Gulfport Nursing Center
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Pasadena, Florida.
- Location
- 1430 Pasadena Ave S, Pasadena, Florida 33707
- CMS Provider Number
- 106103
- Inspections on file
- 33
- Latest survey
- December 15, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 1
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Gulfport Nursing Center during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident with multiple complex medical conditions and cognitive impairment did not have a discharge plan documented in her comprehensive care plan. Staff interviews and record reviews confirmed that, despite facility policy requiring discharge planning within 7 days of assessment, the care plan lacked this component.
Two residents dependent on mechanical lifts for transfers were subjected to neglect when staff failed to follow proper assessment, documentation, and transfer protocols. One resident suffered a severe femur fracture after being transferred by two CNAs who lacked formal training, while another was transferred by a single CNA, causing distress. Facility policies requiring two-person transfers and staff competency were not followed, and staff had not received adequate training or clear guidance on mechanical lift use.
The facility failed to ensure that nurses and nurse aides were properly trained and competent in the use of mechanical lifts for dependent residents, resulting in unsafe transfer practices. Staff relied on general observation to select sling sizes, lacked specific training, and care plans and Kardexes were not updated to reflect accurate transfer needs. This led to incidents where a resident was transferred alone and another suffered a serious hip fracture after a transfer, with confusion among staff about the cause and proper procedures.
The facility did not provide written notification to the local LTC Ombudsman when several residents were transferred to the hospital, as required by policy and regulation. Review of transfer and discharge notices, as well as interviews with staff, confirmed that the Ombudsman was not notified and that there was no documentation of such notifications.
The facility did not ensure an RN was on duty for eight consecutive hours each day, as required, with multiple days lacking RN coverage due to staffing shortages, scheduling conflicts, and disruptions from hurricanes. Inaccurate PBJ reporting also occurred because agency nurse hours were not submitted, resulting in noncompliance with federal staffing requirements.
The facility did not ensure that laundry chemical dispensers were regularly checked or calibrated, as neither the EVS Director nor the NHA could provide documentation or evidence of routine maintenance. The vendor's manual highlighted the need for regular monitoring, and a service form noted issues with chemical dispensing. No policy for equipment maintenance was available when requested.
The facility did not complete or update PASARRs for two residents with mental health diagnoses. In one case, only a substance abuse diagnosis was recorded, omitting other qualifying mental health conditions and failing to submit a Level II PASARR. In another case, the PASARR form was left blank for mental illness, and this was confirmed by the Social Services Director. Facility policy requires proper PASARR completion for all admissions.
A resident with morbid obesity and a fractured leg, requiring a mechanical lift and two-person assist for transfers, was not consistently assisted by staff to get out of bed despite expressing a desire to attend group activities. Observations and interviews confirmed the resident remained in bed for extended periods, and there was no documentation supporting staff claims of refusal. Facility policy and care plans required such assistance, but it was not provided as needed.
A resident with a left hand contracture did not receive her prescribed hand splint/hand carrot as ordered, due to staff failing to apply it when the Restorative Aide was off duty. Observations confirmed the splint was not in use, despite documentation indicating otherwise, and there was no record of refusal or alternative intervention. The care plan and physician's orders for contracture management were not consistently followed or documented.
An LPN did not prepare IV antibiotics immediately before administration and failed to properly prime IV tubing for a resident, instead combining medication and fluid at the start of her shift and struggling to remove air from the tubing. These actions did not follow professional standards or facility policy, as confirmed by the DON.
A resident admitted after a traumatic accident with multiple injuries and a family loss was prescribed medications for PTSD and other behavioral health conditions, but the facility failed to develop a care plan addressing PTSD or mood/behavior issues. Staff interviews revealed missed communication and lack of care plan updates, and the facility's PASARR policy did not address updating for new mental illness diagnoses.
Failure to Include Discharge Plan in Comprehensive Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a comprehensive, person-centered care plan that included a discharge plan for one resident. The resident in question was admitted with multiple complex diagnoses, including sepsis, stage 4 pressure ulcer, chronic kidney disease, muscle wasting, and bilateral lower extremity DVTs. Upon review, the resident's care plan did not contain any documentation of a discharge plan, despite facility policy requiring such plans to be developed within 7 days of the comprehensive assessment. Interviews with facility staff, including the Rehabilitation Director, MDS Coordinator, DON, and Social Services Director, confirmed that the resident was considered a short-term admission and that a decision regarding her inability to return home was made recently. However, no discharge plan was documented in her care plan. Observations of the resident showed she required significant assistance with activities of daily living and 24-hour care. Staff interviews revealed that the resident had memory concerns and lacked capacity to make informed decisions, as documented by the physician. Despite these needs and the facility's own policy, the care plan did not address discharge planning, and staff confirmed the omission upon review of the electronic clinical record. The facility's policy specifically requires that the care plan include the resident's goals for admission, desired outcomes, preferences for future discharge, and discharge plans as appropriate, which was not followed in this case.
Neglect in Mechanical Lift Transfers Resulting in Resident Injury
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect residents from neglect related to the improper use of mechanical lifts during transfers, affecting two residents who were dependent on such equipment. One resident, with severe cognitive impairment and total dependence for transfers, was not properly assessed for mechanical lift use, and staff were not adequately educated on correct transfer methods. On the day of the incident, two CNAs transferred the resident using a mechanical lift, after which significant pain and a displaced right hip were observed. The resident was sent to the hospital, where a displaced spiral subtrochanteric fracture of the right femur was diagnosed, requiring surgical intervention. Interviews revealed that staff had not received formal training or competency demonstrations on mechanical lift use, and there was confusion regarding responsibility for assessing residents and selecting appropriate sling sizes. Another resident, who was cognitively intact and also dependent on mechanical lift transfers, was observed being transferred by a CNA using the mechanical lift alone, contrary to facility policy requiring two staff members for such transfers. The resident expressed feeling nervous about being transferred with only one staff member present. Review of the resident's care documentation showed that the number of staff required for transfers was not specified, and staff interviews confirmed a lack of clarity and adherence to the two-person transfer policy. Facility policies required at least two staff for mechanical lift transfers and mandated staff training and competency in the use of such equipment. However, interviews with staff and review of training records indicated that training was informal, often provided by other aides rather than through structured demonstration or competency assessment. The lack of proper assessment, documentation, and staff education directly contributed to the neglect and subsequent injury, as well as the unsafe transfer practices observed.
