Unsecured Scissors and Inadequate Supervision Lead to Accident Hazard
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an environment free from accident hazards by not securing scissors when not in use, specifically for one resident with a history of wandering, taking items from others, and exhibiting physically threatening behavior. Observations showed that this resident was able to access and hide scissors in their room, and staff documented multiple incidents where the resident obtained scissors from various sources, including a medication cart and a family member. Staff also reported that the resident had threatened to stab a staff member, leading to changes in staff assignments. Additionally, during observation, scissors were found left unattended on a medication cart while a nurse was administering medication in another room. Staff confirmed that the scissors were not secured. The combination of unsecured sharp objects and a resident with a known history of wandering, taking items, and making threats contributed to the facility's failure to provide adequate supervision and prevent accident hazards.