Hearth Record

Rochester Regional Health Home Care

A home health agency in Rochester, New York 14607

330 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, New York 14607. (585) 214-1000.

CMS’s own record, on Care Compare

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The short answer

Record last released by CMS on Oct 21, 2026.

The last 24 months 21 deficiencies in 3 months of the last 36. Last cited Apr 2025. Most serious: Standard-level. Every month

Each figure’s source sits beside it, in its section below.

What these words mean3
Star ratings
CMS rates some kinds of place from 1 to 5 stars, more stars meaning better on CMS’s own measures for that kind: for a nursing home, its health inspections, staffing and quality measures. A rating is CMS’s summary of those measures; it doesn’t promise good care. Source: CMS, Care Compare and the Five-Star Quality Rating System.
Inspection (survey)
A visit by state inspectors, often unannounced, who check a place against the rules it must meet. For nursing homes and other places Medicare pays, CMS calls these visits surveys: a standard survey of a nursing home comes at least every 15 months, and a complaint survey whenever a complaint calls for one. Source: CMS; 42 CFR 488.308.
Deficiency, citation, violation
What inspectors write up when a place didn’t meet a rule: the rule, what they saw, and when. CMS calls it a deficiency; states may say citation or violation. It is the inspectors’ finding, not a court’s, and the place is usually asked for a plan to correct it. Source: CMS, statement of deficiencies (Form CMS-2567); each state’s licensing agency.

What did inspectors find?

The last inspection on record was on Apr 21, 2025: a complaint inspection.

21 deficiencies cited in the last three years.

Source:

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

When those deficiencies happened

21 deficiencies in 3 months of the last 36. Last cited Apr 2025. Most serious: Standard-level. The last 3 years, to Oct 24, 2026.

21 deficiencies by month over the last 3 years. Each cell is one month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2023 NovDec
2024 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2025 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2026 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOct

Hover or focus a month to read it.

No visit on record Visited, nothing cited A stronger orange is more serious, on its source’s own levels, read onto four bands: from the least serious it publishes to the most
Source:

Hearth Record drew this from the dates and levels in the source’s own records.

Each deficiency, as cited

Rule titles as CMS’s inspectors cite them, set in sentence case.

Source:

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

Apr 21, 2025: complaint inspection2 deficiencies
  • Update Of The Comprehensive Assessment

    The inspectors’ words, 413 words

    “Update of the comprehensive assessment CFR(s): 484.55(d) Standard: Update of the comprehensive assessment. The comprehensive assessment must be updated and revised (including the administration of the OASIS) as frequently as the patient’s condition warrants due to a major decline or improvement in the patient’s health status, but not less frequently than- This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview for one (1) of three (3) patients (Patient #3), requiring updates to the comprehensive assessment based on a major change in the patient’s health status, the agency failed to ensure the assessments were of sufficient scope to identify current patient needs. Failure to ensure comprehensive assessments contain complete and accurate information has the potential for unmet patient needs. The agency failed to ensure the assessments were of sufficient scope to identify current patient needs as evidenced by: Patient #3 - This 87-year-old patient with diagnoses that include sepsis due to escherichia coli, acute cystitis without hematuria, and malignant neoplasm of pancreas unspecified was admitted to the home care agency on 03/27/2025. Review of the Start of Care Outcome and Assessment Information Set Note dated 03/27/2025 revealed the following patient measurements: - Weight: 132.0 lbs (pounds) - Height: 68.0 inches - Body Mass Index: 2Review of the Start of Care Outcome and Assessment Information Set Note dated 03/27/2025 revealed the following assessment: - Nutritional assessment: appetite: poor - Hydration: fair - Meal Pattern: no pattern - See Details: Nutritional Education - Nutritional Education Instructed On: frequent fluids Review of the Skilled Nursing Routine Visit Note dated 04/09/2025 revealed the following patient measurement: weight: 123 lbs (pounds) 6 oz (ounces). The patient lost approximately nine (9) pounds from 03/27/2025 to 04/09/2025 (13 (thirteen) days). Review of the Skilled Nursing Routine Visit Note dated 04/09/2025 revealed the following assessment: - Nutritional assessment: appetite: poor - Hydration: fair - Meal Pattern: fluids only - See Details: Nutritional Education - Nutritional Education Instructed On: frequent fluids Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence the Skilled Nurse assessed the patient’s understanding of nutritional needs and willingness to try a dietary supplement. During interview on 04/21/2025 at 12:19 PM, the Registered Nurse stated they spoke with the patient’s primary care provider after the visit on 04/09/2025 to obtain a referral to hospice per the patient’s request. The Registered Nurse stated she does not remember discussing nutrition or the possibility of introducing a supplement during any of the visits after the initial assessment.”

    Rule G0544. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Health, Psychosocial, Functional, Cognition

    The inspectors’ words, 308 words

    “Health, psychosocial, functional, cognition CFR(s): 484.55(c)(1) Standard: Content of the comprehensive assessment. The comprehensive assessment must accurately reflect the patient’s status, and must include, at a minimum, the following information: (1) The patient’s current health, psychosocial, functional, and cognitive status; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and interview with agency staff, for one (1) of three (3) patient records (Patient #3), the agency failed to ensure the initial comprehensive assessment was of sufficient scope to identify patient needs. Specifically, the Skilled Nurse failed to assess the patient’s understanding of nutritional needs. Failure to ensure the initial comprehensive assessment is complete and accurate has the potential for unmet patient needs and possible negative outcomes. The Skilled Nurse failed to assess the patient’s understanding of nutritional needs as evidenced by: Patient #3 - This 87-year-old patient with diagnoses that include sepsis due to escherichia coli, acute cystitis without hematuria, and malignant neoplasm of pancreas unspecified was admitted to the home care agency on 03/27/2025. Review of the Start of Care Outcome and Assessment Information Set Note dated 03/27/2025 revealed the following: - Nutritional assessment: appetite: poor - Hydration: fair - Meal Pattern: no pattern - See Details: Nutritional Education - Nutritional Education Instructed On: frequent fluids Review of the Start of Care Outcome and Assessment Information Set Note dated 03/27/2025 lacks documented evidence the Skilled Nurse assessed the patient’s understanding of nutritional needs and willingness to try a dietary supplement. During interview on 04/21/2025 at 12:16 PM, the Registered Nurse stated the patient said that food was not appealing and did not want to eat. The Registered Nurse stated she educated the patient on the importance of small and frequent meals, and increased fluids, although this was not documented. The Registered Nurse did not assess the patient’s willingness to try a dietary supplement.”

    Rule G0528. Element-level. From a complaint.

Oct 8, 2024: recertification inspection2 deficiencies
  • Information To Patient

    The inspectors’ words, 243 words

    “Information to patient CFR(s): 484.50(a)(1) Provide the patient and the patient’s legal representative (if any), the following information during the initial evaluation visit, in advance of furnishing care to the patient: This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview, for one (1) of five (5) patients (Patient #1) the agency failed to provide documented evidence the patient and/or patient representative received written notice of the patient’s rights and responsibilities before care is furnished. Failure to provide written notice of the patient’s rights and responsibilities to all patients and/or representatives, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The agency failed to provide documented evidence the patient and/or patient representative received written notice of the patient’s rights and responsibilities as evidenced by the following: Patient #1- This 44-year-old patient with the diagnoses of pressure ulcer of right buttock, stage 4, pressure ulcer of left buttock, stage 3, and acute osteomyelitis was admitted to the home care agency on 09/21/2024. Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence the patient and/or representative were provided written notice of patient’s rights and responsibilities before care was furnished. During interview on 10/07/2024 at 01:06 PM, the Director of Patient Care Services stated the clinician thought they were conducting a resumption of care when setting up the visit. Once they realized it was a start of care they forgot to go back and complete the start of care patient rights and responsibilities.”

    Rule G0410. Element-level.

  • Health, Psychosocial, Functional, Cognition

    The inspectors’ words, 322 words

    “Health, psychosocial, functional, cognition CFR(s): 484.55(c)(1) The patient’s current health, psychosocial, functional, and cognitive status; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records, agency policy and procedure, and interview with agency staff for one (1) of five (5) patient records (Patient #3), the agency failed to ensure the initial comprehensive assessment was of sufficient scope to identify patient needs. Failure to ensure the initial comprehensive assessment is complete and accurate has the potential for unmet patient needs and possible negative outcomes. The agency failed to ensure the initial comprehensive assessment was of sufficient scope to identify patient needs as evidenced by: Review of the undated “Quick Sheet” procedure tool for the use of enteral tubes revealed “a. Assess for consistent measurement of the length of the enteral tube after the initial radiologic confirmation. The tube should be marked at the gums for an orogastric tube and at the naris for a nasogastric or nasojejunostomy tube.” Patient #3- This 34-day-old patient with the diagnoses of neonatal aspiration with respiratory symptoms, congenital laryngomalacia, and encounter for fitting and adjustment of non-vascular catheter was admitted to the home care agency on 09/21/2024. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 09/21/2024 to 11/29/2024 revealed the order for a “5 (five) FR (French) NG (nasogastric) tube to be changed every month and as needed by Skilled Nurse or parents.” Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 09/21/2024 to 11/29/2024 and the Pediatric Initial Visit Note dated 09/21/2024 lacks documented evidence the Registered Nurse assessed the measurement of the length of the enteral tube per the agency’s procedure. During interview on 10/07/2024 at 03:05 PM, the Registered Nurse stated a measurement of the length of the enteral tube was not assessed or documented, but that information should have been assessed and documented in the plan of care as well as the initial visit note.”