Failure to Ensure Staff Competency in Mechanical Lift Transfers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that licensed nursing staff and nurse aides were knowledgeable and competent in providing care and services related to safe mechanical lift transfers for dependent residents. Staff interviews revealed that CNAs and LPNs determined the need for mechanical lift transfers by referencing the care planning section of the Kardex, but there were no specific instructions regarding the type or size of sling to use for each resident. Staff selected slings based on general observation and self-assessment, and confirmed they had not received specific education or training on mechanical lift use at the facility. Observations showed that a CNA transferred a resident alone using a mechanical lift, contrary to the requirement for two staff members, and the Kardex did not specify the number of staff required for transfers. For one resident, who was cognitively intact and dependent on staff for transfers, interviews and record reviews indicated that she was routinely transferred by only one CNA, making her feel nervous. The Kardex and care plan for this resident did not accurately reflect her transfer needs. For another resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple diagnoses, including dementia and osteoarthritis, records showed she was dependent on staff for transfers and required a mechanical lift with two-person assistance. This resident experienced a displaced spiral subtrochanteric fracture of the right femur after being transferred, which was discovered when staff noticed her leg was out of place following a transfer. There was confusion among staff and the primary care provider regarding the cause of the injury, with discrepancies in documentation and reporting. Interviews with facility leadership, including the DON, ADON, and Director of Rehabilitation, confirmed that there was no formal training or competency assessment for mechanical lift use, and that care plans and Kardexes were not updated to reflect residents' current transfer needs. The Director of Rehabilitation stated that therapy did not provide formal training or assessments for mechanical lift use, and the DON acknowledged that training was typically provided informally by other aides. The facility assessment and job descriptions reviewed did not ensure that staff had the necessary competencies to provide safe care for residents requiring mechanical lift transfers.
Failure to Notify Ombudsman of Resident Transfers and Discharges
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide written notification to the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman regarding the transfer and discharge of five residents who were sent to the hospital. Record reviews for these residents showed that their Nursing Home Transfer and Discharge Notices did not indicate that the Ombudsman had been notified as required. The facility's Admission/Discharge report confirmed that nine residents had been transferred to an acute care hospital within the review period, but there was no documentation of Ombudsman notification for these cases. Interviews with the Social Services Director and the Nursing Home Administrator revealed that the facility had not notified the Ombudsman of the residents' transfers and did not have documentation to support that such notifications had occurred. An email from the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program District Manager further indicated that the Ombudsman had not received the required discharge notifications from the facility. The facility's own policy requires notification of the Ombudsman and staff training on these procedures, but compliance was not demonstrated.
Failure to Provide Required RN Coverage and Accurate PBJ Reporting
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a registered nurse (RN) was on duty for eight consecutive hours each day, seven days a week, as required. Review of Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data and daily timecard reports for multiple dates in October, November, and December 2024 revealed that there were no RN hours recorded on several days. Interviews with the staffing coordinator and human resources staff confirmed that there were ongoing challenges with RN staffing, including difficulties retaining nurses, reliance on agency nurses, and scheduling issues such as a nurse not working on Saturdays for religious reasons and another only working weekdays. Additionally, the facility experienced disruptions during hurricanes, with staff working in different buildings and possible power outages affecting the time clock system, which may have contributed to incomplete or missing RN hour records. The nursing home administrator, who started after the period in question, acknowledged that agency nursing hours had not been submitted to the payroll company, resulting in inaccurate PBJ data. The facility's staffing policy requires sufficient licensed nurses and certified nursing assistants to provide care 24 hours a day and mandates that all direct care staffing information, including agency and contract staff, be submitted to the CMS PBJ system. However, the failure to record and report RN hours on the specified dates led to noncompliance with federal staffing requirements.
Failure to Maintain and Monitor Laundry Chemical Dispensers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that both washing machines' chemical dispensers were properly checked and calibrated according to regulations and industry standards. During an observation and interview in the laundry room, the EVS Director was unable to state when the chemical dispensers were last checked or calibrated and was not aware of any scheduled maintenance by the vendor. The NHA was also unable to provide documentation, such as invoices, to show that the chemical dispensers had been checked or calibrated on a routine basis and confirmed that there was no regular schedule for vendor calibration prior to the survey date. A review of the vendor's service form indicated that there was a concern about chemicals not being correctly dispensed from the buckets to the machines. The vendor's chemical dispenser manual emphasized the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance, including checking chemical levels and cleaning the dispenser. Additionally, the facility was unable to provide a policy related to maintaining facility equipment when requested during the survey.
Failure to Complete/Update PASARRs for Residents with Mental Disorders
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to complete or update the Pre-admission Screening and Resident Reviews (PASARRs) for two residents with mental disorders or intellectual disabilities. For one resident admitted and readmitted with diagnoses including anxiety disorder and bipolar II disorder, the Level I PASARR only noted a substance abuse diagnosis and did not include the qualifying mental health diagnoses, nor was a Level II PASARR submitted. For another resident admitted with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, the PASARR form had the section for mental illness left blank and did not reflect any diagnosis. The Social Services Director confirmed the omission during an interview. The facility's policy requires that all admissions have the appropriate PASARR completed, but this was not followed in these cases.
