Improper Electrical Installations in Resident Rooms
Penalty
Summary
During a Life Safety Code recertification survey, it was found that the facility failed to ensure proper maintenance and installation of electrical installations in four resident rooms. The 2012 edition of NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code, mandates that all adaptors, extension cords, and attachment plugs must be listed for their intended purpose. However, the survey revealed that resident rooms A6 and B11 had electrical items plugged into unapproved 3-prong adapters, while rooms A9 and B2 had items plugged into unapproved extension cords. This was in violation of the facility's policy, which required that all incoming cords and power strips be inspected by the maintenance department to ensure compliance with UL ratings. The Maintenance Director, during an interview, admitted to being unaware of the presence of unapproved adapters and extension cords in the resident rooms. They acknowledged that any electrical items brought in by family members were supposed to be checked for electrical safety by the maintenance department, and that 3-prong adapters were not permitted. The director emphasized the importance of using proper electrical adapters to ensure the safety of residents and staff. This oversight indicates a lapse in the facility's adherence to its own policies and the requirements set forth by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Plan Of Correction
Plan of Correction: Approved March 5, 2025 All unapproved extension cords and adapters were removed. Updated form in place for new admissions so resident and families understand regulation and memo to all staff to help police building from unauthorized cords and adapters. All Staff have been educated on the importance of regular room checks to ensure that there are no uninspected extension cords in any room. Families are informed upon admission, in the admission agreement, of our policy. The Director of Environmental Services will monitor compliance with extension cord an audit, with a 100% threshold, and report the results to the Quality Assurance Committee quarterly.