Petitioner: AGENCY FOR HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
Respondent: CAREGIVERS OF PENSACOLA, INC., D/B/A SOUTHERN OAKS
Judges: HARRY L. HOOPER
Agency: Agency for Health Care Administration
Locations: Pensacola, Florida
Filed: Feb. 27, 2008
Status: Closed
Settled and/or Dismissed prior to entry of RO/FO on Tuesday, September 9, 2008.
Latest Update: Dec. 23, 2024
Certified Mail Receipt
CX (O ws (7004 2890 0000 5527 3101)
STATE OF FLORIDA
AGENCY FOR HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
STATE OF FLORIDA, AGENCY FOR
HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION,
Petitioner,
; AHCA NOS.: 2008000129
vs. 2008000130
CAREGIVERS OF PENSACOLA, INC.
d/b/a SOUTHERN OAKS,
Respondent.
aaa S
ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT
COMES NOW the AGENCY FOR HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
(“AHCA”), by and through the undersigned counsel, and files this Administrative
Complaint against. CAREGIVERS OF PENSACOLA, INC. d/b/a SOUTHERN OAKS
. (hereinafter “Southern Oaks”), pursuant to Section 120.569, and 120.57, Fla. Stat. (2007),
alleges:
NATURE OF THE ACTION
1. — This is an action to impose one (1) administrative fine in the amount of Ten
Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00), plus one (1) survey fee in the amount of Six Thousand
($6,000.00), against Southern Oaks for one (1) isolated class I deficiency, pursuant to
Sections 400.23(8)(a), and 400.102(1)(a), Fla. Stat. (2007). The Agency also intends to
impose a conditional rating effective October 26, 2007 through November 28, 2007,
pursuant to Section 400.23(7), Fla. Stat. (2007) case no. 2008000130.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
2. This Agency has jurisdiction pursuant to 400, Part II and Sections 120.569
and 120.57, Fla. Stat. (2007).
3. Venue lies in Escambia County, Pensacola, Florida, pursuant to Section
120.57 Fla. Stat. (2007); Rule 59A-4, Fla. Admin. Code (2007) and Section 28.106.207,
Fla. Stat. (2007).
PARTIES
4. AHCA, is the regulatory authority responsible for licensure and enforcement
of all applicable statutes and rules governing nursing home facilities pursuant to Chapter
400, Part II, Fla. Stat. (2007), and Chapter 59A-4, Fla. Admin. Code (2007).
5. Southern Oaks is a for-profit corporation, whose 210-bed nursing home
facility is located at 600 West Gregory Street, Pensacola, Florida 32501. Southern Oaks is
licensed as nursing. home license #SNF1556096; certificate number #14958, effective
November 29, 2007 through March 31, 2009. Southern Oaks was at all times material
hereto, licensed facility under the licensing authority of AHCA, and required to comply
with all applicable rules, and statutes.
COUNTI
SOUTHERN OAKS FAILED TO PROVIDE MEDICATIONS TO PREVENT
DETERIORATION, HOSPITALIZATION, AND DEALTH FOR 1 OF 4 RESIDENTS -
#146; AND FAILED TO ENSURE 2 OF 39 RESIDENTS RECEIVED NECESSARY
DIALYSIS CARE RELATED TO ADEQUATE MONITORING OF IN-HOUSE
PERITONEAL DIALYSIS FOR RESIDENT #197 AND MONITORING OF THE
HEMODIALYSIS ACCESS SITE FOR RESIDENT #166.
STATE TAG N216-HEALTH AND SAFETY OF RESIDENT
Section 400.23(8)(b), Fla. Stat. (2007) RULES EVALUATION, AND DEFICIENCIES;
LICENSURE STATUS
Section 400.102(1)(a), Fla. Stat. (2007) ACTLON BY AGENCY AGAINST LICENSEE;
GROUNDS
6. AHCA re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set
forth herein.
7. On or about October 26, 2007, AHCA conducted a complaint investigation
survey at the Respondent’s facility. AHCA cited the Respondent based on the findings
below, to wit:
a.) On or about October 26, 2007, Southern Oaks failed to provide
medications to prevent deterioration, hospitalization, and death for 1 of 4 residents #146;
and failed to ensure 2 of 39 residents received necessary dialysis care related to adequate
monitoring of in-house peritoneal dialysis for resident #197 and monitoring of the
Hemondialysis access site for resident #166.
