Improper Handling and Storage of Clean Linen on Second Floor
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s infection prevention and control program related to the handling and storage of clean linen on the second floor. The facility’s policy "Handling Clean Linen" dated 9/22/25 stated that clean linen would be handled, stored, processed, and transported in a safe and sanitary manner to prevent contamination. During a tour of the second floor, an empty clean linen cart was observed positioned by the exit stairwell door. A nurse aide reported that staff were using this clean linen cart to transport meal trays to residents’ rooms and showed surveyors where linen was being kept. Additional observations on the second floor showed clean linen stored in multiple uncovered and inappropriate locations. Bedside tables in the corridor were observed with uncovered clean linen placed on them. In the resident common room, stacks of uncovered clean linen, including towels, washcloths, and gowns, were found on a table. The Environmental Director stated that they had not authorized staff to use clean linen carts for meal trays and affirmed that linens should not be left uncovered anywhere. The DON confirmed that the facility failed to maintain proper infection control practices related to the care of clean linen on the second floor, creating the potential for cross-contamination.
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