    Rule G0528. Element-level.

Nov 10, 2023: recertification inspection17 deficiencies
  • Accuracy Of Encoded Oasis Data

    The inspectors’ words, 291 words

    “Accuracy of encoded OASIS data CFR(s): 484.45(b) Standard: The encoded OASIS data must accurately reflect the patient’s status at the time of assessment. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of the agency’s Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) submission, clinical record, and interview with agency staff for one (1) of five (5) discharged patients (Patient #15), the agency failed to ensure the OASIS data accurately reflects the patient’s status at the time of the assessment; specifically, the Registered Nurse (RN) failed to accurately stage two (2) unhealed pressure ulcers at the time of discharge. Failure to ensure accurate documentation of OASIS data has the potential for negative outcomes. The agency failed to ensure OASIS data accurately reflects the patient’s status at the time of discharge as evidenced by the following: Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022 and discharged on 11/18/2022. Review of the SN (Skilled Nurse) Routine Visit Note dated 11/16/2022 revealed the patient has two unstageable pressure ulcers present, one located on the mid back inferior and a second on the mid back superior. Review of the SN (Skilled Nurse) Discharge From Agency Visit Note dated 11/18/2022 revealed the RN documented the patient has two (2) stage 2 unhealed pressure ulcers and no unstageable pressure ulcers at the time of discharge. Additionally, the RN documented skin assessments of the mid back inferior and mid back superior pressure ulcers and specified both were unstageable. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:20 PM, the RN stated he incorrectly documented the stage of the two pressure ulcers as stage 2 at discharge.”

    Rule G0374. Standard-level.

  • Content Of The Comprehensive Assessment

    The inspectors’ words, 926 words

    “Content of the comprehensive assessment CFR(s): 484.55(c) Standard: Content of the comprehensive assessment. The comprehensive assessment must accurately reflect the patient’s status, and must include, at a minimum, the following information: This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview four (4) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 3, 8, 14, 15), the agency failed to ensure the comprehensive assessment is consistent and accurately reflects the patient’s status and needs. Failure to ensure the comprehensive assessment accurately reflects the patient status and needs has the potential for unmet patient needs and negative patient outcomes. The agency failed to ensure the comprehensive assessment is consistent and accurately reflects the patient’s status and needs as evidenced by the following: Patient #14 – This 82-year-old patient with the diagnoses of aftercare following surgery for neoplasm, malignant neoplasm of prostate, and encounter for fitting and adjustment of urinary device was admitted to the home care agency on 07/27/22. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 07/27/2022 to 09/24/2022 revealed “patient independent with BG (blood glucose) once a week.” Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 07/27/2023 lacks documented evidence the SN obtained a baseline blood glucose from the patient. During interview on 11/10/2023 at 11:15 AM, the Director of Patient Service (DPS) stated the Registered Nurse (RN) told her she did not obtain a baseline blood glucose because she thought the patient was pre-diabetic. The agency failed to ensure the comprehensive assessment is consistent and accurately reflects the patient’s status and needs as evidenced by the following: Patient #3 – This 58-year-old patient with diagnoses of unspecified atrial flutter, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation was admitted to the home care agency on 10/17/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/17/2023 to 12/15/2023 revealed an order for oxygen 4 Liters per minute continuously via nose. A.) Review of the SN (Skilled Nurse) Start of Care Visit Note dated 10/17/2023 revealed the Registered Nurse (RN) documented the patient’s oxygen saturation is stable at 92 percent while wearing 3 liters of oxygen. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of an order for oxygen 3 liters continuous. During interview on 01/09/2023 at 03:03 PM, the RN stated the patient was wearing 4 liters of oxygen in the identified visit and had documented incorrectly. B.) Review of the PT (Physical Therapy Initial Visit Note dated 10/26/2023 revealed the PT documented the patient’s oxygen saturation is 99 percent at rest wearing 3 liters of oxygen. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of an order for oxygen 3 liters continuous. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:22 PM, the RN Team Supervisor stated the PT is unavailable for interview. The RN Team Supervisor stated there wasn’t an order for 3 liters of oxygen during the identified PT visit and must have been an error in documentation. Patient #8 – This 57-year-old patient with diagnoses of dysphagia, attention to gastrostomy and asthma was admitted to the home care agency on 10/13/2023. A.) Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/13/2023 to 12/11/2023 revealed the patient’s diet is nothing by mouth due to dysphagia and the physician is to be notified for weight gain greater than 2 pounds in 24 (twenty-four) hours or 4 pounds in 1 (one) week. Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 10/13/2023 lacks documentation the RN obtained or recorded the patient’s weight. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:06 AM, the RN Team Supervisor stated the RN was unavailable for interview. She additionally stated the patient was performing daily weights but the RN failed to document the reported weight. B.) Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/13/2023 to 12/11/2023 revealed an order for TED compression stockings to be applied in the AM and removed in the PM until seen by the surgeon on 10/31/2023. Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 10/13/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient and caregiver were instructed on compression but lacks an assessment of the TED stockings being in the home, understanding and management of the application and removal of the TED’s. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:15 PM, the Director of Patient Services stated the RN was unavailable for interview and stated there was no specific documentation of an assessment of the TED stockings, their application and removal. Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 11/04/2022 to 01/02/2023 revealed the following wound care orders for a mid back pressure ulcer: cleanse with wound cleanser, apply gelling wound fiber, cover with foam dressing and change two (2) to three (3) times weekly and as needed. Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 11/04/2022 revealed the RN visualized and documented a wound assessment of the unstageable mid back pressure ulcer but documented the dressing was not changed during the SN visit. The visit note lacks documentation of anyone other then the RN performing the patient’s wound care. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:51 AM, the Triage RN stated she did perform the wound care to the mid back during the identified visit but documented incorrectly.”

    Rule G0526. Standard-level.

  • Update Of The Comprehensive Assessment

    The inspectors’ words, 905 words

    “Update of the comprehensive assessment CFR(s): 484.55(d) Standard: Update of the comprehensive assessment. The comprehensive assessment must be updated and revised (including the administration of the OASIS) as frequently as the patient’s condition warrants due to a major decline or improvement in the patient’s health status, but not less frequently than- This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview for five (5) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 3, 11, 12, 15 and 16) the agency failed to ensure the comprehensive assessment is updated and revised to reflect changes in the patient’s health status. Failure to ensure comprehensive assessments are updated and revised, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The agency failed to ensure the comprehensive assessment if updated and revised to reflect changes in the patient’s health status as evidenced by the following: Patient #3 – This 58-year-old patient with diagnoses of unspecified atrial flutter, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation was admitted to the home care agency on 10/17/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/17/2023 to 12/15/2023 revealed an order for oxygen 4 liters per minute continuously via nose. Review of the SN Resumption of Care Visit Note dated 10/30/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient was wearing 3 liters of oxygen and the oxygen saturation at rest on the 3 liters was 97 percent. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of an updated order for 3 liters of oxygen or notification to the physician of the oxygen discrepancy. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:28 PM, the Registered Nurse (RN) Team Supervisor stated the RN was unavailable for interview and no documentation was found regarding clarification of the identified oxygen assessment. Patient #11 – This 83-year-old patient with diagnoses of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pericardial effusion and type 2 diabetes mellitus was admitted to the home care agency on 10/28/2023. Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 10/28/2023 revealed the patient was discharged from the facility on two (2) new medications, prednisone and metoprolol. The two new medications are still at the pharmacy and the family to obtain. The plan for the next visit includes to confirm her new medications metoprolol and prednisone are in the home. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/30/2023 lacks documentation confirming the prednisone and metoprolol have been obtained, are in the home and patient instruction occurred with understanding of administration of the new medications. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:01 PM, the Director of Patient Services stated the RN is unavailable for interview. Additionally, she stated there is no documentation of follow-up regarding the identified medications and there should have been. Patient #12 – This 80-year-old patient with diagnoses of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphysema and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was admitted to the home care agency on 10/10/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/10/2023 to 12/08/2023 revealed orders to notify the physician if resting vital signs are the following: blood pressure less than 90/50 or greater than 160/90, heart rate less than 60 or greater than 110, respirations less than 12 or greater than 28 and temperature greater than 100.4 degrees fahrenheit. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/12/2023 lacks documentation of the RN obtaining and recording the patient’s vital signs or the patient refusing for vital signs to be obtained. During interview on 01/09/2023 at 02:52 PM, the Director of Patient Services stated the RN is unavailable for interview and vital signs should have been obtained during the identified visit. Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 11/04/2022 to 01/02/2022 revealed a primary diagnosis of acute on chronic right heart failure and SN to monitor and instruct on cardiac disease management related to congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation and hypertension. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 11/14/2022 lacks documentation of a weight being obtained and/or recorded. Additionally, the cardiac assessment states the patient has no diagnosis of heart failure. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:16 PM, the RN stated incorrectly documenting the patient did not have heart failure. The RN stated the patient was having weights monitored by telemedicine and he failed to document the weight obtained for the identified visit. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 01/09/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient has a new stage two coccyx wound. The visit lacks an assessment of the newly identified coccyx wound. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 01/11/2023 revealed the next SN visit after 01/09/2023 occurred on 01/11/2023 and the patient reported to the RN the coccyx dressing is staying in place and the pain to the area is resolved. The documentation lacks an assessment of the coccyx wound identified on 01/09/2023. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:59 PM, the Director of Patient Services stated the RN that made the visits was unavailable for interview. She stated she would look for documentation of a wound assessment at the identified visits. No further documentation was provided.”