The Findings include:
1. Record review on 10/25/07 at 4:00 p.m. and continuing 10/26/07 at 8:30 a.m.
and concluding at approximately 6:00 p.m., revealed resident #146 was admitted
6/15/06. Resident hospitalized 7/19/07, returned to nursing home facility
7/22/07, went to the emergency room 7/25/07 and returned the same day,
resident expired in nursing home 8/6/07.
Diagnoses for resident #146 included: Hypertensive renal disease with renal failure;
Alzheimers disease; diabetes-type II; depressive type psychosis; enlargement of
lymph nodes; anxiety state; urinary tract infection; hyperlipidemia; and congestive
heart failure. Record review on 10/26/07 at 9:00 a.m. of resident #146 's Annual
Minimun Data Set (MDS) with. Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 5/30/07
revealed resident's long term memory was intact; moderately impaired decision
making/supervision required; able to make self understood; responds adequately to
simple direct communication; repetitive anxious complaints/concerns exhibited 5
‘days a week, resists care behavior occurred 1-3 days in last 7 and behavior not easily
altered; at ease interacting with others, at ease doing planned activities, accepts
invitations into most gourp activities; required extensive asssitance with activities of
daily living; wheelchair primary mode of locomotion; incontinent of bladder;
unsteady gait; chewing and swallowing problems; leaves 25% or more of food
uneaten at most meals, mechanically altered diet; pressure relieving devices; activity
preferences talking or conversing; evaluation by a licensed mental health specialist
in last 90 days, reorientation; restorative walking 5 days a week, eating or
swallowing 7 days a week; abnormal labs in last 90 days; resident participated in
assessment; walking when most self sufficient coded 51-149 feet, time walked 3-4
minutes, self performance walking with limited assistance, walking support one
person physical assist. ]5 stability of conditions, end-stage disease, 6 or fewer
months to live is not checked and section Plo hospice care is not checked. Section
O number of medications 24.
MDS with ARD date 7/24/07 Mecidare 5 day revealed condition declined in the
following areas: resident did not walk in room or walk in corridor; resident totally
dependent in all areas of activities of daily living except required 2 person physcial
assist for bed mobility; incontinent of bowel; had indwelling foley catheter; resident
conditions unstable, resident experiencing an acute episode or flare up of a
recurrent or chronic problem; on a turning and positioning program; monitoring
intake and output and acute medical condition; occupational therapy 2 days, only
restorative eating or swallowing 7 days; section Q2 coded overall change in care
needs coded deteriorated-receives more support. J5 stability of conditions, end-stage
disease, 6 or fewer months to live is not checked. Section Plo hospice care is not
checked. Section O number of medications 4.
MDS with ARD date 7/26/07 significant change assessment J5 end-stage disease is
not checked, Plo hospice is checked.
Record review of resident #146 's care plan on 10/26/07 at 9: 30 a.m. dated
5/30/07 related to supervision with activities of daily living; short term memory
problem and impaired decision making; risk of falls related to unsteady gait; risk
for skin breakdown; risk of drug related side effects use of psychotropic meds;
resists ADL cate, meds, rehab at times and is physically and verbally abusive;
potential for upper respiratory and urinary tract infections; alteration in health
status secondary to hypertension, diabetes, chronic renal failure, congestive heart
failure, anemia, pain management and dementia; resident prefers to make
independent choices regarding activities. ;
Care plan problems, goals, and interventions were not changed from 5/ 30/07 until
after the resident's return from the hospital on 7/22/07.
2. Resident #146 's record review on 10/26/07 at 10:00 a.m. revealed 6/4/07
social services note indicated resident's brother in to withdraw all of resident's
money to pay for resident's life insurance policy. Because resident had not yet "been
approved for Medicaid and is currently under “private pay status" thus until
approved, all monies are applied to the balance of his account. Residents brother
stated he understood but did not agree." Facility did not give brother any money.
6/14/07 social services note indicated attempts to contact resident's daughter to
"discuss issues with resident financial status with bill at facility, family also not
compliant with Medicaid for financial assistance".
6/18/07 social services note indicated resident continued to do well staff reports
no problems. Resident up and well dressed state doing fine.
6/19/07 documented correspondence between pharmacy and facility revealed
facility was notified resident 's balance was over $17,000 and facility would be
responsible if not paid. :
6/28/07 documented correspondence between pharmacy and facility revealed
facility trying to give resident a discharge notice because family lent no assistance.
