Failure to Maintain Safe and Sanitary Environment in Resident Rooms and Common Areas
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, functional, and sanitary environment in 14 out of 108 resident rooms, as well as in several common areas. Observations revealed that packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) units in multiple resident rooms contained soiled air filters with thick accumulations of dust, dirt, and debris, causing the originally white filters to appear dark and release visible dust clouds when disturbed. Additional findings included stained and missing ceiling tiles, torn window screens, chipped paint, broken doors, holes in walls, and non-functioning toilets in various rooms. Air vents in common areas were also found to be dirty, with gray and black debris and dust present. These deficiencies were confirmed by the Maintenance Director, who acknowledged that the maintenance department was responsible for cleaning and maintaining these items. Interviews with staff and family members further corroborated the lack of cleanliness and maintenance. A family member reported that a resident's room was never cleaned, with cobwebs in the corners and sticky substances on the walls and floor, sometimes prompting her to clean the room herself. The facility's grievance log documented multiple complaints regarding uncleanliness and odors throughout the building. The Administrator stated that maintenance or housekeeping staff were expected to report and address environmental issues, but the observed conditions indicated that these responsibilities were not consistently fulfilled.