Deficiency in Maintaining a Homelike Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a clean, safe, comfortable, and homelike environment for one of its nursing units, specifically the West Wing 3rd floor. The deficiency was identified through a review of facility policy, observations, and staff interviews. The facility's policy, dated 10/1/24, mandates a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment, allowing residents to use personal belongings. However, during an interview, the Nursing Home Administrator stated that the West Wing 3rd floor could be ready for occupancy at a moment's notice, but it would require cleaning and furnishing. Observations on the West Wing 3rd floor revealed multiple issues across various rooms. Several rooms were found with dirty floors, missing mattresses, exposed wiring, and holes in walls with drywall plugs. Many rooms lacked privacy curtains and furniture, and some had missing light bulbs. Additionally, some rooms had wood particle boards covering window holes where air conditioning units had been removed. The lounge area and other spaces were cluttered with maintenance supplies and equipment, further contributing to the unkempt environment. During an interview, the Maintenance Director confirmed that the West Wing 3rd floor was used for storing beds and other items, with only about 20 bed frames being usable. Equipment to furnish the floor had been ordered, with the first order received on the day of the observation. However, only about three-quarters of the unit could be made resident-ready within 24 hours. The facility's failure to maintain a clean, safe, comfortable, and homelike environment was acknowledged by the Maintenance Director.
Plan Of Correction
1. The rooms are confirmed to be clean equipped with the regulatory requirements. 2. The NHA initially audited this unit with the director of plant ops and environmental services and confirmed it was available for operation in the event of an emergency. 3. The NHA or designee re-inserviced the director of plant operations and environmental services to ensure all units, even units without residents on them, are prepared for use in the event of an emergency. 4. The NHA will audit weekly to ensure the unit continues to be properly available for use in the event of an emergency.