Documents Incorporated by Reference (12VAC5-371)

Chapter 371. Regulations for the Licensure of Nursing Facilities

Part I
Definitions and General Information

12VAC5-371-10. Definitions.

The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Abuse" means the willful infliction of injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation, or punishment with resulting physical harm, pain or mental anguish, or deprivation by an individual, including caretaker, of goods or services that are necessary to attain or maintain physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. This includes verbal, sexual, physical, or mental abuse.

"Administrator" means the individual licensed by the Virginia Board of Long-Term Care Administrators and who has the necessary authority and responsibility for management of the nursing facility.

"Admission" means the process of acceptance into a nursing facility, including orientation, rules and requirements, and assignment to appropriate staff. Admission does not include readmission to the facility after a temporary absence.

"Advance directive" means (i) a witnessed written document, voluntarily executed by the declarant in accordance with the requirements of § 54.1-2983 of the Code of Virginia, or (ii) a witnessed oral statement, made by the declarant subsequent to the time he is diagnosed as suffering from a terminal condition and in accordance with the provision of § 54.1-2983 of the Code of Virginia.

"Assessment" means the process of evaluating a resident for the purpose of developing a profile on which to base services. Assessment includes information gathering, both initially and on an ongoing basis, designed to assist the multi-disciplinary staff in determining the resident's need for care, and the collection and review of resident-specific data.

"Attending physician" means a physician currently licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine and identified by the resident, or legal representative, as having the primary responsibility in determining the delivery of the resident's medical care.

"Barrier crime" means any offense set forth in clause (i) of the definition of barrier crime in § 19.2-392.02 of the Code of Virginia.

"Board" means the Board of Health.

"Cannabidiol oil" means the same as the term is defined in subsection A of § 54.1-3408.3 of the Code of Virginia.

"Certified nurse aide" means the title that can only be used by individuals who have met the requirements to be certified, as defined by the Virginia Board of Nursing, and who are listed in the nurse aide registry.

"Chemical restraint" means a psychopharmacologic drug (a drug prescribed to control mood, mental status, or behavior) that is used for discipline or convenience and not required to treat medical symptoms or symptoms from mental illness or mental retardation that prohibit an individual from reaching his highest level of functioning.

"Clinical record" means the documentation of health care services, whether physical or mental, rendered by direct or indirect resident-provider interactions. An account compiled by physicians and other health care professionals of a variety of resident health information, such as assessments and care details, including testing results, medicines, and progress notes.

"Commissioner" means the State Health Commissioner.

"Complaint" means any allegation received by the Department of Health other than an incident reported by the facility staff. Such allegations include abuse, neglect, exploitation, or violation of state or federal laws or regulations.

"Comprehensive plan of care" means a written action plan, based on assessment data, that identifies a resident's clinical and psychosocial needs, the interventions to meet those needs, treatment goals that are measurable and that documents the resident's progress toward meeting the stated goals.

"Construction" means the building of a new nursing facility or the expansion, remodeling, or alteration of an existing nursing facility and includes the initial and subsequent equipping of the facility.

"Criminal record report" means either the criminal record clearance with respect to convictions for barrier crimes or the criminal history record from the Central Criminal Records Exchange of the Virginia Department of State Police.

"Department" means the Virginia Department of Health.

"Dignity" means staff, in their interactions with residents, carry out activities which assist a resident in maintaining and enhancing the resident's self-esteem and self-worth.

"Discharge" means the process by which the resident's services, delivered by the nursing facility, are terminated.

"Discharge summary" means the final written summary of the services delivered, goals achieved and post-discharge plan or final disposition at the time of discharge from the nursing facility. The discharge summary becomes a part of the clinical record.

"Drug" means (i) articles or substances recognized in the official United States "Drug" Pharmacopoeia National Formulary or official Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States, or any supplement to any of them; (ii) articles or substances intended for the use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in man or other animal; (iii) articles or substances, other than food, intended to affect the structure or any function of the body of man or other animal; and (iv) articles or substances intended for use as a component of any article specified in clause (i), (ii), or (iii). This does not include devices or their components, parts or accessories.

"Electronic monitoring" means an unmanned video recording system with or without audio capability installed in the room of a resident.

"Emergency preparedness plan" means a component of a nursing facility's safety management program designed to manage the consequences of natural disasters or other emergencies that disrupt the nursing facility's ability to provide care.

"Employee" means a person who performs a specific job function for financial remuneration on a full-time or part-time basis.

"Facility-managed" means an electronic monitoring system that is installed, controlled, and maintained by the nursing facility with the knowledge of the resident or legal representative in accordance with the facility's policies.

"Full-time" means a minimum of 35 hours or more worked per week in the nursing facility.

"Intelligent personal assistant" means a combination of an electronic device and a specialized software application designed to assist users with basic tasks using a combination of natural language processing and artificial intelligence, including such combinations known as digital assistants or virtual assistants.

"Legal representative" means a person legally responsible for representing or standing in the place of the resident for the conduct of his affairs. This may include a guardian, conservator, attorney-in-fact under durable power of attorney, trustee, or other person expressly named by a court of competent jurisdiction or the resident as his agency in a legal document that specifies the scope of the representative's authority to act. A legal representative may only represent or stand in the place of a resident for the function for which he has legal authority to act.

"Medication" means any substance, whether prescription or over-the-counter drug, that is taken orally or injected, inserted, topically applied, or otherwise administered.

"Neglect" means a failure to provide timely and consistent services, treatment, or care to a resident necessary to obtain or maintain the resident's health, safety, or comfort or a failure to provide timely and consistent goods and services necessary to avoid physical harm, mental anguish, or mental illness.

"Nursing facility" means any nursing home as defined in § 32.1-123 of the Code of Virginia.

"OLC" means the Office of Licensure and Certification of the Virginia Department of Health.

"Person" means any individual, corporation, partnership, association, trust, or other legal entity, whether governmental or private, owning, managing, or operating a nursing facility.

"Physical restraint" means any manual method or physical or mechanical device, material, or equipment attached or adjacent to the resident's body that the individual cannot remove easily which restricts freedom of movement or normal access to one's own body.

"Policy" means a written statement that describes the principles and guides and governs the activities, procedures and operations of the nursing facility.

"Procedures" means a series of activities designed to implement program goals or policy, which may or may not be written, depending upon the specific requirements within this chapter. For inspection purposes, there must be evidence that procedures are actually implemented.

"Progress note" means a written statement, signed and dated by the person delivering the care, consisting of a pertinent, chronological report of the resident's care. A progress note is a component of the clinical record.

"Qualified" means meeting current legal requirements of licensure, registration or certification in Virginia; having appropriate training and experience commensurate with assigned responsibilities; or, if referring to a professional, possessing an appropriate degree or having documented equivalent education, training or experience.

"Quality assurance" means systematic activities performed to determine the extent to which clinical practice meets specified standards and values with regard to such things as appropriateness of service assignment and duration, appropriateness of facilities and resources utilized, adequacy and clinical soundness of care given. Such activities should also assure changes in practice that do not meet accepted standards. Examples of quality assurance activities include the establishment of facility-wide goals for resident care, the assessment of the procedures used to achieve the goals, and the proposal of solutions to problems in attaining those goals.

"Readmission" means a planned return to the nursing facility following a temporary absence for hospitalization, off-site visit or therapeutic leave, or a return stay or confinement following a formal discharge terminating a previous admission.

"Resident" means the primary service recipient, admitted to the nursing facility, whether that person is referred to as a client, consumer, patient, or other term.

"Resident-managed" means an electronic monitoring system that is installed, controlled, and maintained by the resident with the knowledge of the nursing facility.

"Supervision" means the ongoing process of monitoring the skills, competencies and performance of the individual supervised and providing regular, face-to-face guidance and instruction.

"Sworn disclosure" means a written statement or affirmation disclosing any criminal convictions or any pending criminal charges, whether within or outside the Commonwealth, by an applicant for compensated employment with a nursing facility.

"THC-A oil" means the same as the term is defined in subsection A of § 54.1-3408.3 of the Code of Virginia.

"Volunteer" means a person who, without financial remuneration, provides services to the nursing facility.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 26, Issue 26, eff. September 30, 2010; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. December 13, 2018; Volume 36, Issue 23, eff. August 6, 2020; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. November 11, 2021.

12VAC5-371-20. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007.

12VAC5-371-30. License.

A. This chapter is not applicable to:

1. Those entities listed in § 32.1-124 of the Code of Virginia; and

2. Facilities established or operated for the practice of religious tenets pursuant to § 32.1-128 of the Code of Virginia, except that such facilities shall comply with the statutes and regulations on environmental protection and life safety.

B. A license to operate a nursing facility is issued to a person or organization. An organization may be a partnership, association, corporation, or public entity.

