Failure to Maintain and Inspect Electrical Therapy Equipment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain and perform preventative maintenance on three types of electrical therapy equipment used in the therapy gym: a motorized electrical bicycle for arms and legs, a recumbent cross trainer, and a recumbent stepper. Observations and interviews with the Director of Rehabilitation (DOR) revealed that no inspections or maintenance had been conducted on any of these devices, despite instructions in the user manuals requiring regular checks and maintenance. The Maintenance Director confirmed that the maintenance department did not perform any routine inspections or preventative maintenance on the therapy equipment, and acknowledged the importance of such actions to ensure proper functioning and safety. Review of the user manuals for each device indicated specific maintenance schedules and safety checks that were not being followed, such as tightening screws, cleaning components, checking batteries, and inspecting drive belts. The facility's own policy and procedure required maintenance services to be provided for all equipment and for maintenance personnel to follow manufacturer-recommended schedules. Interviews with the DOR and Director of Nursing (DON) further confirmed the lack of maintenance and the importance of keeping rehabilitation equipment safe and operable for resident use.