Persistent Foul Odors in Elevators Due to Inadequate Environmental Maintenance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment in two of three elevators, as both Elevator 1 and Elevator 2 were found to have persistent foul odors, described as smelling of urine and feces. Multiple observations by the surveyor over two consecutive days confirmed the presence of strong, offensive odors in both elevators. Interviews with staff, visitors, and residents corroborated these findings, with several individuals reporting ongoing complaints about the smell. The MDS Coordinator, WCN, HS, RD, ADM, MS, and SW all acknowledged the issue, attributing the odors primarily to the carpet installed in the elevators and to residents having accidents in them. Despite frequent cleaning, including daily and as-needed shampooing and vacuuming, the odors persisted. The facility's General Housekeeping Policies require maintaining the environment free from offensive odors through proper housekeeping practices, not by masking odors with deodorizers. However, the report indicates that the elevators continued to have foul odors despite adherence to cleaning routines. Housekeeping staff did not keep a log of cleaning activities but indicated an intention to start one. The issue was further compounded by the presence of carpet in the elevators, which was identified as a contributing factor to the persistent odor problem.