C. Each license and renewal thereof shall be issued for one year. A nursing facility shall operate within the terms of its license, which include the:

1. Name of the nursing facility;

2. Name of the operator;

3. Physical location of the nursing facility;

4. Maximum number of beds allowed; and

5. Date the license expires.

D. A separate license shall be required for nursing facilities maintained on separate premises, even though they are owned or are operated under the same management.

E. Every nursing facility shall be designated by a permanent and unique name.

F. The number of resident beds allowed in a nursing facility shall be determined by the department. Requests to increase beds must be made in writing and must include an approved Certificate of Public Need, except as provided in 12VAC5-371-40 G.

G. Nursing facility units located in and operated by hospitals shall be licensed under Regulations for the Licensure of Hospitals in Virginia (12VAC5-410). Approval for such units shall be included on the annual license issued to each hospital.

H. Any person establishing, conducting, maintaining, or operating a nursing facility without a license shall be guilty of a Class 6 felony.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 35, Issue 24, eff. August 23, 2019; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-40. Licensing process.

A. Upon request, the OLC will provide consultation to any person seeking information about obtaining a license. The purpose of such consultation is to:

1. Explain the standards and the licensing process;

2. Provide assistance in locating other sources of information;

3. Review the potential applicant's proposed program plans, forms, and other documents, as they relate to standards; and

4. Alert the potential applicant regarding the need to meet other state and local ordinances, such as fire and building codes and environmental health standards, where applicable.

B. Licensees and applicants shall obtain licensure applications from the OLC.

C. The OLC shall consider the application complete when all requested information and the application fee is submitted with the form required. If the OLC finds the application incomplete, the applicant will be notified of receipt of the incomplete application.

D. The applicant shall complete and submit the initial application to the OLC at least 30 days prior to a planned opening date to allow the OLC time to act on the application. An application for a license may be withdrawn at any time.

E. A nursing facility may not be licensed without first complying with the requirements for a Certificate of Public Need as required by Article 1.1. (§ 32.1-102.1 et seq.) of Chapter 4 of Title 32.1 of the Code of Virginia.

1. Application for initial license of a nursing facility shall include a statement of any agreement made with the commissioner as a condition for Certificate of Public Need approval to provide a level of care at a reduced rate to indigents or accept patients requiring specialized care.

2. Any initial license issued to any nursing facility that made such agreement as a condition of its Certificate of Public Need approval shall not be renewed without demonstrating prior to or at the time of applying for renewal that it is substantially complying with its agreement.

F. The renewal of a nursing facility license shall be conditioned upon the up-to-date payment of any civil penalties owed as a result of willful refusal, failure, or neglect to honor certain conditions established in their award of a Certificate of Public Need pursuant to § 32.1-102.4 B of the Code of Virginia.

G. Nursing facilities shall be exempt, for a period of no more than 30 days, from the requirement to obtain a license to add temporary beds when the commissioner has determined that a natural or man-made disaster has caused the evacuation of a hospital or nursing home and that a public health emergency exists due to a shortage of hospital or nursing home beds.

H. The licensee shall submit the completed renewal application form along with any required attachments and the application fee by the date indicated in the cover letter.

I. It is the licensee's responsibility to complete and return the application to assure timely processing. Should a current license expire before a new license is issued, the current license shall remain in effect provided the complete and accurate application was filed on time.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 10, eff. February 28, 2002; Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 35, Issue 24, eff. August 23, 2019; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-50. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007.

12VAC5-371-60. On-site inspections.

A. The licensing representative shall make unannounced on-site inspections of the nursing facility. The licensee shall be responsible for correcting any deficiencies found during any on-site inspection. Compliance with all standards will be determined by the OLC.

B. The licensee shall make available to the licensing representative any necessary records.

C. The licensee shall also allow the licensing representative to interview the agents, employees, residents, family members, and any person under its custody, control, direction or supervision.

D. After the on-site inspection, the licensing representative shall discuss the findings of the inspection with the administrator or designee.

E. As applicable, the administrator shall submit an acceptable plan for correcting any deficiencies found during an on-site inspection.

F. The administrator will be notified whenever any item in the plan of correction is determined to be unacceptable.

G. The administrator shall be responsible for assuring the plan of correction is implemented and monitored so that compliance is maintained.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-70. Complaint investigation.

A. The OLC has the responsibility to investigate any complaints regarding alleged violations of the standards or statutes and complaints of the abuse or neglect of persons in care. The Department of Social Services and the State Ombudsman are notified of complaints received.

B. Complaints may be received in written or oral form and may be anonymous.

C. When the investigation is complete, the licensee and the complainant, if known, will be notified of the findings of the investigation.

D. As applicable, the administrator shall submit an acceptable plan for correcting any deficiencies found during a complaint investigation.

E. The administrator will be notified whenever any item in the plan of correction is determined to be unacceptable.

F. The administrator shall be responsible for assuring the plan of correction is implemented and monitored so that compliance is maintained.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-75. Criminal records check.

A. A nursing facility may not hire for compensated employment a person who has been convicted of a barrier crime, unless:

1. The person has been convicted of a single barrier crime punishable as a misdemeanor;

2. The conviction does not involve abuse or neglect; and

3. Five years have elapsed since the conviction.

B. A nursing facility shall:

1. Obtain from an applicant for compensated employment a sworn disclosure;

2. Attach the sworn disclosure to and file it with the criminal record report; and

3. Obtain a criminal record report on applicants for compensated employment from the Virginia Department of State Police no more than 30 calendar days after employment begins.

C. A nursing facility may not accept:

1. A criminal record report dated more than 90 calendar days prior to the start date of employment; or

2. Duplicates or copies of the original criminal record report, except as provided in subsection D of this section.

D. If a nursing facility uses a temporary staffing agency for substitute staff, a nursing facility shall obtain a letter from the temporary staffing agency that includes:

1. The name of the substitute staffing person;

2. The date of employment by the temporary staffing agency; and

3. A statement verifying that the criminal record report:

a. Has been obtained within 30 calendar days of employment at the temporary staffing agency;

b. Is on file at the temporary staffing agency; and

c. Does not contain a conviction for a barrier crime, or indicates the substitute staffing person has been convicted of a single barrier crime punishable as a misdemeanor that does not involve abuse or neglect and five years have elapsed since the conviction.

E. A nursing facility may not permit a compensated employee to work in a position that involves direct contact with a patient until an original criminal record report has been received by the nursing facility or temporary staffing agency, unless the employee works under the direct supervision of another compensated employee for whom a background check has been completed in accordance with subsection B of this section.

F. A nursing facility shall obtain a new criminal record report and a new sworn disclosure if an individual:

1. Terminates compensated employment at one nursing facility and begins compensated employment at another nursing facility, unless the nursing facilities are owned by the same entity. The employee's file shall contain a statement indicating the original criminal record report has been transferred or forwarded to the new work location; or

2. Takes a leave of absence exceeding six consecutive months.

G. A nursing facility shall provide a copy of the criminal record report to an applicant denied compensated employment because of convictions appearing on his criminal record report.

H. A nursing facility shall maintain the confidentiality of criminal record reports and store criminal record reports in locked files accessible only to the administrator or designee.

I. A nursing facility may not disseminate the criminal record report and sworn disclosure except to a federal or state authority or court as may be required to comply with an express requirement of law for such further dissemination.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-75. Criminal records check.

A. A nursing facility may not hire for compensated employment a person who has been convicted of a barrier crime, unless:

1. The person has been convicted of a single barrier crime punishable as a misdemeanor;

2. The conviction does not involve abuse or neglect; and

3. Five years have elapsed since the conviction.

B. A nursing facility shall:

1. Obtain from an applicant for compensated employment a sworn disclosure;

2. Attach the sworn disclosure to and file it with the criminal record report; and

3. Obtain a criminal record report on applicants for compensated employment from the Virginia Department of State Police no more than 30 calendar days after employment begins.

C. A nursing facility may not accept:

1. A criminal record report dated more than 90 calendar days prior to the start date of employment; or

2. Duplicates or copies of the original criminal record report, except as provided in subsection D of this section.

D. If a nursing facility uses a temporary staffing agency for substitute staff, a nursing facility shall obtain a letter from the temporary staffing agency that includes:

1. The name of the substitute staffing person;

2. The date of employment by the temporary staffing agency; and

3. A statement verifying that the criminal record report:

a. Has been obtained within 30 calendar days of employment at the temporary staffing agency;

b. Is on file at the temporary staffing agency; and

F. A nursing facility shall obtain a new criminal record report and a new sworn disclosure if an individual:

2. Takes a leave of absence exceeding six consecutive months.

G. A nursing facility shall provide a copy of the criminal record report to an applicant denied compensated employment because of convictions appearing on his criminal record report.

H. A nursing facility shall maintain the confidentiality of criminal record reports and store criminal record reports in locked files accessible only to the administrator or designee.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-75. Criminal records check.

