Mechanical Lift Maintenance Deficiency Affects Resident Transfers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that mechanical lift (Hoyer) devices were properly maintained, resulting in equipment that did not function as intended for safe resident transfers. Observations and interviews revealed that at least one Hoyer lift had a right wheel that would not move due to strings being caught in it, preventing the legs from opening fully. Certified Nursing Assistants reported that the lifts were not working properly, with one stating that the spotter had to kick the wheels to separate the legs and move the device. The Maintenance Director confirmed that the Hoyer lift with the scale had not been serviced and required immediate attention. The Administrator indicated that replacement wheels had been ordered by a previous Maintenance Director but were not installed. A review of the manufacturer's instructions for the Hoyer lifts indicated that casters and axle bolts require regular inspection and that the legs must be fully opened for optimal stability and safety. The Director of Nursing identified 31 residents who required the use of a mechanical lift for transfers, including a resident with quadriplegia, anxiety disorder, and hypothyroidism, who was cognitively intact and dependent for activities of daily living. The deficiency was substantiated through observation, record review, and staff and resident interviews, and was investigated under two complaint numbers.