    Rule G0544. Standard-level.

  • Conformance With Physician Orders

    The inspectors’ words, 755 words

    “Conformance with physician orders CFR(s): 484.60(b) Standard: Conformance with physician or allowed practitioner orders. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and staff interviews, for three (3) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 8, 12 and 16), the agency failed to provide services in accordance with physician orders. Failure to ensure patient care is provided in accordance with physician orders and the POC has the potential for patients to receive poor care and for health care needs to go unmet. The agency failed to ensure services are provided in accordance with physician orders as evidenced by the following: Patient #12 – This 80-year-old patient with diagnoses of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphysema and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was admitted to the home care agency on 10/10/2023. A.) Review of the Supplemental Order dated 10/11/2023 revealed an order for Home Health Aide (HHA) 1-3 (one to three) timed per week for 9 (nine) weeks, duration 30 (thirty) minutes to 2 (two) hours. Review of the Community Home Health Time Sheet dated 10/18/2023 revealed the first HHA service visit occurred on 10/18/2023. Review of the clinical record for the week of 10/08/2023 to 10/14/2023 lacks documentation the patient received HHA services as ordered and the physician was notified of this. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:42 AM, the Registered Nurse (RN) acknowledged the aide frequency was not met for the identified week. B.) Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/10/2023 to 12/08/2023 revealed orders for SN 1 (one) to 3 (three) times a week for 9 (nine) weeks and 2 (two) as needed visits for status changes. Review of the Clinical Note dated 10/19/2023 revealed the RN documented “client NHNF (not home, not found), no visit made by this writer.” There is no documentation to include physician notification or plan to make additional attempts to see the patient. Review of the clinical record for the week of 10/15/2023 to 10/21/2023 lacks documentation the patient received Skilled Nurse (SN) services as ordered and the physician was notified. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:44 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN no longer works for the agency and she will look for additional documentation regarding the missed visit. No further documentation was provided. Patient #8 – This 57-year-old patient with diagnoses of dysphagia, attention to gastrostomy and asthma was admitted to the home care agency on 10/13/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/13/2023 to 12/11/2023 revealed orders for the physician to be notified if there is a weight gain of greater than 2 (two) pounds in 24 (twenty-four) hours or 4 (four) pounds in a week. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/20/2023 lacks documentation of the patient’s weight being obtained or recorded. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 11/03/2023 lacks documentation of the patient’s weight being obtained or recorded. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:19 AM, the DPS stated the RN that conducted the identified visits was unavailable for interview. The DPS stated she would look for documentation of the patient’s weights being obtained or recorded for the identified visits. No further documentation was provided. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 01/04/2023 to 03/04/2023 revealed orders for the exit site where a chest tube had formerly been placed to include: Leave nonremovable dressing in place over old chest tube site, remove dressing 01/05/2023. Leave open to air, if drainage present or open, clean with soap and water and cover with dry dressing and change daily and as needed. Review of the SN Routine Visit dated 01/05/2023 revealed the chest tube drain site was noted to have a small amount of serous drainage and the RN changed the dressing to the area as per the orders. The visit lacks documentation of a caregiver demonstrating independence with the daily dressing change to the old chest tube site. Review of the clinical record revealed the next SN visit occurred on 01/09/2023, four days after the daily dressing had last been documented as being changed. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:55 PM, the DPS stated the RN was unavailable for interview. The DPS stated there was no documentation that a caregiver was taught the wound care to explain why daily visits did not occur after 01/05/2023.”

    Rule G0578. Standard-level.

  • Review And Revision Of The Plan Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 609 words

    “Review and revision of the plan of care CFR(s): 484.60(c) Standard: Review and revision of the plan of care. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and interviews with agency staff for three (3) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 12, 14 and 16), the agency failed to ensure the Plan of Care (POC) is reviewed and revised to reflect the patient’s status. Failure to ensure the POC is updated and revised to reflect patient needs, has the potential to result in negative patient outcomes. The agency failed to ensure the POC is reviewed and revised to reflect the patient’s status as evidenced by the following: Patient #14 – This 82-year-old patient with the diagnoses of aftercare following surgery for neoplasm, malignant neoplasm of prostate, and encounter for fitting and adjustment of urinary device was admitted to the home care agency on 07/27/22. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 07/27/2022 to 09/24/2022 revealed the order for a 20F (twenty French) foley catheter to gravity. Review of the Skilled Nursing (SN) Routine Visit Note dated 08/04/2022 revealed the SN documented “patient had urologist appointment yesterday. Foley and staples removed.” Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence the SN obtained an order to discontinue the foley to revise the POC. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 09:37 AM, the Registered Nurse (RN) stated she did not revise the POC after learning the foley was removed. The agency failed to ensure the POC is reviewed and revised to reflect the patient’s status as evidenced by the following: Patient #12 – This 80-year-old patient with diagnoses of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphysema and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was admitted to the home care agency on 10/10/2023. A.) Review of the Supplemental Order dated 10/11/2023 revealed an order for Home Health Aide (HHA) 1 (one) to 3 (three) times weekly for 9 (nine) weeks, duration 30 (thirty) minutes to 2 (two) hours. The order lacks the treatment to be performed. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:43 PM, the Registered Nurse (RN) acknowledged the order lacks the treatment the HHA is to be providing to the patient. B.) Review of the Supplemental Order dated 10/26/2023 revealed the HHA is to assist with additional equipment to include: oxygen tubing, right calf brace and TED (thromboembolic deterrent) stocking. The order lacks specification of the location and duration the TED stockings are to be worn. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:27 AM, the Physical Therapist (PT) Team Supervisor stated she omitted the identified TED stocking instructions accidentally from the order. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. Review of the Phone Oncall/ Unscheduled Visit Note dated 01/06/2023 revealed the patient was having severe abdominal pain and the caregiver was questioning if the volume of the jejunostomy (J) tube flushes that had been 150 milliliters (ml) before and after each tube feeding could be contributing to the pain. The RN contacted the physician and documented the J tube flushes were being changed to 50 ml before and after each tube feeding to which the caregiver was understanding and agreeable to. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of an order for the new J tube flushing volume before and after tube feeds. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:40 PM, the RN stated it was an oversight that a new order was not completed for the identified J tube flushes.”

    Rule G0586. Standard-level.

  • Authentication

    The inspectors’ words, 236 words

    “Authentication CFR(s): 484.110(b) Standard: Authentication. All entries must be legible, clear, complete, and appropriately authenticated, dated, and timed. Authentication must include a signature and a title (occupation), or a secured computer entry by a unique identifier, of a primary author who has reviewed and approved the entry. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and staff interviews, for one (1) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #12), the agency failed to ensure all documentation by professional staff is appropriately authenticated in accordance with accepted standards of practice. Failure to authenticate documentation with an electronic signature and professional credentials has the potential for patients to receive care from unlicensed staff. The agency failed to ensure all documentation by professional staff is appropriately authenticated as evidenced by the following: Patient #12 – This 80-year-old patient with diagnoses of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphysema and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was admitted to the home care agency on 10/10/2023. Review of the Skilled Nurse (SN) Routine Visit Note dated 10/12/2023 lacks documented evidence of the SN’s professional credentials. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:50 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the Registered Nurse (RN) that made the 10/12/2023 visit no longer works for the agency. The DPS stated an error was made and her credentials were never entered into the electronic medical record during the period of time she worked at the agency.”

    Rule G1024. Standard-level.

