Failure to Maintain PTAC Unit Resulting in Gaps to Outside
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) unit in one resident room was found to be dislodged from the wall, creating approximately four dime-sized holes at the insertion site. These gaps allowed the courtyard outside to be visible from inside the room, compromising the room's environment. The issue was observed on two separate occasions, with the PTAC unit remaining dislodged during both observations. Interviews with facility staff revealed that the Maintenance Director relied on direct staff communication for repair needs and did not utilize a work order log or communication book at the nurse's station. The Maintenance Director reported that the resident in the affected room frequently hit the PTAC unit with his wheelchair, which may have caused the dislodgement, but he was unaware of the holes that allowed visibility to the outside. The Administrator confirmed awareness of the dislodged PTAC unit and stated that the outside should not be visible through gaps around the unit.