Failure to Maintain Safe and Clean Environment in Resident Rooms and Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified multiple deficiencies related to the facility's failure to maintain a safe, clean, and homelike environment in several resident rooms, the kitchen, and the laundry area. Observations over several days revealed gouged and scraped walls, broken sheetrock, and damaged air filters in resident rooms. In one room, a bathroom door hinge was broken, causing the door to lean and making it difficult to open and close, and there were also broken tiles in the shower. These issues were confirmed by both staff and the facility Administrator during walking rounds, with some residents and their family members also noting the need for repairs. In the kitchen, surveyors observed dirty floor tiles with built-up dirt and grease, debris, and dirty walls, particularly under the three-compartment sink and drying rack. The dishwasher door was coated with rust, and the chemical storage area had a dirty floor, large holes in the wall, and dark brown spots on the ceiling. The kitchen exit door did not close securely, and the deep fryer had grease buildup, rust, and a small hole that caused oil to leak onto the floor. Additional issues included peeling aluminum on the air conditioner duct and missing seals on door frames and wall corners. These conditions were confirmed by the Dietary Manager, Maintenance Supervisor, and Administrator. The facility's policy requires a safe, homelike environment free from physical hazards, with repairs prioritized and addressed as needed. However, the repeated observations of unaddressed maintenance issues in resident rooms and the kitchen indicate that the facility did not ensure timely repairs or adequate cleanliness, resulting in an environment that did not meet regulatory standards for safety and comfort.