Failure to Maintain Safe, Clean, and Comfortable Environment
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for residents across five of six halls. Surveyors observed multiple 32-gallon trash bins emitting strong odors of urine and feces in several hallways, which led to complaints from residents about the smell. In response to these odors, a CNA was seen spraying a strong-scented perfume down one hallway, and another staff member reported using Febreze. The use of perfume was acknowledged by the Treatment Nurse as potentially harmful to residents with respiratory issues. Staff interviews confirmed that the odors were a recurring issue and that scented sprays were used in an attempt to mask them. Additionally, mechanical lifts and a shower bed were observed unlocked and stored in hallways on multiple occasions. The administrator stated that the equipment could not be locked due to life safety requirements regarding egress pathways, but communication from the Life Safety Director clarified that the issue was not about locking the equipment, but rather that such equipment should not be stored in the egress pathways at all. Facility policy indicated that accessible hazards, such as unlocked equipment, should be secured to prevent injury, but this was not followed, resulting in unsafe conditions for residents.