Failure to Maintain Safe Air Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency identified in the report pertains to the failure of the Nursing Home Administrator to maintain air temperatures between 71 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit in 16 resident rooms, dining rooms, and nursing units on the second and third floors of the facility. This failure resulted in an Immediate Jeopardy situation, affecting the well-being of 16 residents. Observations conducted on February 7, 2025, revealed that air temperatures in various rooms and hallways were significantly below the required range, with some rooms as low as 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Interviews with residents and staff further highlighted the issue, with multiple residents expressing discomfort due to the cold temperatures. Residents were observed wearing additional clothing such as sweatshirts, coats, and hats to keep warm. Staff members, including nurse aides and licensed nurses, also reported feeling cold and noted that the facility had been providing blankets to residents to mitigate the discomfort. However, observations of the supply rooms revealed a lack of sufficient warm blankets available for residents. The report also details the technical issues contributing to the temperature deficiency. The Maintenance Director reported problems with the facility's heating system due to broken water pipes and debris affecting functionality. Additionally, a commercial contractor identified an issue with the air handler, which required shutting off the system to prevent further damage. Despite these known issues, the facility failed to maintain safe and comfortable temperatures, leading to the Immediate Jeopardy situation.
Plan Of Correction
1. Affected residents were immediately offered room changes. Blankets and warming hydration stations were immediately provided. Nursing assessed all 16 residents for hypothermia. Plumbers came that day to address the heating. 2. All other resident rooms' temperatures were checked and ensured they are in proper compliance. 3. The NHA/DON were educated on the components of this regulation with an emphasis on effectively managing the facility and ensuring that air temperatures are between 71 degrees Fahrenheit and 81 degrees. 4. The RDO/RDCO/Designee will conduct random audits of facility management and resident records to ensure that the DON/NHA/Facility staff are appropriately managing the facility related to ensuring that air temperatures are between 71 degrees Fahrenheit and 81 degrees. Audits will be completed 1x week for 1 month, 2x a month for 1 month, and 1x a month for 1 month. 5. The findings of these quality monitoring activities will be reported to the Quality Assurance/Performance Improvement Committee monthly for 6 months.