Worn and Unsanitary Chairs Compromise Clean, Homelike Environment
Penalty
Summary
Three wooden chairs with pleather seats and armrests located in the Garden Hall were observed to be cracked, flaky, and worn-out, exposing discolored and coarse fabric fibers. These chairs were available for use by residents and guests, with one chair being moved into a resident room by a guest and another being used by a resident. The condition of the chairs was confirmed during an interview and observation with the Infection Preventionist (IP), who stated that the chairs were torn and had worn-out cushions. The IP identified the chairs as an infection control concern, noting that their condition prevented proper disinfection. The IP explained that if a resident who was wet sat in the chair, moisture could seep through the cushion, making it impossible to clean and disinfect. The IP also stated that she had reported the issue to the previous facility Administrator, but no action had been taken. Facility policies reviewed indicated that environmental surfaces should be disinfected regularly and that infection prevention measures should be instituted, but the condition of the chairs did not meet these standards.