Failure to Maintain Adequate Room Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain adequate room temperatures in both the common area/dining room and resident rooms, resulting in temperatures consistently below the facility's policy requirement of 71 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit. Multiple residents reported discomfort due to the cold, with some choosing to remain in their rooms or use extra blankets to stay warm. Staff interviews confirmed that the cold temperatures led to residents refusing showers and avoiding communal spaces. Observations and temperature readings taken by staff and surveyors verified that temperatures in affected areas ranged from 64 to 69 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintenance records revealed ongoing issues with the heating system, including a need for replacement parts and improper gas pressure settings on several units. Despite adjustments made to some units, not all heating systems were properly serviced, leaving parts of the facility inadequately heated. The inability of staff to adjust thermostats in common areas further contributed to the problem, and documentation showed that the facility was aware of the heating deficiencies but had not fully resolved them at the time of the survey.