WAC 388-97-0180. Resident rights

(1) The nursing home must meet the resident rights requirements of this section and those in the rest of the chapter.

(2) The resident has a right to a dignified existence, self-determination, and timely communication with, and access to individuals and services inside and outside the nursing home, including but not limited to, state and local agencies, and long-term care ombuds.

(3) A nursing home must promote and protect the rights of each resident, including those with limited cognition or other barriers that limit the exercise of rights.

(4) The resident has the right to:

(a) Exercise their rights as a resident of the nursing home and as a citizen or resident of the United States. Refer to WAC 388-97-0240 ;

(b) Be free of interference, coercion, discrimination, and reprisal from the nursing home in exercising their rights; and

(c) Not be asked or required to sign any contract or agreement that includes provisions to waive:

(i) Any resident right set forth in this chapter or in the applicable licensing or certification laws; or

(ii) Any potential liability for personal injury or losses of personal property.

(5) The nursing home must take steps to safeguard residents and their personal property from foreseeable risks of injury or loss.