Failure to Maintain Safe and Homelike Resident Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, comfortable, and homelike environment for a resident with significant respiratory conditions, including acute respiratory failure, COPD with acute exacerbation, and asthma. During an observation and interview, it was found that the resident's room had a ceiling air vent covered with dust, scattered areas of peeling paint on the wall, and a task lighting cord that was not long enough for the resident to reach. The resident reported that her respiratory conditions could be aggravated by inhaling dust and paint particles and expressed a preference to operate the task light independently, which she was unable to do due to the short cord. A review of the facility's preventive maintenance log revealed that no maintenance activities, such as wall patching or repainting, had been performed in the resident's room for several months. The Maintenance Director confirmed responsibility for identifying and completing necessary repairs but acknowledged the lack of recent maintenance in this area. Facility policies require the provision of a safe, clean, and comfortable environment, including adequate lighting and building maintenance, but these standards were not met in this instance.