A. A nursing facility may not hire for compensated employment a person who has been convicted of a barrier crime, unless:

1. The person has been convicted of a single barrier crime punishable as a misdemeanor;

2. The conviction does not involve abuse or neglect; and

3. Five years have elapsed since the conviction.

B. A nursing facility shall:

1. Obtain from an applicant for compensated employment a sworn disclosure;

2. Attach the sworn disclosure to and file it with the criminal record report; and

3. Obtain a criminal record report on applicants for compensated employment from the Virginia Department of State Police no more than 30 calendar days after employment begins.

C. A nursing facility may not accept:

1. A criminal record report dated more than 90 calendar days prior to the start date of employment; or

2. Duplicates or copies of the original criminal record report, except as provided in subsection D of this section.

D. If a nursing facility uses a temporary staffing agency for substitute staff, a nursing facility shall obtain a letter from the temporary staffing agency that includes:

1. The name of the substitute staffing person;

2. The date of employment by the temporary staffing agency; and

3. A statement verifying that the criminal record report:

a. Has been obtained within 30 calendar days of employment at the temporary staffing agency;

b. Is on file at the temporary staffing agency; and

F. A nursing facility shall obtain a new criminal record report and a new sworn disclosure if an individual:

2. Takes a leave of absence exceeding six consecutive months.

G. A nursing facility shall provide a copy of the criminal record report to an applicant denied compensated employment because of convictions appearing on his criminal record report.

H. A nursing facility shall maintain the confidentiality of criminal record reports and store criminal record reports in locked files accessible only to the administrator or designee.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-80. Variances.

A. The commissioner may authorize variances only to its own licensing standards, not to regulations of another agency or to any requirements in federal, state, or local laws.

B. A nursing facility may request a variance to a particular standard or requirement contained in this chapter when the standard or requirement poses a special hardship and when a variance to it would not endanger the safety or well-being of residents, employees, or the public.

C. Upon finding that the enforcement of one or more of the standards would be clearly impractical, the commissioner shall have the authority to waive, either temporarily or permanently, the enforcement of one or more of these standards, provided safety, resident care and services are not adversely affected.

D. The commissioner may rescind or modify a variance if (i) conditions change; (ii) additional information becomes known which alters the basis for the original decision; (iii) the nursing facility fails to meet any conditions attached to the variance; or (iv) results of the variance jeopardize the safety, comfort, or well-being of residents, employees and the public.

E. Consideration of a variance is initiated when a written request is submitted to the director of the OLC. The OLC may provide consultation in the development of the written request and throughout the variance process.

F. The request for a variance must describe the special hardship to the existing program or to a planned innovative or pilot program caused by the enforcement of the requirements. When possible, the request should include proposed alternatives to meet the purpose of the requirements which will ensure the protection and well-being of residents, employees, and the public.

G. The OLC shall notify the nursing facility of the receipt of the request for a variance. The commissioner may attach conditions to the granting of the variance in order to protect persons in care.

H. When the decision is to deny a request for a variance, the reason shall be provided in writing to the licensee.

I. When a variance is denied, expires, or is rescinded, routine enforcement of the standard or portion of the standard shall be resumed. The nursing facility may at any time withdraw a request for a variance.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-90. Administrative sanctions.

A. Nothing in this part shall prohibit the department from exercising its responsibility and authority to enforce the regulation, including proceeding directly to imposition of administrative sanctions, when the quality of care or the quality of life has been severely compromised.

B. The commissioner may impose such administrative sanctions or take such actions as are appropriate for violation of any of the standards or statutes or for abuse or neglect of persons in care. Such sanctions include:

1. Restricting or prohibiting new admissions to any nursing facility;

2. Petitioning the court to impose a civil penalty or to appoint a receiver, or both; or

3. Revoking or suspending the license of a nursing facility.

C. The following reasons may be considered by the department for the imposition of administrative sanctions or the imposition of civil penalties:

1. Failure to demonstrate or maintain compliance with applicable standards or for violations of the provisions of the Code of Virginia;

2. Permitting, aiding, or abetting the commission of any illegal act in the nursing facility; or

3. Deviating significantly from the program or services for which a license was issued without obtaining prior written approval from the OLC, or failure to correct such deviations within a specified time.

D. Violations which in the judgment of the OLC jeopardize the health and safety of residents shall be sufficient cause for immediate imposition of this section.

E. The licensee will receive a notice of the department's intent to impose sanctions. The notice shall describe the reasons for imposing the sanction.

F. Upon receipt of the notice to impose a sanction, the licensee has the right and the opportunity to appeal according to the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). The procedures for filing an appeal shall be outlined in the notice.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007.

12VAC5-371-100. Surrender of a license.

A. Upon revocation or suspension of a license, the licensee must surrender its license to a representative of the OLC.

B. If a license is revoked, a new license may be issued by the commissioner after satisfactory evidence is submitted that the conditions upon which revocation was based have been corrected and after proper inspection has been made and compliance with this chapter and applicable state and federal law has been obtained.

C. Suspension of a license shall in all cases be for an indefinite time. The commissioner may completely or partially restore a suspended license when he determines that the conditions upon which suspension was based have been completely or partially corrected and that the interests of the public will not be jeopardized by resumption of operation.

D. Other circumstances under which a license must be surrendered include transfer of ownership and discontinuation of services. The licensee must notify the OLC, in writing, 30 days before discontinuing services.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007.

Part II
Administrative Services

12VAC5-371-110. Management and administration.

A. No person shall own, establish, conduct, maintain, manage, or operate any nursing facility, as defined in § 32.1-123 of the Code of Virginia, without having obtained a license.

B. The nursing facility must comply with:

1. These regulations (12VAC5-371);

2. Other applicable federal, state, or local laws and regulations; and

3. Its own policies and procedures.

C. The nursing facility shall submit, or make available, reports and information necessary to establish compliance with these regulations and applicable statutes.

D. The nursing facility shall submit, in a timely manner as determined by the OLC, and implement a written plan of action to correct any noncompliance with these regulations identified during an inspection. The plan shall include:

1. Description of the corrective action or actions to be taken;

2. Date of completion for each action; and

3. Signature of the person responsible for the operation.

E. The nursing facility shall permit representatives from the OLC to conduct inspections to:

1. Verify application information;

2. Determine compliance with this chapter;

3. Review necessary records; and

4. Investigate complaints.

F. A nursing facility shall give written notification 30 calendar days in advance of implementation of changes affecting the accuracy of the license. Changes affecting the accuracy of the license are:

1. Address;

2. Operator;

3. Name of the nursing facility;

4. Any proposed change in management contract or lease agreement to operate the nursing facility;

5. Implementing any proposed addition, deletion, or change in nursing facility services whether or not licensure is required;

6. A change in ownership; or

7. Bed capacity.

Notices shall be sent to the attention of the director of the OLC.

G. The current license from the commissioner shall be posted in a place clearly visible to the general public.

H. The nursing facility shall fully disclose its admission policies, including any preferences given, to applicants for admission.

I. The nursing facility shall identify its operating elements and programs, the internal relationship among these elements and programs, and the management or leadership structure.

J. The nursing facility shall provide, or arrange for, the administration to its residents of an annual influenza vaccination and a pneumonia vaccination according to the "Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2020–21 Influenza Season" and "Guidelines for Preventing Health-Care-Associated Pneumonia" from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unless the vaccination is medically contraindicated or the resident declines the vaccination offer.

K. Upon request of the nursing facility's family council, the nursing facility shall send notices and information about the family council mutually developed by the family council and the administration of the nursing facility, and provided to the nursing facility for such purpose, to the legal representative or a contact person of the resident's choice up to six times a year. Such notices may be included together with a monthly billing statement or other regular communication. Notices and information shall also be posted in a designated location within the nursing facility.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 20, Issue 26, eff. September 27, 2004; Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 27, Issue 24, eff. September 1, 2011; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-120. Governing body.

A. The nursing facility shall have a governing body that is legally responsible for the management of the operation.

B. The governing body shall adopt written bylaws that describe the organizational structure and establish authority and responsibility in accordance with applicable laws, including a:

1. Statement of purpose;

2. Description of the functions of the governing body members, officers and committees;

3. Description of the method of adoption, implementation, and periodic review of policies and procedures; and

4. Description of the methods to be utilized to assure compliance with this chapter.

C. The governing body shall disclose the names and addresses of any individual or entity that holds 5.0% or more ownership interest in the operation of the nursing facility.

D. When the governing body is not the owner of the physical plant, the governing body shall disclose the name and address of the individual or entity responsible for the alterations, modifications, maintenance and repairs to the building.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-130. Administrator.

A. The governing body shall appoint an individual, on a full-time basis, to serve as its on-site agent, responsible for the day-to-day administration and management.

B. The governing body shall provide the OLC with evidence that the individual appointed as administrator is:

1. Currently licensed by the Virginia Board of Long-Term Care Administrators; or

2. Holds a current administrator's license in another state and has filed an application for license with the Virginia Board of Long-Term Care Administrators.

