What is a deficiency citation in a nursing home?

A deficiency citation in a nursing home is a formal notification that indicates a violation of regulatory standards discovered during an inspection. These citations are issued by state or federal surveyors when they identify areas where the nursing home fails to comply with established regulations, which are designed to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of residents.

The citation process serves as a critical mechanism for maintaining accountability and improving quality of care within nursing homes. When a deficiency is identified, the nursing home is typically required to create and implement a plan of correction to address the issues before a follow-up inspection is conducted. This ensures that the facility takes the necessary steps to rectify the deficiencies and enhance the overall quality of care for residents.

Understanding the nature and significance of deficiency citations is essential for nursing home administrators, as it directly relates to compliance, regulatory oversight, and the overall reputation of the facility in providing care to its residents.