Failure to Maintain Clean and Sanitary Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary environment for its residents, as evidenced by multiple observations, interviews, and record reviews. Several residents reported that their rooms and common areas were not cleaned daily, and that furniture was worn and damaged, with chipped wood and food debris present. Observations confirmed that hallways and resident rooms had a buildup of dirt, yellowed wax, stains, dried liquids, scuffed and dull floors, cracked or missing tiles, and holes in the walls. Specific rooms were noted to have significant grime, sticky and dirty floors, and furniture in poor condition. The main lobby and handrails were also found to be in disrepair, with chipped paint and worn surfaces. Interviews with facility staff, including the Regional Director of Operations, the Administrator, an LPN, and the Housekeeping Manager, confirmed that the facility had been aware of these environmental concerns for several months but had not addressed them in a timely manner. The Housekeeping Manager revealed that improper floor maintenance practices, such as applying multiple layers of wax without proper stripping, had led to significant dirt and grime buildup. Staff agreed that the facility was in need of deep cleaning, floor stripping, and repairs to maintain a sanitary environment. A review of facility policies indicated that floors and environmental surfaces were to be cleaned and disinfected regularly, with specific procedures for cleaning, disinfection, and maintenance. However, these policies were not followed, as evidenced by the observed conditions and staff admissions. One resident with significant physical limitations and dependence on staff for all activities of daily living was found to have dirt and debris on the floor of their room, further highlighting the facility's failure to provide a clean and safe environment for vulnerable individuals.