Deficient Physical Environment Due to Leaking AC Units and Broken Bathroom Doors
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe and sanitary environment in two of five hallways reviewed, specifically regarding malfunctioning air conditioning units and non-operational bathroom doors in resident rooms. Observations revealed that an air conditioning unit in one room was leaking water along the bottom panel, causing water to drip onto a bedside table and down the wall, resulting in damage to the wall panel and personal items. Staff interviews indicated that the leak had been ongoing for several weeks to the entire summer, with multiple reports made to nursing and maintenance staff. Despite these reports, the maintenance department did not conduct monthly audits and relied on housekeeping and nursing staff to report issues. The Maintenance Director acknowledged awareness of the leak, attributing it to ice formation on the coils when the temperature was set too low, which would then melt and cause water to drip when the unit was turned off. Additionally, during a Resident Council meeting, it was reported that the pocket doors for the bathrooms in two rooms were broken and had been replaced with shower curtains. Residents expressed concerns about lack of privacy, inadequate odor control, and potential fire safety risks due to the absence of proper doors. The Maintenance Director confirmed that the pocket doors were broken and that replacement parts were no longer available, resulting in the use of shower curtains as a temporary solution. The Administrator acknowledged the ongoing issues with both the air conditioning units and the bathroom doors.