovery and the nurse who left the med cart unlocked and unattended was provided on the spot education. 2. The facility provided a sweep of the medication rooms and medication carts by 6/6/2025 to identify improperly dated medications, any found were immediately discarded. 3. The policy on labeling, dating and storage of medications was reviewed and deemed appropriate. Licensed nurses were educated by the DON/designee on proper procedure, including the importance of securing unattended medication carts by 6/6/2025. Labels were requested from pharmacy for the purpose of ensuring vials are dated appropriately. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of medication rooms and carts to ensure appropriate labeling is done and unattended carts are properly secured. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Deficient Food Safety Practices and Sanitation in Food Service
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prepare and handle food in accordance with professional standards for food service safety, as evidenced by multiple observations during a kitchen tour and interviews with the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM). During the inspection, a pan of gravy stored in the walk-in cooler was found at 42°F, and the facility's cooling log showed incomplete entries and improper cooling of roast beef and turkey, which did not reach the required temperatures within the specified time frames. The CDM was unable to confirm whether any improperly cooled food had been served to residents. Additionally, a sanitizer bucket was found to have a concentration well above the required 200-400 ppm, and the chemical dispenser had not been serviced to address this issue. Further observations revealed that clean pans were stored with food debris, and the juice gun spout had an accumulation of debris, with uncertainty from the CDM about whether the spout was properly cleaned. The meat slicer had dried meat shavings, and the mixer had dried cake debris and splatter. The refrigeration unit in the kitchenette had a gasket with black spotted accumulation, and an open container of soy sauce requiring refrigeration was found stored at room temperature in the dry storage room. These findings indicate a lack of adherence to cleaning protocols and proper food storage practices. The report references specific sections of the 2022 FDA Food Code, highlighting the facility's failure to meet standards for cooling, sanitizing, cleaning, and storing food and equipment. The deficiencies observed have the potential to result in foodborne illness among all residents consuming food from the kitchen, as the facility did not consistently follow required food safety procedures.
Plan Of Correction
1. No residents were negatively impacted by this deficient practice. 2. The CDM has re-implemented a food cooling log in accordance with 2022 FDA Food Code section 3-501.15 cooling methods. The facility has repaired the quat sanitizer dispenser to ensure proper concentration of 200-400 ppm. The CDM has implemented a quat sanitizer log to ensure proper concentration under the Code by 4/25/2025. The clean pots and pans under the preparation table were recleaned. The juice gun was recleaned, including removing and disassembling the spout and wiping out the inside. The meat slicer was removed from operation. The mixer was thoroughly cleaned. The top gasket on the refrigerator in the Love Kitchenette was cleaned. The soy sauce identified as half opened was discarded from use. 3. The CDM was educated by the NHA on the Food Safety Requirements Policy and Procedure. All dietary staff were educated on the Food Safety Requirements Policy and Procedure including proper food cooling, proper testing of quat sanitizer, clean food prep surfaces, proper juice gun cleaning, non-food surface cleaning, and proper food refrigeration after opening. These items were added to the daily cleaning log. 4. The QAPI Committee has directed the CDM to perform random weekly audits of proper refrigeration of food items, food cooling temperatures, and cleanliness of food/nonfood contact surface. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Infection Control and Water Management Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective infection prevention and control program as required by federal regulations. The Infection Preventionist did not track or monitor employee illnesses, which limited the facility's ability to identify and respond to outbreaks, as evidenced by the lack of data on employee sick calls during a COVID outbreak. Infection control policies, including those for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations, were outdated, with some not reviewed or revised for several years. The facility's infection surveillance policy required tracking of staff infections, but this was not being implemented. Additionally, the facility's infection control policies were not updated annually as required. Direct care observations revealed multiple failures in hand hygiene and infection control practices. During wound care for three residents, staff did not clean bedside tables or use barriers for supplies, did not change gloves or perform hand hygiene between dirty and clean tasks, and used the same gloves for wound care and peri care. Supplies and equipment, such as wound care scissors, were not properly cleaned or were returned to common carts after being contaminated. Staff interviews indicated a lack of understanding of proper hand hygiene protocols, with some staff and the DON stating that gloves only needed to be changed if visibly soiled, and that urine was not considered a contaminant requiring glove changes. These practices were inconsistent with both facility policy and CDC guidelines. Additional deficiencies were identified in the handling of medications and water management. A urine sample was found stored in a medication refrigerator, contrary to policy requiring separation of potentially harmful substances from medications. The facility also lacked an active and ongoing water management plan to reduce the risk of Legionella and other waterborne pathogens. The Maintenance Director was unaware of key aspects of the water management program, including team membership, control limits for chlorine, and the requirement for annual review and team meetings. The facility's water management policy called for an interdisciplinary team and regular reviews, but these were not being conducted.
Plan Of Correction
1. Resident #1, #4, and #25 continue to reside at the facility and no negative outcomes were identified related to the deficient practice. DPS B A digital testing unit was purchased, and levels remain at acceptable levels as of 4/25/2025. 2. All residents may be impacted by this deficient practice. The facility completed an infection screening evaluation on all residents as of 4/30/2025. Any resident identified with an additional wound or signs/symptoms of an infection will be treated accordingly, and their care plans will be updated. Current residents can be impacted by Legionella. Water levels will continue to be monitored as required. 3. The facility has reviewed the facility Infection Control Plan; this policy is deemed appropriate. The facility's Regional Nurse Consultant educated the DON on proper infection control policies, including hand hygiene. Clinical staff were provided with education on the Infection Control Plan by the DON/designee after the DON educated them, including proper hand hygiene, maintaining a clean work environment, and employee illness management. The ICP has been appropriately educated on infection tracking and trending. 4. The facility has incorporated the Developing a Water Management Program to Reduce Legionella Growth and Spread in Buildings. The Water Management Plan has been updated using the CDC Toolkit, including establishing core members. The Director of Plant Operations educated the members of the WMP on understanding what Legionella is and understanding the facility's water system by 4/30/2025. 5. The QAPI Committee has directed the DON/Designee to perform random weekly audits of proper infection control procedures and tracking and trending. The Committee has also directed the Director of Plant Operations to perform weekly tests for Legionella. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Provide Dignified and Timely Care Due to Ineffective Call Light System
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide care in a dignified manner for several residents, as evidenced by the experience of one resident with multiple medical conditions, including diabetes, stage 4 kidney disease, diverticulosis, irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, and urine retention. This resident, who is her own responsible party, reported significant delays in staff response to her requests for assistance, particularly when using the call light system. She stated that the call light system was ineffective, with no visible indicator in the hallway when activated, and that staff relied on portable devices to receive alerts. However, staff were required to remove these devices during care, preventing them from noticing new calls for assistance during that time. The resident described waiting 20 to 30 minutes for staff to respond, which caused her pain and frustration, especially when she needed to use the bathroom. She resorted to using a metal call bell to get attention when her initial call was not answered within 15 minutes. The resident also reported that staff attempted to take away her call bell, but she refused to give it up. These actions and inactions resulted in the resident feeling undignified and dissatisfied with the care provided, as her needs for timely assistance were not met.
Plan Of Correction
F550 1. Residents #5, 30, 35, and 40 still currently reside in the facility. The cited residents did not sustain harm from the deficient practice and are at their psychosocial baseline. Weekly Guardian Angel Rounds have been initiated. 2. Current residents have the potential to be affected by the deficient practice. Residents were interviewed by 4/25/2025 during Guardian Angel Rounds to ensure resident rights were being met and any issues/concerns were addressed and reported. A weekly resident council will be held x 4 weeks to ensure the current residents' needs are addressed. 3. Policy on Resident Rights was reviewed and deemed appropriate, all staff were in-serviced by the Admin/designee by 4/25/2025. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of staff providing care to ensure that resident rights are being observed. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Accurately Assess, Monitor, and Treat Pressure Ulcers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow policies and procedures to accurately assess, monitor, and treat pressure ulcers for two residents. For one resident, the initial skin assessment upon admission documented only a stage 1 ulcer on the gluteal cleft, with no mention of other skin issues. However, subsequent assessments revealed a stage 3 pressure ulcer on the coccyx and multiple open, weeping areas on the buttocks and inner thighs. The resident was observed to be left in the same position for extended periods, was not on a turning schedule despite being unable to reposition herself, and experienced prolonged exposure to moisture and soiled briefs. Staff were unaware of or did not follow a turning schedule, and there was a lack of timely wound care orders and documentation for the identified wounds. The DON could not provide consistent or complete documentation of the resident's wounds or treatments, and excoriated areas were not measured or tracked for improvement or decline. For another resident with a history of a stage III/IV sacral pressure ulcer and high risk for pressure ulcers, deficiencies were observed in wound care practices and documentation. During a dressing change, an LPN failed to use a barrier or clean the table for wound care supplies, did not change gloves or perform hand hygiene between removing the old dressing and applying the new one, and packed the wound with a soiled glove. The resident's brief was saturated with urine and not cleaned prior to the dressing change. There was also a lack of clear documentation of wound care visits and assessments in the medical record, and the care plan did not include meaningful interventions or revisions for the resident's stage III/IV pressure ulcer, such as frequent repositioning or offloading. Interviews with staff revealed inconsistent knowledge and application of infection control and wound care protocols, including hand hygiene, glove changes, and proper handling of wound care supplies. The facility's own policies required full body skin assessments upon admission and weekly, clear documentation of pressure injuries, and clean technique for dressing changes, including cleaning the work surface and changing gloves. These policies were not consistently followed, leading to deficiencies in the prevention, assessment, and treatment of pressure ulcers for the affected residents.