6/28/07 social services note indicated resident was "issued 30 days discharge notice
for repeated attempts to collect all necessary financial information unsuccessful.
Family notified. Will follow’.
6/28/07 Nursing Home Transfer and Discharge Notice given to resident for
"repeated attempts to collect all necessary financial information unsuccessful".
Presented by administrator and signed by resident 7/2/07.
Interview with Social Services Director on 10/26/07 at 1:55 p.m. revealed they
had several conversations with resident #146 's brother related to financial issues.
Social services director stated they did not recall talking to the family about
physician orders to discontine resident #146's medications. Social services director
recalled talking to the brother about facility instituting comfort measures. Social
services director stated they were not aware if medications were discontinued
because family did not pay pharmacy bill. Stated facility was not supposed to stop
the medications and they would take that to the administrator, further stating
resident has to have what they need and it should not have anything to do with
money. Surveyor showed the social services director their own social services note
dated 7/19/07 late entry for 7/13/07, the social services director then recalled
pharmacy was owed something like $15,000 and did discuss medications with
administrator. Social services director stated if residents are not approved for
Medicaid and they were Medicaid pending, the administrator had to pay for
everything. Social services director stated resident #146 was private pay-Medicaid
pending at the time the medications were discontinued.
The next social services note is dated 7/19/07 " pt. out to hosp. Left message on
brother's phone to call regarding assistance with completing Medicaid process". _
7/19/07 note has late entry for 7/13/07 "SW spoke with administrator regarding
tes. financial status and pharmaceutical situation. Administrator states he was
previously. made aware and has agreed to pay for meds. Pt. notified. Continue to
follow."
3. Resident #146 's record review on 10/26/07 at 10:30 a.m. revealed from 7/2/7
to 7/19/07 resident received occupational therapy three times a week for 15 to 25
minutes at a time to demonstrate active assistive range of motion to upper
extremities to assist with ADL's and joint (shoulder) pain.
Inerview with Occupational Therapist (OT), on 10/26/07 at 2:23 p.m. revealed
prior to resident #146's hospitalization, goals were to improve upper extremity
active assistive range of motion without complaints of pain. Stated resident #146
began complaining of bilateral shoulder pain and OT was working on improving
function. Residet #146 had been able to assist with bed mobility, was then
hospitalized, had slight decline and needed OT to get back that ability. Because of
the pain resident #146 was holding arms close to the body and would not abduct
arms and staff was having difficulty bathing the resident. Record review at this time
confirmed slight progress was made last two visits prior to hospitalization and
resident was seen 7/16/07 and 7/18/07 and participated in exercises and bed
mobility but refused hot packs.
Record review with OT during interview revealed when resident #146 returned
from hospital resident had an OT evaluation 7/24/07 with goal of passive range of
motion, grip strength had slightly decreased, was to be seen 3 times/week for 3
weeks, however, was only seen twice because resident was admitted to hospice
7/26/07 for failure to thrive.
4. Record review on 10/26/07 of resident #146 ' s medication administration
record (MAR) for 7/1/07 through 7/31/07 revealed the following medications
where nurses wrote their initials and then circled their initials indicating the
medication was not given. benicar (antihypertensive) circled 7/6-12/07; dyrenium
{potassium sparing diuretic) circled 7/6-12/07; minoxidil (antihypertensive) circled
7/6-12/07; benazepril (antihypertensive) circled 7/6-12/07; norvasc
(antihypertensive) circled 7/6-12/07; prozac (antidepressant) circled 7/6-12/07;
calcitriol (calcium regulator) circled 7/6-12/07; vitamin D circled 7/6-12/07; coreg
(antihypertensive) circled 7/6-12/07; ferrous sulfate (iron) circled 7 of 14 doses
1/6-12/07; hydralazine (antihypertensive) circled 7/6-12/07; seroquel
(antipsychotic). circled 7/7/07 and 7/8/07; epogen weekly injection circled
7/11/07.
Review of nurses notes 6/24/07 through 7/12/07 revealed there was no
documentation resident #146 refused any medications. Review of the back of the
MAR ' ss for July reveal no indication as to why the nurses circled their initials.
Review of facility policy and procedure titled ° Caregivers Nursing Policy and
Procedure Effective Date 12/01/02 Medications/Administering "#11 states." If the
resident refuses medication, indicate failure to administer medication on the MAR
and in the nurse 's notes. Notify the physician of repeated refusals to take
medication ".