  • Payment From Federally Funded Programs

    The inspectors’ words, 496 words

    “Payment from federally funded programs CFR(s): 484.50(c)(7)(i, ii, iii, iv) Be advised, orally and in writing, of- (i) The extent to which payment for HHA services may be expected from Medicare, Medicaid, or any other federally-funded or federal aid program known to the HHA, (ii) The charges for services that may not be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or any other federally-funded or federal aid program known to the HHA, (iii) The charges the individual may have to pay before care is initiated; and (iv) Any changes in the information provided in accordance with paragraph (c)(7) of this section when they occur. The HHA must advise the patient and representative (if any), of these changes as soon as possible, in advance of the next home health visit. The HHA must comply with the patient notice requirements at 42 CFR 411.408(d)(2) and 42 CFR 411.408(f). This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview, agency staff did not inform three (3) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 3, 6, 7) of the extent of insurance coverage for various services available through home care. Failure to inform a patient about current fees for services violates patients’ rights. Patient #6 – This 87-year-old patient with the diagnoses of weakness, dysphagia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications was admitted to the home care agency on 10/24/2023. Review of the Authorization/Acknowledgement Form dated 10/24/2023 lacks evidence that the patient was informed of the extent of insurance coverage. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:06 PM, the Registered Nurse (RN) stated the patient’s insurance information had not been run yet so she left it blank. The Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated there may be a completed form in the record and she would look for it. No further information was provided. The agency failed to ensure patients are informed, before care is initiated, of the extent of insurance coverage for home care services as evidenced by the following: Patient #3 – This 58-year-old patient with diagnoses of unspecified atrial flutter, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation was admitted to the home care agency on 10/17/2023. Review of the Authorization/ Acknowledgement Form dated 10/17/2023 revealed the Registered Nurse (RN) documented the patient’s insurance information and specified the patient’s co-pay amount as unknown. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:06 PM, the RN stated she documented unknown due to being unaware of the patient’s potential co-pay at the time the form was signed. Patient #7 – This 98-year-old patient with diagnoses of displaced fracture of first cervical vertebra, fracture of right pubis and unspecified fall was admitted to the home care agency on 10/20/2023. Review of the Authorization/ Acknowledgement Form dated 10/20/2023 lacks documentation the patient was informed of the extent of insurance coverage for home care services to be provided. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:40 AM, the Physical Therapist (PT) stated the patient did not have a co-pay for services but failed to document that.”

    Rule G0440. Element-level.

  • 5 Calendar Days After Start Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 623 words

    “5 calendar days after start of care CFR(s): 484.55(b)(1) The comprehensive assessment must be completed in a timely manner, consistent with the patient’s immediate needs, but no later than 5 calendar days after the start of care. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and interviews with staff, for four (4) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #s: 1, 3, 8, 16), the agency failed to ensure that a comprehensive assessment consistent with the patient’s needs was performed within five (5) calendar days after the Start of Care (SOC). Failure to ensure a comprehensive assessment is complete and accurate has the potential for unmet patient needs and possible negative outcomes. The agency failed to ensure that a comprehensive assessment consistent with the patient’s needs was performed within five (5) calendar days after the SOC as evidenced by the following: Patient #1 – This 62-year-old patient with the diagnoses of bipolar disorder, anxiety, and reduced mobility was admitted to the home care agency on 10/20/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/20/2023 to 12/18/2023 revealed the order “Physical Therapy (PT) evaluate and treat.” Review of the clinical record from 10/20/2023 to 11/06/2023 (date of survey) lacks documented evidence the PT attempted to contact the patient. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:25 PM, the Clinical Business Leader stated the PT conducted the initial visit on 11/08/2023 (19 (nineteen) days after start of care). There is no clinical note to state why the visit was late or that the physician was contacted. The agency failed to ensure that a comprehensive assessment consistent with the patient’s needs was performed within five (5) calendar days after the SOC as evidenced by the following: Patient #3 – This 58-year-old patient with diagnoses of unspecified atrial flutter, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation was admitted to the home care agency on 10/17/2023. Review of the Home Care Referral dated 10/16/2023 revealed the patient was to be evaluated for Skilled Nursing (SN) and Physical Therapy (PT) services. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/17/2023 to 12/15/2023 revealed an order for PT to evaluate and treat. Review of the clinical record revealed the PT initiated contact with the patient on 10/25/2023, eight (8) days after the start of care and performed the initial PT evaluation on 10/26/2023. Patient #8 – This 57-year-old patient with diagnoses of dysphagia, attention to gastrostomy and asthma was admitted to the home care agency on 10/13/2023. Review of the Home Care Referral dated 10/13/2023 revealed the patient was to be evaluated for SN and Speech Therapy (ST) services. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/13/2023 to 12/11/2023 revealed an order for ST to evaluate and treat. Review of the clinical record revealed the ST initiated contact and performed the initial ST evaluation on 10/20/2023, seven (7) days after the start of care. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. Review of the Home Care Referral dated 01/04/2023 revealed the patient was to be evaluated for SN, PT and Occupational Therapy (OT). Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 01/04/2023 to 03/04/2023 revealed an order for PT evaluate and treat. Review of the clinical record revealed the PT initiated contact and performed the initial PT evaluation on 01/13/2023, nine (9) days after the start of care. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:20 PM, the Director of Patient Services stated being unaware that all disciplines requested on the referral must conduct their comprehensive assessments within five (5) days of the start of care.”

    Rule G0520. Element-level.

  • A Review Of All Current Medications

    The inspectors’ words, 1,606 words

    “A review of all current medications CFR(s): 484.55(c)(5) A review of all medications the patient is currently using in order to identify any potential adverse effects and drug reactions, including ineffective drug therapy, significant side effects, significant drug interactions, duplicate drug therapy, and noncompliance with drug therapy. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and interview with agency staff, seven (7) of seventeen (17) clinical records (Patient #’s: 2, 7, 10, 13, 15, 16, 17) lacked documented evidence of a complete review of all medications the patient currently uses to identify any potential adverse effects, drug reactions, or concerns. Failure to conduct a complete medication review and to ensure the medication regime is appropriate has the potential for the patient harm. The agency failed to ensure a complete review of all medications the patient currently uses to identify any potential adverse effects, drug reactions, or concerns as evidenced by the following: Patient #2 – This 93-year-old Physical Therapy (PT) only patient with the diagnoses of hypothyroidism, hypertension, and extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma was admitted to the home care agency on 09/07/2023. A.) Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 09/07/2023 to 11/05/2023 revealed the following orders: - alendronate sodium by mouth tablet 70 mg (milligrams) 1 tablet every week - eliquis by mouth tablet 5 mg 1 tablet twice a day Review of the Discharge to Home Plan of Care dated 09/05/2023 lacks orders for the alendronate sodium and eliquis. B.) Review of the Discharge to Home Plan of Care dated 09/05/2023 revealed the following orders: - miralax 17 g (grams) daily - atorvastatin 40 mg daily at bedtime - tylenol 650 mg every 4 (four) hours as needed for pain Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 09/07/2023 to 11/05/2023 lacks orders for the miralax, atorvastatin, and tylenol. Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence the PT who conducted the medication reconciliation on 09/07/2023 and the Registered Nurse (RN) who conducted the medication reconciliation on 09/08/2023 identified the discrepancies or discussed the medications with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:00 AM, the RN stated she did not use the Discharge to Home Plan of Care to do her medication reconciliation, she only looked for interactions and safe dosages for the medications the PT documented. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:00 AM, the (Director of Patient Services) DPS stated the PT is unavailable for interview, but all staff will be re-educated on the process for drug review. Patient #10 – This 87-year-old patient residing in an Assisted Living Facility (ALF) with the diagnoses of urinary tract infection (UTI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hypertension was admitted to the home care agency on 10/22/203. A.) Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/22/2023 to 12/20/2023 revealed the order for biafine external emulsion 1 application every day. Review of the Hospital Discharge Medication List dated 10/20/2023 lacks an order for biafine external emulsion. Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence of the discrepancy and follow-up clarification with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:44 PM, the DPS stated the RN was not available for interview so she would review the record to see if there is documentation of the discrepancy. No further information has been provided. B.) Review of Resident Prescription Report (assisted living medication list) dated 11/08/2023 revealed the order for nystatin powder apply topically under breast/abdominal fold twice a day as needed for redness/fungal rash starting on 10/19/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/22/2023 to 12/20/2023 lacks an order for nystatin powder. Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence of the discrepancy and follow-up clarification with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:44 PM, the DPS stated the RN was not available for interview so she would review the record for an order or communication note. No further information has been provided. Patient #13 – This 67-year-old patient with the diagnoses of type 2 diabetes mellitus with foot ulcer, methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infection as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere, and pseudomonas was admitted to the home care agency on 09/27/2022. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for medication administration/side effects. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 09/27/2022 to 11/25/2022 revealed the following orders: - enalapril maleate by mouth tablet 10 mg 1 tablet every day - hydrochlorothiazide by mouth tablet 25 mg 1 tablet every day - metformin HCL (hydrochloride) ER (extended release) by mouth tablet extended release 24-hour 750 mg 1 tablet twice a day Review of Hospital Discharge Medication List dated 10/13/2022 lacks orders for enalapril maleate, hydrochlorothiazide, metformin HCL. Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence of the discrepancies and follow-up clarification with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:15 AM, the DPS stated the RN was not available for interview so she would review the record for documentation regarding the discrepancies. No further information has been provided. Patient #17 – This 54-year-old patient with the diagnoses of malignant neoplasm of colon, encounter for adjustment and management of vascular access device, hairy cell leukemia in remission was admitted to the home care agency on 05/11/2023. Review of the Hospital Discharge Medication List dated 05/03/2023 revealed the orders for the following: - caltrate Plus PO (by mouth) - centrum Ultra Mens PO - vitamin D3 - heparin 100 unit/mL (milliliters) injection Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 05/11/2023 to 07/09/2023 lacks orders for caltrate Plus PO, centrum Ultra Mens PO, vitamin D3, and heparin 100 unit/mL (milliliters) injection. Review of the clinical record lacks documented evidence of the discrepancies and follow-up clarification with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 09:40 AM, the RN stated she can’t remember if she spoke to the physician about the discrepancies, but she did not document doing so. The agency failed to ensure a complete review of all medications the patient currently uses to identify any potential adverse effects, drug reactions, or concerns as evidenced by the following: Patient #7 – This 98-year-old Physical Therapy (PT) only patient with diagnoses of displaced fracture of first cervical vertebra, fracture of right pubis and unspecified fall was admitted to the home care agency on 10/20/2023. Review of the facility discharge medication list dated 10/19/2023 revealed an order for diclofenac sodium 1 percent gel, apply 2 grams to right and left knee. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/20/2023 to 12/18/2023 lacks an order for diclofenac sodium gel. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of the discrepancy and follow-up clarification with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:50 AM, the PT stated the patient reported not taking the identified medication at the time of the home care admission and he did not report the discrepancy to the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:01 AM, the RN (who conducted the medication reconciliation with the PT) stated she did not use the facility discharge medication list to conduct her medication reconciliation and only looks for interactions and appropriate dosages for the medications the PT documented. Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022. A.) Review of the facility discharge medication list dated 11/02/2022 revealed the patient was ordered to take the following medications: - alprazolam 0.25 mg (milligram) by mouth three times daily as needed for anxiety, maximum daily amount: 0.75 mg; and - budesonide-formoterol 160-4.5 mcg (microgram) by inhalation 2 (two) puffs 2 (two) times daily. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 11/04/2022 to 01/02/2023 lacks orders for alprazolam and budesonide-formoterol. B.) Review of the facility discharge medication list dated 11/02/2022 revealed an order for torsemide 5 mg by mouth every other day and 2.5 mg by mouth every other day. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 11/04/2022 to 01/02/2023 revealed an order for torsemide 5 mg by mouth every morning. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of the discrepancies and follow-up clarification with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:57 AM, the Triage RN stated being unable to recall why there was no documentation regarding the identified discrepancies. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. A.) Review of the facility discharge medication list dated 01/04/2023 revealed an order for acetaminophen 650 mg/20.3 ml (milliliter), 500 mg per gastrostomy tube every 6 (six) hours as needed. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 01/04/2023 to 03/04/2023 revealed an order for acetaminophen 160 mg/5 ml, 160 mg every 8 (eight) hours per jejunostomy tube as needed for pain, not to exceed 3000 mg a day. B.) Review of the facility discharge medication list dated 01/04/2023 revealed an order for famotidine 20 mg per gastrostomy tube twice daily. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 01/04/2023 to 03/04/2023 lacks an order for famotidine. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of the discrepancies and follow-up clarification with the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:31 PM, the Director of Patient Services stated there was no documentation to clarify the identified discrepancies. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:34 PM, the RN stated being unable to recall the identified discrepancies.”

