§ 19-1415

(a) 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) 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) 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.