Interview on 10/26/07 at 3:17 p.m. with third floor LPN #1, asked what the nurse
does if the resident does not take medications, stated they circle their initials on the
front of the MAR, write resident refuses medication on the back of the MAR, and
throw away the medicine. If the resident refuses the next day they put in the
physician log book. Log book is located at the nurses station in the chart rack.
Surveyor asked how do you document if the medication is not available, stated
circle my initials and document on the back of the MAR the medication is not
available.
Interview on 10/26/07 at 3:20 p.m. with LPN #2, policy is to attempt twice, then
circle on the front of the MAR, and on the back of the MAR write patient refused,
date, time, and write my name. If resident refuses continuous I'll call the physician.
If medication is not available circle on MAR, write on the back unavailable, call the
pharmacy and let them know the medication was not available. Stated they were
aware pharmacy was not delivering resident #146's medications but unsure why.
Interview on 10/26/07 at 3:23 p.m. with RN, ADON, stated unsure what the
policy is regarding what nurses are to document when a resident refuses
medications or medications are not available, but would make several attempts,
discard the medication, and document by circling initials and write on the back of
the MAR resident refused and I would write it in my nurses notes. Stated they
would immediately inform physician that resident refused the medications. Stated
they were unsure what the policy was regarding the physician discontinuing
medications that are refused. Stated they were aware pharmacy was not sending
pills for resident #146 and that shortly after that they were discontinue by the
physician. Stated pharmacy was not sending pills for resident #146 because there
was an outstanding debt. Surveyor asked how the nurse would document the
medication was not available as opposed to resident refused, nurse stated the same
with a circle, and think the nurses would write unavailable as opposed to refused
on the back of the MAR.
Interview on 10/26/07 at 5:40 p.m. with Director of Nursing (along with QA
Director), revealed nurses document a resident's refusal of meds by circling their
initials if a medication is not given for whatever reason, then write a nurses note as
to the explanation as to why the medication was not given, either refused or not
available. Stated she understood that some of the medications were available, even
though they were not sent by the pharmacy, because there were some left over
because the resident had sometimes refused medications. Stated if medications
were not available the nurse would call the physician, see if the medication is in the
emergency box. Stated this is the first time they had this problem. Stated when they
(Administrator and DON) were called about the pharmacy not sending the
medications she stated they said we would be responsible. Stated they never had
this to happen before. The QA Director and DON both confirmed there was no
policy or procedure in place related to what to do when a resident/family does not
pay the pharmacy bill and the pharmacy does not send medications.
5. Record review on 10/26/07 of resident #146 ' s record revealed 7/9/07
physician progress note indicated apparently getting few meds as family is not
making payments to pharmacy.
7/9/07 physician order" social services-problem with pharmacy payment? (family) if
they won't pay for meds, then we need to pursue hospice consult he is DNR."
7/9/07 documentation between pharmacy and administrator revealed facility
would be taking responsibility for resident ' s medications.
7/10/07 nurses notes indicated social services consult D/T (due to ) pharmacy
won't send meds and probably see about putting-resident on hospice.-
7/10/07 Hospice of the Emerald Coase consult reveals "pt. is not appropriate for
hospice at this time." "Does not meet criteria under hospice diagnosis. Also, pt. is
currently receiving OT (occupational therapy) 3X/wk (three times a week).
7/12/07 physician progress note indicated see hospice eval, pt not taking meds,
family aware. Physician orders to have "social services notify family that we will
initiate comfort measures only for this pt." And discontnued the following meds:
minoxidil (antihypertensive), benazepril (antihypertensive), megace (anorexia),
norvasc(antianginal/antihypertensive), prozac (antidepressant), calcitrol (calcium
regulator), vitamin D, prevacid (antiulcer), aspirin (analgesic/antiplatelet), benicar
(antihypertensive), dyrenium (potassium sparing diuretic), coreg (antihypertensive),
nitroglycerin (coronary vasodilator/antianginal), hydralazine
(antihypertensive/direct-acting peripheral vasodilator), clonidine (antihypertensive),
ferrous sulfate (iron), vitamin C, chronulac (ammonia detoxicant), seroquel
(antipsychotic), epogen (antianemic), duoneb nebulizer (albuterol-bronchodilator),
tylenol (analgesic).
