Failure to Maintain Sanitary Water and Ice Machines
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions for drinking water and ice by not properly cleaning or servicing water and ice machines used by residents and staff. Observations revealed significant mineral buildup and residue on the machines and surrounding areas, including the spouts, collection trays, and counters. The machines were also found to be leaking and in poor repair, with one machine's supporting panel split open and brown residue leaking out. Staff interviews confirmed that residents and staff accessed water and ice from these unsanitary machines, as well as from sinks that were also used for handwashing and had visible mineral buildup or personal items left on them. Housekeeping staff reported difficulty removing the buildup, and maintenance staff indicated that the machines had not been serviced by an outside company for an extended period. Further interviews with facility leadership revealed a lack of clarity regarding responsibility for the maintenance and cleaning of the water and ice machines. The Director of Nursing and Administrator were unaware of when the machines were last serviced or who was responsible for their upkeep. Facility policies indicated that the Dietary Department was responsible for monthly cleaning and disinfecting of the ice machines, while the Maintenance and Housekeeping Directors were to conduct regular safety audits. However, these procedures were not being followed, resulting in unsanitary conditions that affected nearly all residents who received oral hydration.