Failure to Meet Minimum Room Size Requirements for Shared Bedroom
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide at least 80 square feet per resident in one of its multiple resident bedrooms, specifically room [ROOM NUMBER], which measured 154 square feet for two beds, resulting in only 77.62 square feet per resident. This does not meet the federal requirement of 160 square feet for a two-bed room. The deficiency was identified through observation, interview, and record review, including a facility-submitted request for a room size waiver and a client accommodations analysis. The waiver letter indicated that the room size did not adversely affect residents or their special needs, and that both ambulatory and non-ambulatory residents could move freely without harm or impediment. No grievances were reported by residents, family members, or staff regarding the room size. During general observations, residents were seen to have ample space to move freely within the room, and there was sufficient space for beds, side tables, and care equipment. One resident was observed ambulating in the room without difficulty, and another did not express concerns about the room size. Despite these observations, the room did not meet the minimum square footage required by federal regulation for a two-bed room.