C. Within five working days of the effective date of termination of the administrator's employment, the governing body shall notify the OLC, in writing, of the name and qualifications of the replacement administrator or the acting administrator.

D. The governing body shall appoint a qualified administrator within 90 days of the effective date of the termination of the previously qualified administrator, and shall provide the OLC with written notification of the administrator's name, license number, and effective date of employment.

An additional 30-day extension may be granted if a written request provides documentation that the individual designated as administrator is awaiting the final licensing decision of the Virginia Board of Long-Term Care Administrators.

E. The governing body shall assure that administrative direction is provided at all times. The governing body, the administrator, or the chief executive officer shall designate, in writing, a qualified individual to act as the alternate nursing home administrator in the absence of the administrator .

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-140. Policies and procedures.

A. The nursing facility shall implement written policies and procedures approved by the governing body.

B. All policies and procedures shall be reviewed at least annually, with recommended changes submitted to the governing body for approval.

C. A written record of the annual policy review, including at least the review dates, participants, recommendations and action dates of the governing body, shall be maintained.

D. Administrative and operational policies and procedures shall include:

1. Administrative records;

2. Admission, transfer and discharge;

3. Medical direction and physician services;

4. Nursing direction and nursing services;

5. Pharmaceutical services, including drugs purchased outside the nursing facility;

6. Dietary services;

7. Social services;

8. Activities services;

9. Restorative and rehabilitative resident services;

10. Contractual services;

11. Clinical records;

12. Resident rights and grievances;

13. Quality assurance and infection control and prevention;

14. Safety and emergency preparedness procedures;

15. Professional and clinical ethics, including:

a. Confidentiality of resident information;

b. Truthful communication with residents;

c. Observance of appropriate standards of informed consent and refusal of treatment; and

d. Preservation of resident dignity, with special attention to the needs of the aged, the cognitively impaired, and the dying; and

16. Nursing facility security.

E. Personnel policies and procedures shall include:

1. Written job descriptions that specify authority, responsibility, and qualifications for each job classification;

2. An on-going plan for employee orientation, staff development, in-service training and continuing education;

3. An accurate and complete personnel record for each employee including:

a. Verification of current professional license, registration, or certificate or completion of a required approved training course;

b. Criminal record check;

c. Verification that the employee has reviewed or received a copy of the job description;

d. Orientation to the nursing facility, its policies and to the position and duties assigned;

e. Completed continuing education program approved for the employee as determined by the outcome of the annual performance evaluation;

f. Annual employee performance evaluations; and

g. Disciplinary action taken; and

4. Employee health-related information retained in a file separate from personnel files.

F. Financial policies and procedures shall include:

1. Admission agreements;

2. Methods of billing:

a. Services not included in the basic daily or monthly rate;

b. Services delivered by contractors of the nursing facility; and

c. Third party payers;

3. Resident or designated representative notification of changes in fees and charges;

4. Correction of billing errors and refund policy;

5. Collection of delinquent resident accounts; and

6. Handling of resident funds.

G. A nursing facility shall establish and implement policies to ensure the permissible access to and use of an intelligent personal assistant provided by a patient while receiving inpatient services. Such policies shall ensure protection of health information in accordance with the requirements of the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (42 USC § 1320d et seq.).

H. Policies shall be made available for review, upon request, to residents and their designated representatives.

I. Policies and procedures shall be readily available for staff use at all times.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 24, eff. September 1, 2011; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. November 11, 2021.

12VAC5-371-150. Resident rights.

A. The nursing facility shall develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure resident's rights as defined in §§ 32.1-138 and 32.1-138.1 of the Code of Virginia.

B. The procedures shall:

1. Not restrict any right a resident has under law;

2. Provide staff training to implement resident's rights; and

3. Include grievance procedures.

C. The name and telephone number of the complaint coordinator of the OLC, the Adult Protective Services toll-free telephone number, and the toll-free telephone number for the State Ombudsman shall be conspicuously posted in a public place.

D. Copies of resident rights shall be given to residents upon admittance to the nursing facility and made available to residents currently in residence, to legal representatives, next of kin, or sponsoring agency or agencies, and to the public.

E. The nursing facility shall have a plan to review resident rights with each resident annually, or with the legal representative at least annually, and have a plan to advise each staff member at least annually.

F. The nursing facility shall certify, in writing, that it is in compliance with the provisions of §§ 32.1-138 and 32.1-138.1 of the Code of Virginia, relative to resident rights, as a condition of license issuance or renewal.

G. The nursing facility shall register with the Department of State Police to receive notice of the registration or reregistration of any sex offender within the same or a contiguous zip code area in which the nursing facility is located pursuant to § 9.1-914 of the Code of Virginia.

H. Prior to admission, each nursing facility shall determine if a potential resident is a registered sex offender when the potential resident is anticipated to have a length of stay:

1. Greater than three days; or

2. In fact stays longer than three days.

I. The nursing facility shall not restrict the rights of a resident's family and legal representative to meet in the nursing facility with the families and legal representatives of other residents .

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 17, Issue 1, eff. October 27, 2000; Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 11, eff. March 5, 2008; Volume 34, Issue 11, eff. February 21, 2018; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-160. Financial controls and resident funds.

A. All financial records, including resident funds, shall be kept according to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

B. Each nursing facility shall maintain liability insurance coverage in a minimum of $1 million and professional liability coverage in an amount at least equal to the recovery limit set forth in § 8.01-581.15 of the Code of Virginia to compensate residents or individuals for injuries and losses resulting from the negligent or criminal acts of the nursing facility. Failure to maintain minimum insurance shall result in revocation of the nursing facility's license.

C. Nursing facilities choosing to handle resident funds shall:

1. Comply with § 32.1-138 A 7 of the Code of Virginia regarding resident funds;

2. Purchase a surety bond or otherwise provide assurance for the security of all personal funds deposited with the nursing facility; and

3. Provide for separate accounting for resident funds.

D. In the event the nursing facility is sold, the nursing facility shall provide written verification that all resident funds have been transferred and shall obtain a signed receipt from the new owner. Upon receipt, the new owner shall provide an accounting of resident funds.

E. Each nursing facility shall be required to provide a full refund of any unexpended patient funds on deposit with the nursing facility following the discharge or death of a patient, other than entrance related fees, within 30 days of a written request for such funds by the discharged patient or, in the case of the death of a patient, the person administering the patient's estate in accordance with the Virginia Small Estate Act (§ 64.2-600 et seq. of the Code of Virginia).

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 30, Issue 3, eff. November 8, 2013; Volume 34, Issue 11, eff. February 21, 2018; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-170. Quality assessment and assurance.

A. The nursing facility shall maintain a quality assessment and assurance committee consisting of at least the following individuals:

1. The director of nursing services;

2. A physician designated by the nursing facility; and

3. At least three other members of the nursing facility staff, one of whom demonstrates an ability to represent the rights and concerns of residents.

B. The quality assessment and assurance committee shall:

1. Meet at least quarterly to identify issues which would improve quality of care and services provided to residents; and

2. Develop and implement appropriate plans of action to correct identified deficiencies.

C. The nursing facility shall document compliance with these requirements.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-180. Infection control.

A. The nursing facility shall establish and maintain an infection control program designed to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment and to prevent the development and transmission of disease and infection.

B. The infection control program shall encompass the entire physical plant and all services.

C. The infection control program addressing the surveillance, prevention and control of infections in the nursing facility shall include:

1. Procedures to isolate the infecting organism;

2. Access to handwashing equipment for staff;

3. Training of staff in proper handwashing techniques, according to accepted professional standards, to prevent cross contamination;

4. Implementation of universal precautions by direct resident care staff;

5. Prohibiting employees with communicable diseases or infections from direct contact with residents or their food, if direct contact will transmit disease;

6. Monitoring staff performance of infection control practices;

7. Handling, storing, processing and transporting linens, supplies and equipment in a manner that prevents the spread of infection;

8. Handling, storing, processing and transporting regulated medical waste in accordance with applicable regulations;

9. Maintaining an effective pest control program; and

10. Staff education regarding infection risk-reduction behavior.

D. The nursing facility shall report promptly to its local health department diseases designated as "reportable" according to 12VAC5-90-80 when such cases are admitted to or are diagnosed in the nursing facility and shall report any outbreak of infectious disease as required by 12VAC5-90. An outbreak is defined as an increase in incidence of any infectious disease above the usual incidence at the nursing facility.

E. During a declared public health emergency related to a communicable disease of public health threat, the nursing facility shall establish a protocol to allow residents to receive visits from a rabbi, priest, minister, or clergy of any religious denomination or sect consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and subject to compliance with any executive order, order of public health, department guidance, or any other applicable federal or state guidance having the effect of limiting visitation.

