Environmental Deficiencies: Leaking Ceiling and Damaged Dining Room Chairs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, functional, sanitary, and comfortable environment for residents, staff, and the public in two key areas: the south lobby entrance and the dining room chairs in the secured unit. Multiple observations over several days revealed that the ceiling at the south lobby entrance was leaking water, with towels and buckets placed underneath to catch the water. At one point, a section of pink insulation was observed hanging from the ceiling, which was later removed and the hole repaired, but the area continued to leak. Staff interviews confirmed that the roof had been an ongoing problem, leaking whenever it rained, and that temporary measures such as sealing the roof and placing towels and buckets were routinely used. Staff also noted that the leaking ceiling could cause falls, changes in resident condition, and affect health and dignity. Additionally, the dining room chairs in the secured unit (hall 900) were found to be in poor condition, with 14 chairs observed to have rips, tears, and holes, and 6 chairs with exposed inner cushions. Residents were seen sitting in these damaged chairs during observations. Staff interviews indicated that the chairs had been in poor condition for a long period, with the materials peeling and becoming worn quickly, and that the exposed cloth and foam could present cleaning and disinfecting challenges. The facility's policy requires a safe, clean, and comfortable environment, but these conditions were not met in the areas observed.