Handrails Not Firmly Secured in Facility Hallways
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that handrails in multiple areas of the facility, including between resident rooms and outside the dining room by the men's restroom, were loose and not securely attached to the wall. Specifically, one handrail was not attached to the second bracket, and others were generally loose. During interviews, the Environmental Service Director (ESD) explained that staff were expected to report maintenance concerns using designated forms, which were then placed in specific boxes for follow-up. The ESD also stated that maintenance staff were attentive to needed repairs, but emphasized that identifying issues was a joint effort among all staff. A review of maintenance and housekeeping work order forms over a period of several months revealed no documented work orders related to handrail repairs. Additionally, the facility was unable to provide a policy or procedure regarding handrails when requested.