Failure to Maintain Safe and Homelike Environment and Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, and homelike environment for its residents, as evidenced by multiple observations of disrepair and unsafe equipment. In one resident's room, the wall behind the bed was gouged and dented from the headboard, and the baseboard had scuffed and peeling paint. Another resident's wheelchair was found to have bilateral metal brake extenders without rubber protectors, which are intended to cover the metal ends and prevent injury. Additionally, broken and missing floor tiles were observed in two separate units: near an exit door on one unit, where a rug had been placed over the damaged area, and in a special care unit, where a gouged tile area was noted. During interviews, the Maintenance Director acknowledged awareness of the broken and missing tiles and the lack of a formal schedule to check room conditions, stating that repairs were planned or would be addressed as rooms became vacant. The Maintenance Director also indicated that monthly checks were performed on wheelchairs, but was unaware of the missing protectors on the wheelchair brake extenders. These deficiencies were identified during observations and interviews, and were shared with facility staff.