Failure to Maintain Comfortable Room Temperatures Due to Air Conditioning Malfunctions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain cool and comfortable room environments for residents, as evidenced by multiple reports of excessive heat and humidity in resident rooms over several days. Several residents, all cognitively intact except for one with moderate cognitive impairment, reported their rooms being uncomfortably hot, with some describing the conditions as unbearable. Temperature and humidity readings taken in various rooms confirmed elevated levels, with temperatures frequently reaching 78-82 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels between 54-64%. Residents attempted to alleviate discomfort by opening windows, but this was discouraged by staff due to high outside temperatures. Facility staff, including the Administrator and Maintenance personnel, acknowledged ongoing issues with the air conditioning units across multiple resident halls. Maintenance staff described repeated breakdowns, intermittent functioning, and difficulties in sourcing necessary repair materials such as freon. Despite efforts to monitor and repair the units, some air conditioners remained nonfunctional for extended periods, and staff were not always aware of the elevated temperatures in resident rooms at the time they occurred. Documentation, including grievances and progress notes, showed that residents had formally complained about the heat, and while alternative rooms were offered, residents declined due to the perception that all rooms were affected. The facility's Emergency Operations Plan required maintenance checks of all AC units, but the persistent failures and delayed repairs resulted in sustained periods where residents were exposed to uncomfortable and potentially unsafe room temperatures.