1. Such protocol may restrict the frequency and duration of visits and may require visits to be conducted virtually using interactive audio or video technology.

2. Any such protocol may require the person visiting a resident pursuant to this subsection to comply with all reasonable requirements of the nursing facility adopted to protect the health and safety of the person, residents, and staff of the nursing facility.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. November 11, 2021.

12VAC5-371-190. Safety and emergency procedures.

A. A written emergency preparedness plan shall be developed, reviewed, and implemented when needed. The plan shall address responses to natural disasters, as well as fire or other emergency which disrupts the normal course of operations. The plan shall address provisions for relocating residents and also address staff responsibilities for:

1. Alerting emergency personnel and sounding alarms;

2. Implementing evacuation procedures including the evacuation of residents with special needs;

3. Using, maintaining and operating emergency equipment;

4. Accessing resident emergency medical information; and

5. Utilizing community support services.

B. All staff shall participate in periodic emergency preparedness training.

C. Staff shall have documented knowledge of, and be prepared to implement, the emergency preparedness plan in the event of an emergency.

D. At least one telephone shall be available in each area to which residents are admitted and additional telephones or extensions as are necessary to ensure availability in case of need.

E. In the event of a disaster, fire, emergency or any other condition that may jeopardize the health, safety and well-being of residents, the nursing facility shall notify the OLC of the conditions and status of the residents and the physical plant as soon as possible.

F. The nursing facility shall have a policy on smoking.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-191. Electronic monitoring in resident rooms.

A. All requests for electronic monitoring shall be made in writing and signed by the resident or legal representative if the resident has been properly assessed incapable of requesting and authorizing the monitoring.

B. Only electronic monitoring in accordance with this section is permitted.

C. A nursing facility shall not refuse to admit an individual and shall not discharge or transfer a resident due to a request to conduct authorized electronic monitoring.

D. Family members cannot obtain electronic monitoring over the objections of the resident, the resident's roommate, or the resident's legal representative. No equipment may be installed pursuant to subsection Q of this section over the objections of the resident or legal representative. Nursing facilities shall not use monitoring equipment in violation of the law based solely on a family member's request or approval.

E. Consent for electronic monitoring shall be kept in the resident's medical record.

F. Nursing facilities shall designate one staff person to be responsible for managing the electronic monitoring program.

G. Nursing facilities may designate custodial ownership of any recordings from monitoring devices to the resident or legal representative. Nursing facility retained recordings shall be considered part of the resident's medical record and shall be retained for no less than two years or as required by state and federal laws.

H. If a nursing facility chooses to retain ownership of recordings, the nursing facility shall not permit viewings of recordings without consent of the resident or legal representative except to the extent that disclosure is required by law through a court order or pursuant to a lawful subpoena duces tecum. Should the resident or legal representative approve viewing, the nursing facility shall accommodate viewing of any recordings in a timely manner, including providing:

1. Appropriate playing or viewing equipment;

2. Privacy during viewing; and

3. Viewing times convenient to the resident or legal representative.

If unauthorized viewing is discovered, the nursing facility shall report any such violation to the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman and to the OLC.

I. A nursing facility shall require its staff to report any incidents regarding safety or quality of care discovered as a result of viewing a recording immediately to the administrator and to the OLC. Nursing facilities shall instruct the resident or legal representative of this reporting requirement and shall provide the resident or legal representative with the OLC's complaint hotline telephone number.

J. A nursing facility shall have no obligation to seek access to a recording in its possession or to have knowledge of a recording's content, unless the nursing facility is aware of a recorded incident of suspected abuse, neglect, accident, or injury, or the resident, legal representative, or a government agency seeks to use a recording. Nursing facilities shall immediately report suspected abuse and neglect discovered as a result of using monitoring devices, as required by law.

K. A nursing facility may require the resident or legal representative to be responsible for all aspects of the operation of the monitoring equipment, including the removal and replacement of recordings; adherence to local, state, and federal privacy laws; and for firewall protections to prevent images that would violate obscenity laws from being inadvertently shown on the Internet.

L. A nursing facility shall prohibit assigned staff from refusing to enter a resident's room solely because of electronic monitoring.

M. Any electronic monitoring equipment shall be installed in a manner that is safe for residents, employees, or visitors who may be moving about the resident's room.

N. A nursing facility shall make reasonable physical accommodation for monitoring equipment, including:

1. Providing a reasonably secure place to mount the device; and

2. Providing access to power sources for the device.

O. A nursing facility may require a resident or legal representative to pay for all costs, other than the cost of electricity, associated with installing electronic monitoring equipment. Such costs shall be reasonable and may include equipment, recording media and installation, compliance with life safety and building and electrical codes, maintenance or removal of the equipment, posting and removal of any public notices, or structural repairs to the building resulting from the removal of the equipment. Nursing facilities shall give 45 days' notice of an increase in monthly monitoring fees.

P. Any equipment installed for the purpose of monitoring a resident's room shall be fixed and unable to rotate.

Q. The informed consent of all residents or residents' legal representatives assigned to the monitored room shall be obtained prior to any electronic monitoring equipment being installed.

R. A copy of any signed consent form shall be kept in the resident's medical record as well as on file with the nursing facility's designated electronic monitoring coordinator.

S. Any resident or legal representative of a resident of a monitored room may condition consent for use of monitoring devices. Such conditions may include pointing the camera away or limiting or prohibiting the use of certain devices. If conditions are placed on consent, then electronic monitoring shall be conducted according to those conditions.

T. The nursing facility shall conspicuously post and maintain a notice at the entrance to the resident's room stating that an electronic monitoring device is in operation.

U. Nursing facilities shall notify all staff and the long-term care division of the OLC that electronic monitoring is in use.

V. A nursing facility shall prohibit staff from covert monitoring in violation of this chapter. Nursing facilities shall instruct the resident or legal representative of this prohibition and shall provide the resident or legal representative with the OLC's complaint hotline telephone number.

W. If covert monitoring is discovered, the nursing facility shall report any such violation to the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman and OLC, and the nursing facility may require a resident or legal representative to meet all the requirements for authorized monitoring, if permitted by the nursing facility.

X. Each nursing facility, including those that choose not to offer electronic monitoring, shall adopt policies and procedures for electronic monitoring. These policies and procedures shall address all the elements of this section.

Y. A nursing facility shall prohibit staff from tampering with electronic monitoring in violation of this chapter. Nursing facilities shall instruct the resident or legal representative of this prohibition and shall provide the resident or legal representative with the OLC's complaint hotline telephone number.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. December 13, 2018; amended, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

Part III
Resident Services

12VAC5-371-200. Director of nursing.

A. Each nursing facility shall employ a full-time director of nursing to supervise the delivery of nursing services. The individual hired shall be a registered nurse licensed by the Virginia Board of Nursing.

B. The duties and responsibilities of the director of nursing shall include, but are not limited to:

1. Developing and maintaining (i) nursing service objectives, (ii) standards of practice, (iii) policy and procedure manuals, and (iv) job descriptions for each level of nursing personnel;

2. Recommending to the administrator the resources needed to carry out nursing service, including but not limited to, equipment and supplies and the number and level of nursing personnel to be employed;

3. Participating in the employment of nursing personnel, including (i) recruitment, (ii) selection, (iii) position assignment, (iv) orientation, (v) in-service education, (vi) supervision, (vii) evaluation, and (viii) termination;

4. Participating with the medical director in developing and implementing policies for resident care;

5. Assuring that the comprehensive plan of care is maintained in conjunction with other disciplines;

6. Coordinating nursing services with other services such as medical, rehabilitative, and social services and the resident activity program;

7. Participating in quality assurance committee meetings to identify issues and to develop and implement appropriate plans of action to correct identified problems;

8. Making daily rounds on resident floors, unless this duty has been delegated to another licensed nurse; and

9. Recommending and coordinating the training needs of nursing staff with the individual responsible for in-service training.

C. A registered nurse, designated in writing by the administrator, shall serve in the temporary absence of the director of nursing so there is the equivalent of a full-time director of nursing on duty for a minimum of five days a week.

D. The director of nursing shall not function as a nursing supervisor in facilities with 60 or more beds.

E. The nursing facility shall notify the OLC, in writing, within five days of a vacancy in the director of nursing position. The written notice shall give the name and Virginia license number of the individual appointed to serve as director of nursing, and whether the appointment is permanent or temporary.

F. The director of nursing position shall not be held by a temporary designate for more than 90 days. Temporary agency personnel shall not be utilized to fill the director of nursing position.

G. Written notification, giving the name and license number of the individual, shall be sent to the OLC when a permanent appointment is made.

H. A license for a new nursing facility or an increase in bed size in an existing nursing facility shall not be issued if the director of nursing position is vacant.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007.

12VAC5-371-210. Nurse staffing.

