Unsafe Placement of Extension Cord Creates Fall Hazard
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a safe environment for two residents by allowing an electrical extension cord to be placed in a walk area shared by both individuals. One resident, admitted with multiple diagnoses including acute kidney failure, muscle weakness, and a history of falls, required assistance with mobility and was identified as being at risk for falls. The care plan for this resident included interventions such as providing verbal cues for safety, repositioning items within the visual field, and educating on safe techniques to prevent falls. The second resident, also cognitively intact, required assistance with personal hygiene and dressing. During observations, an orange extension cord was found taped from a bathroom outlet, running under the bathroom door and across the floor to another resident's bed. Both the Maintenance Director and the DON acknowledged that the placement of the extension cord was unsafe and could cause residents to trip and fall. The facility's policy on electrical safety specified that extension cords should not be placed where they could cause trips or falls, but this policy was not followed, resulting in a hazardous environment for the residents.