Interview: Attending physician 's Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP)
for the resident called this surveyor. Interview on 10/26/07 at 4:57 p.m. with
ARNP revealed ARNP remembered resident #146 had diabetes, hypertension, and
congestive heart failure. Stated at times resident #146 would not take meds but
ARNP understood that resident #146 was not receiving meds "for a while because
pharmacy had not delivered for a while". ARNP stated they overheard someone say
family had not paid pharmacy bill so pharmacy would not send medications. Stated
reason resident #146 was not getting medications was because they (medications)
were not there. ARNP stated they asked the nurses taking care of the resident #146
how resident #146 was doing and was told resident #146 was doing fine, blood
pressure was good, ARNP stated they saw resident #146 sitting up in a wheelchair
at the nurses station. Surveyor asked if ARNP was aware of why resident #146 was
hospitalized, ARNP stated in retrospect thought resident #146 had a bad urinary
tract infection that was not diagnosed, but then stated they knew resident #146 was
sent to the hospital because the resident #146's blood pressure shot up. Surveyor
asked if ARNP routinely, abruptly, discontinued diabetes, hypertension, or
congestive heart failure medications, ARNP stated "me, no, honestly". ARNP
stated "this situation stinks, this is the first time I heard of it, sure did put me in a
bad situation".
6. Record review of resident #146 's record revealed vital sign flow sheet 5/27/07
to 7/18/07 indicated blood pressure taken daily and only once systolic over 164
and dystolic only over 90 once, on 7/11/07 blood pressure was 167/98, on
1/19/07 date of hospitalization blood pressure was recorded as 190/98 and
210/100.
Nurses note 7/4/07 indicated blood pressure 206/127 clonidine given.
7/10/07 nurses note indicated received new orders for social services consult D/T
(due to) pharmacy won.'t send meds and probably see about putting resident on
hospice.
7/12/07 nurses note indicated majority of meds DC'd (discontinued) social
services notified of comfort measures only. BP (blood pressute) this am at 0800 was
220/140 clonidine given.
7/13/07 physician progress note family aware of this situation and they have been
difficult to reach. Will not pay for meds. Pt. is DNR with advanced
dementia/CHF/ ...(resident) been off most meds 1 week no ...remained stable.
Comfort measutes only - family aware.
7/13/07 nurses note indicated "social services given co of new order to. noti
family of intimate comfort measures".
7/16/07 nurses note indicated blood sugar 44 and blood pressure 163/123.
Physician progress note indicted hypoglycemia, lantus (long acting insulin) was
discontinued.
7/17/07 nurse’s note indicated blood pressure 190/110 clonidine given. Physician
ordered lortab (opiod analgesic) and saline nasal spray discontinued.
7/19/07 nurse’s note indicated blood pressure 190/98 clonidine given. Blood
pressure at 10:30 a.m., 178/92. Blood pressure at 1:00 p.m., 210/100.
7/19/07 physician progress note not eating, marked confusion, low sugars, ordered
resident to the emergency room for evaluation of altered mental status.
Facility Resident Transfer Form dated 7/19/07 states reason for transfer of resident
#146 " AMS (altered mental status, increased BP (blood pressure), SOB (shortness
of breath) apnea. Admitted to acute care hospital. Readmitted to nursing home
7/22/07. Sent to acute care hospital emergency room 7/25/07 at 4:15 a.m. nursing
home nurses notes indicated " unable to reduce B/P. Sent to Baptist ER to
evaluate + treat HTN "." Resident returned to facility via EMS approximately 12:30
p.m.” .
1/23/07 physician progress noted indicated returned from hospital-more alert
today.7/25/07 admitted to Emerald Coast Hospice with diagnosis of end stage
Alzheimer's. Hospice Initial Certification and Plan of Care/Physician Orders not
signed by two physicians.
7/26/07 physician progress note indicated uncontrolled hypertension.
7. Interview with Quality Assurance Director/Staff Educator (along with DON) on
10/26/07 at 5:40 p.m. revealed it was his understanding the resident #146 was not
taking medications or resident #146 was refusing meds for 6 or 7 days and that the
physician or ARNP discontinued meds and monitored the resident. Surveyor asked
if QA included monitoring of residents refusal of medications or pharmacy not
sending medications or medications being discontinued because pharmacy bills
were not paid. Stated this situation did not come up in QA because he was not
made aware. Stated he remembered resident #146 had medications discontinued
because resident #146 was not taking them and seerned to be fine without them.