A. A nursing supervisor, designated by the director of nursing, shall be responsible for all nursing activities in the nursing facility, or in the section to which assigned, including:

1. Making daily visits to determine resident physical, mental, and emotional status and implementing any required nursing intervention;

2. Reviewing medication records for completeness, accuracy in the transcription of physician orders, and adherence to stop-order policies;

3. Reviewing resident plans of care for appropriate goals and approaches, and making revisions based on individual needs;

4. Assigning to the nursing staff responsibility for nursing care;

5. Supervising and evaluating performance of all nursing personnel on the unit; and

6. Keeping the director of nursing services, or director of nursing designee, informed of the status of residents and other related matters.

B. The nursing facility shall provide qualified nurses and certified nurse aides on all shifts, seven days per week, in sufficient number to meet the assessed nursing care needs of all residents.

C. Nursing personnel, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nurse aides shall be assigned duties consistent with their education, training and experience.

D. Weekly time schedules shall be maintained and shall indicate the number and classification of nursing personnel who worked on each unit for each shift. Schedules shall be retained for one year.

E. All nursing services shall be directly provided by an appropriately qualified registered nurse or licensed practical nurse, except for those nursing tasks that may be delegated by a registered nurse according to Part IV (18VAC19-20-240 et seq.) of the Regulations Governing the Practice of Nursing and with a plan developed and implemented by the nursing facility.

F. Before allowing a nurse aide to perform resident care duties, the nursing facility shall verify that the individual is:

1. A certified nurse aide in good standing;

2. Enrolled full-time in a nurse aide education program approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing; or

3. Has completed a nurse aide education program or competency testing, but has not yet been placed on the nurse aide registry.

G. Any person employed to perform the duties of a nurse aide on a permanent full-time, part-time, hourly, or contractual basis must be registered as a certified nurse aide within 120 days of employment.

H. Nurse aides employed or provided by a temporary personnel agency shall be certified to deliver nurse aide services.

I. The services provided or arranged with a temporary personnel agency shall meet professional standards of practice and be provided by qualified staff according to each resident's comprehensive plan of care.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-220. Nursing services.

A. Each nursing facility shall implement written resident care policies and procedures which support an active program of nursing care directed toward assisting all residents to achieve outcomes consistent with their highest level of self-care and independence.

B. All medications and treatments will be administered as prescribed in the resident's medical plan of care.

C. Services shall be provided to prevent clinically avoidable complications, including, but not limited to:

1. Pressure ulcer development;

2. Contracture;

3. Loss of continence;

4. Dehydration; and

5. Malnutrition.

D. Each resident shall be given proper daily personal attention and care, including skin, nail, hair and oral hygiene, in addition to any specific care ordered by the attending physician. Provision of daily personal care shall be documented in the clinical record.

E. Each resident shall be dressed in clean clothing and be free of odors. Each resident shall be encouraged to wear day clothing when out of bed.

F. Each resident shall receive tub or shower baths as often as needed, but not less than twice weekly. Residents whose medical conditions prohibit tub or shower baths shall have a sponge bath daily.

G. Residents who are incontinent shall have a partial bath, clean clothing and linens each time their clothing or bed linen is soiled.

H. The attending physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant and the resident's family or responsible party shall be notified of any changes in a resident's condition which indicate a need to alter medical treatment.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997.

12VAC5-371-230. Medical direction.

A. Each nursing facility shall have a written agreement with one or more physicians licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine to serve as medical director.

B. The duties of the medical director shall include, but are not limited to:

1. Advising the administrator and the director of nursing on medical issues, including the criteria for residents to be admitted, transferred or discharged from the nursing facility;

2. Advising on the development and execution of policies and procedures that have a direct effect upon the quality of medical and nursing care delivered to residents;

3. Acting as liaison and consulting with the administrator and the attending physician on matters regarding medical and nursing care policies and procedures of the nursing facility;

4. Advising and providing consultation to the nursing facility staff regarding communicable diseases, infection control and isolation procedures, and serving as liaison with local health officials;

5. Providing temporary physician services when the admitting physician is not the attending physician, in order to assure that the resident has temporary medical orders;

6. Providing physician services in case of emergency in the event that the resident's attending physician cannot be reached; and

7. Advising on the development and execution of an employee health program, which shall include provisions for determining that employees are free of communicable diseases according to current acceptable standards of practice.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997.

12VAC5-371-240. Physician services.

A. Each resident shall be under the care of a physician licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants licensed to practice in Virginia may provide care as assigned by the supervising physician and within the parameters of professional licensing.

B. Prior to, or at the time of admission, each resident, his designated representative, or the entity responsible for his care shall designate an attending physician.

C. A complete medical plan of care must be provided at the time of admission, or within 48 hours after admission. The plan shall include:

1. Primary diagnosis;

2. Identification of resident problems;

3. Medical history and physical exam;

4. Orders for medications;

5. Treatments;

6. Restorative services;

7. Activity levels;

8. Diet;

9. Special procedures recommended for health and safety of the resident; and

10. Advance directives, if known.

D. The admission medical plan of care shall be prescribed and signed by the attending physician. Subsequent medical plans of care for the same resident may be prescribed and signed by a nurse practitioner or physician assistant according to their practice agreements.

E. The physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant shall review the resident's medical plan of care at each visit and write a progress note.

F. Each resident shall be seen by his attending physician and the resident's total program of care shall be reviewed and appropriately revised as necessary.

G. All verbal orders shall be immediately recorded and signed by the individual receiving them, and shall be countersigned by the prescribing person.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006.

12VAC5-371-250. Resident assessment and care planning.

A. The nursing facility shall conduct an initial and periodic assessment of each resident's needs. The assessment shall accurately describe the resident's capability to perform daily life functions and significant impairments in functional capacity. This comprehensive assessment shall include, but is not limited to:

1. Medically defined conditions and prior medical history;

2. Medical status;

3. Physical and mental functional status;

4. Sensory and physical impairments;

5. Nutritional status and requirements;

6. Special treatments or procedures;

7. Psychosocial status;

8. Discharge potential;

9. Dental condition;

10. Activities potential;

11. Rehabilitative potential;

12. Cognitive status;

13. Drug therapy; and

14. Any known advance directives.

B. The nursing facility shall conduct a complete assessment:

1. No later than 14 days after the date of admission;

2. Promptly after a significant change in the resident's physical or mental condition; and

3. In all cases, at least once every 12 months.

C. The nursing facility shall review each resident's assessment at least once every three months and shall update the plan of care as indicated.

D. Each assessment shall be coordinated by a registered nurse who signs, dates and certifies completion of the assessment.

E. Each assessment shall be conducted or coordinated with the participation of health professionals. Each person completing a portion of the assessment shall sign and date that portion of the assessment.

F. The nursing facility shall use the results of the assessment to develop, review, and revise the resident's comprehensive plan of care.

G. A comprehensive plan of care shall be developed for each resident. The plan shall include measurable objectives and timetables to meet the resident's medical, nursing, nutritional, and psychosocial needs identified in the comprehensive assessment. The plan shall also describe the services that are to be furnished to maintain or improve the resident's physical, mental, and psychosocial status.

H. The comprehensive plan of care shall be developed within seven days of completion of the comprehensive assessment.

I. The comprehensive plan of care shall be prepared by a multidisciplinary team. The multidisciplinary team shall include a registered nurse, the attending physician, to the extent practicable, and other staff in disciplines as determined by the resident's needs. The resident, the resident's family or legal representative shall also be provided a meaningful opportunity to participate in the care planning.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997.

12VAC5-371-260. Staff development and inservice training.

A. All full-time, part-time, and temporary personnel shall receive orientation to the nursing facility commensurate with their function or job-specific responsibilities.

B. All resident care staff shall receive annual inservice training commensurate with their function or job-specific responsibilities in at least the following:

1. Special needs of residents as determined by the nursing facility staff;

2. Prevention and control of infections;

3. Fire prevention or control and emergency preparedness;

4. Safety and accident prevention;

5. Restraint use, including alternatives to physical and chemical restraints;

6. Confidentiality of resident information;

7. Understanding the needs of the aged and disabled;

8. Resident rights, including personal rights, property rights and the protection of privacy, and procedures for handling complaints;

9. Care of the cognitively impaired;

10. Basic principles of cardiopulmonary resuscitation for licensed nursing staff and the Heimlich maneuver for nurse aides; and

11. Prevention and treatment of pressure sores.

C. The nursing facility shall have an ongoing training program that is planned and conducted for the development and improvement of skills of all personnel.

D. The nursing facility shall maintain written records indicating the content of and attendance at each orientation and inservice training program.

E. The nursing facility shall provide inservice programs, based on the outcome of annual performance evaluations, for nurse aides.