Failure to Provide Required ADL Transfer Assistance
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when staff failed to provide necessary assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), specifically transfers from bed to wheelchair, for a resident who was unable to perform these tasks independently. The resident, who was morbidly obese, had a fractured right lower leg in a cast, and required a mechanical lift with two-person assistance for transfers, reported that in the initial days after admission, staff assisted him in getting out of bed to attend activities. However, in the following weeks, the resident stated that staff frequently did not assist him out of bed despite his requests, resulting in him remaining in bed and missing several group activities he wished to attend. Multiple observations over several days confirmed that the resident remained in bed with the call light within reach and was not assisted out of bed for scheduled activities, even when he expressed a desire to participate. Interviews with Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) revealed that they believed the resident always refused to get up, but there was no documentation in the medical record or CNA ADL task sheets to support consistent refusals. The Activities Director and the Director of Nursing (DON) both acknowledged that the resident required significant assistance for transfers and that he had previously participated in activities when assisted, but had not been seen out of bed for activities in recent weeks. Review of the resident's medical record confirmed he was alert, oriented, and able to make his own decisions. Care plans and assessments indicated he was totally dependent on staff for transfers and required a mechanical lift with two-person assistance. Facility policy required that residents unable to perform ADLs independently receive necessary services to maintain their abilities, and that care be provided in accordance with the plan of care. Despite this, there was no evidence that staff consistently offered or provided the required assistance for transfers, nor was there documentation of refusals, leading to the resident's inability to participate in desired activities.
Failure to Provide Contracture Management and Accurate Documentation
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with a left hand contracture was not provided with her prescribed hand splint/hand carrot as ordered by the physician and outlined in her care plan. Multiple observations on 6/9/2025 revealed the resident was not wearing the splint, and there was no splint present in her room. The resident was unable to apply the splint herself and was dependent on staff for this intervention. Interviews with staff confirmed that the Restorative Aide, who is responsible for applying the splint, was not present that day, and other staff did not ensure the splint was applied. There was also confusion among staff regarding who was responsible for applying the splint in the absence of the Restorative Aide. Documentation in the Medication Administration Record (MAR) and Treatment Administration Record (TAR) indicated that the splint was applied as ordered, but direct observation and staff interviews confirmed this was not the case. There was no documentation of the resident refusing the splint, and staff were unaware of the need to document refusals or the absence of the splint. The care plan and physician's orders specified the use of the splint daily, with skin checks before and after application, but these interventions were not consistently implemented or documented. The resident's medical record indicated a history of contractures, muscle weakness, and dependence on staff for activities of daily living. Despite clear orders and care plan interventions for contracture management, the facility failed to ensure continuity of care when the designated Restorative Aide was off duty. This resulted in the resident not receiving the prescribed intervention to maintain or improve range of motion, and the lack of accurate documentation further contributed to the deficiency.
Failure to Follow IV Medication Preparation and Administration Standards
Penalty
Summary
Staff L, an LPN, failed to follow professional standards and facility policy during the preparation and administration of IV antibiotics for a resident. The LPN initially used a reconstituted vial of Cefepime that had been combined with IV fluid at the beginning of her shift, rather than immediately before administration as required. During the preparation process, she was unable to remove all the medication from the vial and disposed of it, then repeated the preparation with a new vial and IV bag. The LPN attempted to prime the IV tubing over a trash can but was unable to clear all the air from the tubing at that time, only completing the air removal after hanging the bag on the IV pole. The facility's policy requires that medications be prepared immediately before administration and that IV tubing be properly primed to remove air before connecting to the resident. The Director of Nursing confirmed that staff are expected to follow these procedures. The observed actions did not align with these requirements, resulting in a failure to provide care and services according to professional standards and facility policy for the safe and appropriate administration of IV fluids.
Failure to Develop PTSD Care Plan for Resident with Behavioral Health Diagnoses
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to develop a care plan addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for a resident who was admitted following a serious motor vehicle accident resulting in multiple fractures and the death of a family member. Although the resident was prescribed medications such as Prazosin for PTSD-related nightmares and Temazepam for insomnia, and behavioral health notes documented diagnoses including adjustment disorder with anxiety, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and insomnia, there was no corresponding care plan for PTSD or mood/behavior issues. The resident's Minimum Data Set (MDS) and Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASARR) did not reflect a mental illness diagnosis, and a follow-up PASARR was not completed despite new diagnoses being documented in behavioral health notes. Interviews with facility staff revealed gaps in communication and responsibility regarding care plan updates and PASARR processes. The Social Service Director was unaware of the PTSD diagnosis and acknowledged that a care plan should have been created, while the MDS coordinator admitted to missing the Prazosin order and not routinely reviewing behavioral health provider notes. The facility's PASARR policy did not include procedures for updating the PASARR when new mental illness diagnoses were identified, contributing to the oversight in care planning for the resident's PTSD and related behavioral health needs.
Latest citations in Florida
Surveyors found that the facility failed to comply with 42 CFR 483.73(a) by not conducting the required annual review and update of its Emergency Preparedness (EP) plan. During record review, no documentation showed that the EP plan had been reviewed or updated within the past year, and the Administrator confirmed that the Emergency Management Plan had not been reviewed or revised as required.
Surveyors found that smoke/fire-rated enclosures were not properly maintained, with penetrations in smoke barriers in several general storage rooms across multiple smoke compartments. The Maintenance Director stated that insulation and fiberglass were used to pack and cover these holes but could not confirm that the materials were approved for fire-rated construction. Inspectors observed penetrations covered with fiberglass and noted a hole in one fiberglass panel in a storage room, resulting in a deficiency under NFPA 101 requirements for smoke barrier construction.