Stated he knew insulin was discontinued but knew sliding scale insulin was still
being given so it was not an issue. Stated he didn't know of any medications that
were not available from the pharmacy for resident #146, and did not monitor this
in QA. Stated if a resident does not have medications the nurse calls the on-call
pharmacy number and the local pharmacy, Walgreens, sends the medications.
Stated he was perplexed hearing all this today.
8. Interview on 10/26/07 at 4:20 p.m. with administrator confirmed facility did
provide discharge notice to resident #146 related to bill at the facility not being
paid. Stated the discharge notice was given the later part of June. Administrator
stated that during family July 4° vacation administrator was called by facility that
the pharmacy was not being paid for resident #146 's medications. Administrator
stated pharmacist told facility that the facility would have to pay the bill.
‘Administrator agreed to pay the bill from this point forward, however, does not
know if the bill was paid. Stated thought the bill was several thousand dollars.
Administrator stated since he knew the 30 day discharge notice was given he
thought he would have to pay the pharmacy bill for about 30 days. Stated he was
not aware pharmacy stopped sending medication for resident #146 after 6/30/07.
Stated he became aware during this survey that the physician discontinued resident
#146 's medications.
9. Interview with pharmacist, at Rx Advantage, on 10/26/07 at 10:10 a.m. revealed
pharmacist was aware resident #146 ' s medications were discontinued by the
physician due to non payment to the pharmacy. Surveyor asked if this was the
routine practice pharmacist stated yes they (pharmacy) "give fair warning". Surveyor
asked who was given the fair warning, pharmacist stated the pharmacy gave warning
to the facility and the responsible party. Surveyor asked if the pharmacist had
copies of fair warnings given, pharmacist replied they did and would fax to 850-437-
3733. Documentation of correspondence between the pharmacy and facility
received and reviewed. 6/19/07 documented correspondence between pharmacy
and facility revealed facility was notified resident ' s balance was over $17,000
tees and facility would be responsible if not paid. 7/9/07 documentation between
pharmacy and administrator revealed facility would be taking responsibility for
resident 's medications. :
Interview with pharmacist again on 10/26/07 at 4:00 p.m. revealed pharmacy sent
a 7 day supply of medications for resident #146 to the facility 6/30/07 and this was
a 7 day supply. Stated the pharmacy always sent a seven day supply. Stated the
supply would have run out July 6 or 7, 2007. Pharmacist stated the next time
medications were sent for resident #146 was on July 23, 2007 when resident #146
was readmitted to the facility under Medicare Part A after a hospitalization.
10. Observation at 12:35 p.m. on 10/25/07 revealed resident #197 receiving
peritoneal dialysis in his/her room. 7 minutes were remaining on the clock. Fluids
were being drained through a line into the bathroom sink.
Interview with the registered nurse on 10/25/07 at 2:15 p.m., revealed that she
monitored the weight daily, and the drain amount should be recorded daily. A flow
sheet was present. The residents in the connecting room are incontinent.
Review of the monitoring record initiated 10/17/07 monitored weight, blood
pressure, pulse on the 10/17,18, and 19/2007. Monitoring was not documented
at all on 10/20 and 10/21/07.
Review of the procedures given to the facility by the dialysis coordinator identified
that drainage should be observed for blood or cloudiness. Interview with the nurse
on 10/25/07 at approximately 2:45 p.m., confirmed that there was not any
monitoring of the discharge fluid as stated in the handout provided by the dialysis
center or monitoring of peritoneal dialysis process on 10/20 or 10/21/07.
Interview with the unit manager also confirmed that there monitoring was not
documented as being done on 10/20 or 10/21/07.
11. Interview with resident #166 on 10/25/07 at 6 pm, S/he stated the staff did
not check bruit or thrill when s/he returned from dialysis or checked the site on
non-dialysis days. S/he stated that "1 had been back since 3:30 pm or 4:00 pm
have not received my meds yet." S/he was aware of what complication to look for
and would call nurse if bleeding swelling or discoloration.
Interview with the charge nurse, on 10/25/07 at 3:15 p-m., confirmed that the
shunt site was not documented on the treatment sheet MAR's or skin assessment.
There should have been documentation. Interview with the D.O.N. confirmed
that the facility did not have a policy/procedure related to monitoring residents
receiving dialysis services.
