Failure to Maintain Safe and Comfortable Wheelchairs for Residents
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to provide necessary maintenance services to resident wheelchairs, resulting in multiple deficiencies related to the safety and comfort of residents. During a complaint survey, observations revealed that 15 out of 37 residents had wheelchairs with missing or damaged armrests, cracked or torn vinyl, and exposed foam padding. In several cases, both armrests were missing, and one resident was noted to have several bruises on their arms. These deficiencies were observed during initial rounds and throughout the survey period. Interviews with the Director of Maintenance indicated that repair orders were typically submitted through an electronic system accessible to all staff, but staff often reported issues verbally instead. The Director of Maintenance stated that wheelchair maintenance, including armrests and brakes, was performed monthly and expected staff to notify him of any issues. Despite the availability of extra wheelchairs and the ability to swap them out, the observed deficiencies persisted, indicating a failure to maintain wheelchairs in a safe and comfortable condition for residents.