Failure to Maintain Clean and Homelike Resident Rooms Due to Black Fungi-Like Substance
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain a clean and homelike environment in two of four resident bedrooms, as evidenced by the presence of a black dried substance, described as fungi-like, behind the wallpaper and dressers. The Director of Maintenance and maintenance staff confirmed the presence of this substance during the inspection and acknowledged that the affected sheet rock should have been replaced. The maintenance staff reported that he had previously informed both the prior and current Administrators about the issue, but no corrective action had been taken. Additionally, a registered nurse stated she had noticed the black substance and reported it to the Administrator and maintenance, but could not recall the method of reporting. The Administrator, upon being shown the affected rooms, confirmed the presence of the black dried substance and stated that he was previously unaware of the issue. The Regional Director of Operations also confirmed the findings during the tour. Review of job descriptions indicated that maintenance staff are responsible for moving furniture to complete assignments and that the Director of Maintenance is responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations. The facility's policy requires providing a safe, clean, and homelike environment, which was not met in this instance.