Class I
Isolated
Correct by: Immediate
8. The regulatory provisions of the Fla. Stat. (2007) that is pertinent to this
alleged violation read as follows:
400.23 Rules; evaluation and deficiencies; and licensure status-
(8)(a) A class I deficiency is a deficiency that the agency determines presents a
situation in which immediate corrective action is necessary because the facility's
noncompliance has caused, or is likely to cause, serious injury, harm, impairment,
or death to a resident receiving care in a facility. The condition or practice
constituting a class I violation shall be abated or eliminated immediately, unless a
fixed period of time, as determined by the agency, is required for correction. A class
I deficiency is subject to a civil penalty of $10,000 for an: isolated deficiency,
$12,500 for a patterned deficiency, and $15,000 for a widespread deficiency. The
fine amount shall be doubled for each deficiency if the facility was previously cited
for one or more class I or class II deficiencies during the last licensure inspection ot
any inspection or complaint investigation since the last licensure inspection. A fine
must be levied notwithstanding the correction of the deficiency.
a es
400.102 Action by agency against licensee; grounds.~
In addition to the grounds listed in part II of chapter 408, any of the following
conditions shall be grounds for action by the agency against a licensee:
(1) An intentional or negligent act materially affecting the health or safety of
residents of the facility.
400.23 Rules; evaluation and deficiencies; licensure status.—
(7) The agency shall, at least every 15 months, evaluate all nursing home facilities
and make a determination as to the degree of compliance by each licensee with the
established rules adopted under this part as a basis for assigning a licensure status
to that facility. The agency shall base its evaluation on the most recent inspection
teport, taking into consideration findings from other official reports, surveys,
interviews, investigations, and inspections. In addition to license categories
authorized under part Il of chapter 408, the agency shall assign a licensure status of
standard or conditional to each nursing home.
~*~ * *
9. The violation alleged herein constitutes a class II deficiency, and warrants a
fine of $10,000.00.
WHEREFORE, AHCA demands the following relief:
1. Enter factual and findings as set forth in the allegations of this
administrative complaint.
2. Impose a fine in the amount of $10,000.00.
COUNT II
DUE TO THE ONE CITED CLASS I DEFICIENCIES, AN IMPOSITION OF A
CONDITIONAL LICENSE AND SIX MONTH SURVEY CYCLE FOR A PERIOD
OF TWO YEARS IS WARRANTED
FINES TOTALLING $6,000 PURSUANT TO
. Section 400, 19(3), Fla. Stat. (2007), RIGHT OF ENTRY INSPECTION
Section 400.23(7)(b), Fla. Stat. (2007) RULES EVALUATION, AND DEFICIENCIES;
LICENSURE STATUS
10. AHCA realleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set
forth herein.
11. The agency shall every 15 months conduct at least one unannounced
inspection to determine compliance by the licensee with statutes, and with rules
promulgated under the provisions of those. statutes, governing minimum standards of
construction, quality and adequacy of care, and rights of residents. The survey shall be
conducted every 6 months for the next 2-year period if the facility has been cited for a class
I deficiency, has been cited for two or more class II deficiencies arising from separate
surveys or investigations within a 60-day period, or has had three or more substantiated
complaints within a 6month period, each resulting in at least one class 1 or class II
deficiency. In addition to any other fees or fines in this part, the agency shall assess a fine
for each facility that is subject to the 6-month survey cycle. The fine for the 2-year period
shall be $6,000, one-half to be paid at the completion of each survey. The agency may
adjust this fine by the change in the Consumer Price Index, based on the 12 months
immediately preceding the increase, to cover the cost of the additional surveys. The agency
shall verify through subsequent inspection that any deficiency identified during inspection
is corrected. However, the agency may verify the correction of a class III or class IV
deficiency unrelated to resident rights or resident care without reinspecting the facility if
adequate written documentation has been received from the facility, which provides
assurance that the deficiency has been corrected. The giving or causing to be given of
advance notice of such unannounced inspections by an employee of the agency to any
unauthorized person shall constitute cause for suspension of not fewer than 5 working days
according to the provisions of chapter 110.
12. The violation alleged herein constitutes a class I deficiency, and warrants a
fine totaling $6,000.
WHEREFORE, AHCA demands the following relief:
1. Enter factual and findings as set forth in the allegations of this
administrative complaint.