Plan Of Correction
1. Resident #350 no longer resides at facility. The nurse was instructed to complete a wound assessment but failed to do so. This nurse was coached by DON. Resident #1 still currently resides in the facility; no negative outcome was identified due to this deficient practice. Her plan of care has been reviewed to reflect her status. She was assessed and is comfortable. Her wound care documentation is up to date. 2. Like residents are identified as those with pressure injuries. The plans of care for all like residents were reviewed by 4/25/2025 and updated to reflect the residents' current needs and treatment. 3. The policy and procedure on skin management, along with dressing change policies, have been reviewed and revised. Consultant Nurse educated the DON on assessments and documentation on skin management. Nurses were educated by DON/designee by 4/25/2025 on appropriate management/documentation/care. An admission wound assessment was activated in the EMR. Licensed Nursing staff were educated on completing this assessment on admission. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of all residents currently in the facility with wound injuries to ensure their wounds are properly cared for and documented, and their plan of care/orders addresses their needs. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Properly Post and Record Nurse Staffing Information
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with federal requirements for posting daily nurse staffing information. Observations revealed that the daily nurse staffing data sheets for both Faith's Terrace and Love's Garden were posted on bulletin boards facing the nurse's station, making them inaccessible and not visible to residents or visitors passing by. The staffing data sheets were placed alongside other staff-only postings, such as on-call schedules and thank-you cards, further indicating that the information was intended for staff use rather than public access. During interviews, a CNA confirmed that the staffing data sheets were only posted where staff could see them and not where residents or visitors could access them. A review of historic daily nurse staffing data sheets showed that the facility did not consistently record the daily resident census or the actual hours worked by nursing staff by category. Instead, the sheets listed only the scheduled hours and staff names, with inaccuracies such as all nurse hours being entered under the RN category, even when most scheduled nurses were LPNs. The Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged that census numbers and actual working hours were not always recorded on the daily nurse staffing data sheets, and that he kept track of actual hours worked separately.
Plan Of Correction
1. No residents were negatively impacted by this deficient practice. 2. Clear wall paper holders were purchased and mounted in a location on the unit consistent with this requirement and visibility. 3. The Staffing Coordinator was educated on Posted Nurse Staffing Information by the NHA and its requirements including posting the total number of hours worked in real time. The Staffing Coordinator was educated on posting staffing sheets with documented census and updating hours worked upon shift change by the NHA. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of posting nurse staff information including the number of actual hours worked. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Inform Resident of Psychotropic Medication Risks and Benefits
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident, who was cognitively intact and their own responsible party, was administered aripiprazole, an antipsychotic medication, without being informed of the reason for its use or the associated risks and benefits. The resident's medical record, including the Medication Administration Record and electronic documentation, did not contain any evidence that this information was provided prior to the administration of the medication. The resident had diagnoses including dementia and cerebral infarction, and had been receiving aripiprazole since admission. During the survey, the Nursing Home Administrator was unable to provide documentation that the resident had been informed about the medication's purpose or its risks and benefits. Although the administrator indicated that the physician would speak to the resident about the medication, no documentation of such a discussion was available by the time the survey concluded. As a result, the facility failed to meet the requirement to inform the resident in advance about their treatment, including the risks and benefits of the prescribed psychotropic medication.
Plan Of Correction
1. Residents #350 still currently resides in the facility. She was educated on and consented to the use of Abilify on 3/28/2025. 2. Like residents are identified as those who are ordered antipsychotic medications. They have the potential to be affected by this deficient practice. A sweep was completed by 4/23/2025 to ensure all like residents have the appropriate education and consent documented and their plan of care updated as needed. 3. Policy on the use of antipsychotic medications was reviewed and deemed appropriate. Licensed nurses and social work staff were in-serviced between by 4/25/2025 on appropriate procedures. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits on residents who are ordered antipsychotic medications to ensure the proper procedure is followed. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Timely Respond to Resident Grievances and Communicate Care Needs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to respond in a timely manner to grievances raised by two residents, as evidenced by interviews, observations, and record reviews. One resident, a 90-year-old female with diagnoses including vascular dementia, kidney disease, and major depressive disorder, was not her own responsible party and served as the resident council president. She reported ongoing issues with wheelchair comfort and meal quality, specifically noting a decrease in fresh fruit offerings and dissatisfaction with bread options. Despite her participation in resident council meetings, she was unaware of any formal written grievance forms and expressed that discussions during meetings did not lead to resolutions, stating, "nothing gets done." Review of resident council minutes from several months revealed repeated dietary complaints, including concerns about dessert amounts, meat quality, bread variety, and the availability of fresh fruit and vegetables. These concerns were documented in meeting minutes and a grievance/complaint report was submitted to the Nursing Home Administrator on behalf of the resident council, indicating that concerns were not being fully communicated or resolved. The administrator acknowledged receipt of the grievance but did not provide evidence of prompt resolution or written decisions to the residents as required. Additionally, the occupational therapist confirmed that while a low back cushion had been provided to the resident for wheelchair comfort, there was no documentation or communication to nursing staff regarding its use after therapy ended. The resident continued to experience discomfort and improper positioning in her wheelchair, and nursing staff had not been instructed to perform frequent positioning checks until prompted by the therapist during the survey. These findings demonstrate a lack of timely and effective response to resident grievances and insufficient communication among staff regarding resident care needs.
Plan Of Correction
F585 1. Residents #10 and #40 still currently reside in the facility. Their grievances were immediately documented and addressed between by 4/23/2025. 2. Current residents have the potential to be affected by this deficient practice. A resident council meeting will be held on 4/22/2025, to ensure current residents can express their concerns. A weekly resident council will be held x 4 weeks to ensure the current residents' needs are addressed. 3. Resident Council policy was reviewed and revised. Department heads and facility managers were educated by the Admin/designee between by 4/23/2025 on proper procedures. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits on 20% of current residents in the facility, to ensure their concerns are being addressed. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Document Reason for Hospital Transfer
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to document the reason for a resident's transfer to the hospital emergency department in the resident's medical record, as required by federal regulations. The resident in question was a 72-year-old individual with multiple diagnoses, including liver cirrhosis, chronic congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes. The resident was cognitively intact, as indicated by a BIMS score of 13. On the date of the incident, the resident requested to be sent to the emergency department for evaluation, and the facility arranged for transport after obtaining an order from the on-call healthcare provider. A review of the resident's electronic medical record revealed that, aside from a progress note stating the resident requested to go to the emergency department, there was no documentation indicating the specific reason for the transfer. There was no transfer form, physical assessment, physician communication note, or physician note explaining the medical necessity or rationale for the transfer. The facility's documentation did not provide any further details beyond the resident's request. During interviews, the DON confirmed that a transfer form was not completed for this resident, as the form was a recent addition to their processes. The DON also stated that no assessment was performed prior to the transfer because the resident requested to go, and it was the facility's practice to send residents to the emergency department upon request, regardless of medical necessity. This lack of documentation and assessment led to the deficiency cited by surveyors.
Plan Of Correction
F623 1. Resident #47 no longer resides in the facility, an investigation of the event was completed and the licensed nurse involved received education on appropriate assessment, notification, and documentation of transfers. 2. Like residents are identified as those who are emergently transferred to the hospital. A sweep of like residents for the last 2 weeks was completed by 4/23/2025 to ensure appropriate documentation of the reason for transfer was in place. A Transfer form was added to the facility's EMR system to guide the licensed nurses in appropriate documentation. 3. Licensed nurses were educated on the use of the new Transfer form in PCC to complete which includes, appropriate assessment, notifications, and documentation for all residents who require emergent transfer to a hospital. 4. The QAPI Committee has directed the DON and/or designee to ensure that weekly audits are completed on residents who are transferred out emergently, to ensure the appropriate assessment, notifications, and documentation is completed. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Provide Written Bed-Hold Policy Notice Upon Hospital Transfer
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to provide a resident or their representative with written notice specifying the duration of the bed-hold policy prior to or immediately following the resident's transfer to the hospital. The resident in question was a 72-year-old individual with multiple diagnoses, including liver cirrhosis, chronic congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes. The resident was cognitively intact at the time of transfer, as indicated by a BIMS score of 13. Documentation showed that the resident requested to go to the emergency department and was transferred accordingly, but there was no evidence in the medical record that the required bed-hold policy notice was given. Interviews with facility staff, including the Nursing Home Administrator and the Director of Nursing, confirmed that they could not locate any documentation showing that the bed-hold policy had been presented to the resident or their representative. The DON initially stated that the Admissions Coordinator had discussed the policy with the resident and family, but later clarified that there was no documentation of such a discussion. The only related communication found was an email indicating the resident would not be returning to the facility, as they were being transferred to hospice care. A review of the facility's own policy confirmed that written notice of the bed-hold policy should be provided at the time of transfer and a signed copy kept in the resident's file. However, in this case, there was no evidence that the policy was communicated or documented as required, resulting in noncompliance with federal regulations regarding notice of bed-hold policy upon transfer.
Plan Of Correction
Resident #47 no longer resides in the facility. An investigation of the event was completed, and the admissions director received education on appropriate notification and documentation of Bed Hold policy notifications. Like residents are identified as those who have been transferred emergently from the facility. A facility sweep was completed by 4/30/2025 of transferred residents from the last 2 weeks to ensure proper notification of the Bed Hold policy was provided and documentation made in their EMR. The policy for Bed Hold has been reviewed and deemed appropriate. The Business Office Manager has been educated on appropriate processes on 4/23/2025. The QAPI Committee has directed the NHA and/or designee to ensure that weekly audits are completed on 100% of residents who are transferred out emergently to ensure the proper process is followed. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Assess and Monitor Dental Care Needs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adequately assess, monitor, and provide care for a resident with significant dental needs. The resident, who has Alzheimer's disease, dementia, abnormal posture, and is nonverbal with limited movement, was observed exhibiting behaviors such as clenching her shirt and teeth, which her husband identified as signs of pain. Despite a dental consultation indicating the need for diagnostics and oral surgery for a tooth extraction under sedation, there was no documented follow-up by the facility after the initial referral. Nursing progress notes indicated a dental appointment occurred, but no procedures were performed, and there was no evidence of further follow-up or communication with the physician regarding ongoing dental concerns. The resident's care plan did not address dental issues, and pain assessments consistently recorded a pain level of 0/10, despite ongoing reports of pain-related behaviors. Staff interviews revealed uncertainty about monitoring for pain and infection, especially given the resident's inability to express discomfort verbally. There was also a lack of documentation regarding monitoring for infection or updating the physician about the resident's dental needs. The facility did not have a system in place to ensure ongoing assessment and intervention for the resident's dental pain and potential infection, as required by professional standards of practice and the resident's care plan.