    Rule G0536. Element-level.

  • Plan Of Care Must Include The Following

    The inspectors’ words, 2,310 words

    “Plan of care must include the following CFR(s): 484.60(a)(2)(i-xvi) The individualized plan of care must include the following: (i) All pertinent diagnoses; (ii) The patient’s mental, psychosocial, and cognitive status; (iii) The types of services, supplies, and equipment required; (iv) The frequency and duration of visits to be made; (v) Prognosis; (vi) Rehabilitation potential; (vii) Functional limitations; (viii) Activities permitted; (ix) Nutritional requirements; (x) All medications and treatments; (xi) Safety measures to protect against injury; (xii) A description of the patient’s risk for emergency department visits and hospital re-admission, and all necessary interventions to address the underlying risk factors. (xiii) Patient and caregiver education and training to facilitate timely discharge; (xiv) Patient-specific interventions and education; measurable outcomes and goals identified by the HHA and the patient; (xv) Information related to any advanced directives; and (xvi) Any additional items the HHA or physician or allowed practitioner may choose to include. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and interviews with agency staff, for twelve (12) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17), the agency failed to ensure Plans of Care (POCs) are of sufficient scope to address all patient needs. Failure to develop a complete and accurate POC that is comprehensive and addresses the patients’ needs has the potential to result in patient harm. The agency failed to ensure POCs are of sufficient scope to address all patient needs as evidenced by the following: Patient #1 – This 62-year-old patient with the diagnoses of bipolar disorder, anxiety, and reduced mobility was admitted to the home care agency on 10/20/2023. A.) Review of the SN (Skilled Nursing) Routine Visit Note dated 10/24/2023 revealed the SN documented the patient is using heat for pain control. Review of the POC lacks an order for heat. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:30 PM, the Registered Nurse (RN) stated she did not obtain an order for heat. B.) Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/20/2023 to 12/18/2023 revealed the order “SN evaluation and treat: surgical wound care.” Review of the POC lacks orders to address the surgical wounds and dressing. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:41 PM, the RN stated the staples and dressings will be removed by the physician on 10/27/2023. She did not include that information or any wound care order on the POC. C.) Review of the Physician’s Order dated 10/24/2023 revealed the order “Person responsible for testing BG (blood glucose): live-in boyfriend.” Review of the POC lacks orders for diabetic supplies, frequencies for testing, and parameters for when to call the physician. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:40 PM, the RN stated she called the physician to order a glucometer for the patient but did not document orders for diabetic management on the POC. Patient #6 – This 87-year-old patient with the diagnoses of weakness, dysphagia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications was admitted to the home care agency on 10/24/2023. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/24/2023 revealed the SN documented the patient does not test his blood glucose. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/24/2023 to 12/22/2023 revealed the orders to instruct on diabetes disease management and diabetic foot care but lacks documented evidence the patient chooses not to test his blood glucose. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:17 PM, the RN stated he did not put any information about blood glucose testing on the POC. Patient #10 – This 87-year-old patient residing in an Assisted Living Facility (ALF) with the diagnoses of urinary tract infection (UTI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hypertension was admitted to the home care agency on 10/22/203. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/22/2023 to 12/20/2023 revealed the order for biafine external emulsion 1 application every day. The order lacks a location for the topical medication. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:44 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN was not available for interview so she would review the record to see if there is a complete order. No further information has been provided. Patient #13 – This 67-year-old patient with the diagnoses of type 2 diabetes mellitus with foot ulcer, methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infection as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere, and pseudomonas was admitted to the home care agency on 09/27/2022. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for medication administration/side effects. Review of the Hospital Discharge Referral dated 09/27/2022 revealed the patient has a PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) and the dressing was changed on 09/23/2023. Review of the SN Initial Visit Note dated 09/27/2022 revealed the SN documented an assessment of the PICC, and that the PICC is used for infusions and blood draws. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care 09/27/2022 to 11/25/2022 revealed the order “single lumen PICC to RUE (right upper extremity).” The order lacks a size, measurements, date placed, and when the dressing is due to be changed. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:10 AM, the RN stated the order was incomplete. Patient #14 – This 82-year-old patient with the diagnoses of aftercare following surgery for neoplasm, malignant neoplasm of prostate, and encounter for fitting and adjustment of urinary device was admitted to the home care agency on 07/27/22. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 07/27/2022 to 09/24/2022 revealed the order for a 20F (twenty French) foley catheter to gravity. The POC lacks orders for the following: - foley care and who is responsible - when the foley was placed - when it is due for change During interview on 11/09/2023 at 09:49 AM, the DPS stated she does not see these orders on the POC. Patient #17 – This 54-year-old patient with the diagnoses of malignant neoplasm of colon, encounter for adjustment and management of vascular access device, hairy cell leukemia in remission was admitted to the home care agency on 05/11/2023. A.) Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 05/11/2023 revealed the patient has an implanted vascular access device (IVAD)/mediport. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 05/11/2023 to 07/09/2023 lacks an order for the IVAD/mediport and how it is being managed, and by whom. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:34 PM, the RN stated she forgot to put an order for the access device on the POC. B.) Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 05/11/2023 revealed the SN was at the patient’s home to take down the patient’s chemotherapy treatment. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 05/11/2023 to 07/09/2023 lacks an order for chemotherapy takedown to include a frequency and a flush. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:35 PM, the RN stated she did call the physician for orders but did not document them on the POC. The agency failed to ensure POCs are of sufficient scope to address all patient needs as evidenced by the following: Patient #12 – This 80-year-old patient with diagnoses of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphysema and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was admitted to the home care agency on 10/10/2023. A.) Review of the SN (Skilled Nurse) Start of Care Visit Note dated 10/10/2023 revealed the Registered Nurse (RN) documented making an internal request for Home Health Aide (HHA) services. Review of the Supplemental Order dated 10/11/2023 revealed an order for HHA 1-3x (one to three times) per week for 9 (nine) weeks. Review of the Community Home Health Time Sheet dated 10/18/2023 revealed the initial HHA service visit occurred on 10/18/2023. Review of the clinical record revealed an Aide Care Plan dated 10/30/2023, but lacks documented evidence of an aide POC for the period 10/18/2023 to 10/30/2023. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:38 AM, the Physical Therapist (PT) Team Supervisor stated the RN is unavailable for interview. The PT Team Supervisor stated the opening RN should have developed an aide POC when the HHA internal request was generated on 10/10/2023 but failed to. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:40 AM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) acknowledged the patient failed to have an aide plan of care in place until 10/30/2023. B.) Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/10/2023 to 12/08/2023 revealed orders for instruction of the use and care of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. The POC lacks orders for the type, frequency of use, management and CPAP settings. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:36 PM, the DPS stated the RN was unavailable for interview and she would look for additional orders for the CPAP. No further documentation was provided. C.) Review of the facility discharge medication list dated 10/09/2023 revealed an order for thigh high compression stockings to be worn daily as needed. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/10/2023 to 12/08/2023 lacks an order for compression stockings. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:38 AM, the PT Team Supervisor stated the RN was unavailable for interview. The PT Team Supervisor stated the patient wore compression stockings and the orders should have been included on the POC. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. A.) Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 01/04/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient is unable to take in nutrients orally and is fed nutrients through a jejunostomy tube. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 01/04/2023 to 03/04/2023 revealed the patient is ordered to receive tube feedings over 16 (sixteen) hours and additionally the nutritional requirements are ordered PO (by mouth). During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:28 PM, the RN stated the POC nutritional requirements are incorrect and meant to document NPO (nothing by mouth). B.) Review of the SN start of Care Visit Note dated 01/04/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient has a G (gastrostomy) tube present for medication administration and is connected to a drainage bag. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 01/05/2023 revealed the RN documented the G tube is to be flushed with 30 ml (milliliter) of water before and after medication administration. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 01/04/2023 to 03/04/2023 lacks documentation of orders for G tube water flushes. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of G tube water flushes. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:47 PM, the DPS stated she would look for documentation of G tube water flushes being ordered. No further documentation was provided. Patient #3 – This 58-year-old patient with diagnoses of unspecified atrial flutter, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation was admitted to the home care agency on 10/17/2023. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/17/2023 to 12/15/2023 revealed orders to instruct in diabetes disease management and diabetic foot care and SN to check blood glucose if patient symptomatic. The POC lacks documentation of a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:10 PM, the RN stated she left the identified diagnosis off the POC in error. Patient #8 – This 57-year-old patient with diagnoses of dysphagia, attention to gastrostomy and asthma was admitted to the home care agency on 10/13/2023. Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 10/13/2023 revealed the patient has a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube in place that is being used to administer medications, tube feedings, water flushes and requires tube care. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for10/13/2023 to 12/11/2023 lacks documentation of PEG tube care to include site care, dressing changes and who is managing the PEG tube care. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:03 AM, the RN Team Supervisor stated the RN was unavailable for interview and acknowledged the POC was missing orders for PEG tube care. Patient #11 – This 83-year-old patient with diagnoses of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pericardial effusion and type 2 diabetes mellitus was admitted to the home care agency on 10/28/2023. Review of the Home Care Referral dated 10/27/2023 revealed the patient was ordered oxygen 5 liters per minute continuous via nasal cannula. Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 10/28/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient is wearing oxygen at 5 liters per minute and the oxygen saturation at rest wearing the oxygen is 98 percent. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/28/2023 to 12/26/2023 revealed an order for oxygen 2 liters continuously by nasal cannula. Additionally, the RN documented in the POC summary that the patient uses 5 liters of oxygen continuously. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 12:52 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN was unavailable for interview. The DPS stated the oxygen order in the plan of care was a discrepancy and there is no documentation of clarification of the order. Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 11/04/2022 to 01/02/2023 revealed a primary diagnosis of acute on chronic right heart failure and orders for torsemide (a diuretic) to be taken daily. The POC lacks orders for weights to be monitored and weight parameters to notify the physician for. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:41 AM, the Triage RN stated it was an oversight that the identified weight orders were not ordered on the POC.”

