Unsecured Handrail Poses Risk to Residents
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the handrail on the second floor was firmly secured to the wall, which has the potential to affect all 51 residents on that floor. During an observation by a surveyor, it was noted that the handrail was cracked and not securely fixed to the wall. When the surveyor inquired about the handrail, a Licensed Practical Nurse acknowledged the crack. Later, the surveyor pointed out the issue to the Maintenance Director, who confirmed the problem by grabbing the handrail, causing a corner to crack off. The Assistant Director of Nursing stated that the handrails are used by residents when they walk and should be secured to prevent falls. The facility's policy on Resident Rights Guidelines emphasizes the right to a safe and comfortable environment, and the job descriptions for the Maintenance Director and Maintenance Assistant include responsibilities for ensuring the facility is maintained in safe operating order. Despite these guidelines, the unsecured handrail posed a risk to resident safety.
Penalty
Resources
Below are regulatory guidelines relevant to this citation:
The facility failed to provide secured handrails in the hallway of the 200 unit, potentially affecting 15 independently mobile residents. During a tour, it was observed that no handrails were affixed to the walls. The Administrator confirmed this absence, stating that the unit was being remodeled and handrails needed to be ordered. This issue was investigated under multiple complaint numbers.
The facility failed to ensure handrails were in good repair, potentially affecting all residents. During an observation, a missing portion of the handrail was noted across from the 300-hall dining/activity area and next to the area where puzzles were kept. The Maintenance Assistant verified the observation and stated he did not know how long it had been that way but would get it fixed.
Lack of Secured Handrails in 200 Unit Hallway
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that there were secured handrails throughout the hallway on the 200 unit, which had the potential to affect 15 independently mobile residents residing in that unit. During an initial tour of the 200-hall, it was observed that there were no handrails affixed to the walls. This observation was confirmed in an interview with the Administrator, who acknowledged the absence of handrails and mentioned that the unit was undergoing remodeling, and he would need to order them. This deficiency was investigated under Master Complaint Numbers OH00156054, OH00155202, and OH00155184.
Handrails in Disrepair
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure handrails were in good repair, which had the potential to affect all residents. During an observation on 04/25/24 at 11:13 A.M., a missing portion of the handrail was noted across from the 300-hall dining/activity area and next to the area where puzzles were kept. The Maintenance Assistant (MA) verified the observation and stated he did not know how long it had been that way but would get it fixed. This deficiency was investigated under Master Complaint Number OH00153331 and Complaint Number OH00153001.
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