Plan Of Correction
F684 1. Resident #30 still currently resides in the facility; Ultram has been ordered for her pain and she is being monitored daily for any s/sx of dental infections. Her plan of care has been updated to reflect her status. Resident #30 is scheduled for tooth extraction. 2. Like residents are identified as those requiring dental services outside the facility. The plans of care for all like residents were reviewed by 4/30/2025 and updated to reflect the residents' current needs and treatment. Follow-up appointments and responsible party notification were documented by 4/23/2025. 3. Policy on Ancillary Services has been reviewed and revised. Social worker was educated by the DON/designee by 4/23/2025 on appropriate process. Licensed nurses were educated on identification, notification, and treatment of dental pain. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of all residents currently in the facility receiving offsite dental services to ensure they are being monitored for their dental issues and their plan of care addresses their needs. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Provide Contracture Care and Ensure Splint Use
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified regarding the facility's failure to provide appropriate care for contractures in a resident with a history of spastic hemiplegia, contractures, and brain injury. The resident, who is moderately cognitively impaired and dependent on staff for mobility, was observed with contractures in both upper extremities and no splints in place. The resident reported that staff had not applied his hand splints for some time and did not ask if he wanted to wear them. One splint was found across the room, not in use. The care plan indicated the resident should wear a right hand splint for up to four hours at night, but there was no documentation in the electronic medical record task list for staff to chart the application of splints. Interviews with therapy staff revealed uncertainty about whether the resident was wearing the splint as scheduled or if it still fit. Occupational therapy documentation from previous periods indicated a splint wear schedule was in place, but current staff were unsure of its implementation. The lack of documentation and inconsistent application of the splint as per the care plan led to the deficiency in providing appropriate treatment and services to prevent further decrease in range of motion for the resident.
Plan Of Correction
F688 1. Resident #3 still currently resides in the facility; His care plan was reviewed, and orders were entered in order for staff can document the application and removal of his splint. 2. Like residents are identified as those with limited contractures. The plans of care for all like residents were reviewed by 4/25/2025 and updated to reflect the residents' current needs and treatment. Therapy referrals have been made if indicated, and documentation verification entered for any residents using a positioning device. 3. Policies for ROM and applying splints have been reviewed and revised. Nursing staff and therapy staff were educated by the DON/designee by 4/25/2025 on appropriate process related to this policy. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of residents currently in the facility receiving care for contractures. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Prevent Fall Due to Malfunctioning Wheelchair and Incomplete Investigation
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with a history of unsteadiness, vascular dementia, and impaired memory experienced an unwitnessed fall in her room. The incident report noted that the resident was confused, incontinent, and had impaired memory, all of which are predisposing factors for falls. The root cause analysis indicated that the anti-rollback mechanism on the resident's wheelchair was not functioning properly at the time of the fall. Maintenance reportedly fixed the anti-rollbacks after the incident, but there was no documentation provided to confirm this repair or any inspection of other wheelchairs in the facility. Staff interviews revealed that certified nurse aides who cared for the resident before and after the fall were unaware of the incident and did not have knowledge of the anti-rollback malfunction. They stated that a malfunctioning chair would be obvious and that they would not use it if it was not working correctly. The staff also expressed concern that the resident was left unattended in her room, as she had a known history of attempting to self-transfer. The care plan for the resident included multiple fall prevention interventions, but there was no documentation of care or supervision provided immediately prior to the fall. The facility failed to provide a complete investigation of the fall, including staff statements, details of the resident's care and supervision before the incident, and records of wheelchair repairs or inspections. Despite requests from the surveyor, the Director of Nursing did not supply the full investigation or documentation related to the wheelchair's repair or the assessment of other wheelchairs. The lack of thorough investigation and documentation contributed to the deficiency cited under the requirement to ensure the resident environment is as free of accident hazards as possible and that each resident receives adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents.
Plan Of Correction
1. Resident #17 still currently resides in the facility. Her plan of care has been reviewed and she has not had any additional falls. 2. Like residents are identified as those who have experienced a fall within the last two weeks. The plans of care for all like residents were reviewed by 4/30/2025 and updated to reflect the residents' current needs and treatment. 3. The Policy regarding fall management has been reviewed and deemed appropriate. The NHA and DON were educated on fall investigations, documentation, and follow-up by the Nurse Consultant. Licensed nursing staff were educated by the DON/designee by 4/25/2025 on fall management. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of all residents that experienced a fall in the facility to ensure their intervention was appropriate and the plan of care addresses their needs. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Maintain Accountability and Documentation for Controlled Substances
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper accountability and documentation for controlled substances, specifically fentanyl transdermal patches, for one resident. According to facility policy, all controlled substances must be accurately recorded on designated usage forms, with each dose administered and destroyed being witnessed and signed by two licensed staff members. However, review of the Controlled Drug Record sheets revealed multiple discrepancies, including missing documentation of quantities received, incomplete or missing nurse signatures for patch destruction, and instances where patches were signed out twice on the same day or with undated entries. In several cases, only one nurse signed for the destruction of used patches, contrary to policy requirements. Further review of the resident's medication administration records and related documentation showed inconsistent and incomplete entries regarding the placement and verification of fentanyl patches. There were instances where the same nurse signed as both the oncoming and off-going nurse, missing signatures, and lack of clear documentation of patch location or verification that the patch was in place. These documentation lapses made it difficult to accurately reconcile the number of patches dispensed, administered, and destroyed, resulting in a lack of clear accountability for the controlled substance. During an interview, the Director of Nursing was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the discrepancies in the documentation and could not account for the missing or improperly documented patches. The facility's failure to follow its own policies and federal regulations regarding controlled substance accountability led to this deficiency, as evidenced by the incomplete and inconsistent records for the resident receiving fentanyl patches.
Plan Of Correction
1. Resident #4 still currently resides in the facility. Her pain levels for the dates in question were reviewed and her pain levels were 0. She is comfortable and denies pain on her assessment. Her patch is in place and signed out appropriately. 2. Like residents are identified as those requiring controlled substance patches. The orders, and documentation of application and removal was reviewed for those like residents. 3. The revised and approved the Destruction of Narcotics policy and procedure. This policy identifies fully used narcotic vs. a narcotic that still has use. This policy further outlines destruction protocols for both. Licensed nurses were educated by the DON/designee by 4/25/2025 on appropriate process. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits of all residents currently in the facility receiving controlled pain patches to ensure they are in place and documented appropriately. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Improper Medication Storage and Labeling in Medication Room
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the Love Unit Medication Room contained a refrigerator with an opened multidose tuberculin vial that was not dated at the time it was opened. When questioned, an LPN was unable to provide information on when the vial was opened and acknowledged that it should have been dated upon opening. This failure to date the medication vial is not in accordance with the facility's policy and accepted professional standards for medication labeling and storage. Additionally, the same refrigerator contained a urine sample belonging to a newly admitted resident. The LPN confirmed that the refrigerator is designated solely for medication storage and that storing a urine sample in this location was inappropriate. The facility's pharmacy policy specifies that potentially harmful substances and non-medication items must be stored separately from medications, and that outdated or improperly labeled medications should be immediately removed from inventory.
Plan Of Correction
F761 1. The Love unit med room refrigerator was immediately audited, all non-medications were removed, and medications/vaccines that were not dated were removed and discarded. 2. A sweep of all med room refrigerators was performed by 4/25/2025 to ensure they are used only for medications and/or vaccines, and all vaccines are labeled appropriately. 3. The policy on Medication labeling and storage was reviewed and deemed appropriate. Licensed nurses were educated on proper procedure by 4/25/2025 by the DON/designee. 4. The QAPI committee has directed the DON/designee to perform random weekly audits to ensure medications are stored appropriately and expired medications are discarded. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Lack of Communication and Inadequate Hygiene During Resident Transfer
Penalty
Summary
Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) were observed transferring a resident from a wheelchair to bed using a full body electronic lift without communicating with the resident at any point during the process. The CNAs did not inform the resident when they were going to lift, turn, or remove her brief. The resident was awake with eyes open but did not speak during the observation. Upon transfer, a wet spot approximately 3 to 4 inches in diameter was noted on the center of the resident's buttock, and her wheelchair had a strong urine odor. After the cushion cover was removed, the wheelchair and cushions continued to emit a strong urine smell.
Failure to Address Resident Concerns Regarding Incontinence Brief Quality
Penalty
Summary
Two residents with significant cognitive and physical impairments, including Alzheimer's disease, chronic pain, hemiplegia, and psychotic disorder, reported issues with the quality of incontinence briefs provided by the facility. One resident expressed distress about the need for staff to use two briefs at a time to prevent bed soiling, stating that all staff were aware of the problem but no action was being taken. The same resident also voiced concerns about the declining quality of food and the lack of staff response to complaints, indicating that concerns were not being documented or addressed. Another resident's responsible party reported that the new, lower-quality briefs frequently leaked, resulting in increased laundry, more frequent changes, and urine soaking through to clothing and wheelchair cushions. Observations confirmed a strong urine odor on the resident's wheelchair. Both staff and responsible parties indicated that management was aware of the concerns but had not taken effective action to resolve them. Interviews with the DON and NHA revealed awareness of the issues, but no solutions or interventions had been implemented at the time of the survey.
