Deficiency in Utility Room Hygiene and Separation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with regulations by not providing separate soiled and clean workrooms in one of two utility rooms. During an interview, the Nursing Home Administrator and the Director of Nursing confirmed that clean supplies were stored in the soiled utility room. Additionally, the facility did not provide hand-washing capabilities in both soiled utility rooms. Observations revealed that the Side One soiled utility room had used oxygen tubing in the sink, and access to the sink was blocked by two linen hampers. Similarly, the Side Two soiled utility room's sink access was obstructed by six linen hampers. These findings indicate a failure to maintain proper hygiene and separation of clean and soiled areas as required by the regulations.
Plan Of Correction
Facility immediately addressed both soiled utility rooms to ensure that linen hampers blocking sinks in side one and side two rooms were removed and relocated to designated dirty linen holding areas outside of the rooms. The sink in side one was sanitized and cleared of used oxygen tubing, which was disposed of appropriately. Both sinks were disinfected with a facility-approved EPA-registered disinfectant. A facility-wide audit of all clean and soiled utility rooms was conducted by the NHA on ensuring that sinks are accessible and soiled items remain separate as per requirements. By 4/30/25, mandatory clear access to all handwashing sinks in utility rooms and no storage of linen hampers, carts, or other obstructions within 3 feet of a sink, proper placement and handling of soiled linens and equipment. NHA/designee will conduct weekly audits of all utility rooms to verify unobstructed access to all sinks and proper storage and placement of soiled linens and equipment.