Unsecured Maintenance and Housekeeping Office with Hazardous Items
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, functional, sanitary, and comfortable environment by leaving the Maintenance and Housekeeping Office door ajar and unattended. The office, which contained tools and cleaning equipment, was observed open with no staff present. The office was located on the second floor, near resident rooms and adjacent to the nurses' desk. Housekeeper E was seen in the hallway between the office and a resident's room, but not inside the office itself. Both Housekeeper E and the Maintenance Director confirmed that the office was usually kept locked due to the presence of potentially unsafe items for residents. The Maintenance Director admitted to leaving the office open and unattended, believing it was safe because Housekeeper E was nearby in the hallway. The DON stated that her expectation was for the office to be secured at all times when not in use by staff, as it contained items that could be unsafe for residents. Review of the facility's policy confirmed that hazardous areas, devices, and equipment should be identified and addressed to ensure resident safety.