Failure to Maintain Resident Equipment in Good Repair
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident's wheelchair was observed to be in poor condition, specifically missing a left armrest and having wheels with no treads and very worn. The resident's legal guardian confirmed that the wheelchair was provided by the facility and had been in disrepair for an extended period, with no staff having previously inquired about its condition. The legal guardian stated that the issue had not been addressed or reported by facility staff. Further investigation revealed that the facility's process for reporting equipment in need of repair or replacement involved either verbal communication or leaving a note outside the maintenance office, despite the existence of an electronic work order system (TELs). The Maintenance Director confirmed the poor condition of the wheelchair and stated they were not previously aware of the issue. Review of the electronic maintenance records showed no documentation of the wheelchair's condition, indicating a failure to follow the facility's established procedures for reporting and addressing equipment repairs.