Surveyors found that fixed patient-care electrical equipment was not properly maintained or inspected in accordance with NFPA 99. In one room, a bedside remote had mismatched insulation and exposed wiring, and in another room, a call button receptacle had exposed low-voltage conductors. The Maintenance Director acknowledged both issues and reported that new bed remotes had been received but not yet installed.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, and homelike environment, with strong, persistent urine and feces odors noted throughout multiple halls and confirmed by staff. On two nursing units, hallways and resident rooms contained torn flooring, food debris, broken blinds, dirty and leaking toilets and sinks, rusted and corroded fixtures, missing outlet covers with oxygen concentrators plugged in, exposed light sockets, unmade and visibly soiled beds, and black, mold-like substances on walls and around toilet bases. Bathrooms had missing ceiling tiles, cracked door facings with brown stains, used briefs and torn toilet paper on floors, and toilets with brown or rust-like buildup. Outside, the patio and fencing area had broken and rotted railings, exposed rusted nails, fallen palm fronds, and overgrown vegetation, and the Administrator acknowledged the area was not safe for residents. Housekeeping and maintenance staff described daily cleaning and a work-order process, but the Maintenance Director reported being unaware of many of the observed issues, and the DON confirmed there was no specific environmental cleaning policy despite job descriptions and a general policy requiring a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment.
A resident exited the building through a bedroom window, walked off the property, and was observed and redirected by staff with assistance from law enforcement, who encountered the resident down the road and helped escort the resident back. The facility’s internal documentation lacked staff or witness statements and characterized the event as the resident remaining on facility grounds without injury. Despite the resident’s account, a police report, and a maintenance staff report confirming that the resident left the premises and that law enforcement responded, the DON did not report the incident to required state and federal agencies, even though the DON acknowledged that any incident involving law enforcement response must be reported.
A resident with moderate cognitive impairment and a history of stroke was repeatedly observed over several days in visibly soiled clothing and bedding, with a strong urine odor, despite stating multiple times that he had requested assistance with changing and hygiene. Documentation indicated he was independent with toileting and personal hygiene and only occasionally incontinent, but his care plan lacked detail on the level of assistance needed, while an LPN reported he actually required staff help with bathing, grooming, toileting, and care. Laundry practices involved leaving clean, labeled clothing bagged in the linen room for nursing staff to distribute rather than returning it directly to rooms, and the DON reported that staff were expected to round every two hours and as needed to keep residents clean and dry, although there were no written ADL or resident care policies in place.
Surveyors observed four full O2 cylinders on one nursing unit stored unsecured directly on the floor under a sign labeled "FULL CYLINDERS" instead of in a secured storage rack. The ADON confirmed the cylinders were full and should not be on the ground. Reference to NFPA 99 showed that freestanding cylinders must be protected from damage and properly chained or supported in a stand or cart. The DON and Maintenance Director both acknowledged that O2 cylinders are required to be stored in a secure rack, should never be on the floor, and that unsecured cylinders on the floor present a safety risk.
A resident with multiple cardiopulmonary conditions and a documented full code status was found unresponsive without pulse or respirations during the night shift. A CNA notified the RN, who either instructed CNAs to clean and cover the resident or, per her and an LPN’s account, called a code blue and performed CPR with the LPN for about 20 minutes before stopping, without calling 911. The RN believed the resident was on hospice and did not verify code status, then notified the DON, provider, and family instead of EMS. Several hours later, after the DON called the facility and asked whether 911 had been contacted, the RN called 911 and briefly reinitiated CPR shortly before EMS arrived and pronounced the resident deceased, documenting postmortem changes. The facility’s investigation and root cause analysis found that staff failed to follow policy requiring immediate EMS activation and continuous CPR for full code residents until EMS arrival, leading to an Immediate Jeopardy finding.
A resident with full code status was found unresponsive without respirations or pulse during the night shift. An RN and an LPN initiated CPR but did not activate EMS, and they discontinued CPR after about 20 minutes. The RN, who lacked documented orientation and competency assessment and had obtained BLS certification through a fully online, non–instructor-led course, pronounced the resident deceased without authority and later stated she believed the resident was on hospice and did not verify code status. The LPN’s BLS certification was expired, and a CNA with an expired BLS certification performed several chest compressions despite facility policy that CNAs were not to perform CPR. The RN had not participated in documented code blue drills, and leadership confirmed that required clinical orientation and skills competencies had not been completed for her, leading surveyors to determine that staff were not adequately trained or competent to respond to a cardiopulmonary arrest for a full code resident, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy finding.
Surveyors found multiple instances of improper use of relocatable power taps (RPTs) and extension cords during a facility tour with the Maintenance Director. In the social services office, an RPT was plugged into another RPT connected to a wall outlet, with the cord running across a walkway and taped to the floor. In the multipurpose room, a television was plugged into an extension cord, and in the MDS office, an RPT was plugged into another RPT with an outlet adapter in use. These conditions did not comply with NFPA 101, NFPA 99, and NFPA 70 standards governing electrical equipment, power strips, and extension cords.
Failure to Annually Review and Update Emergency Preparedness Plan
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency related to the facility’s Emergency Preparedness (EP) Program under 42 CFR 483.73(a). During record review at 4:00 PM, surveyors examined the facility’s EP documentation and found no evidence that the emergency preparedness plan had been reviewed or updated on an annual basis as required. The regulation mandates that LTC facilities develop and maintain an emergency preparedness plan that is reviewed and updated at least annually to comply with applicable Federal, State, and local emergency preparedness requirements. In an interview, the Administrator acknowledged that the facility’s Emergency Management Plan had not been reviewed or updated. No documentation was provided to show that the required annual review and update of the EP plan had occurred. The deficiency is based solely on the lack of documented annual review and update of the emergency preparedness plan by facility administration; no specific resident cases or clinical events were described in the report.
Plan Of Correction
Preparation and/or execution of the Plan of Correction does not constitute admission or agreement of the provider of the truth of the facts alleged or conclusions set forth in the statement of deficiencies. The Plan of Correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provision of Federal and State law. Facility EP was reviewed and signed off on by the DON, Maintenance Director and Administrator. The facility has determined that all residents have the potential to be affected. An in-service education program will be conducted by the administrator. The administrator will conduct monthly random checks to verify completed documentation.
