Insufficient Supply of Bath Linens Impacts Resident Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a sufficient supply of washcloths, hand towels, and bath towels necessary for resident care, affecting at least two residents and potentially all 70 residents in the facility. Observations revealed that multiple resident rooms lacked any bath linens, and the linen closet and laundry room were nearly empty of these items. One resident with Parkinson's Disease and other comorbidities reported frequent delays in receiving showers due to the shortage, with her preferred shower times not being met. Another resident with respiratory failure and other diagnoses stated that towels were removed from her room to be used for others, leaving her unable to wash her face when desired. Staff interviews confirmed that shortages were ongoing, with CNAs prioritizing towel distribution based on which residents woke up first and sometimes resorting to using pillowcases in place of towels. Environmental Services staff confirmed that one of the facility's dryers had been out of order for at least six days, exacerbating the linen shortage. Staff reported that requests for additional linens had been made to management, but the problem persisted. The lack of linens extended to other essential items such as sheets and Hoyer pads, and staff described the linen carts as usually empty. Documentation and interviews indicated that the shortage led to missed or delayed showers and alternative bathing methods, directly impacting residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate care.