Failure to Maintain Wheelchair Armrests in Good Repair
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with cerebral palsy, moderate cognitive impairment, and impaired lower extremity range of motion was observed using a wheelchair with both armrests cracked and torn, exposing the padding. The resident's care plan noted a self-care deficit related to cognitive impairment, and the resident relied on the wheelchair for mobility. Multiple observations confirmed the poor condition of the wheelchair armrests over two days. Interviews with the maintenance worker revealed that he was responsible for replacing torn armrests but had not checked the resident's wheelchair recently and had not received reports from staff about the issue. The Director of Nursing stated that the maintenance worker was expected to periodically check wheelchairs for functionality and replace torn armrests to prevent potential skin tears. Despite requests, the facility was unable to provide a policy for maintaining resident equipment in good working order before the survey exit.