    Rule G0574. Element-level.

  • Only As Ordered By A Physician

    The inspectors’ words, 696 words

    “Only as ordered by a physician CFR(s): 484.60(b)(1) Drugs, services, and treatments are administered only as ordered by a physician or allowed practitioner. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview for three (3) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s 8, 15 and 16), the agency failed to ensure services and treatments are administered in accordance with physician orders. Failure to administer services and treatments without a physician’s order has the potential to result in poor quality of care. The agency failed to ensure services and treatments are administered in accordance with physician orders as evidenced by the following: Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. A.) Review of the Skilled Nurse (SN) Routine Visit Note dated 01/05/2023 revealed the Registered Nurse (RN) documented performing both the gastrostomy (G) tube site dressing change and the jejunostomy (J) tube site dressing change per care plan orders. Review of the clinical record lacks orders for the G tube site and the J tube site dressing changes. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:50 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN was unavailable for interview. The DPS stated she would look for orders for the identified dressing changes. No further documentation was provided. B.) Review of SN Routine Visit Note dated 01/05/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient has a new reddened, intact area on coccyx and the patient’s caregiver was instructed to apply calmoseptine ointment and apply a foam dressing over the area to protect it. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 01/09/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient’s coccyx wound is now a stage 2 pressure ulcer and instructed the caregiver to wash the area with soap and water, apply calmoseptine to the wound until the foam dressings arrive. Review of the clinical record lacks orders for wound care to the coccyx wound. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:50 PM, the DPS stated the RN that conducted the two identified visits is unavailable for interview. The DPS stated she would look for orders for the identified coccyx wound. No further documentation was provided. Patient #8 – This 57-year-old patient with diagnoses of dysphagia, attention to gastrostomy and asthma was admitted to the home care agency on 10/13/2023. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/20/2023 revealed the RN documented the skin around the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube was intact and the RN changed the dressing around the tube per the plan of care. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/27/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient’s skin around the PEG tube was intact and the RN changed the dressing per plan of care. Review of the clinical record lacks an order for a PEG tube exit site dressing change. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:24 AM, the DPS stated the RN that conducted the identified visits was unavailable for interview. The DPS stated she would look for an order for the PEG tube exit site dressing change. No further documentation was provided. Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 11/04/2022 to 01/02/2023 revealed a wound care order for a mid back pressure ulcer to include cleansing with wound cleanser, applying gelling wound fiber and covering with foam dressing 2 (two) to 3 (three) times weekly and as needed. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 11/09/2022 revealed the RN documented in addition to the mid back inferior pressure ulcer the patient has a new mid back wound and wound care was completed per order to new wound. Review of the clinical record lacks wound care orders for the new mid back wound identified on 11/09/2022. During interview on 11/09/2022 at 01:12 PM, the RN stated being unable to recall why an order was not obtained for wound care to the second back wound.”

    Rule G0580. Element-level.

  • Promptly Alert Relevant Physician Of Changes

    The inspectors’ words, 653 words

    “Promptly alert relevant physician of changes CFR(s): 484.60(c)(1) The HHA must promptly alert the relevant physician(s) or allowed practitioner(s) to any changes in the patient’s condition or needs that suggest that outcomes are not being achieved and/or that the plan of care should be altered. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on a review of clinical records and staff interviews for two (2) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 15 and 16), the agency failed to ensure the physician is notified of changes in the patient’s condition or needs that suggest that the Plan of Care (POC) may need to be altered. Failure to promptly notify the physician to changes in the patient’s condition or needs that may suggest that outcomes are not being achieved and/ or the POC should be altered has the potential to result in unmet patient needs and negative patient outcomes. The agency failed to ensure physicians are promptly notified to changes in the patient’s condition or needs that may affect the POC as evidenced by the following: Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022. A.) Review of the Skilled Nurse (SN) Routine Visit Note dated 11/09/2022 revealed the Registered Nurse (RN) documented the patient had a new mid back superior unstageable pressure ulcer that had developed since the last SN visit occurring on 11/04/2023. The new wound was open, covered with 100 percent slough and draining moderate amounts of serosanguinous drainage. The visit note lacks documentation the physician was notified of the development of the new wound and orders were obtained for wound care. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:12 PM, the RN stated being unable to recall why the physician was not notified and orders obtained for the identified back wound. B.) Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 11/04/2022 revealed the patient’s weight measured 100 pounds using the patient’s scale and the patient was dyspneic with exertion wearing 4 liters of continuous oxygen. Review of the Physical Therapy (PT) Initial Visit Note dated 11/10/2022 revealed the patient’s weight was verbally reported as being 113 pounds and the patient was short of breath at rest wearing oxygen at 4 liters continuously. The visit note lacks documentation the physician was contacted regarding the change in status. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:33 PM, the PT stated he may have used a different scale than the patient’s causing the weight discrepancy. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 01/05/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient had a new reddened intact pressure area on the coccyx and the caregiver was instructed to apply calmoseptine ointment and a foam dressing over the area to protect it. The visit note lacks documentation the physician was notified of the new pressure area and obtained orders for wound care to the area. Review of the SN Routine Visit note dated 01/09/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient’s coccyx wound was open and had developed into a new stage 2 pressure ulcer. Additionally, the RN documented the caregiver was instructed to wash area with soap and water and apply calmoseptine to the wound until the foam dressings were in the home. The visit note lacks documentation the physician was notified of the new stage 2 pressure ulcer and obtained orders for wound care to the area. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:56 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN that made the two identified visits was unavailable for interview. The DPS stated she would look for additional documentation of the physician being notified of the identified changes. No further documentation was provided.”