Failure to Address Resident's Dietary Sodium Concerns
Penalty
Summary
A resident with multiple medical diagnoses, including Alzheimer's disease, hemiplegia, heart disease, and psychotic disorder, was admitted to the facility and is not her own responsible party. Her responsible party expressed ongoing concerns about the high sodium content in the resident's meals, noting that the food provided is primarily canned or processed and tastes very salty. Despite repeated complaints and participation in meetings, the responsible party reported that his concerns about the resident's sodium intake, given her medical conditions, were not addressed. The Dietary Manager confirmed that the facility does not offer low sodium diets, only 'no added salt' options, and does not calculate or monitor the resident's daily sodium intake. The DON was aware of general concerns but could not recall specifics or confirm if concern forms were completed, and the NHA was not fully aware of the responsible party's concerns, indicating a lack of effective communication and follow-up regarding dietary grievances.
Insufficient Emergency Food Supplies for Emergency Menu
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient safe emergency food to meet the requirements of its emergency menu. During a tour of the dry storage room, it was observed that the shelf labeled 'Emergency Food' contained minimal entrée items and mostly canned vegetables, which are typically used to accompany entrée meals. An interview with the Certified Dietary Manager revealed that some of the emergency food had been used to supplement regular menu items before expiration, and the facility was in the process of transitioning between different menus with the assistance of a culinary vendor. A review of the emergency menu showed that items such as Beef Stew, Chili with Beans, Chicken and Dumplings, and Corn Beef Hash were listed, but none of these entrée items were found onsite during the evaluation. This lack of required emergency food provisions was identified through observation, interview, and record review, indicating a failure to maintain adequate subsistence supplies as mandated by emergency preparedness regulations.
Plan Of Correction
E015 1. No residents were harmed as a result of this deficient practice. 2. An emergency food supply was purchased and in the facility by 4/30/2025. 3. The CDM was educated by the NHA by 4/25/2025 on the Emergency Food Supply Policy and Procedure. An emergency food agreement was obtained by the food. 4. The QAPI Committee has directed the CDM/Designee to perform random weekly audits of emergency food supply in the facility. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Provide Emergency Lighting at Generator Transfer Switches
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide automatic emergency lighting in accordance with regulatory requirements, specifically at the emergency generator transfer switches located in the electrical room. During an observation on March 26, 2025, it was noted that there was no battery pack powered emergency light installed at these transfer switches. This deficiency was confirmed through an interview with the facility Maintenance Director at the time of the observation. No information regarding specific residents, their medical history, or their condition at the time of the deficiency was provided in the report.
Plan Of Correction
K291 1. No residents were harmed as a result of this deficient practice. 2. An emergency battery pack powered light has been installed in the electrical room. 3. The QAPI Committee has directed the Director of Plant Operations/designee to perform random audits of facility emergency lighting x 4 weeks to ensure operations. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Deficient Sprinkler System Maintenance Due to Missing Ceiling Tiles
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain and test its automatic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 25 requirements. During an observation on March 26, 2025, it was found that ceiling tiles were missing from the ceiling grid in the data room located in the service hall. This absence of ceiling tiles was confirmed by the facility Maintenance Director at the time of observation. The missing ceiling tiles could interfere with the proper operation of the sprinkler system, as required by the relevant fire protection standards.
Plan Of Correction
K3531. No residents were harmed as a result of this deficient practice. Ceiling tiles in the IT storage closet have been properly installed. Any protrusions through the ceiling tiles have been properly sealed with fire resistant material. The QAPI Committee has directed the Director of Plant Operations/designee to perform random audits of facility x 4 weeks to ensure ceiling tiles are in place according to NFPA 25. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Failure to Maintain Required Annual Generator Maintenance Documentation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain its emergency generator system in accordance with NFPA 110, NFPA 99, NFPA 111, and NFPA 70 standards. During a record review conducted on March 26, 2025, it was found that the facility did not provide the required annual generator preventative maintenance report. The last available report was dated 3/20/24, indicating that the annual maintenance had not been documented for the current year. This deficiency was confirmed through an interview with the facility Maintenance Director at the time of the record review. The absence of the current annual preventative maintenance report means the facility could not demonstrate compliance with required generator maintenance protocols, which are essential for ensuring the emergency power system's reliability in the event of a main utility power loss.
Plan Of Correction
K918 1. No residents were harmed as a result of this deficient practice. 2. The annual generator preventative maintenance and testing has been completed on 4/3/2025. 3. The QAPI Committee has directed the Director of Plant Operations/designee to perform weekly generator load tests as scheduled and submit the results of those tests to QAPI. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Improper Oxygen Cylinder Storage and Proximity to Combustibles
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with NFPA 99 requirements for the storage of nonflammable gases, specifically oxygen cylinders. During an observation, surveyors found that the oxygen storage closet in the main hall contained both full and non-full cylinders mixed together, rather than segregating empty cylinders from full ones as required. This was confirmed through an interview with the facility Maintenance Director at the time of observation. Additionally, the same oxygen storage closet was found to have combustibles stored within five feet of the oxygen cylinders, which is not permitted under the relevant fire safety standards. These deficiencies were identified during a survey and could potentially affect 17 occupants if the cylinders were needed during an emergency event. The report cites specific violations of NFPA 99 standards 11.6.5.2 and 11.3.2.3(2).
Plan Of Correction
K923 1. No residents were harmed as a result of this deficient practice. 2. The oxygen storage room has been appropriately organized and labeled in accordance with NFPA 99. All cardboard has been removed from the closet and signage has been introduced to keep the area clear. Proper storage racks and locations have clearly been labeled as to the placement of the oxygen containers. All clinical staff will be educated by 4/25/2025 regarding oxygen storage. 3. The QAPI Committee has directed the Director of Plant Operations/designee to perform weekly audits of the oxygen room to ensure compliance. The Administrator is responsible for ensuring that substantial compliance is attained through the Plan of Correction and is maintained thereafter. The results will be provided to the QAPI Committee for further follow-up and review.
Oversights in Medication Management and Monitoring for Resident with Complex Medical History
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure appropriate treatment and care for Resident #49 due to multiple oversights and failures in following admission orders and addressing changes in the resident's condition promptly. Upon admission, R49 had a complex medical history including diagnoses of sepsis, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary hypertension, and a history of recurrent deep vein thrombosis. Despite clear instructions from the hospital regarding the need for daily INR monitoring and adjustments to medications like warfarin and Lasix, the facility did not consistently follow through with these orders. This lack of adherence to crucial medication and monitoring protocols resulted in missed opportunities to address R49's changing condition in a timely manner. The facility's failure to accurately transcribe and implement admission orders is evident in the discrepancies between the hospital discharge instructions and the facility's documentation. Despite recommendations for daily weights, strict intake and output monitoring, and daily PT/INR checks, these orders were not consistently carried out for R49. Additionally, the facility did not adequately monitor R49's weight, leading to a significant 24.4-pound weight gain in just 13 days, indicating a potential worsening of his condition that went unaddressed.
Multiple Food Safety Violations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly date mark and discard food products, as well as store them correctly. During an inspection, several items in the walk-in cooler were found without dates, including honey ham, ham roll-ups, beef tips and gravy, turkey, hot dogs, and a strawberry smoothie. Additionally, some items were kept beyond their safe consumption dates, such as puréed deviled eggs, French onion dip, BBQ pork, pizza sauce, and butternut soup. In the Faith and Love kitchenettes, thickened beverages were found either undated or past their safe consumption period. These actions are in violation of the 2017 FDA Food Code sections 3-501.17 and 3-501.18, which mandate proper date marking and timely disposal of ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food items. The facility also failed to store food products properly. During the initial tour, boxes of food were observed stored on the floor of the walk-in freezer. This is against the 2017 FDA Food Code section 3-305.11, which requires food to be stored at least six inches above the floor to prevent contamination. Additionally, the facility did not ensure the cleanliness of food and non-food contact surfaces. The inspection revealed an accumulation of debris in a utensil drawer, on the inside top of a microwave, and on clean pots and pans. The microwaves in the kitchenettes also showed significant debris, with one microwave having pitted and chipping surfaces. These conditions violate the 2017 FDA Food Code section 4-601.11, which requires equipment and utensils to be clean to sight and touch. Furthermore, the facility did not adhere to proper procedures for air-drying pots and pans. Several pans were found stacked and stored wet, which is against the 2017 FDA Food Code section 4-901.11 that mandates air-drying of equipment and utensils after cleaning and sanitizing. Additionally, during a meal observation, a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) was seen using bare hands to fold soft shell tortillas for two residents, which is a direct violation of the 2017 FDA Food Code section 3-301.11. This section prohibits food employees from contacting ready-to-eat food with bare hands and requires the use of suitable utensils or gloves to prevent contamination.
