Failure to Maintain Sanitary Linen Handling and Processing
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple infection control deficiencies in the facility's laundry handling and processing. The clean side of the laundry room had floors littered with trash, used masks, dirty laundry, paper towels, and dust balls. Clean linens, including sheets and gowns, were seen dragging on these unclean floors during preparation for folding. Clean laundry that fell onto the dirty floor was picked up and placed back with other clean items. Staff were observed folding clean laundry without performing hand hygiene, and the counter in the clean folding room was missing edging, resulting in an un-cleanable surface. Staff interviews revealed that regular observations of the laundry department were not being completed, and infection control issues were acknowledged by staff during the walkthrough. Additionally, clean laundry carts were observed uncovered in various areas, including outside the linen room and in the activity room. Clean clothes on hangers were hanging on the side of the cart, and the back of the cart was uncovered. Staff confirmed that laundry carts should remain covered, as per facility policy, but admitted that this was not always maintained. A request for a policy related to cleaning the laundry room was made, but no policy was provided before the end of the survey.