Failure to Maintain Clean and Safe Resident Bathrooms
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that two common resident bathrooms were not effectively cleaned or maintained, resulting in unsanitary and unsafe conditions. In the back hall bathroom, a small wash basin containing used, soiled towels was found on the floor, and four irregular streaks of solid brown matter were noted on the wall above and to the right of the wash basin. The Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) present indicated that resident showers had not yet been given on the day shift and that CNAs were responsible for removing soiled towels after use. In the front hall bathroom, the soap dispenser near the handwashing sink was empty, and a used disposable razor was left on the shelf above the sink. The CNA stated that housekeeping staff were responsible for ensuring soap was available in the bathrooms. During interviews, the Housekeeping Supervisor confirmed that the back hall bathroom should have been cleaned and sanitized after use and that staff should have reported the need for cleaning. The supervisor also explained that the brown streaks on the wall were likely caused by a towel soiled with feces being tossed and hitting the wall. The razor should have been disposed of in the appropriate sharps container, and soap dispensers should be refilled when low. The Nursing Home Administrator and Director of Nursing both acknowledged that the soiled towels, brown stains, and empty soap dispenser should have been addressed, and that all used linen and razors should be properly removed and discarded after use. Facility policy requires routine cleaning and disinfection of common areas and immediate cleaning of visibly soiled surfaces.