Inadequate Implementation of Infection Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement and maintain an effective Infection Control Program, particularly in the areas of comprehensive surveillance of facility infections and education on infection control measures. The designated Infection Preventionist (IP) reported not receiving memos from CMS or CDC and had not reviewed new Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) updates. The IP also failed to document staff education on EBP and did not conduct an all-staff in-service on the new information. Additionally, the IP was unable to clearly articulate the facility's surveillance process and inconsistencies were found in the infection logs, including missing symptoms and culture results for residents with infections. Mapping of infections was also incomplete or missing for certain months, which hindered the facility's ability to track and manage infections effectively. Resident #9, who was admitted with diagnoses including an infection due to an indwelling urethral catheter and chronic ulcers, was placed on Enhanced Barrier Precautions. However, during an observation, a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) failed to don a gown while providing direct care, despite the requirement for gown and gloves under EBP. The resident reported that staff never used the PPE and was unaware of the reasons for the precautions. This indicates a lack of proper implementation and adherence to the facility's infection control policies. The facility's policies on infection surveillance and Enhanced Barrier Precautions were not consistently followed. The Infection Preventionist did not maintain accurate documentation of infections, symptoms, and culture results, and failed to map infections properly. Staff education on EBP was not documented, and the resident involved was not informed about the precautions. These deficiencies highlight significant gaps in the facility's infection control program, putting residents at risk of infection and transmission of communicable diseases.
Failure to Review Pharmacy Recommendations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement and maintain a process to ensure pharmacy monthly medication reviews and recommendations were reviewed and acted upon by the attending physician for five residents. The medical records for these residents showed that the consultant pharmacist made non-significant recommendations, but there was no documentation indicating that these recommendations were conveyed to or reviewed by the physician. This lack of follow-up was confirmed through interviews with the Director of Nursing (DON) and the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON), who admitted that the recommendations were not available and had not been reviewed by the physicians. The DON also revealed that the pharmacy recommendations had been going to a spam folder and that there was no system in place to review them. For Resident #2, the pharmacy notes from 12/20/23 and 1/24/24 contained recommendations that were not reviewed by the physician. Similarly, for Resident #24, the pharmacy note from 3/13/24 was not reviewed. Resident #30 and Resident #42 had pharmacy notes with recommendations on multiple dates, none of which were followed up by the physician. Resident #9 had pharmacy notes with recommendations on 1/24/24 and 3/13/24, but there was no evidence of physician follow-up. The failure to review and act upon these recommendations resulted in the potential for unnecessary medication to be administered to these residents.
Failure to Ensure CNAs Completed Required In-Service Training
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that certified nursing assistants (CNAs) completed the required 12 hours of in-service training annually. A review of the Employee Online Inservice Training competencies report revealed that out of 30 CNAs, 27 had not completed any of the assigned training modules. These modules included essential topics such as body mechanics, fire safety, HIPAA privacy, infection control, pressure ulcers risk control, resident rights, abuse prevention, and dementia care, among others. Interviews with the Human Resources (HR) Director, a CNA, the Director of Nursing (DON), and the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) confirmed that the staff were behind on their mandatory training and that efforts were being made to address this issue. The facility's policy on the Nurse Aide Training Program, revised in December 2022, mandates that each nurse aide must complete at least 12 hours of in-service training annually. This training is crucial for ensuring the continuing competence of nurse aides and includes topics such as effective communication, dementia management, abuse prevention, infection control, and safety procedures. Despite this policy, the facility did not ensure compliance, resulting in a potential for inadequate and substandard quality of care for residents. The HR Director acknowledged the issue and reported that she was working with staff to get them caught up on their training requirements.
Failure to Document and Communicate Advanced Directives
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that Advanced Directives were properly documented and communicated for one resident, resulting in the potential failure to carry out the resident's medical treatment decisions. Resident #19, who had vascular dementia, was readmitted to the facility after a hospitalization. The Medical Treatment Decisions of Resident form, signed by the resident's responsible party and the Medical Director, indicated that the resident did not wish to have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). However, this code status was not reflected in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) or on the resident's profile. During an interview, the Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that there was no order reflecting the resident's Advanced Directives and wish to be a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR). The DON acknowledged that without such an order, staff would not be able to quickly identify the appropriate actions to take in the event of cardiac arrest. The DON also mentioned that the facility had recently conducted an audit of each resident's code status, but Resident #19 had been missed.
Failure to Provide Notification of Medicare Part A Coverage Discontinuation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide notification of planned discontinuation of coverage for Medicare Part A services for two residents, resulting in the loss of the right to appeal the determination and the potential for unforeseen obligation and hardship. Resident #1 received Medicare Part A Skilled Services from February 8, 2024, through March 27, 2024, and Resident #40 received these services from March 26, 2024, through April 9, 2024. In both cases, the facility initiated the discharge from Medicare Part A Services before benefit days were exhausted, but the required notification forms (CMS-10055 and CMS-10123) were not completed or provided to the residents. This omission was confirmed through a review of the SNF Beneficiary Notification Review forms and interviews with facility staff. The Admissions Director reported that the MDS nurse responsible for completing the notification forms had recently quit, and the task was not reassigned to another staff member. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the required forms were not being completed by the outside agency MDS nurse covering the facility. The Nursing Home Administrator also acknowledged the lapse in completing the required notifications. This failure to provide proper notification resulted in the residents losing their right to appeal the discontinuation of Medicare Part A services and potentially facing unforeseen financial obligations.
Failure to Revise Care Plan for Resident with Behavioral Issues
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to revise the Plan of Care for a resident (R10) who displayed behaviors affecting others. R10, admitted with a history of stroke, hemiplegia, and dementia, was observed during multiple meal services engaging in loud, gregarious, and teasing conversations with staff and another resident (R12). Despite R12's lack of engagement and occasional complaints about R10's rude remarks, the facility did not update R10's care plan to address these behaviors. Staff acknowledged R10's behavior and mentioned using humor to manage it, but no formal guidance was found in the care plan or medical record on how to handle the behavior while preserving R10's dignity and ensuring a pleasant dining experience for other residents. Interviews with the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) and Social Worker (SW) revealed that R10's behavior was known but not documented in the care plan. The ADON mentioned that R10's daughter had informed them about his different sense of humor, which was not appreciated by other residents. However, no information was found in the medical record or care plan addressing this behavior. The lack of documentation and guidance on managing R10's behavior led to the deficiency noted in the report.
Failure to Follow Physician's Order for Medication Administration
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure professional standards of quality for Resident #38, who was admitted with diagnoses including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure. The resident, who was cognitively intact with a BIMS score of 15, had a physician's order for a Lidocaine External Patch to be applied to the right upper back. However, an LPN placed the patch on the resident's right upper arm instead, following the resident's request, without consulting the physician or obtaining an updated order. This action was confirmed through interviews with the LPN, the Director of Nursing, and the Nursing Home Administrator, all of whom acknowledged that the patch should have been placed according to the physician's order on the right upper back. The deficiency was further documented in an Employee Coaching report, which detailed the LPN's deviation from the physician's order and the facility's policy on medication administration. The facility's policy, revised on 3/31/2022, mandates that medications must be administered in accordance with orders. The failure to follow the physician's order for the Lidocaine patch placement resulted in a potential risk for the resident's well-being, as the professional standards of quality were not adhered to.
Failure to Implement Appropriate Bowel Monitoring and Protocols
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure appropriate bowel monitoring and protocols for a resident, resulting in severe diarrhea followed by constipation. The resident, who had a history of having only half a colon and did not use laxatives prior to admission, was administered a daily laxative for over a week, leading to severe diarrhea. Despite the resident's Power of Attorney (POA) informing the facility that the resident used Imodium instead of laxatives, the facility continued with the laxative administration. Subsequently, the resident was given too much Imodium, causing severe constipation. The facility's records showed that the resident did not have a bowel movement for 11 days, despite having multiple loose stools in one morning, which was not documented properly. Interviews with staff revealed that the facility's bowel protocol was not followed consistently, and there were issues with the documentation and implementation of bowel monitoring. The Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledged that the Imodium order was incorrectly entered and that some nurses failed to run the bowel report, leading to the resident's prolonged constipation.
Failure to Implement GDR and Limit PRN Psychotropic Medications
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to attempt gradual dose reductions (GDR) of psychotropic medications and ensure PRN psychotropic medications were limited to 14 days for two residents. Resident #30, who was admitted with Alzheimer's disease, anxiety, and depression, was prescribed sertraline, trazodone, and quetiapine fumarate. Monthly pharmacist reviews recommended dose reductions, but there was no documentation of GDR attempts or risk versus benefit considerations in the resident's medical record. The Director of Nursing (DON) admitted that pharmacist recommendations had not been followed up due to a lack of a system or process in place, and the recommendations were going to a spam folder. Resident #42, admitted with Alzheimer's disease, anxiety, and right-sided hemiplegia, had an order for Ativan with no end date. Monthly pharmacist reviews recommended evaluating the necessity of the PRN medication and providing a risk versus benefit statement, but there was no follow-up documentation. The DON confirmed that Ativan should not be ordered PRN with no stop date and acknowledged the lack of a system to review pharmacist recommendations.
Failure to Implement Antibiotic Use Protocols
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement antibiotic use protocols and a system to monitor antibiotic use for a resident diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI). The resident was admitted with multiple diagnoses, including dementia and COPD, and was prescribed Cephalexin for a UTI diagnosed in the hospital emergency department. Despite the resident showing no signs or symptoms of a UTI, the facility proceeded with the antibiotic treatment without completing a UTI protocol form or obtaining necessary laboratory results in a timely manner. The creatinine clearance, which is essential for adjusting antibiotic dosage, was calculated only on the fifth day of antibiotic administration, and the pharmacy faced difficulties in obtaining the required laboratory and patient values from the facility. This delay in obtaining and acting on critical information led to the inappropriate administration of antibiotics to the resident. The facility's policy on antibiotic stewardship was not followed, as evidenced by the lack of adherence to established protocols and the failure to monitor antibiotic use effectively. The medical director and nursing staff did not ensure that antibiotics were prescribed and administered appropriately, resulting in potential risks to the resident's health.
