Section 19-1415 - Notice of change of condition of resident. - Maryland Statutes

§ 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.]