Environmental and Equipment Deficiencies Impact Resident Comfort and Safety
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to maintain a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for residents, as evidenced by multiple environmental deficiencies observed during a complaint survey. On two of three nursing units, surveyors noted numerous stained and missing ceiling tiles, missing or damaged molding around over-the-bed tray tables, and exposed or damaged wall areas. In several resident rooms, there were holes in the walls, spackle left unpainted, torn wallpaper, and gaps in base molding. These issues were observed throughout the second-floor nursing unit, as well as in administrative offices, indicating a widespread lack of maintenance and housekeeping. Additional deficiencies were observed in resident equipment and furnishings. Several residents were found using wheelchairs with missing or damaged armrests, exposing foam or padding, and in one case, a resident expressed a desire for a replacement armrest. In the dining room, a resident's Geri-chair had a torn armrest with exposed padding. In another room, tube feeding stains were present on the floor, and fall mats were dirty, ripped, and had exposed padding. These conditions were confirmed by staff during the survey. Interviews with the Maintenance Director revealed that the facility was aware of the ceiling tile issues, which were attributed to a malfunctioning rooftop air conditioning unit causing condensation and leaks. The Maintenance Director also described ongoing efforts to replace damaged tray tables and repair wheelchairs, relying on reports from staff and a maintenance program. However, as of the time of the survey, many of these environmental and equipment deficiencies remained unaddressed, directly impacting the residents' living conditions.