Improper Repair of Smoke Barrier Penetrations in Multiple Smoke Compartments
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s maintenance of smoke/fire-rated enclosures, specifically related to penetrations in smoke barriers in multiple smoke compartments. During an interview, the Maintenance Director reported that insulation was used to pack holes and then covered with fiberglass in general storage rooms in smoke compartments 1, 2, and 3, but was unable to confirm whether these materials were approved for use in fire-rated walls. Subsequent observation showed that the penetrations were indeed covered with fiberglass, and one general storage room in smoke compartment 2 had a hole in one of the fiberglass panels. The report states that this failure to properly maintain penetrations through smoke/fire-rated construction could allow smoke and flammable gases to spread to other areas and cause the smoke/fire-rated construction to fail to perform as designed.
Failure to Maintain and Inspect Patient-Care Electrical Equipment
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s compliance with NFPA 99 requirements for testing and maintaining fixed patient-care electrical equipment. During an observation in one resident room, the bedside remote was found to have two different types of insulation and exposed wiring. In another resident room, the call button receptacle was observed with exposed low-voltage conductors. These conditions were noted during a survey of two of six smoke compartments. During an interview conducted at the time of the observations, the Maintenance Director stated that the facility had just received a new shipment of bed remotes and had not yet replaced the existing ones. The Maintenance Director also acknowledged the issue with the exposed conductors at the call button receptacle. The surveyors cited this as a failure to properly inspect and maintain fixed patient care electrical equipment in accordance with NFPA 99 (2012 Edition), sections 10.3 and 10.5.2.1.
Widespread Odors and Environmental Disrepair in Resident Care Areas
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to provide a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment as required by 42 CFR 483.10(i). Upon entrance to the building on multiple days, surveyors noted a strong, pungent odor of urine and feces throughout the facility, with the odor particularly strong on the 200, 300, and 400 halls. Staff interviews confirmed that the building "usually smells like" urine, and staff attributed the odor to residents defecating and urinating on the floor, an old building structure, and cleaning products that sanitize but do not deodorize. Housekeeping staff reported that they clean resident rooms daily but that nursing staff must first clean fecal and urine waste before housekeeping can sanitize, and delays by nursing staff in doing so postponed housekeeping’s ability to address the odors. On the 300 unit, surveyors observed multiple environmental and sanitation issues in resident rooms and bathrooms. The hallway had torn flooring, food particles, and a butter knife on the floor. Individual rooms had food debris, a straw on the floor, and broken blinds. Bathrooms contained dark brown stains on walls, rusted ceiling tile trim, toilets with brownish substances inside, and wet floors around toilets. Trim was missing around toilet bases, exposing a black, mold-like substance. Corroded and rusted sink faucet handles, leaking faucets, rusted pipes under sinks with buildup of corrosion, and rusted sprinklers were observed. Some toilets and three-in-one commodes had duct tape on them, and bathroom walls had black, mold-like substances. Doors and door facings showed rust, scrape marks, chipped and peeling paint, and exposed wood. In some rooms, electrical outlets had no covers while oxygen concentrators were plugged into them, boards covered windows, light fixtures over beds lacked covers with sockets exposed, and one fixture had only one bulb. A resident bed appeared dirty with a black substance on it, and dresser drawers were broken with drawer fronts on the floor. On the 400 unit, surveyors again noted a strong odor of urine upon entry and found additional environmental deficiencies. Bathrooms had missing ceiling tiles, broken emergency light covers with no pull strings, and toilet tank covers that did not fit properly, exposing the inside of the tank. In one bathroom, torn toilet paper and used briefs were lying in the corner of the floor, and toilets had brown, rust-like substances inside the bowls. Door facings appeared cracked with brown substances along the sides, and toilets had brownish-black buildup around the bases with broken, peeling trim. Light bases on walls had rust-like appearances, multiple rooms had broken or missing blinds, and some outlets lacked covers while oxygen concentrators were plugged into them. Some rooms had unmade beds, exposed wires at outlets, toilets with dark brown-black rings around the base and flooring, uncovered light fixtures, leaking sinks with rusted pipes, loose flooring, loose toilet seats, and dry red substances on door frames. Surveyors also observed deficiencies in the outdoor patio area adjacent to the locked unit. The gate code was broken, and a resident lock was placed on the gate. The patio and surrounding fencing had fallen palm fronds on the grass, broken and rotted wooden fence railings, unsteady railings, and multiple exposed rusted nails protruding from the railings where boards were broken or detached. Overgrown trees and bushes from the perimeter extended through the fence railings. When asked, the Administrator acknowledged that the area was not safe for residents and stated that they planned to have it redone in the future. The Maintenance Director reported that he and one other maintenance person relied on work orders and verbal reports to identify needed repairs and stated he was not aware of the specific room and equipment issues on the 300 and 400 units. Housekeeping staff stated they would report broken items via a work order book or text to maintenance, but one housekeeper, who cleaned the 400 unit daily, denied noticing stains or biohazard-like materials on walls and door frames despite the surveyors’ observations. Review of facility documents showed that the housekeeper job description required staff to maintain assigned work areas in a clean, safe, comfortable, and attractive manner and to report maintenance problems noted during cleaning. A facility policy titled "Policies and Practices - Control" stated that the facility must maintain a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment for personnel, residents, visitors, and the public. The DON stated that blinds had been changed out and new cabinets and door handles purchased, and that staff were directed to use standard precautions when cleaning rooms, but also stated there was no policy specific to cleaning the environment. These observations and interviews demonstrated that the facility did not maintain sanitary, orderly, and comfortable interior conditions, did not adequately control offensive odors, and did not ensure that the physical environment, including resident rooms, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, was maintained in a safe, clean, and homelike condition as required by regulation.
