Widespread Environmental and Maintenance Deficiencies Impact Resident Comfort and Safety
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for residents, staff, and the public, as evidenced by multiple deficiencies in temperature control, maintenance of resident rooms and common areas, and the functionality of essential equipment. Observations and documentation revealed that the HVAC system was not consistently operational, resulting in room and common area temperatures frequently exceeding the required range of 71 to 81 degrees. Residents and staff reported discomfort due to excessive heat, with temperatures in some areas reaching as high as 85 degrees. Work orders and interviews confirmed ongoing issues with the air conditioning system, including a malfunctioning cooling tower and improperly wired components, which led to repeated failures and inadequate cooling throughout the facility. In addition to temperature control issues, the facility exhibited widespread maintenance problems affecting resident safety and comfort. Multiple resident rooms and bathrooms lacked functional toilet paper holders, had damaged or missing vanities, delaminated furniture, and broken or chipped fixtures. Several hand sanitizer dispensers were non-functional, and some sinks were out of order without alternative hand hygiene options provided. Observations also noted significant wear and damage to furniture, flooring, walls, ceilings, and window seals, including leaking ceilings, missing floor tiles, and stained or unpainted surfaces. In one case, a resident's mattress did not fit the bed frame, creating a large gap and potential safety concern, which persisted over several days without resolution. Essential resident care areas, such as shower rooms and therapy rooms, were also found to be in disrepair or unusable. A large shower room was out of order for an extended period due to a ruptured water pipe, with exposed wall material and visible dark substances in the corners. The therapy room was excessively hot, limiting its use for resident therapy sessions. Interviews with staff confirmed the ongoing nature of these issues and the lack of timely maintenance or alternative accommodations for affected residents. These deficiencies were substantiated through direct observation, review of work orders, facility policies, and staff and resident interviews.