Failure to Complete Neurological Assessments After Unwitnessed Falls
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure appropriate neurological assessments were completed for a resident who experienced two unwitnessed falls within a short period. The resident, who had a history of stroke, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and a traumatic fracture, was on anticoagulant medications. After the first unwitnessed fall, neurological exams were performed as per the facility's policy. However, after the second unwitnessed fall, no incident report was filed, and the neurological assessments were not restarted as required by the facility's protocol. During interviews, a Registered Nurse confirmed the absence of an incident report and neurological assessments for the second fall. The Director of Nursing also acknowledged that the expectation was to restart neurological exams after any unwitnessed fall with a known or suspected head injury. The failure to follow these protocols resulted in the potential for a delay in treatment after an unrecognized acute change in the resident's condition.
Latest citations in Michigan
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple medical conditions, including vascular dementia and thoracic spine fractures, had a care plan and Kardex requiring two-person assist for bed mobility and toileting at bed level. A CNA, who acknowledged knowing the resident was a two-person assist but did not seek help because staff were busy and was unfamiliar with the facility’s fall-prevention protocol, provided incontinence care and changed bed linens alone. During this one-person care, the resident rolled out of bed, sustained a head laceration, was found on the floor in a pool of blood, and required hospital evaluation and suturing before returning to the facility, where the resident was later observed crying and pointing to the sutured forehead.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment, a history of elopement, and daily wandering exited the building in the early morning while wearing an electronic elopement-prevention device. When the front door and device alarms sounded, the DON shut off the main alarm without an immediate overhead headcount or clear communication about which door had alarmed, and staff, affected by frequent door alarms from smokers, were confused about whether it was an elopement. While staff searched inside and around the building, the resident walked a significant distance along a main road without a coat in freezing weather before being located by nursing staff. Three additional residents with severe cognitive impairment and wandering behaviors were found to be wearing electronic devices, but for some there were no physician orders, no documented device checks, missing inclusion on the elopement risk list, and care plans that did not include the devices as interventions, demonstrating inconsistent elopement risk identification and planning.
A resident with a known history of attempting to leave the facility exited through the front door in the early morning, triggering both the door alarm and an elopement prevention device. The DON shut off the main alarm, looked outside but did not immediately exit the front door or make an overhead announcement, leading to confusion among staff about which door had alarmed and whether anyone was missing. CNAs searched the grounds, and an LPN used a car to search nearby streets, eventually locating the resident walking with a walker near a gas station, cold and without a coat, in freezing temperatures along a main highway. An RN then assisted in persuading the resident to return, with the total time away exceeding 25 minutes. The incident, which posed a risk to the resident’s health and safety, was not reported to the State Agency as required by the facility’s abuse, neglect, and exploitation reporting policy.
A resident at risk for elopement exited the facility through a front door in the early morning, triggering both the door alarm and an elopement device alarm. The DON shut off the main alarm and looked outside but did not immediately exit the front door, while CNAs and an LPN searched the building and surrounding areas. The resident, wearing everyday clothes and no coat in freezing weather, was eventually located by an LPN walking with a walker near a gas station on a busy road, and a second nurse assisted in persuading the resident to return. The facility’s investigation failed to preserve or document key information from available video footage, did not record specific times, route, distance traveled, or weather conditions, and included incomplete and delayed risk management documentation with limited witness statements, contrary to facility policy requiring prompt incident reporting and medical record entries after an elopement event.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment, mobility limitations, and a history of falls was observed in bed with the call light wrapped around the television and out of reach, despite a care plan requiring the call light to be kept within reach. Another cognitively intact resident with neuromuscular impairment, care planned for weighted utensils and a plate guard, received a meal tray containing only a weighted fork and no weighted knife or spoon, causing visible difficulty and frustration while attempting to cut and eat a chicken breast. Resident Council minutes from two consecutive months documented repeated complaints from residents that call lights were not accessible and were not answered in a timely manner.
A resident with stroke-related hemiparesis, abnormal gait, dementia, CKD, and hypertension, care planned as at risk for falls, experienced an unwitnessed fall while attempting to use the bathroom, having taken an IV pole instead of a walker and tripping over IV tubing. A CNA found the resident on the bathroom floor, sitting upright and holding assist bars, and, seeing no obvious injury, helped the resident back to bed before notifying an LPN. The LPN’s documentation and post-fall evaluation reflected assessment only after the resident was already in bed, with no injuries identified. Facility leadership and written fall management guidelines state that after a fall, the nurse must be notified immediately and must evaluate the resident for possible head, neck, spine, and extremity injuries prior to moving them, which did not occur in this case.
A resident with hemiplegia, dementia, and moderate cognitive impairment had a documented ADL self-care deficit and a care plan specifying assisted evening showers on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays per his and his family’s request. Facility records, including the Kardex and nursing notes, reflected this schedule, but shower documentation for one month showed three missed, undocumented showers out of 13 scheduled. A family member reported that showers were not always completed as scheduled, and the DON confirmed the three-times-weekly schedule but could not provide documentation that showers were offered or completed on the missing dates, contrary to the facility’s ADL policy requiring provision and documentation of hygiene care.
Surveyors found that staff failed to maintain accurate and complete treatment documentation for multiple residents, including missing TAR entries for ordered compression stockings, skin care, wound care, and monitoring, inconsistent and unexplained use of an incentive spirometer order with no supporting progress notes, and conflicting records about nebulized Ipratropium-Albuterol treatments that residents and the NP reported were never given due to lack of equipment. Nurses sometimes charted treatments as completed or used the "07-Other/See Progress Notes" code without any corresponding notes, while leadership acknowledged there was no systematic oversight of treatment documentation, contrary to the facility’s own documentation policy requiring factual, complete, and non-false entries.
A resident with dementia, heart disease, and multiple pressure and skin wounds had a complex care plan with numerous updates for conditions such as cognitive fluctuation, UTI, anemia, hypothyroidism, constipation risk, and nutritional risk, but the POA reported never receiving a copy of the care plan. Care conference documentation left the “Plan of Care” section blank, and although the SW stated it was standard to offer and provide the plan, there was no evidence this occurred. The resident’s representatives and POA repeatedly reported poor communication, including not being informed when PT and OT services ended and not receiving timely responses to messages and emails about care concerns. Wound orders and conditions changed over time, including new wounds and merging buttock wounds, yet the record did not show that the POA was notified of these significant changes, contrary to facility policy requiring notification of the resident and representative for major changes in condition and treatment.
Two residents did not receive appropriate treatment and care according to orders and needs. A resident with DM, peripheral vascular disease, prior toe amputation, and osteomyelitis had an in-house–acquired right second toe ulcer that was documented and treated, but dark eschar on the right third toe seen in a wound photo and described by a PA as eschar on the second and third toes was not added to the wound tracking spreadsheet or clearly documented as a separate wound before the resident was later hospitalized and underwent amputation of the second and third toes. Nursing notes and NP documentation focused on the second toe only, and staff interviews showed uncertainty about whether the entire foot was consistently assessed during dressing changes. Another resident with dementia and severe cognitive impairment had increasing difficulty hearing; the guardian reported requesting that the resident’s hearing be checked due to suspected earwax buildup, but no assessment or intervention was documented.
Failure to Provide Required Two-Person Assist During Bed Mobility Resulting in Fall
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to follow a resident’s care plan requiring two-person assistance for bed mobility and toileting at bed level, resulting in a fall from bed. The resident had multiple diagnoses, including cerebral infarction, vascular dementia, thoracic spine wedge compression fractures (T11–T12), major depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorder, and had a BIMS score of 2/15 indicating severely impaired cognition. The resident’s care plan, in place prior to the incident, specified that two staff members were required to assist with bed mobility and toileting at bed level. On the day of the incident, a CNA provided incontinence care and changed bed linens for the resident without obtaining the required second staff member, despite acknowledging awareness that the resident was a two-person assist and having reviewed the Kardex that specified two-person assistance for bed mobility. The CNA reported not seeking assistance because other staff were busy and also stated unfamiliarity with the facility’s “Happy Feet” fall prevention protocol. During this one-person care, the resident rolled out of bed and fell to the floor. Following the fall, a nurse responded to the room and found the resident on the floor with a pool of blood and an abrasion on the right side of the forehead, later documented as a facial laceration requiring five sutures at the hospital. The resident was transported to the hospital for evaluation, including imaging and other diagnostic tests, and returned the same day with instructions for suture care and pain relief. Later observation documented the resident lying in bed, nonverbal, crying, and pointing to the forehead where the stitches were present. Interviews with the Administrator and DON confirmed that the fall was attributed to the CNA not following the care plan and not waiting for another staff member to assist with ADL care and bed mobility.
