Inadequate Ventilation Leading to Persistent Mildew and Urine Odors on Memory Care Unit
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency related to inadequate mechanical ventilation on the licensed memory care unit (B‑Wing), where a strong odor of mildew was noted upon entering the unit and a combined mildew and urine odor was present down the entire hall near a specific resident room. The damp, musty, and urine smells persisted throughout the survey period. During an interview and walkthrough with the Director of Maintenance, he explained that some incontinent residents urinate on the carpet in various locations, and staff use carpet extractors to clean the rugs, attempting to do so immediately and more extensively in the evening. He reported difficulty getting the carpets to dry in the winter because windows cannot be opened and the HVAC system cannot be run as frequently without making the environment too cold for residents, and he confirmed that the dampness and odors have been an ongoing issue. He also stated that he does not keep a log of how often the ventilation system is run. These observations and statements show that the facility did not ensure adequate mechanical ventilation or effective odor control on the memory care unit, resulting in persistent dampness and strong mildew and urine odors in resident care areas.
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