Failure to Maintain Cleanliness and Adequate Hot Water Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a clean, comfortable, and homelike environment for its residents, as evidenced by multiple observations of unsanitary conditions and inadequate hot water temperatures in several resident rooms on a gender-specific unit. Hot water temperatures in multiple rooms were measured at approximately 76 degrees Fahrenheit, well below the minimum required 105 degrees Fahrenheit, and these issues persisted over several days. Residents reported that they had informed staff about the lack of hot water and clogged sinks, but no effective action was taken to resolve these concerns. Interviews with staff confirmed that maintenance was unaware of the hot water issue and that a new system for communicating maintenance needs had not yet been implemented. Observations in resident rooms revealed significant cleanliness and maintenance issues, including sinks clogged with standing brown or gray water, dirty countertops with brown substances, soiled personal care items, and bathrooms with brown splatter, missing fixtures, and dirty floors. In some cases, disposable briefs were found submerged in toilet water, and there was evidence of water damage such as sagging ceiling tiles and water dripping from the roof. The hallways and common areas on the unit were also found to be soiled, with dried substances and build-up along the floors and door frames. Interviews with residents and staff indicated that housekeeping services had been inconsistent, with some areas not being cleaned for weeks due to staffing shortages and a recent transition from a third-party cleaning company back to in-house staff. Direct care staff, including CNAs and CMTs, reported being expected to perform cleaning duties in addition to their primary responsibilities, but stated they did not have sufficient time to do so. The lack of regular housekeeping and maintenance contributed to the ongoing unsanitary conditions and failure to provide a safe, clean, and homelike environment as required by facility policy and resident rights.