F. Nurse aide inservice training shall consist of at least 12 hours per anniversary year.

G. The nursing facility shall provide training on the requirements for reporting adult abuse, neglect, or exploitation and the consequences for failing to make such a required report to all its employees who are licensed to practice medicine or any of the healing arts, serving as a hospital resident or intern, engaged in the nursing profession, working as a social worker, mental health professional or law-enforcement officer and any other individual working with residents of the nursing facility.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 17, Issue 1, eff. October 27, 2000; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-270. Social services.

A. The nursing facility shall provide a comprehensive social services program to meet the psychosocial and medically related needs of each resident.

B. There shall be at least one designated staff member responsible for coordinating resident social services.

C. This individual shall have one of the following qualifications:

1. A bachelor's degree in social work or human services appropriate to resident needs; or

2. One year, within the last five years, supervised direct social work experience.

D. This individual shall be:

1. Trained in recognizing and assessing the emotional and social needs of residents; and

2. Knowledgeable of community agencies and resources available to meet those needs.

E. The social services coordinator shall assess each resident and participate in the development and implementation of the comprehensive plan of care.

F. Documentation of social services shall be included in the resident's clinical record.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997.

12VAC5-371-280. Resident activities.

A. The nursing facility shall provide activities, on a regularly scheduled basis, specifically suited to the needs and interests of each resident based on the resident's comprehensive plan of care.

B. There shall be at least one staff member responsible for coordinating resident activities. The individual shall meet at least one of the following qualifications:

1. Be a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional;

2. Be eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist or activities professional by a recognized accrediting body;

3. Have one year full-time experience, within the last five years, in a patient activities program in a health care setting;

4. Be a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or

5. Have completed 40 hours training in group activities and recognizing and assessing the activity needs of residents.

C. The activities coordinator shall assess each resident and participate in the development and implementation of the comprehensive plan of care.

D. The activities program shall make the fullest possible use of community social and recreational opportunities, including the involvement of volunteers and community groups.

E. Documentation of activities shall be included in the resident's clinical record.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 25, eff. September 1, 1997.

12VAC5-371-290. Special rehabilitative services.

A. The nursing facility shall provide, or arrange for under written agreement, specialized rehabilitative services, such as physical therapy, speech-language pathology services and occupational therapy.

B. Specialized rehabilitative services shall be provided in accordance with accepted standards of practice by qualified therapists, or by trained assistants under the supervision of a licensed or certified therapist.

C. Rehabilitative services shall be authorized by the attending physician and a written plan of care developed in consultation with the appropriate therapist.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997.

12VAC5-371-300. Pharmaceutical services.

A. Provision shall be made for the procurement, storage, dispensing, and accounting of drugs and other pharmacy products in compliance with 18VAC110-20. This may be by arrangement with an off-site pharmacy, but must include provisions for 24-hour emergency service.

B. Each nursing facility shall develop and implement policies and procedures for the handling of drugs and biologicals, including procurement, storage, administration, self-administration, and disposal of drugs.

C. Each nursing facility shall have a written agreement with a qualified pharmacist to provide consultation on all aspects of the provision of pharmacy services in the nursing facility.

D. The consultant pharmacist shall make regularly scheduled visits, at least monthly, to the nursing facility for a sufficient number of hours to carry out the function of the agreement.

E. Excluding cannabidiol oil and THC-A oil, no drug or medication shall be administered to any resident without a valid verbal order or a written, dated and signed order from a physician, dentist, podiatrist, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, licensed in Virginia.

F. Nursing facility employees who are authorized to possess, distribute, or administer medications to residents may store, dispense, or administer cannabidiol oil or THC-A oil to a resident who has:

1. Been issued a valid written certification for the use of cannabidiol oil or THC-A oil in accordance with subsection B of § 54.1-3408.3 of the Code of Virginia; and

2. Registered with the Board of Pharmacy.

G. Verbal orders for drugs or medications shall only be given to a licensed nurse, pharmacist, or physician.

H. Drugs and medications not limited as to time or number of doses when ordered shall be automatically stopped, according to the written policies of the nursing facility, and the attending physician shall be notified.

I. Each resident's medication regimen shall be reviewed by a pharmacist licensed by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. Any irregularities identified by the pharmacist shall be reported to the physician and the director of nursing, and their response documented.

J. Medication orders shall be reviewed at least every 60 days by the attending physician, nurse practitioner, or physician's assistant.

K. Prescription and nonprescription drugs and medications may be brought into the nursing facility by a resident's family, friend, or other person provided:

1. The individual delivering the drugs and medications assures timely delivery, in accordance with the nursing facility's written policies, so that the resident's prescribed treatment plan is not disrupted;

2. Each drug or medication is in an individual container; and

3. Delivery is not allowed directly to an individual resident.

In addition, prescription medications shall be obtained and labeled as required by law.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006; Volume 36, Issue 23, eff. August 6, 2020; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-310. Diagnostic services.

A. The nursing facility shall provide, or arrange for under written agreement, laboratory, x-ray and other diagnostic services, as ordered by a physician.

B. The nursing facility shall notify the attending physician of the results of diagnostic services.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997.

12VAC5-371-320. Dental services.

A. Provisions shall be made to assist residents to obtain routine and emergency dental care.

B. Each nursing facility shall make arrangements with a qualified dental professional to provide consultation and recommend oral hygiene policies and practices for the care of residents.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006.

12VAC5-371-330. Restraint usage.

A. A resident shall be free from any physical or chemical restraints imposed for purposes of discipline or convenience, and not required to treat the resident's medical symptoms.

B. Restraints shall only be used:

1. In accordance with the comprehensive assessment and plan of care, which includes a schedule or plan of rehabilitation training enabling the progressive removal or the progressive use of less restrictive restraints when appropriate; and

2. As a last resort, after completing, implementing, and evaluating the resident's comprehensive assessment and plan of care, when the nursing facility has determined that less restrictive means have failed.

C. If a restraint is used in a nonemergency, the nursing facility shall:

1. Explain the use of the restraint, including potential negative outcomes of restraint use, to the resident or his legal representative, as appropriate;

2. Explain the resident's right to refuse the restraint;

3. Obtain written consent of the resident. If the resident has been legally declared incompetent, obtain written consent from the legal representative; and

4. Include the use of restraint in the plan of care.

D. Restraints shall not be ordered on a standing or PRN basis.

E. Restraints shall be applied only by staff trained in their use.

F. At a minimum, for a resident placed in a restraint, the nursing facility shall:

1. Check the resident at least every 30 minutes;

2. Provide an opportunity for motion, exercise and elimination for not less than 10 minutes each hour in which a restraint is administered; and

3. Document restraint usage, including outcomes, in accordance with nursing facility policy.

G. Emergency orders for restraints shall not be in effect for longer than 24 hours and must be confirmed by a physician within one hour of administration. Each application of emergency restraint shall be considered a single event and shall require a separate physician's order.

H. Temporary restraints may be used for a brief period to allow a medical or surgical procedure, but shall not be used to impose a medical or surgical procedure which the resident has previously refused.

I. The nursing facility shall notify a resident's legal representative, if any, or designated family member as soon as practicable, but no later than 12 hours after administration of a restraint.

J. Chemical restraint shall only be ordered in an emergency situation when necessary to ensure the physical safety of the resident or other individuals.

K. Orders for chemical restraint shall be in writing, signed by a physician, specifying the dose, frequency, duration and circumstances under which the chemical restraint is to be used. Verbal orders for chemical restraints shall be implemented when an emergency necessitates parenteral administration of psychopharmacologic drugs, but only until a written order can reasonably be obtained.

L. Emergency orders for chemical restraints shall:

1. Not be in effect for more than 24 hours; and

2. Be administered only if the resident is monitored continually for the first 15 minutes after each parenteral administration (or 30 minutes for nonparenteral administration) and every 15 minutes thereafter, for the first hour, and hourly for the next eight hours to ensure that any adverse side effects will be noticed and appropriate action taken as soon as possible.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

Part IV
Support Services

12VAC5-371-340. Dietary and food service program.

A. The dietary and food service operation shall meet all applicable sections of 12VAC5-421.

B. There shall be a food protection manager, qualified as allowed in 12VAC5-421-60, responsible for the full-time management and supervision of the dietary service.

C. If the food protection manager is not a dietitian qualified according to § 54.1-2731 of the Code of Virginia, the nursing facility shall have a written agreement for ongoing consultation from a registered dietitian who meets the qualifications of § 54.1-2731 of the Code of Virginia to provide guidance to the food protection manager on methods for maintaining the dietary service, planning of nutritionally balanced meals, and assessing the dietary needs of individual residents.

D. The dietitian's duties shall include the following:

1. Developing all menus, including therapeutic diets prescribed by a resident's physician;

2. Developing, revising, and annually reviewing dietary policies, procedures and job descriptions;

3. Assisting in planning and conducting regularly scheduled inservice training that includes, but is not limited to:

a. Therapeutic diets;

b. Food preparation requirements; and

c. Principles of sanitation.

