Obstructed Common Area Creates Unsafe, Non-Homelike Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment in one of three common areas observed, specifically at the North end of hall one. Observations revealed that the pathway to a resident puzzle activity was obstructed by various items, including two bags of dry sack concrete, a hospital bed without sheets, a broken recliner, a wheelchair with an empty bucket and a bed grab bar balanced across its arms, an unattended walking cane, and a red walker. These items created trip and fall hazards and blocked resident access to the ongoing puzzle activity. The facility's own policy requires a clean, sanitary, and orderly environment, but this standard was not met in the observed area. Interviews with the maintenance supervisor, DON, and administrator confirmed that the area was accessible to residents and acknowledged that the clutter and stored items posed a fall risk and did not facilitate a safe, homelike environment. All three staff members agreed that the pathway was not clear for residents and that the area did not meet the facility's standards for safety and comfort. The administrator noted that staff had been instructed not to store items in the area, but the practice continued.