Failure to Maintain Sanitary Laundry Room Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the laundry room in a clean and sanitary condition for all eight sampled residents, as evidenced by the presence of a brown sludge-like residue on the floor next to the washing machine. Observations revealed that the sludge measured approximately six inches wide and thirty inches long, and had accumulated due to water pooling over time. The laundry worker acknowledged that the floor had not been cleaned regularly, which led to the buildup and made it difficult to fully clean and sanitize the area. The maintenance supervisor confirmed the presence of the sludge and stated that staff should have reported the condition, noting that the buildup could have resulted from a washer leak and could affect the cleanliness of the laundry and clothing. Further interviews with the DON and the infection preventionist confirmed that the laundry room should have been kept clean and that the dirty floor was an infection control concern. The infection preventionist specifically stated that laundry staff should have reported the brown sludge, as the unsanitary condition could cross-contaminate clothing washed in the machine. A review of the facility's policy indicated that floors, surfaces, and equipment in the laundry area must be cleaned daily to maintain a sanitary environment, which was not followed in this instance.