Failure to Prevent Elopement and Inadequate Elopement/Wandering Safeguards
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to prevent an elopement and to ensure adequate elopement and unsafe wandering safeguards for multiple residents identified as at risk. One resident with severe cognitive impairment, a history of elopement, and documented daily wandering exited the building in the early morning hours while wearing an electronic elopement-prevention device. The front door alarm and the device alarm sounded, but the DON shut off the main alarm and did not immediately initiate an overhead headcount or clearly communicate which door had alarmed. Staff described confusion about whether the alarm was due to smokers using the door or an elopement, and some staff reported they could not hear the device alarm from certain halls. While staff searched rooms and areas inside the building and around the exterior, the resident walked away from the facility in freezing temperatures without a coat. Interviews and record review showed that the resident who eloped had multiple psychiatric and cognitive diagnoses, a BIMS score indicating severely impaired cognition, and an MDS indicating daily wandering. The resident’s care plan identified her as an elopement risk with exit-seeking behavior, a history of elopement, and triggers such as frustration, desire to leave, and difficulty with change. On the same night as the elopement, documentation showed the resident was aggressive, frustrated, and disoriented after a room change, which matched her identified triggers. Despite these known risks and triggers, when the alarm sounded early that morning, staff did not immediately verify at the front door whether the resident had exited, did not keep the elopement alarm active until she was found, and relied on delayed, word-of-mouth communication to begin a headcount and search. Staff ultimately located the resident approximately a half mile away on a main road, walking with a walker and no coat, and reported that she was cold and initially refused to return. The deficiency also includes failures in elopement risk identification and care planning for three additional residents who wore electronic elopement-prevention devices. One resident with severely impaired cognition and documented wandering behavior was observed wearing a device, which triggered an alarm when she attempted to go through a service hallway door toward an outside exit. However, there was no physician order for the device, no order to check its function, and her care plan for wandering did not include the use of the device. Another resident with severely impaired cognition and daily wandering had a physician order to check the device’s function and was listed on the facility’s elopement risk list, but her care plan did not include the device as an intervention. A third resident with severely impaired cognition and daily intrusive wandering also wore a device and had an order to check its function, yet her care plan did not include the device, and she was not listed on the elopement risk list. The staff member responsible for tracking elopement risk residents presented a handwritten list that was supposed to include all residents with devices, but at least two residents wearing devices were not on that list, demonstrating inconsistent identification and care planning for elopement risk. Facility policy on Unsafe Wandering and Elopement Prevention stated that every effort would be made to prevent unsafe wandering and elopement while maintaining the least restrictive environment, and that nursing personnel must report and investigate all reports of missing residents. Staff interviews revealed frequent door and alarm use by smokers, contributing to what staff described as “alarm fatigue” and confusion when alarms sounded. In the elopement incident, staff reported that the elopement protocol required leaving the device alarm on and calling an overhead headcount, but this did not occur as required. The combination of alarm fatigue, failure to follow elopement procedures, incomplete or missing physician orders and care plan interventions for residents wearing devices, and inconsistent maintenance of the elopement risk list led to the cited deficiency for failure to ensure the environment was free from accident hazards and that adequate supervision and elopement prevention measures were in place.
Failure to Report Resident Elopement in Freezing Conditions
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to report an elopement incident to the State Agency (SA) as required by its abuse, neglect, and exploitation policy. A resident identified as R10, who was known by staff to have previously attempted to leave the facility and was considered an elopement risk, exited the building through the front door in the early morning hours. When R10 left, both the front door alarm and the elopement prevention device alarm were activated. The DON was in the building, went to the front door, shut off the main alarm, and realized the elopement prevention device was sounding. The DON looked outside but did not exit through the front door, and there was no immediate overhead announcement identifying which door had alarmed or whether a resident was missing, which created confusion among staff. Following the alarm, CNAs went outside to look in the parking lot and surrounding areas around the building, and another CNA spoke with the DON at the door. A head count was then called, and an LPN determined that R10 could not be found in the building. The LPN got into her car and drove to the main street to search for the resident. During this time, the service drive was described as snowed in with no footprints in the snow, and staff did not initially know which door had alarmed. The LPN eventually located R10 walking near a gas station but reported that the resident refused to get into the car, prompting an RN to drive to the location to assist. The RN later stated that it took about 20 minutes to find R10 and additional time to pick her up and convince her to get into the car. The facility’s investigation confirmed that R10 left the building at approximately 5:15 AM and was gone for over 25 minutes, walking with a walker outdoors. Historical weather data reviewed by the surveyor showed temperatures between 22 and 29 degrees Fahrenheit on the day of the incident, and the resident was described as cold and freezing, without a coat, while walking on a sidewalk next to the main highway. The surveyor determined that this situation represented a risk to the resident’s health and safety, and it was further found that the elopement incident was not reported to the SA, despite the facility’s policy requiring reporting of such events within specified timeframes.
Failure to Thoroughly and Timely Investigate Resident Elopement
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to conduct a complete, thorough, and timely investigation of an elopement involving one resident. A complaint to the State Agency alleged that the resident left the facility in the early morning hours in freezing temperatures, walking several blocks on a highway with a walker and without a jacket, and that staff discovered the resident missing only after some time had passed. The complaint further alleged that the DON shut off the main door alarm that alerts staff when residents wearing an elopement prevention device leave the facility, did not immediately initiate a headcount, and returned to other tasks, while another nurse later determined that an elopement‑risk resident was not in the building and initiated a search. The resident was reportedly found 15–20 minutes later about a half mile away on a busy road and returned to the facility uninjured. The facility’s written investigation, presented nearly four weeks after the event, described that the resident exited the front door, triggering both the door alarm and the elopement device alarm. The DON responded to the alarm, shut off the main alarm, and looked outside but did not go out the front door, while CNAs searched the parking lot and surrounding areas and another CNA spoke with the DON. A headcount was called, and an LPN reported she could not find the resident, then drove her car to the main street, located the resident walking near a gas station, and reported that the resident initially refused to get into the car. A second nurse drove to the location, and together they persuaded the resident to return. The facility’s own summary of concerns noted that the resident was able to leave the building, that the DON did not go out the front door, that other staff exited through the back door, and that no one went immediately out the front door, and also noted that the resident had been triggered earlier and had previously attempted to leave the facility. The investigation was incomplete and inaccurate in multiple respects. The facility had camera footage of the exit door used by the resident, but the NHA reported that the footage was not saved because they did not know how to preserve it, and it was taped over. The Maintenance Director stated he viewed the video and could see the resident exit in everyday clothes and later re‑enter, but he did not record the times, and those times were not included in the investigation. The investigation did not document the time the resident exited, who went out the door, when the resident was found, or when she re‑entered the building. It did not address the route taken, did not measure the distance traveled, and did not document the weather conditions, even though historical data showed temperatures between 22–29°F and there was snow that might have shown the resident’s path. The risk management report, authored by the DON, contained an internal inconsistency in timing (stated as written before the alarm response time), included written witness statements from only a limited number of involved staff, omitted the second nurse who assisted in returning the resident, and the DON’s witness statement was linked to a late entry progress note written over two weeks after the event. A regional RN stated she would have expected the risk management report and documentation to be completed as part of the investigation as soon as possible and certainly sooner than two weeks later, and the facility’s own elopement policy required completion and filing of an incident report and appropriate medical record entries upon the resident’s return, which was not timely or thoroughly done in this case.
Failure to Ensure Accessible Call Lights and Consistent Provision of Adaptive Eating Devices
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves failure to honor residents' rights to dignity, self-determination, communication, and exercise of rights by not ensuring call lights were accessible and answered timely, and by not providing ordered adaptive eating equipment. One resident with a displaced intertrochanteric fracture of the right femur, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, deafness, nonverbal status, difficulty walking, and severely impaired cognition (BIMS score of 0) was observed lying in bed with the bed in the lowest position and the call light wrapped around the television, tucked away and far from the resident’s reach. The resident’s MDS documented dependence in toileting, showers, and ADLs, and the care plan identified risk for falls with interventions including keeping the call light within reach and orienting the resident to surroundings and use of the call light. During the observation, the RN confirmed the call light was not within the resident’s reach. Another resident with diagnoses including rhabdomyolysis, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuritis, and a BIMS score of 15 indicating intact cognition, was care planned to receive adaptive equipment for eating, including weighted utensils and a plate guard. The resident reported that meal portions were sometimes too small and that they had been receiving double portions recently. While eating independently, the resident struggled to cut a chicken breast using only a weighted fork, became frustrated, and resorted to picking up the chicken breast with the fork and nibbling it, leaving crumbs and honey glaze on their face. The resident stated that a weighted knife and spoon were supposed to be provided but were not sent with the meal this time, and that sometimes they were provided and sometimes not. The lunch meal ticket documented that a weighted fork, weighted knife, and weighted spoon were ordered, but only a weighted fork was present on the tray. Resident Council minutes from two consecutive months documented repeated complaints that call lights were not answered timely, were not accessible, and were not within reach.
Failure to Perform Nurse Assessment Before Moving Resident After Fall
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to follow its fall management policy and professional standards of practice by not ensuring a licensed nurse completed a comprehensive post-fall assessment before the resident was moved. The resident involved was a male with right-sided hemiplegia/hemiparesis following a stroke, abnormal gait/mobility, depression, dementia with moderate cognitive impairment (BIMS score of 9/15), chronic kidney disease, and hypertension with periods of hypotension. His care plan identified him as at risk for falls due to these conditions and potential medication side effects. On the date of the incident, an unwitnessed fall occurred in the resident’s room at approximately 1:15 AM. Documentation in the Incident/Accident Report and Post Fall Evaluation indicated the resident reported he had attempted to use the bathroom, took his IV pole instead of his walker, and tripped over the IV tubing. The report stated that upon the nurse’s entry to the room, the resident was sitting on the bed, his skin was assessed, vital signs were within normal limits, range of motion was performed, and neurological checks were initiated, with no injuries identified. The nursing progress note reflected similar information, indicating the fall was reported to the nurse by a CNA and that the assessment was conducted with the resident already in bed. However, interview statements revealed that the resident had actually been on the bathroom floor immediately after the fall. The CNA who responded to the bathroom call light reported finding the resident sitting upright on the floor with his hands on the assist bars and the IV pole in front of the sink. Believing he had no visible injuries, the CNA assisted him up from the floor and back to bed before notifying the nurse. The CNA stated she normally would not move a resident before the nurse’s assessment. The DON and ADON both reported that facility practice and the written Fall Management Guidelines require that when a resident falls or is found on the floor, the nurse must be notified immediately and the resident must be evaluated for possible injuries to the head, neck, spine, and extremities prior to moving the resident. This did not occur for this resident, resulting in the lack of a comprehensive assessment for injury by a licensed nurse while the resident was still on the floor post-fall.
