Grievance Boxes Inaccessible to Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that grievance boxes were accessible to residents in four locations, including three nursing units and the main lobby. During rounds, it was observed and confirmed by a social worker that the grievance boxes on the third, fourth, and fifth floor nursing units were blocked by equipment, making them inaccessible. Additionally, the grievance box on the third-floor nursing unit was mounted at approximately 59 inches above the floor, and the lobby box was at approximately 52 inches, both of which are out of reach for residents using wheelchairs. A review of the facility's grievance policy indicated that grievances could be submitted orally or in writing, including anonymously. However, the physical placement and obstruction of the boxes did not comply with accessibility standards, as confirmed by staff interviews and direct observation. The Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged that the facility failed to make the grievance boxes accessible in all four identified locations.