    Rule G0590. Element-level.

  • Coordinate Care Delivery

    The inspectors’ words, 224 words

    “Coordinate care delivery CFR(s): 484.60(d)(4) Coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs, and involve the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s), as appropriate, in the coordination of care activities. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records, agency policy and procedure, and interviews with agency staff for one (1) of seventeen (17) patients (Patients #13), the agency failed to coordinate care delivery and ensure patient needs are addressed. Failure to coordinate care delivery has the potential for negative patient outcomes. Patient #13 – This 67-year-old patient with the diagnoses of type 2 diabetes mellitus with foot ulcer, methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infection as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere, and pseudomonas was admitted to the home care agency on 09/27/2022. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for medication administration/side effects. Review of the SN (Skilled Nursing) Routine Visit Note dated 10/03/2022 revealed the SN documented “patient reports signs and symptoms of yeast infection… MD (medical doctor) notified.” Review of the clinical record from 10/03/2022 to 10/11/2022 lacks documented evidence there was follow-up on the patient’s symptoms. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:30 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN was not available for interview so she would review the record for follow-up. No further information has been provided.”

    Rule G0608. Element-level.

  • Patients Receive Education And Training

    The inspectors’ words, 655 words

    “Patients receive education and training CFR(s): 484.60(d)(5) Ensure that each patient, and his or her caregiver(s) where applicable, receive ongoing education and training provided by the HHA, as appropriate, regarding the care and services identified in the plan of care. The HHA must provide training, as necessary, to ensure a timely discharge. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and staff interview for three (3) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #’s: 8, 15 and 16), the agency failed to ensure patients and/or caregivers receive appropriate education regarding the care and services identified in the plan of care (POC). Failure to provide appropriate education has the potential to result in the patient receiving inadequate care and could result in patient harm. The agency failed to ensure patients and caregivers receive education and training regarding care and services identified in the POC as evidenced by the following: HV Patient #8 – This 57-year-old patient with diagnoses of dysphagia, attention to gastrostomy and asthma was admitted to the home care agency on 10/13/2023. During an observational home visit on 11/07/2023 at 09:30 AM, the patient verbalized that he and his spouse perform the gastrostomy tube exit site dressing change independently. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation the patient and/or spouse were instructed and demonstrated back the gastrostomy tube exit site dressing change and were determined independent. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 10:16 AM, the Registered Nurse (RN) Team Supervisor stated the clinician was unavailable for interview and she would look for documentation regarding the identified teaching. No further documentation was provided. Patient #15 - This 82-year-old patient with diagnoses of hypertensive heart disease with heart failure, unstageable pressure ulcer of back and atherosclerotic heart disease was admitted to the home care agency on 11/04/2022. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 11/04/2022 to 01/02/2023 revealed an order for wound care to the mid back pressure ulcer to include cleanse with wound cleanser, apply gelling wound fiber, cover with foam dressing and change every two to three times weekly and as needed. Review of the Skilled Nurse (SN) Discharge From Agency Visit Note dated 11/18/2022 revealed the patient had one (1) unstageable pressure ulcer located on the mid back inferior and another unstageable pressure located on the mid back superior. The RN documented performing dressing changes to both wounds per care plan orders. Additionally, the patient reported he is moving out of area in two (2) days to stay at son’s home. The RN documented wound care was reviewed with patient for son to perform. The visit note lacks documentation the son was present, agreeable to assume responsibility for the wound care and was instructed and demonstrated the wound care. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:25 PM, the RN stated being unable to recall the patient. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 01:27 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated she would look for additional documentation regarding the son being instructed in the wound care. No further documentation was provided. Patient #16 – This 75-year-old patient with diagnoses of pleural effusion, pneumonia and malignant neoplasm of the esophagus was admitted to the home care agency on 01/04/2023. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 01/05/2023 revealed the RN documented the patient had a new reddened intact pressure area on the coccyx and the caregiver was instructed to apply calmoseptine ointment and a foam dressing over the area to protect it. The documentation lacks instruction to include demonstration of the caregiver performing the wound care and being determined independent. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation the caregiver demonstrated the identified wound care and was determined independent. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:02 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN was unavailable for interview and would look for any documentation regarding education and demonstration of the identified wound care. No further documentation was provided.”

    Rule G0610. Element-level.

  • Preparing Clinical Notes

    The inspectors’ words, 503 words

    “Preparing clinical notes CFR(s): 484.75(b)(6) Preparing clinical notes; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and interviews with agency staff, for three (3) of fourteen (14) patients (Patient #’s: 4, 12, 13), receiving skilled nursing services, the Skilled Nurse (SN) failed to prepare or document complete clinical and progress notes. Failure to prepare or document complete clinical and progress notes has the potential for unmet patient needs. The SN failed to prepare or document complete clinical and progress notes as evidenced by the following: Patient #4 – This 63-year-old patient with the diagnoses of aortocoronary bypass graft, atherosclerotic heart disease, and hypertension was admitted to the home care agency on 10/22/2023. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/25/2023 revealed the SN assessed three (3) surgical wounds located at the sternum, groin, and medial lower left extremity and documented “dressing changed this visit: yes, per orders, see Care Plan.” Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 10/22/2023 to 12/20/2023 revealed the order for “sternum: dry dressing to be removed 10/25/2023” but lacks orders for dressing changes for the groin and medial lower left extremity surgical wounds. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 09:32 AM, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) stated the patient had gauze dressing on the sternum that was to be removed on 10/25/2023 and the other two wound were open to air. Her documentation of a dressing change was an error. Patient #13 – This 67-year-old patient with the diagnoses of type 2 diabetes mellitus with foot ulcer, methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infection as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere, and pseudomonas was admitted to the home care agency on 09/27/2022. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for medication administration/side effects. Review of the Hospital Discharge Referral dated 09/27/2022 revealed the patient has a PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) in place and the date of the dressing change was 09/23/2023. Review of the SN Start of Care Visit Note dated 09/27/2022 revealed the SN documented the dressing was last changed on 09/24/2023. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:10 AM, the Registered Nurse (RN) stated the dressing was last changed on 09/23/2023 and her assessment was an error. The SN failed to prepare or document complete clinical and progress notes as evidenced by the following: Patient #12 – This 80-year-old patient with diagnoses of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphysema and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was admitted to the home care agency on 10/10/2023. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/12/2023 revealed the Registered Nurse (RN) documented the patient does not use oxygen within the respiratory assessment. Additionally, the RN documented the patient was instructed on oxygen and verbalized understanding of the instruction. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 02:45 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the RN no longer works for the agency. The DPS acknowledged the identified documentation was inconsistent and it was unclear if the patient was using oxygen or not.”

    Rule G0716. Element-level.

