Unauthorized Space Heater in Resident Room Creates Safety Hazard
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with moderate cognitive impairment, difficulty walking, and a history of falls was found in her room with a space heater turned on. The resident reported that staff provided her with the space heater and would turn it on for her in the mornings, as she felt too cold at night without it. The space heater was observed on the floor across the room while the resident was in bed. Interviews with facility staff, including the Maintenance Supervisor and the Director of Nursing, confirmed that space heaters are not permitted in resident rooms due to the risk of burns and fire hazards. A review of the facility's policy on electrical appliances indicated that only authorized electrical appliances are allowed in resident living areas, but did not specifically address the use of space heaters. The presence and use of the space heater in the resident's room constituted a failure to provide a safe environment free from accident hazards.