Failure to Maintain Clean Air Filters in Laundry Room
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, functional, sanitary, and comfortable environment in the laundry room, as evidenced by dirty air filters on both the clean and dirty sides of the room. Observations revealed that the air filters had a thick dark gray substance on them. Interviews with laundry aides and the maintenance man indicated that air filters were supposed to be changed weekly, but the filters were visibly dirty at the time of inspection. The maintenance man stated he was responsible for changing the filters and would do so more frequently if notified by staff that the filters were clogged. However, there was inconsistency among staff and management regarding the process and frequency of changing the air filters, with some staff unsure of who was responsible or how often the task was performed. The Director of Nursing (DON) and the Administrator both acknowledged that the air filters appeared to need changing and were not aware of the specific process or schedule for filter replacement in the laundry room. The facility's Homelike Environment Policy required a clean, sanitary, and orderly environment, but the presence of dirty air filters with accumulated lint and dust indicated non-compliance with this policy. No specific residents were identified as being directly affected at the time of the deficiency.