Failure to Remove Soiled Linen Results in Uncomfortable Environment
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to maintain a comfortable environment for residents by leaving foul-smelling dirty linen in a linen cart in the hallway, as observed and confirmed by both residents and staff. Two residents reported that the odor in the hallway became very unpleasant when soiled linen was left in the hamper, with one resident specifically noting that staff should remove the linen to a different area. A licensed nurse acknowledged the presence of a bad smell coming from the linen collection bins, and the Assistant Administrator confirmed that the dirty linen cart should have been removed from the resident area. Facility policy and procedure documents reviewed indicated that soiled linen should be removed from resident-care areas at least daily, and more frequently if needed, to maintain a safe, functional, sanitary, and comfortable environment.