Failure to Maintain Safe, Sanitary, and Private Shower Room Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, functional, sanitary, and comfortable environment in one of three shower rooms on Central Station. Observations revealed that the toilet in the shower room was blocked by equipment and had a dark substance with an odor. The right-side shower had a torn curtain, limiting privacy, while the left-side shower lacked a curtain entirely, resulting in no privacy for residents. Additionally, the shower head hose on the left side had holes, causing water to leak out the side. These issues were directly observed during a facility survey. Interviews with staff indicated that the CNA working in the area was aware of the missing and damaged shower curtains and broken shower head but had not reported the issues. The CNA stated that such damages should be reported to nursing and maintenance via the maintenance log book. The Maintenance Director confirmed that curtains had been recently ordered and replaced but was unsure why they were disappearing, and stated that nursing staff were responsible for logging maintenance concerns. The DON and Administrator were not aware of the ongoing issues, and both indicated that it was the responsibility of nursing staff to report problems and for maintenance and housekeeping to address them. Record review of the facility's policy emphasized the importance of privacy, dignity, and a homelike environment for residents.