Failure to Maintain Clean and Safe Environment in Memory Unit
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment for residents, as evidenced by several observations and staff interviews. Surveyors observed three shower chairs stored in a hallway outside the shower room on the memory unit, with one chair having light brown smear stains and another holding a large industrial shower curtain and an empty water bottle. The shower chairs and curtain were accessible to residents, staff, and visitors, and the area was not kept sanitary. Additionally, a hydration cart was left open and unattended with exposed ice and a metal scoop, and a housekeeping cart with used mop water and trash was left accessible to residents. These items were not properly stored or cleaned, and trash was not discarded as required. Staff interviews revealed that the shower chairs were placed in the hallway due to ongoing construction in the shower room, and that the chairs had not been used for approximately two weeks. Staff stated that cleaning and sanitizing protocols were in place, but the presence of stains and improperly stored items indicated these protocols were not followed. The DON and ADMIN confirmed that the environment should be kept safe, clean, and free of hazards, but were not aware of the specific issues until informed by surveyors. The facility was unable to provide a policy for maintaining a safe, clean, and homelike environment when requested.