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On March 26, R1 reported to an outside agency that staff were not giving PRN medications when requested. The RCD explained PRN medication frequency requirements (e.g., every 4 or 6 hours) to R1 and indicated staff would call hospice if pain medications appeared ineffective. On March 28, R1 refused morning application of their routine lidocaine patch but later asked for the patch in the evening, which could not be given outside the doctor’s order. Notes show R1 sometimes refused personal care after bowel movements, telling staff to call hospice to provide care. Notes also indicate R1 has been upset since the facility began managing their medications after hospice staff observed misuse and noted R1 continued driving despite morphine use, which created safety concerns. On March 28 R1 made derogatory comments toward care staff. On March 31, R1 refused medications, attempted to leave the facility to go to work, fell in the parking garage, called 911, and refused transport. Hospice staff reported they were exploring a higher level of care placement due to R1’s desire for private nursing support and continued driving concerns.
During LPA’s interview, R1 stated they were diagnosed with prostate cancer in May of the previous year and were told they had one year to live. R1 stated they work two days a week as security for an auction house and have told staff not to give morphine before work. R1 stated officers informed them that due to their morphine prescription, their work license had been suspended. R1 stated facility staff “give them medications regularly,” but they still experience constant left leg pain.
Executive Director stated R1 was previously self administering their medications. In March, the facility assumed responsibility for R1’s medication management due to observed concerns that suggested R1 may no longer be able to safely self administer. This change was made with physician authorization, in coordination with hospice services, and with R1’s consent. All medications are administered by staff in accordance with physician orders. R1 has expressed concerns about medication frequency; however, staff have reminded them that medications must be administered only as prescribed. Any requests for changes are communicated to hospice and the prescribing physician for review and possible adjustment.
Based on the evidence reviewed, including interviews, record review, and care documentation, there is insufficient evidence to support that the facility failed to administer medications as prescribed or failed to meet R1’s care needs. Records show medications were administered in accordance with physician orders, refusals were documented appropriately, and delays in lidocaine patch application were due to pharmacy delivery and resident refusal, not staff neglect.
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