  • Services Provided By Hh Aide

    The inspectors’ words, 636 words

    “Services provided by HH aide CFR(s): 484.80(g)(2) A home health aide provides services that are: (i) Ordered by the physician or allowed practitioner; (ii) Included in the plan of care; (iii) Permitted to be performed under state law; and (iv) Consistent with the home health aide training. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records and interview with agency staff, for one (1) of two (2) patient’s receiving Home Health Aide Services (HHA) (Patient #12), the agency failed to ensure the HHA provides services as directed on the aide plan of care (POC). Specifically, the HHA performed tasks not assigned on the aide care plan. Failure to follow the Plan of Care has the potential to result in inadequate care. The agency failed to ensure the HHA provided services as directed on the aide POC as evidenced by the following: Patient #12 – This 80-year-old patient with diagnoses of gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphysema and chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia was admitted to the home care agency on 10/10/2023. A.) Review of the clinical record revealed the patient received the following HHA services between 10/10/2023 to 10/28/2023: - For the week of 10/15/2023 to 10/21/2023- HHA service visits occurred on 10/18/2023 and 10/20/2023; and - For the week of 10/22/2023 to 10/28/2023- HHA service visits occurred on 10/23/2023, 10/25/2023 and 10/27/2023. Review of the Community Home Health Time Sheets revealed the HHA performed the following unassigned tasks on 10/18/2023, 10/20/2023, 10/23/2023, 10/25/2023 and 10/27/2023: - Performed shower; - Performed incontinence skin care; - Shampooed, combed and brushed hair; - Brushed patient’s teeth; - Cleaned and filed patient’s nails; - Provided toileting assistance; - Performed partial assistance with dressing; - Provided ambulation assist with patient’s rolling walker and oxygen; - Provided transfer assistance; - Prepared and served a meal; - Provided medication reminders; - Performed light housekeeping; and - Performed laundry using machine in home. Review of the clinical record lacks documentation of an aide care plan being developed until 10/30/2023. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:27 AM, the Physical Therapist (PT) Team Supervisor stated the Registered Nurse (RN) was unavailable for interview. The PT Team Supervisor stated the RN who put in the referral for HHA services never completed an aide plan of care, as was supposed to occur, and an aide care plan was developed on 10/30/2023 when the error was realized. B.) Review of the Aide Care Plan dated 10/30/2023 revealed the HHA is assigned the following tasks: - Shower two to three times weekly; - Skin Care- for incontinence, wash hands/feet, apply lotion two to three times weekly; - Shampoo, comb/brush hair two to three times weekly; - Oral care two to three times weekly; - Nail care, clean and file two to three times weekly; - Assist with toileting two to three times weekly; - Partial assist with dressing two to three times weekly; - Ambulation standby assist with rollator and oxygen two to three times weekly; - Transfer standby assist two to three times weekly; - Assist with meal, prepare and serve as needed two to three times weekly; - Assist with rollator and oxygen two to three times weekly; - Medication reminder two to three times weekly; - Light housekeeping two to three times weekly; - Laundry two to three times weekly; and - Apply brace to right calf two to three times weekly. Review of the HHA CellTrak Visit Form (aide documentation) for 11/01/2023 and 11/03/2023 revealed the HHA documented performing the following task not assigned on the aide plan of care: - Assisted with applying TED (thrombo-embolic deterrent) stocking. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 11:25 PM, the Physical Therapist stated she created the aide care plan on 10/30/2023 and omitted assigning the task of applying the TED stocking to the care plan in error.”

    Rule G0800. Element-level.

  • In Accordance With Current Clinical Practice

    The inspectors’ words, 404 words

    “In accordance with current clinical practice CFR(s): 484.105(f)(2) All HHA services must be provided in accordance with current clinical practice guidelines and accepted professional standards of practice. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical records, agency policy and procedure, and staff interview, for one (1) of seventeen (17) patients (Patient #13), the agency failed to follow agency policies and procedures, current clinical practice guidelines and accepted professional standards when providing services. Failure to follow agency policies and procedures and ensure compliance with accepted professional standards has the potential to result in unmet patient needs and inadequate care. Patient #13 – This 67-year-old patient with the diagnoses of type 2 diabetes mellitus with foot ulcer, methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infection as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere, and pseudomonas was admitted to the home care agency on 09/27/2022. This patient was identified on the Potentially Avoidable Event Patient Listing Report for medication administration/side effects. Review of the agency’s policy entitled “Infusion: Vascular Access Devices/Infusion Related Procedures” revised 11/2022 revealed the following: G. PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) measurements are done with every dressing change and records in the EMR (electronic medical record). 1. Arm circumference 10 (ten) cm (centimeters) above the antecubital fossa. 2. External length in cm of the PICC to the proximal wing on the catheter. I. While performing IV (intravenous) dressing changes, the site will be assessed for signs and symptoms of infections and complications. Review of the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for 09/27/2022 to 11/25/2022 revealed the order “PICC – dressing change weekly and prn (as needed): integrity. Clean site with chlorhexidine or alcohol and betadine. Allow to air dry. Apply securement device, antimicrobial patch, extension tubing (if needed), and NAD (non-adherent dressing). Apply transparent dressing.” Review of the SN (Skilled Nursing) Routine Visit Note dated 09/30/2022 revealed the SN documented “PICC dressing changed” but lacks an assessment of the PICC in accordance with the agency’s policy. Review of the SN Routine Visit Note dated 10/17/2022 revealed the SN documented “PICC dressing changed” but lacks an assessment of the PICC in accordance with the agency’s policy. The agency failed to follow agency policies and procedures, current clinical practice guidelines and accepted professional standards when providing services. During interview on 11/09/2023 at 03:40 PM, the Director of Patient Services (DPS) stated the SN should have documented a complete assessment during the dressing change.”

    Rule G0984. Element-level.

All 3 inspections in the last three years
Inspections on record
DateVisitWhat the record says
Apr 21, 2025Complaint inspection2 deficiencies cited
Oct 8, 2024Recertification inspection2 deficiencies cited
Nov 10, 2023Recertification inspection17 deficiencies cited

Is it certified?

  • Medicare-certified home health agency since Jul 1, 1966.
  • Ownership: proprietary (for profit).
  • No deficiency on record in the last three years.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Care Agencies. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

Has anything been proven against it?

  • CMS doesn’t publish fines or other penalties for home health agencies, so none are shown.
  • 2 deficiencies cited in the last three years came from inspections that included a complaint investigation.
Source:

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

Who does the caring?

  • Offers nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, medical social services and home health aide services.
  • CMS doesn’t publish staffing levels for home health agencies.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Care Agencies. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

Who owns it?

  • 14 owners or officers are people: Hugh Thomas (runs it (operational or managerial control)); Susan M Bourne (managing employee (on the payroll)); Ralph A. Destephano (corporate director, 0%); Elizabeth V. Patton (corporate director, 0%); Daniel M Meyers (corporate director, 0%); Carole Catallo (corporate officer); Nichole S Holder (managing employee (on the payroll), 0%); Richard H Machemer (corporate director, 0%); Charles Stuart (corporate director); Howard Glastonbury (corporate officer, 0%); Manuel Matos (corporate director); Erika I Green (corporate director, 0%); James Norman (corporate director); Marilyn Dollinger (corporate director).
  • No private-equity firm among the owners CMS lists.
  • No real-estate investment trust among the owners CMS lists.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Agency All Owners and Home Health Agency Enrollments. Released Sep 29, 2026. Updated quarterly.

How do patients fare?

  • CMS rates its quality of patient care 5 of 5.
  • Patients rate it 4 of 5 in CMS’s patient survey (888 surveys completed): 90% rated it 9 or 10 out of 10, and 83% would definitely recommend it.
  • CMS compares it with the national rate: discharged to the community, better; potentially preventable hospital stays, better; potentially preventable readmissions after discharge, worse.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Care Agencies and Home Health Patient Survey. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

Ratings and measures, as published
MeasureRating
Quality of patient care ratingCMS star rating, 1 to 5 in half stars5 of 5
Patient survey ratingCMS star rating from its survey of the agency’s patients, 1 to 54 of 5
Discharged to the communityCMS’s risk-adjusted rate, compared with the national rate91.27% (better than the national rate)
Potentially preventable hospital staysCMS’s risk-adjusted rate, compared with the national rate8.71% (better than the national rate)
Potentially preventable readmissions after dischargeCMS’s risk-adjusted rate, compared with the national rate6.40% (worse than the national rate)

How does it compare nearby?

  • Of the 3 agencies CMS’s data show serving patients in ZIP code 14607, where this agency’s office is, 3 have a quality of patient care rating; the middle one is 3 of 5, and this one is rated 5 of 5.
Source:

CMS, Home Health ZIP Codes and Home Health Care Agencies. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

The 3 agencies CMS lists serving ZIP code 14607
PlaceQuality rating
Rochester Regional Health Home Care This home health agency5
Hcr / Hcr Home Care Chha (Rochester)2.5
Ur Medicine Home Care, Certified Services, Inc.3

What the record doesn’t say

  • CMS doesn’t publish fines or other penalties for home health agencies, so none are shown.
  • Only complaints that led to a citation appear; complaints that didn’t aren’t published.
  • QCOR says some of its home health reports are accurate or available only through May 19, 2021, because of a systems migration.
  • Many home health agencies are inspected by a private accrediting organisation instead of the state, and QCOR’s home health file doesn’t appear to include those inspections: no inspection on record here doesn’t mean none took place.

Sources

If you believe something here is wrong, a correction starts with the agency whose record this copies: CMS. CMS’s own record is on Care Compare. If Hearth Record copied something wrongly, it will fix it and log the correction publicly, with its date: how corrections work.

Source:

This copy of the record was made on Oct 24, 2026.

From the agency

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Replies

None. Replies aren’t open yet. When they open, the agency will be able to answer any finding for free, and the reply will show beside that finding, unedited and dated.

Paid listing

None. Paid listings aren’t open yet. When they open, anything paid for will say “Paid by the agency”, and paying will never change a finding, a rating or the order of results.

How to read a record

Four things every record does, shown on an example record made up for this guide.

An example record, made up for this guide

An example nursing home

Made up for this guide: no real place is shown

Not fully inspected in over two years (CMS flag)

11 health citations at the latest inspection cycle

The state average is 14.3.

Source:

CMS, State and US Averages and Health Deficiencies. Released Oct 28, 2026. Updated monthly.

From the homeNone yet. Replies and paid listings aren’t open, and when they open they will sit here, below the record.

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