Housekeeping Staff Found Sleeping on Duty in Resident Area
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that housekeeping staff was fulfilling their work duties on Unit D2. During an observation, Employee E17, a housekeeping staff member, was found laying across the arm of a couch in the common area near rooms 210-218. She was wearing earbuds and appeared to be sleeping, showing no reaction to the presence of the surveyor. This incident occurred in full view of residents and visitors, which was confirmed by an interview with Unit Manager Employee E18, who stated that Employee E17 should not be sleeping while on duty, especially in resident areas. The Nursing Home Administrator, Employee E1, was informed of the situation and acknowledged that this behavior constituted a lack of professionalism on the part of Employee E17. It was also noted that such conduct did not promote the dignity of the residents.
Plan Of Correction
Employee E17 was interviewed and progressive discipline per facility guidelines. The facility cannot retroactively correct this alleged deficient practice. Director of Environmental services/designee educated housekeeping staff on appropriate break areas to maintain resident dignity in resident care areas. Director of Environmental services/designee will complete random audits weekly x4 then monthly x2 to ensure housekeeper breaks are conducted in designated break areas.