Failure to Provide Scheduled Showers per Resident Preference and Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide bathing care according to a resident’s stated preferences and plan of care. A male resident with right-sided hemiplegia/hemiparesis following a stroke, abnormal gait/mobility, depression, dementia, and moderate cognitive impairment (BIMS score of 9/15) had a documented self-care ADL deficit related to CVA, cognitive impairment, and history of failure to thrive. His care plan, revised on 3/18/26, and the Kardex both specified that he preferred showers on the evening shift, scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and that staff were to assist him to bathe/shower as preferred per the shower schedule and as needed. A nursing progress note dated 3/18/26 documented that his shower dates were updated per resident request to Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings. Review of shower/bath documentation for the month of April showed that, out of 13 scheduled showers, there was no documentation of showers being provided on three scheduled days: 4/3/26, 4/20/26, and 4/27/26. A family member reported that the resident was supposed to receive showers on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, but these were not always completed as scheduled. The DON confirmed that the resident’s shower schedule had been changed to three times per week on those days per family request and was unable to provide documentation of showers offered or completed on the three missing dates prior to survey exit. This was inconsistent with the facility’s ADL policy, which required provision of appropriate hygiene care and documentation of the assistance needed in the care plan and Kardex.
Inaccurate and Incomplete Treatment Documentation for Multiple Residents
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to maintain accurate and complete medical records and treatment documentation for multiple residents, resulting in uncertainty about whether ordered care was provided and conflicting information between records and staff reports. For one resident with muscle weakness and type 2 diabetes, review of the Treatment Administration Record (TAR) showed repeated missing documentation for several ordered treatments, including daily compression stockings for edema, daily vital signs with SpO2 monitoring, use and replacement of a PureWick external catheter, application of Calmoseptine for MASD every shift, monitoring of an alternating pressure mattress every shift, application of lymphedema boots every shift with progress notes for refusals, and wound care to the right lateral thigh every shift. On multiple dates in April, there was no documentation indicating whether these treatments were completed or missed, and no reasons recorded for any missed care. The DON stated that nurses were supposed to document completion or missed treatments with reasons, and acknowledged there was no one ensuring that nurses completed all treatment documentation and that she was unaware of the multiple missing treatment records for this resident. For another resident admitted with repeated falls and difficulty walking, the TAR contained an order to encourage use of an incentive spirometer every four hours, with staff assistance, for respiratory health. On numerous entries, nursing staff documented the code “07-Other/See Progress Notes,” but there were no corresponding progress notes explaining what occurred with the treatment. The TAR also showed the treatment documented as administered at certain times, while interviews with the family member, NP, RN, and DON revealed conflicting accounts about whether the resident had an incentive spirometer available and whether it was being used. The family member reported believing staff were not using the spirometer and that it might have been lost. The NP reported the order was placed at the family’s request, that the resident was not capable of using the device, and that she had heard staff might have lost it, creating a conflict with TAR entries showing the treatment as given. An RN reported the facility did not have an incentive spirometer and did not think the resident ever had one, and could not explain why she had documented “07-Other/See Progress Notes” without any corresponding note. The DON confirmed the resident had been admitted with an incentive spirometer and that nurses were supposed to write a progress note when using the “07” code, but she could not explain why some nurses documented the treatment as administered while others used “07” without explanation, leaving her unable to confirm whether the treatment was actually offered. For a third resident with sarcoidosis and muscle weakness, who was cognitively intact per a recent MDS BIMS score, the TAR showed an order for Ipratropium-Albuterol (DuoNeb) inhalation solution three times daily for three days for asthma exacerbation. The TAR reflected the treatment as administered twice on the first day, three times on the second day, and once on the third day, with subsequent entries coded as “07-Other/See Progress Notes” by an LPN, but without any related progress notes in the record. Progress notes from the NP documented that nebulizer treatments had been ordered for wheezing and cough, but later entries stated that the resident reported she never received the nebulizer treatments and that these were never administered because staff could not locate a nebulizer. In interview, the resident reported having a severe cough and shortness of breath since early in the month and stated that although albuterol treatments were ordered, nursing staff never administered them despite her informing staff and the NP. The NP confirmed the resident’s report that she had not received the treatments and stated she had informed the DON. The LPN who documented “07-Other/See Progress Notes” reported she did so because the facility did not have a nebulizer and she had to call to get one ordered, and she could not explain why other nurses had documented the treatments as administered when there was no nebulizer available. The DON acknowledged there was a delay in obtaining a nebulizer, which delayed the resident’s ordered treatments, and could not explain why staff documented administration of treatments that could not have been given. The facility’s own documentation policy stated that documentation should be factual, objective, accurate, relevant, complete, and that false information would not be documented, which conflicted with the observed charting practices.
Failure to Provide Care Plan Copies and Notify Representative of Significant Care Changes
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure a resident and the resident’s representatives were provided with a copy of the person‑centered care plan and updates, and were adequately informed of significant changes in care and services. The resident, admitted on 03/27/26 with diagnoses including dementia, heart disease, and a sacral pressure ulcer, had severe cognitive impairment and was dependent on staff for most ADLs per the 04/02/26 MDS. The active care plan initiated at admission included multiple problem areas such as impaired vision and hearing, fall risk, chronic pain, self‑care deficit, indwelling urinary catheter, pressure ulcer, repositioning needs, and nutritional risk. Subsequent care plan additions documented multiple new or evolving conditions, including cognitive fluctuation, risk for behavior and mood changes, risk for dehydration, anemia, hypothyroidism, constipation risk, and an actual urinary tract infection, as well as nutrition‑related monitoring and RD involvement. Despite these care plan elements and changes, the resident’s POA reported not having received a copy of the care plan and recalled only an orientation meeting without receiving the plan at that time. Care conference notes dated 03/30/26 and 03/31/26 showed that section seven, titled “Plan of Care,” was left blank, indicating that documentation of offering or providing the care plan was not completed. The social worker stated that the POA and representatives attended the initial care conference and that the standard practice would be to offer and provide a copy of the plan of care and orders, but there was no evidence this occurred. The social worker also confirmed that any listed representative in the EMR could receive information, yet reported no prior contact with the resident’s representatives other than the POA. In addition, there were multiple documented concerns from the resident’s representatives and POA about lack of information and communication regarding the resident’s care, including therapy services and wound care. Representatives reported being told that PT and OT had stopped without explanation, and the Director of Rehab Services confirmed that the therapy end date was 04/27/26 and that no notification of the end of services had been given to the POA. The POA and representatives described leaving messages for the DON and emailing the social worker, administrator, and medical director about care concerns without timely responses. Progress notes and wound documentation showed changes in wound status, including order changes for heel wounds, a new right lower extremity wound, a skin tear on the left foot, and a note that three buttock wounds had merged into one, but there was no indication in the record that the POA was contacted about these changes in the care plan and wounds, despite facility policy requiring notification of the resident and representative for significant changes in condition and treatment.
Failure to Identify and Treat New Foot Wound and Address Reported Hearing Concerns
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to identify and appropriately treat a new wound on a resident’s right third toe and to address earwax buildup for another resident, despite reported concerns. One resident with diabetes mellitus, diabetic polyneuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, prior right great toe amputation, and a new diagnosis of acute osteomyelitis of the right ankle and foot was cognitively intact and able to make needs known. He reported that after his right great toe amputation, he developed a pressure ulcer on the top of the second toe and another on the third toe that tunneled through, and he stated staff never identified and did not treat the third toe wound appropriately. Review of his medical record and nursing progress notes showed documentation and ongoing treatment of a right second toe wound but no documentation of a third toe wound prior to the later amputation of additional toes. Wound care documentation and related tools showed that a new in-house–acquired wound on the right second toe was identified and tracked over several weeks, with measurements and treatments recorded on a spreadsheet used by the wound care nurse to communicate with the NP. However, a wound care note and photograph dated 03/09/2026 showed black/brown eschar on the tips of the right third and fourth toes, while the spreadsheet for that date did not list any new wound on the third toe. The wound care nurse stated she performed weekly skin assessments on Mondays and reported that there was nothing noted on the third toe on 03/09/2026, and she indicated she did not see concerns with the third and fourth toes in the photograph, attributing the dark areas to lighting until the surveyor zoomed in on the image. The NP reported that she did not make rounds with the wound care nurse and relied on the spreadsheet to write orders; her visit notes and wound care documentation referenced only the second toe ulcer and described it as stable, with no mention of a third toe wound. Additional record review revealed that a physician assistant note dated 03/11/2026 documented eschar present on the second and third toes of the right foot, with the third distal toe eschar described as irritated, and global swelling of the foot noted. Nursing progress notes showed frequent wound care entries referencing only the right second toe, including on the day before the resident went on a leave of absence, and a note on 03/15/2026 by the wound care nurse stating that upon the resident’s return there was a new open area on the right third toe and that the resident requested transfer to the hospital for wound evaluation. Hospital records from that admission described an infected ulcer on the right third toe with subcutaneous gas, recurrent diabetic foot ulcer, and chronic ulcer on the second toe, and the resident subsequently underwent amputation of the second and third toes. Interviews with nursing staff showed poor recall of the third toe wound, with one RN stating she usually assessed the entire foot during dressing changes but did not think she did so in this instance, and the wound care nurse and DON were unable to identify when the third toe wound was first recognized in facility documentation. The deficiency also includes failure to address reported earwax buildup for another resident with traumatic subdural hemorrhage and dementia, who had severe cognitive impairment on MDS assessment but only minimal hearing difficulty and did not use hearing aids. The resident’s guardian reported by telephone that the resident seemed to have increased difficulty hearing and that they had asked for the resident’s hearing to be checked, but nothing was done. There was no documentation in the report of assessment or treatment of earwax buildup or follow-up on the guardian’s request, indicating that the facility did not provide appropriate care in response to concerns about the resident’s hearing and possible cerumen impaction.
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