4. Visiting residents on a regular basis to discuss nutritional problems, depending upon their needs and level of care, and recommending appropriate solutions.

E. Menus shall meet the dietary allowances of the Food and Nutritional Board of the National Academy of Sciences, as adjusted for age, sex, and activity.

F. A copy of a diet manual containing acceptable practices and standards for nutrition must be kept current and on file in the dietary department.

G. Food service shall be staffed for not less than 12 hours during the day and evening. Duty schedules shall be retained for at least 30 days.

H. At least three meals, served at regular intervals, shall be provided daily to each resident, unless contraindicated as documented by the attending physician in the resident's clinical record.

I. A between meal snack of nutritional value shall be available upon request to each resident or in accordance with their plan of care.

J. Therapeutic diets shall be prepared and served as prescribed by the attending physician.

K. Visitors or employees assigned to other duties in the nursing facility shall not be allowed in the food preparation area during food preparation and resident meal service hours, except in cases of emergency.

L. Weekly menus, including therapeutic diets, substitutes, and copies of menus, as served, shall be retained on file for 12 months.

M. Disposable dinnerware or tableware shall be used only for emergencies, for infection control, as part of special activities, or as indicated in a resident's plan of care.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006; Volume 26, Issue 26, eff. September 30, 2010.

12VAC5-371-350. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006.

12VAC5-371-360. Clinical records.

A. The nursing facility shall maintain an organized clinical record system in accordance with recognized professional practices. Written policies and procedures shall be established specifying content and completion of clinical records.

B. Clinical records shall be confidential. Only authorized personnel shall have access as specified in §§ 8.01-413 and 32.1-127.1:03 of the Code of Virginia.

C. Records shall be safeguarded against destruction, fire, loss, or unauthorized use.

D. Overall supervisory responsibility for assuring that clinical records are maintained, completed and preserved shall be assigned to an employee of the nursing facility. The individual shall have work experience or training that is consistent with the nature and complexity of the record system and be capable of effectively carrying out the functions of the job.

E. An accurate and complete clinical record shall be maintained for each resident and shall include:

1. Resident identification;

2. Designation of attending physician;

3. Admitting information, including resident medical history, physical examination, and diagnosis;

4. Physician orders, including all medications, treatments, diets, restorative, and special medical procedures required;

5. Progress notes written at the time of each visit;

6. Documented evidence of assessment of resident's needs, establishment of an appropriate treatment plan, and interdisciplinary plan of care;

7. Nurse's notes written in chronological order and signed by the individual making the entry;

8. All symptoms and other indications of illness or injury, including date, time, and action taken on each shift;

9. Medication and treatment record, including all medications, treatments and special procedures performed;

10. Copies of radiology, laboratory and other consultant reports; and

11. Discharge summary.

F. Verbal orders shall be immediately documented in the clinical record by the individual authorized to accept the orders, and shall be countersigned.

G. Clinical records of discharged residents shall be completed within 30 days of discharge.

H. Clinical records shall be kept for a minimum of five years after discharge or death, unless otherwise specified by state or federal law.

I. Permanent information kept on each resident shall include:

1. Name;

2. Social security number;

3. Date of birth;

4. Date of admission and discharge; and

5. Name and address of legal representative, if any.

J. Clinical records shall be available to residents and legal representatives, if they wish to see them.

K. When a nursing facility closes, the owners shall make provisions for the safekeeping and confidentiality of all clinical records.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006; Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-370. Maintenance and housekeeping.

A. The nursing facility shall be maintained and equipped to provide a functional, sanitary, safe, and comfortable environment.

B. A documented preventive maintenance program shall be established to ensure that equipment is operative and that the interior and exterior of the buildings are maintained in good repair and free from hazards and litter.

C. The administrator shall designate an employee responsible for carrying out these functions and for training and supervising housekeeping and maintenance personnel.

D. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system shall be capable of maintaining temperatures between 70°F to 80°F throughout resident areas.

E. The nursing facility shall have an effective pest control program provided either by maintenance personnel or by contract with a pest control company.

F. The nursing facility shall provide adequate space, equipment and supplies for any special services to be offered.

G. All furniture shall be kept clean and safe for use.

H. Over bed tables shall be available as needed.

I. Stretchers and wheelchairs shall be stored out of the path of normal traffic.

J. A sufficient number of wheelchairs and chairs shall be provided for residents whose physical conditions indicate a need for such equipment.

K. Refuse containers shall be cleaned and emptied at frequent intervals.

L. Hazardous cleaning solutions, compounds and substances shall be labeled, stored and kept under lock in a safe place separate from other materials.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006.

12VAC5-371-380. Laundry services.

A. A quantity of linens shall be available at all times to provide for proper care and comfort of residents.

B. Linens and other laundry must be handled, stored, and processed to control the spread of infection.

C. Clean linen shall be stored in a clean and dry area accessible to the nursing unit.

D. Soiled linen shall be stored in covered containers in separate, well ventilated areas and shall not accumulate in the nursing facility.

E. Soiled linen shall not be sorted, laundered, rinsed, or stored in bathrooms, resident rooms, kitchens, or food storage areas.

F. Soiled linen shall not be placed on the floor.

G. Arrangement for laundering resident's personal clothing shall be provided. If laundry facilities are not provided on premises, commercial laundry services shall be utilized.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-390. Transportation.

A. Provisions shall be made to obtain appropriate transportation in cases of emergency.

B. The nursing facility shall assist in obtaining transportation when it is necessary to obtain medical, psychiatric, dental, diagnostic or other services outside the nursing facility.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

12VAC5-371-400. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 17, eff. May 27, 2021.

Part V
Physical Environment

12VAC5-371-410. Architectural drawings and specifications.

A. All construction of new buildings and additions, renovations , alterations, or repairs of existing buildings for occupancy as a nursing facility shall conform to state and local codes, zoning ordinances, and the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63).

In addition, nursing facilities shall be designed and constructed consistent with Parts 1 and 2 and section 3.1 of Part 3 of the 2018 Guidelines for Design and Construction of Residential Health, Care, and Support Facilities of the Facility Guidelines Institute pursuant to § 32.1-127.001 of the Code of Virginia.

B. Architectural drawings and specifications for all new construction or for additions, alterations or renovations to any existing building, shall be dated, stamped with professional seal, and signed by the architect. The architect shall certify that the drawings and specifications were prepared to conform to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and be consistent with Parts 1 and 2 and section 3.1 of Part 3 of the 2018 Guidelines for Design and Construction of Residential Health, Care, and Support Facilities of the Facility Guidelines Institute.

C. Additional approval may include a Certificate of Public Need.

D. Upon completion of the construction, the nursing facility shall maintain a complete set of legible "as built" drawings showing all construction, fixed equipment, and mechanical and electrical systems, as installed or built.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-127 and 32.1-127.001 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006; Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2007; Volume 26, Issue 22, eff. August 4, 2010; Volume 37, Issue 14, eff. March 31, 2021.

12VAC5-371-420. Building inspection and classification.

All buildings shall be inspected and approved as required by the appropriate building regulatory entity. Approval shall be a Certificate of Use and Occupancy indicating the building is classified for its proposed licensed purpose.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-127 and 32.1-127.001 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 14, eff. March 31, 2021.

12VAC5-371-425. Additional building regulations and standards.

A. Water shall be obtained from an approved water supply system. Nursing facilities shall be connected to sewage systems approved by the Department of Health or the Department of Environmental Quality.

B. Each nursing facility shall establish a monitoring program for the internal enforcement of all applicable fire and safety laws and regulations.

C. The nursing facility's food services operation shall comply with 12VAC5-421.

D. Nursing facility pharmacy services shall comply with Chapter 33 (§ 54.1-3300 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and 18VAC110-20.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006.

12VAC5-371-430. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 7, eff. January 11, 2006.

Forms (12VAC5-371)

Application for License Renewal: Nursing Homes (rev. 9/06).

Application for License Renewal: Nursing Homes; Mid Year, Initial and Changes (rev. 9/06).

Documents Incorporated by Reference (12VAC5-371)

Guidelines for Design and Construction of Residential Health, Care, and Support Facilities, 2018 Edition, Facility Guidelines Institute http://www.fgiguidelines.org

Guidelines for Preventing Health-Care-Associated Pneumonia, 2003, MMWR 53 (RR-3), Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2020–21 Influenza Season, 2020, MMWR 69 (RR-8), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Website addresses provided in the Virginia Administrative Code to documents incorporated by reference are for the reader's convenience only, may not necessarily be active or current, and should not be relied upon. To ensure the information incorporated by reference is accurate, the reader is encouraged to use the source document described in the regulation.

As a service to the public, the Virginia Administrative Code is provided online by the Virginia General Assembly. We are unable to answer legal questions or respond to requests for legal advice, including application of law to specific fact. To understand and protect your legal rights, you should consult an attorney.