Section 19-1415 - Notice of change of condition of resident.
§ 19-1415. Notice of change of condition of resident.
(a) "Change in condition" defined.- In this section, "change in condition" means a significant change in the resident's physical, mental, or psychological status including:
(1) Life-threatening conditions such as heart attack or stroke;
(2) Clinical complications such as:
(i) Development of a pressure sore;
(ii) Onset of recurrent periods of delirium;
(iii) Onset of recurrent urinary tract infection;
(iv) Onset of depression; or
(v) Onset of aggressive or inappropriate behavior;
(3) The need to discontinue a medication or treatment because of:
(i) Adverse consequences; or
(ii) The need to begin a new form of treatment;
(4) Evaluation at or admission to a hospital; and
(5) Accidents that result in injury having the potential for requiring a physician's intervention.
(b) In general.- Consistent with State and federal confidentiality laws and in a timely manner, a nursing home shall notify a resident and, if applicable, the resident's representative or interested family member of any:
(1) Change in condition;
(2) Adverse event that may result in a change in condition;
(3) Outcome or care that results in an unanticipated consequence; or
(4) Corrective action, if appropriate.
(c) Failure to notify.- If the Department determines that a nursing home failed to notify a resident, resident's representative, or interested family member under subsection (b) of this section, the Department shall require as part of a plan of correction that the nursing home notify the resident, the resident's representative, or interested family member as soon as possible.
[2004, ch. 263.]