Improper Disposal of Unused Items and Accumulation of Refuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly dispose of unused items, as required by its own policies and procedures. During an observation, a large pile of items including plastic storage drawers, a wheelchair, a laundry cart in disrepair, a soiled laundry bin, bed wires, plastic bags, metal boxes, a front wheel walker, a bedside commode, and two trash bins, all covered in dust, was found in the facility compound on the left side of the building. The Maintenance Director confirmed that most of these items were not in use and needed to be discarded, and acknowledged that their accumulation could attract rodents and pests that carry disease. A review of the facility's policies showed that garbage and trash are not permitted to accumulate and must be removed daily, and that the grounds should be kept free of litter. The Maintenance Director verified the observation and the potential for pest attraction. The Administrator was informed of these findings and acknowledged them during an interview.