Wheelchairs Improperly Stored in Resident Common Areas
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that standard and electric wheelchairs were being stored in resident common areas, specifically the dining room and a resident lounge, during meal times and while residents were present. On multiple occasions, up to nine standard wheelchairs were stored in the dining room while residents were eating lunch, and several wheelchairs, including an electric one that was plugged in and charging, were stored in the Hampshire Unit Lounge while a resident was eating breakfast and watching television. Staff interviews confirmed that wheelchairs were routinely stored in these areas due to insufficient space in resident rooms. The Director of Nursing Services (DNS) acknowledged that the wheelchairs should not be stored in the dining room or lounge and indicated that alternative storage solutions would be sought. The facility was unable to provide a policy regarding the storage of durable medical equipment, specifically wheelchairs, when requested by surveyors. These actions and inactions resulted in a failure to maintain a safe, clean, and homelike environment for residents, as required.