Failure to Allocate and Manage Housekeeping Resources Resulting in Unsanitary Conditions
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to use its housekeeping resources effectively and efficiently, resulting in substandard sanitation and cleanliness throughout multiple units. Observations revealed excess trash, food crumbs, dirty bedside tables, used utensils, and gnats in several resident rooms and common areas. A large bin with used breakfast items and gnats was found near one room, and two urine-filled portable urinals along with dirty bed linens were observed on the floor in another room. The C-unit dining room had a pillowcase, food crumbs, and wheelchair footrests stored under a table. Multiple observations during the survey week noted an excess of flies during medication administration. A resident complained of gnats in their room, and the facility's pest log documented reports of gnats and flying insects on several occasions, with limited documentation of pest control measures taken. Interviews with staff indicated that the unit was only cleaner than usual due to the presence of surveyors, and the housekeeping director reported that staff often did not complete their assigned tasks unless supervised. The facility's assessment required six housekeeping staff for the census, but only four were scheduled, and the housekeeping director was not on the schedule for the week reviewed. Service inspection reports confirmed excessive gnat activity and poor sanitation, including urine odors. These findings demonstrate that the facility did not allocate or manage housekeeping resources in accordance with its own assessment and professional standards, leading to unsanitary conditions.