2. Impose a fine in the amount of $6,000.
CLAIM FOR RELIEF
WHEREFORE, the Petitioner, State of Florida Agency for Health Care
Administration requests the following relief:
1. Make factual and legal findings in favor of the Agency on Count I, Il.
2. Southern Oaks an administrative fine in the amount of $16.000 for the
violation cited above.
3. Grant such other relief as the court deems is just and proper.
Respondent is notified that it has a right to request an administrative hearing pursuant to
Section 120.569, Florida Statutes (2007). Specific options for administrative action are set
out in the attached Election of Rights (one page) and explained in the attached
Explanation of Rights (one page).
15
All requests for hearing shall be made to the Agency for Health Care Administration, and
delivered to the Agency for Health Care Administration, Building 3, MSC #3, 2727
Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, Florida 32308; Michael O. Mathis, Senior Attorney.
RESPONDENT IS FURTHER NOTIFED THAT THE FAILURE TO REQUEST A
HEARING WITHIN 21 DAYS OF RECEIPT OF THIS COMPLAINT WILL
REASULT IN AN ADMISSION OF THE FACTS ALLEGED IN THE COMPLAINT
AND THE ENTRY OF A rN ORDER BY THE AGENCY.
Respectfully Submitted this _ 4" day of 2008, Leon County, Tallahassee,
s
Michael Oz. Mathis, Esquire
Fla. Bar. No. 0325570
Counsel of Petitioner, Agency for
Health Care Administration
Bldg. 3, MSC #3
2727 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, Florida 32308
(850) 922-5873 (office)
(850) 921-0158 (fax)
Florida.
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been served
by certified mail on F™* day of febnsmem) 2008 to Clyde Church, Administrator,
Southern Oaks, 600 West Gregory Street, Pensacola, Florida 32501.
Michael O. Mathis, Esquire
ie
U:S. Postal Service:
CERTIFIED MAIL... RECEIPT
(Domestic Mail Only; No Insurance Coverage Provided).
For delivery information visit our. website at WWW.USPS.COoms
MVOFFICIAL USE
en
7004 2890 0000 5527 3101
PS Formy:3800, June 2002:
SENDER: COMPLETE THIS SECTION
™ Complete items 1, 2, and 3. Also complete
item 4 if Restricted Delivery is desired.
™@ Print your name and address on the reverse
so that we-can return the card to you..
™ Attach this card to the back of the mailpiece,
or on the front if space permits.
fa lyola, OF to: j ; i - n.
ad \Wes + rege
A=
D. Is defivery address different from ttem 12 CJ Yes
If YES, enter delivery address below: 01.No
3. Service Type
pcariied Mail ° [1 Express Mall.
CI Registered C1 Return Receipt for Merchandise
O Insured Mail 1 C.0.D.
4, Restricted Delivery? (Extra Fee)
2. Article Number
(Transfer from service label) 7oo4 2aqo anoo 552? 3101
PS Form 3811, February 2004 ie Return Receipt 102595-02-M-1540
Docket for Case No: 08-001055
Issue Date |
Proceedings |
Sep. 09, 2008 |
Order Closing File. CASE CLOSED.
|
Sep. 05, 2008 |
Status Report filed.
|
Jul. 01, 2008 |
Order Continuing Case in Abeyance (parties to advise status by September 5, 2008).
|
Jun. 30, 2008 |
Status Report filed.
|
May 20, 2008 |
Order Continuing Case in Abeyance (parties to advise status by June 30, 2008).
|
May 19, 2008 |
Status Report filed.
|
Apr. 11, 2008 |
Order Granting Continuance and Placing Case in Abeyance (parties to advise status by May 16, 2008).
|
Apr. 11, 2008 |
Motion to Remand filed.
|
Apr. 08, 2008 |
Response to Petitioner`s Request for Admissions filed.
|
Mar. 10, 2008 |
Notice of Hearing (hearing set for April 29, 2008; 10:00 a.m., Central Time; Pensacola, FL).
|
Mar. 10, 2008 |
Order of Pre-hearing Instructions.
|
Mar. 06, 2008 |
Joint Response to ALJ`s Initial Order filed.
|
Feb. 28, 2008 |
Initial Order.
|
Feb. 27, 2008 |
Administrative Complaint filed.
|
Feb. 27, 2008 |
Petition for Formal Administrative Hearing filed.
|
Feb. 27, 2008 |
Notice (of Agency referral) filed.
|