Failure to Report Elopement Incident Involving Law Enforcement
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to report an elopement incident to required state and federal agencies as mandated by 42 CFR 483.12(c). On the referenced date, Resident #5 exited the building through his bedroom window around 12:15 PM and walked across the facility property toward the perimeter fence. A CNA observed the resident outside and called for assistance, after which staff redirected and escorted the resident back into the building and placed him on one-to-one supervision. The facility’s internal incident documentation noted the window exit and subsequent maintenance inspection of the window seals but did not include any staff or witness statements. The DON later stated that the resident never left facility grounds and was returned without injury, and therefore the incident was not considered reportable. However, interviews and external records showed that the resident did leave the facility premises and that law enforcement was involved. Resident #5 recalled being outside the facility, being brought back by staff and a “police man,” and being told by the officer not to leave again. A police report from the local police department confirmed an encounter with the resident outside the facility and that an officer assisted staff in escorting him back. Maintenance staff (Staff G) also reported that the resident climbed out the window, left the facility property, and was stopped “down the road,” then redirected back with law enforcement assistance. In interviews, the DON initially denied that law enforcement had been notified or involved, then later acknowledged that law enforcement had responded but asserted they did not come into the facility. The DON also confirmed awareness that any incident in which law enforcement investigates or responds is required to be reported, yet the elopement and law enforcement involvement were not reported to the State Survey Agency or other required officials within the required time frames.
Failure to Provide Timely ADL and Hygiene Care to a Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors found that the facility failed to provide necessary ADL care, including grooming and hygiene, to a dependent resident over multiple days. The resident was repeatedly observed in visibly soiled clothing with a strong odor of urine, first standing in his doorway holding onto a wheelchair with wet navy pants saturated down to his calves, stating he had been waiting for staff to change his clothes. More than an hour later the same day, he remained in the same soiled pants and shirt while seated in a wheelchair near the nurses’ station. The following day, he was again observed wearing the same soiled clothes, smelling of urine, with his shirt stained with food and a dark liquid. His room had a strong urine odor, his bed was soiled with urine, and only two pairs of pants were seen on a chair with no other clothing available in the room. On a subsequent observation, he was seated on the edge of his bed wearing different pants and no shirt, with yellow-stained sheets beneath him and his previously soiled clothes on the floor; he reported that he had requested assistance but no staff had come, so he changed himself. Record review showed the resident had a history of stroke and repeated unspecified conditions, with a recent Quarterly MDS indicating moderate cognitive impairment (BIMS score of 10). The MDS documented him as independent for toileting, showering, personal hygiene, and related ADLs, and only occasionally incontinent, but his care plan did not specify the level of assistance he required for incontinence care and other ADLs. In contrast, an LPN familiar with the resident stated he required staff assistance with bathing, grooming, toileting, and care, and that he did not refuse such assistance and appropriately requested help. The LPN also explained that personal clothing was laundered at the facility and left bagged in the linen room for nursing staff to distribute, rather than being returned directly to resident rooms. The DON stated that staff were expected to follow best practices, including rounding every two hours and as needed to keep residents clean and dry, and acknowledged that all residents required some level of assistance with ADLs. The DON further stated the facility had no written ADL, resident care, or quality of care policies, despite these expectations.
Unsecured Storage of Full Oxygen Cylinders on Nursing Unit
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors found that the facility failed to ensure safe storage of oxygen cylinders on the West 1 unit. At 9:03 a.m., four full oxygen cylinders were observed stored unsecured directly on the ground rather than in the designated secured cylinder storage rack, under a sign labeled "FULL CYLINDERS." Photographic evidence was obtained of this condition. At 9:18 a.m., the ADON confirmed that the four cylinders were full and acknowledged they should not be stored on the ground. Review of NFPA 99 (2021) 11.6.2.3(11) indicated that cylinders must be protected from damage and that freestanding cylinders must be properly chained or supported in a proper stand or cart. Later that day, the DON stated that oxygen cylinders should be stored in a secure rack and never directly on the ground, and acknowledged that unsecured cylinders on the floor were a safety risk. The Maintenance Director also confirmed that oxygen cylinders should be in a secure rack and never stored directly on the ground, stating that cylinders stored on the floor can tip over and cause damage. These observations and interviews demonstrated noncompliance with regulatory and NFPA standards for safe storage of oxygen cylinders.
Plan Of Correction
This plan of correction constitutes a written allegation of compliance for the deficiency cited. Submission of this plan of correction is not an admission that the deficiency exists or that one was cited correctly. This plan of correction is submitted to meet the requirements established by the State and Federal law. The four unsecured [R] cylinders on the West 1 unit were secured. The Nursing Department completed a baseline audit of [R] cylinder storage within the facility to ensure all [R] cylinders were secured and stored properly. Ongoing education will be completed with current facility staff regarding the facility's [R] storage policy and procedure; and will be completed during new hire and agency orientation to the facility by ADON/designee. Audits will be completed by the Director of Nursing/designee regarding adherence to the facility's [R] storage policy and procedure twice weekly x 4 weeks, then weekly x 4 weeks, then monthly x 4 months, or until continued substantial compliance has been met. Results of audits will be reported to the QAPI Committee on a monthly basis by the Director of Nursing/designee.
Failure to Provide Required CPR and Activate EMS for Full Code Resident
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide immediate and appropriate basic life support, including CPR, to a resident with a documented full code status when the resident was found unresponsive. The resident had diagnoses including a slow-progressing circulatory condition involving narrowing or blockage of vessels, a condition that restricts airflow and makes breathing difficult, and other listed conditions. The physician’s order specified “Full Code,” and the care plan documented that the resident was under court-ordered guardianship with wishes honored as full code. The facility’s policy required that in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, staff immediately call for assistance, overhead page a code, begin CPR in the absence of a valid DNR, and continue CPR until EMS assumes responsibility or the resident responds. On the night of the incident at approximately 2:00–2:07 a.m., a CNA found the resident unresponsive in bed and notified the RN on duty. One CNA’s written statement indicated that the RN said she already knew the resident was going to die and instructed the CNA to clean and cover the resident. Another CNA’s account stated that the RN came to the room, took vital signs, and then instructed her to clean the resident. The RN’s own written statement and interview indicated that she called a code blue, that an LPN brought the crash cart, and that they performed CPR for approximately 20 minutes. The LPN’s statement corroborated that a code blue was called, that he brought the crash cart, and that CPR was performed for about 20 minutes before the RN stopped and stated that the resident was gone or words to that effect. The RN acknowledged that the resident had no vital signs but was warm and not responding, and she stated that she believed the resident was on hospice and therefore did not call 911. After CPR was discontinued, the RN did not activate EMS and instead notified the DON, the provider, and the resident’s family. The DON documented receiving a message from the RN that the resident had no pulse and no blood pressure and that the assigned nurse had initiated CPR but was unable to revive the resident. The DON later received a text from the RN that the resident had expired. The DON stated that at approximately 6:00 a.m. she called the facility and asked if 911 had been called, and upon learning it had not, she instructed the RN to call 911. The RN then reinitiated CPR at around 6:00 a.m., approximately four hours after the resident was first found without pulse or respirations, and stated that they tried to do something until EMS arrived because EMS had to see them doing CPR. EMS records showed activation at 6:18 a.m., arrival at 6:27 a.m., and pronouncement of death at 6:31 a.m., with documentation that CPR was not attempted by EMS because it was considered futile and that the resident exhibited postmortem changes. The Medical Director confirmed that the resident was full code and stated that staff should have started CPR and called 911 and that CPR should not be done four hours after a resident is pronounced dead. The facility’s investigation and a root cause analysis concluded that the RN and LPN did not follow the facility’s established policy and procedure to call 911 and administer CPR to a full code resident until EMS arrival. The root cause was identified as the nurse’s belief that the resident was on hospice and her failure to check the resident’s code status as outlined in facility policy. The surveyors determined that the failure to immediately activate EMS and to continue CPR until EMS arrival for this full code resident constituted noncompliance with the requirement to provide basic life support and resulted in an Immediate Jeopardy determination.
Plan Of Correction
This plan of correction is submitted as required under Federal and State regulations and statutes applicable to long term care providers. This plan of correction does not constitute an admission of liability on the part of the facility, and such liability is hereby specifically denied. The submission of this plan does not constitute agreement by the facility that the surveyors' findings or conclusions are accurate, that the findings constitute a deficiency, or that the scope or severity regarding any of these deficiencies cited are correctly applied. Resident #1 no longer resides in the facility as of 4.7.26. This has the potential to affect all residents in the facility. All codes to 1.1.26 were reviewed to ensure protocol was followed. No outliers were noted. All licensed nurses received education from the Director of Nursing and/or nursing management on [R] policy and procedure and Florida [R] policy. This includes where to find the code status. Education addressed what to do for full code hospice residents. Education completed with CNA's that protocol is that they do not assist with [R] or breaths during a [R] event. All education will be added to new hire orientation. Code drills will occur 3 x weekly x 4 weeks, followed by 2 x weekly x 4 weeks, followed by 1 x weekly x 4 weeks. Results will be brought to QAPI to determine need for ongoing auditing.
Removal Plan
- Educated licensed nurses on CPR policy and procedure and Florida Do Not Resuscitate (DNRO) policy, including where to find code status and what to do for full code hospice residents; emphasized initiating emergency services immediately when resident is full code, continuing CPR until EMS arrives, and that nurses cannot pronounce death or stop CPR on a full code resident unless instructed by EMS.
- Implemented emergency response “Code Blue” drills on all three shifts, including full code and full code hospice scenarios, with emphasis on calling 911 immediately.
- Educated licensed nurses and CNAs on the facility abuse and neglect policy, including resident rights.
- Required licensed nurses to complete a CPR post-test; restricted staff who have not completed education/testing from working until completion.
- Educated licensed nurses regarding change in condition.
- Placed laminated instructions on how to overhead page during a code at all nursing station phones and other designated phones.
- Held a Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review root cause analysis findings and approve recommendations.
- Held a Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review progress of the plan and approve recommendations.
- Completed a “like resident” audit of all expired residents and rehospitalizations for a defined period to determine whether involved staff were the same as the code event and whether proper procedure was followed.
Failure to Provide Competent CPR Response and Verify Code Status for Full Code Resident
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure that nursing staff possessed and demonstrated the competencies required to respond appropriately to a cardiopulmonary emergency for a resident with full code status. Resident #1, who was designated as full code, was found unresponsive and without respirations or pulse at approximately 2:07 a.m. Clinical staff, consisting of an RN (Staff A) and an LPN (Staff B), initiated CPR but did not activate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as required by facility policy for a full code resident. After approximately 20 minutes of CPR, the RN and LPN stopped resuscitation efforts without EMS involvement. The RN, without authority to do so, pronounced the resident deceased based on the absence of vital signs and did not verify the resident’s code status before discontinuing CPR. The RN later stated she believed the resident was on hospice and therefore did not call 911, and that she was confused about which residents were hospice and which were full code. The LPN reported that he assumed the RN had called 911 and continued CPR for about 20 minutes until the RN “called the code” and left, and he acknowledged that he knew CPR should continue until EMS arrival but did not speak up. Four hours after CPR was stopped, at approximately 6:00 a.m., the RN restarted CPR and activated EMS after receiving instructions from the DON. The investigation further identified that the RN had no documented orientation, onboarding education, or skills competency assessments since hire, despite being promoted to weekend supervisor. Her BLS certification had been obtained through a fully online course without an instructor or live feedback. The LPN’s BLS certification was expired, and a CNA who performed several chest compressions also had an expired BLS certification, even though facility policy did not permit CNAs to perform CPR. Facility records showed that monthly code blue drills had been conducted, but there was no documentation that the RN had ever participated in these drills. Leadership interviews confirmed that required clinical orientation and competency evaluations had not been completed for the RN, and that she had failed tests for a clinical manager position but was nonetheless functioning in a supervisory role. These actions and omissions led surveyors to determine that staff were not adequately trained or competent to respond to cardiopulmonary arrest for residents with full code status, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy determination. The facility’s own root cause analysis, as reflected in meeting minutes, identified that the nurse did not check the resident’s code status and lacked knowledge about when CPR could be discontinued and when 911 should be called. The analysis documented that the nurse believed the resident was hospice and therefore did not start or continue CPR appropriately or call EMS when the resident was found without respirations and pulse. The facility assessment tool and policies referenced the need for staff training and competencies in identifying changes in condition, end-of-life care, advance care planning, and adherence to the CPR policy, but the documented events showed that these expectations were not met in practice for the staff involved in this incident. Surveyors concluded that the failure to ensure nursing staff were trained and competent to respond appropriately to cardiopulmonary arrest for a full code resident, including immediate initiation and continuation of CPR and activation of EMS, constituted noncompliance with requirements for sufficient and competent nursing staff. The failure affected Resident #1 and placed other full code residents at risk, leading to an Immediate Jeopardy finding that was later reduced in scope and severity after verification of an acceptable Immediate Jeopardy removal plan.
Plan Of Correction
This plan of correction is submitted as required under Federal and State regulations and statutes applicable to long term care providers. This plan of correction does not constitute an admission of liability on the part of the facility, and such liability is hereby specifically denied. The submission of this plan does not constitute agreement by the facility that the surveyors' findings or conclusions are accurate, that the findings constitute a deficiency, or that the scope or severity regarding any of these deficiencies cited are correctly applied Resident # 1 no longer resides in the facility as of 4.7.26. This has the potential to affect all residents in the facility. All licensed nurses were audited to ensure current [R] certification. Facility will ensure [R] certification through a [R] provider whose training includes a [R] on session either in a physical or virtual instructor-led setting in accordance with accepted national standards. Human resources, or designee, will audit monthly to ensure all licensed nurses have a current [R] certification.Education was completed with licensed nurses on initiating [R] services immediately when a resident is full code. Education included that [R] is to continue on a full code resident until [R] arrives and that the nurse cannot pronounce [R] on the full code resident and/or stop [R] until instructed by [R].Education will be added to new hire orientation.7 random licensed nurses will complete a knowledge quiz related to code events. Per week x 4 weeks, followed by 5 nurses x 4 weeks, then 3 nurses x 4 weeks. Results will be brought to QAPI to determine need for ongoing auditing.
Removal Plan
- Regional Director of Clinical Services educated the Administrator and Director of Nursing regarding the CPR policy and the need to immediately contact emergency medical services (911) in the event of a full code; Administrator and DON signed the education
- Regional Director of Clinical Services provided documented education to the Administrator and Director of Nursing regarding the CPR policy and the need to immediately contact emergency medical services (911) in the event of a full code
- Director of Nursing and/or nursing management educated all licensed nurses on the CPR policy and procedure, including where to find code status and what to do for full code hospice residents
- Reinforced through education that CPR must be initiated immediately for full code residents, continued until EMS arrives, and that nurses cannot pronounce death or stop CPR on a full code resident unless instructed by EMS
- Conducted an Ad Hoc Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review root cause analysis recommendations related to the incident; recommendations approved
- Conducted a follow-up Ad Hoc Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review progress on the plan; recommendations approved
Improper Use of Power Strips and Extension Cords in Multiple Facility Areas
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified deficiencies related to the use and maintenance of relocatable power taps (RPTs) and extension cords that did not comply with NFPA 101, NFPA 99, and NFPA 70 requirements. During a facility tour conducted between 11:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. with the Maintenance Director, surveyors observed in the social services office an RPT plugged into another RPT, which was then plugged into a wall outlet, with the cord running across a walkway and taped to the floor. In the multipurpose room, a television was found plugged into an extension cord, contrary to standards that prohibit using extension cords as a substitute for fixed wiring and require temporary extensions to be removed immediately after use. Further observations included the MDS office, where an RPT was plugged into another RPT and an outlet adapter was in use. These configurations did not meet the NFPA 99 provisions governing the proper use of power strips and extension cords, including requirements that power strips be appropriately rated and used only as intended, and that extension cords not be used as permanent wiring. During concurrent interviews, the Maintenance Director acknowledged these findings as they were observed by the surveyors.
Plan Of Correction
The RPT observed plugged into an RPT plugged into an outlet in the Social Services Office was removed. The extension cord used to plug in the television in the multipurpose room was removed. The RPT plugged into an RPT and outlet adapter in the MDS office was removed. Additional offices and resident care areas will be reviewed for the improper use of plug adapters, power strips and extension. The Executive Director/designee will educate the Maintenance Director on the importance of NFPA 101 Electrical Equipment- Power and Extension specific to the improper use of plug adapters, power strips, and extension and will continue to monitor in accordance with NFPA standards. Any findings will be reported to the monthly QAPI Committee for further review. The RPT observed plugged into an RPT plugged into an outlet in the Social Services Office was removed. The extension cord used to plug in the television in the multipurpose room was removed. The RPT plugged into an RPT and outlet adapter in the MDS office was removed. Additional offices and resident care areas will be reviewed for the improper use of plug adapters, power strips and extension. The Executive Director/designee will educate the Maintenance Director on the importance of NFPA 101 Electrical Equipment - Power and Extension specific to the improper use of plug adapters, power strips, and extension and will continue to monitor in accordance with NFPA standards. Any findings will be reported to the monthly QAPI Committee for further review.
Trusted data from CMS and state health departments
Every citation, penalty and Plan of Correction is sourced from public CMS records (latest release May 27, 2026) and official state health department websites — never guesswork.
Trusted by long-term care providers and associations.
